Things to do in 

Varazdin

Varazdin hums with a gentle quirk that paints itself generously across the cityscape. It's not just about the Baroque buildings or the fortress walls that echo tales of yore. There's a rhythm to Varazdin, taking you through cobbled streets, curated gardens, and quaint cafes. When it comes to things to do in Varazdin, you'll discover remarkable seasonal events dressing the city in colours, alongside spots known solely to the locals. Past the beaten path, it's the vibe that comes alive, offering snapshots of a complex, real city inviting you to unearth more.

Explore Varazdin off the beaten path

If you're curious about alternative things to do, slip past the main sights and follow locals into quiet corners, small museums, and calm river paths.

Cultural experiences: Join a late-afternoon stroll at Varaždin Cemetery, where sculpted hedges and quiet paths show a different side of local care. Catch an evening play at HNK Varaždin, then finish with štrukli at Restoran Verglec.

Small museums and galleries: Step into Muzej anđela to see Željko Prstec’s angel paintings and pick up a small print. The Entomological Collection in Herzer Palace surprises with glowing butterflies and beetles in careful displays. For contemporary work, pop into Galerija Zlati Ajngel on Gajeva and chat with whoever’s minding the show.

Less crowded scenic viewpoints: Walk the Drava river embankment near Arena Varaždin at golden hour, when cyclists thin out and the water turns bronze. For a quiet overlook of rooftops, sit on the grassy bastions by Stari grad just before dusk.

Shop for local products & souvenirs: Browse Gradska tržnica Varaždin late morning for bottles of bučino ulje and jars of acacia honey from family stalls. The Muzej anđela shop has small, easy-to-pack prints and postcards. For regional wines, stop by Vinoteka Vinita in the afternoon and ask for a bottle from Zagorje or Međimurje.

Popular neighbourhoods

Discover Varazdin's enduring charm through its diverse neighbourhoods, a pleasing fusion of historical treasures, contemporary scenes, and vibrant suburban landscapes.

Old Town: Traverse the cobblestone streets lined with Baroque and Rococo buildings, magnificent churches, and the iconic Varazdin Castle—immerse yourself in the rich history etched within every stone.

Korzo: Enjoy the lively atmosphere of this meeting point, abundant with cafes and shops. The interconnected squares and streets host various events, giving the area a unique blend of tranquillity and excitement.

Centar: Soak up the striking architecture while shopping downtown. Its wide, tree-lined streets, beautiful parks, and modern amenities offer a taste of the city's urban charm.

Aquacity: Embrace the laid-back living in this serene neighbourhood by the Drava River. The landscaped trails, picnic areas, and water-themed recreational facilities make a perfect escape from the city hustle.

Banfica: Experience suburban living amidst lush greenery and peaceful landscapes. The leafy streets, charming houses, local cafés and shops give off an inviting small-town charm.

Things to do in Varazdin by season

Spring: Stroll baroque streets framed by blooming parks and cycle easy paths along the Drava. Café terraces reopen, making relaxed breaks natural for couples and seniors.

Summer: Warm evenings bring courtyard concerts and open‑air theatre, with castle lawns perfect for picnics. Late August ushers in Špancirfest, when street performers and makers fill the old town and families stay out past sunset.

Fall: Walk under golden plane trees and sample fresh‑pressed juices and wines from nearby Zagorje. Crisp days suit unhurried museum visits and photo stops at the castle.

Winter: Expect a cosy Advent in Varaždin with lights, an ice rink, and mulled wine around the main square. Christmas in Varaždin feels intimate, with carols and a light dusting of snow some years.

Annual favourites include Špancirfest’s late‑summer blend of music, crafts, and street art, the Varaždin Baroque Evenings each September for superb chamber concerts, and the playful Trash Film Festival that adds cult cinema to the calendar.