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Welcome to Varaždin, a delightful city nestled in northern Croatia that’s full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Often overshadowed by the bustling coastal cities of Dubrovnik and Split, Varaždin offers a more relaxed and authentic Croatian experience. With its well-preserved Baroque architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and picturesque parks, this city is a hidden gem just waiting to be explored.
To help you make the most of your time in Varaždin, we’ve put together a list of 12 must-do activities that will give you a taste of all that this city has to offer.
1. Visit the Old Town
Start your exploration of Varaždin in the heart of the city, where you’ll find the charming Old Town. Wander through the narrow streets and admire the well-preserved Baroque and Rococo buildings that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Don’t miss the stunning St. Nicholas Church, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
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2. Explore Varaždin Castle
Make your way to Varaždin Castle, a grand fortress that has stood since the 13th century. Today, the castle houses the Varaždin City Museum, where you can learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage through a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits.
3. Stroll through Town Center Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some time in the peaceful surroundings of Town Center Park. This idyllic green space is the perfect place to relax, have a picnic, or simply take a leisurely stroll.
4. Visit the Herzer Palace
Herzer Palace is a magnificent Renaissance-style building that dates back to the 16th century. Today, it serves as the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art, where you can admire a wonderful collection of folk and naïve art from Croatia and beyond.
5. Take a Dip in the Aquacity
Cool off on a hot day by visiting Aquacity, Varaždin’s popular water park. With its pools, water slides, and other aquatic activities, it’s the ideal place for some family-friendly fun.
6. Explore the Varaždin Cemetery
While a cemetery may not be the first place you think of visiting on vacation, the Varaždin Cemetery is a truly unique and beautiful sight. The atmospheric setting, complete with elaborate memorials and sculptures, makes it a hauntingly beautiful place to explore.
7. Discover Street Art
Varaždin is home to a vibrant street art scene, with colorful murals and graffiti adorning many of the city’s buildings. Take a walk around town and see how many pieces of street art you can discover.
8. Sample Local Cuisine
Croatian cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Central European influences, and Varaždin is no exception. Be sure to sample some of the local specialties, such as štrukli (cheese-filled pastry) and kulen (spicy cured sausage), at one of the city’s many cozy restaurants.
9. Take a Day Trip to Trakošćan Castle
Just a short drive from Varaždin, you’ll find Trakošćan Castle, a romantic fortress perched on a hill overlooking a tranquil lake. The castle’s beautiful grounds and fascinating museum make it a great day trip option for history enthusiasts.
10. Attend a Music Festival
Varaždin is known as the “City of Baroque Music,” and it hosts a number of music festivals throughout the year. Check the city’s event calendar to see if you can catch a live performance during your visit.
11. Visit the Varaždin University
Take a walk around the picturesque campus of the University of Varaždin, which is housed in several historic buildings. The university’s rich history and beautiful architecture make it worth a visit, even if you’re not a student.
12. Shop at the Varaždin Market
For a taste of authentic local life, head to the Varaždin Market, where you can browse stalls selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and other goods. It’s the perfect place to pick up a souvenir to take home with you.
FAQs
Q: When is the best time to visit Varaždin?
A: The best time to visit Varaždin is during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is warm and the city comes alive with outdoor events and festivals.
Q: How do I get to Varaždin from Zagreb?
A: Varaždin is easily accessible from Zagreb by train, bus, or car. The journey takes around 90 minutes by train and around 2 hours by bus.
Q: What are the accommodations like in Varaždin?
A: Varaždin offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and apartments, to suit all budgets and tastes.
Q: Are English-speaking guides available for tours of Varaždin?
A: Yes, there are English-speaking guides available for tours of Varaždin, and many of the city’s attractions also offer audio guides in multiple languages.
Q: Is Varaždin safe for tourists?
A: Varaždin is a safe and welcoming city for tourists, with low crime rates and friendly locals who are happy to help visitors.
We hope this guide inspires you to explore Varaždin and discover all of the wonderful things this Croatian city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Varaždin is sure to leave you with beautiful memories and a desire to return. Happy travels!
