Varaždin is a baroque town in northern Croatia, about an hour from Zagreb. In the 18th century it was briefly the capital of Croatia, and its centre is full of palaces, churches and quiet squares.
Why visit
The Old Town castle with its white walls and moat houses the town museum, and the cemetery is known for its tall clipped hedges. In late August, the Špancirfest street festival fills the centre with music and performers.
Varaždin is a good base for the castles of Hrvatsko Zagorje and the Trakošćan lake.
Where to stay
Stay in the old centre to walk everywhere.
Getting there and around
Varaždin is about an hour north of Zagreb by car on the A4 motorway; buses and trains run regularly.
Parking
Paid parking zones around the old centre; the core is pedestrian.
Day trips
Nearby destinations
Zagreb & Central Croatia
Hrvatsko Zagorje
Green hills north of Zagreb with castles, spas, pilgrimage churches and vineyards.
Zagreb & Central Croatia
Karlovac
Star-shaped fortress town on four rivers, halfway between Zagreb and the coast.
Zagreb & Central Croatia
Samobor
Small town west of Zagreb known for its cream cake, old centre and hiking hills.
Zagreb & Central Croatia
Zagreb
Café culture, the Upper Town, Dolac market and a popular Advent season.
Frequently asked questions
When is Špancirfest?
Usually in late August; check the dates each year.
Is Varaždin worth a day trip from Zagreb?
Yes, and it combines well with Trakošćan Castle.