Things To Do
in Varaždin

Varaždin, Croatia, is a charming baroque city known for its well-preserved architecture and rich cultural heritage. Nestled near the Drava River, it boasts beautiful parks and vibrant squares, making it a picturesque destination. The city's historical significance is evident through its numerous museums, galleries, and festivals that celebrate local traditions.

With a friendly atmosphere and a welcoming community, Varaždin is perfect for those looking to explore Croatia's cultural treasures.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Varaždin Castle, where you can explore its beautiful grounds and the museum inside. Afterward, stroll through the lovely Old Town, admiring the baroque architecture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local konoba and then head to the Varaždin Cemetery, known for its unique sculptures and serene atmosphere. Spend the afternoon visiting the Museum of Angels, dedicated to the city's angel-themed art.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant in the city center, followed by a leisurely walk in the picturesque King Tomislav Square, where you can enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Franciscan Church and the nearby Museum of the City of Varaždin to learn about the city's history. Enjoy a coffee at a local café afterward.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Drava River for a scenic walk or bike ride along the riverbank. Stop for lunch at one of the many riverside eateries.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a traditional Croatian dinner at a local tavern, followed by attending a performance at the Croatian National Theatre if available.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a local restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2-3
🚕Taxi ride (within the city)$5-8
🥖Bakery item (pastries)$1-2
🛒Groceries (weekly)$30-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sights.
  • Charming and picturesque city with friendly locals.
  • Excellent local cuisine and dining options.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation can be infrequent.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours.
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim" - Please
  • "Gdje je toalet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Koliko to košta?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Varaždin

Visit one of these nice places.

Varaždin Castle

An iconic baroque castle with beautiful gardens, perfect for capturing stunning architectural shots.

King Tomislav Square

A vibrant square featuring historical buildings, fountains, and lively street scenes.

Varaždin Cemetery

Known for its artistic tombstones and sculptures, providing unique and serene photographic opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Varaždin

Varaždin offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Croatian flavors with local specialties.

Varaždin Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Burek

A savory pastry filled with meat or cheese, popular as a quick snack.

Must-Try!

Peka

A traditional dish prepared under a bell-like lid, usually featuring meat and vegetables.

Strukli

A pastry with a filling of cheese, often served as a dessert or side dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Varaždin Farmers' Market

A vibrant market where you can sample fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade pastries.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the city offer grilled sausages and local pastries, perfect for a quick bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Varaždin experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, averaging around -1°C to 5°C (30°F to 41°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and during formal occasions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Varaždin is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, it's important to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Health services are accessible, and emergency numbers are easily available.

Tipping in Varaždin

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving about 10% is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer can be warm with plenty of sunshine, ideal for enjoying outdoor cafes and riverside activities.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, perfect for scenic walks and photography.

Winter

Winter can be cold with occasional snow, creating a picturesque atmosphere, especially during the Christmas market period.

Nightlife Guide

Varaždin at Night

Varaždin's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a mix of bars, clubs, and cultural events. The city hosts live music performances and traditional folk events, especially during the summer months. Many local bars offer a cozy atmosphere to enjoy a drink with friends, while a few clubs provide dancing opportunities. The nightlife here is often centered around socializing and enjoying good company rather than a fast-paced party scene.

Hiking in Varaždin

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Medvednica Mountain Trail

Located near Zagreb, this trail offers beautiful views and diverse flora and fauna, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

Slavonska Planina Trail

This trail features scenic routes through forests and hills, suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Varaždin by plane.

Zagreb Airport (ZAG)

Located about 90 km from Varaždin, Zagreb Airport is the nearest major international airport, offering connections to various destinations across Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Varaždin is a highly walkable city, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other in the historical center. The cobblestone streets and well-maintained sidewalks make it enjoyable to explore on foot. Many parks and pedestrian zones enhance the walking experience, providing a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Croats

The majority ethnic group, Croats make up the largest portion of the population and contribute significantly to the local culture.

Hungarians

A notable minority group in Varaždin, Hungarians have a distinct cultural influence in the region, particularly in language and cuisine.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport, with local clubs and a passionate fan base supporting the teams.

Handball

Handball also has a strong following, with several clubs competing in national leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Varaždin is generally light, making it easy to navigate the city by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas, but schedules may be limited, especially on weekends. Biking is also a popular way to get around, with designated bike paths available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Varaždin.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for adaptations.

Gluten-Free Options

While options are limited, some eateries do provide gluten-free dishes upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Varaždin is accessible, with several clinics and a general hospital available for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. Most doctors speak English, and pharmacies are readily available throughout the city, offering both prescription and over-the-counter medications.

Discover Croatia

Read more in our Croatia 2025 Travel Guide.

Croatia Travel Guide