Let's explore Varaždin - the best Croatian city

For ten years now Varaždin, the baroque jewelry of Croatia, takes a prestigious title of the city with the best life quality in Croatia. It was in the final competition for European Capital of Culture for 2021. Known as the Croatian *Little Vienna,* Varaždin, the best Croatian city, is a beautiful town in the North of Croatia. Although this town is still untouched by mass tourism, it is very charming and worth visiting.

Varaždin and its baroque spirit

It is only 80 kilometers far from Zagreb following the highway E65. After Prague, it is considered as the most intact center of Baroque style. And you will be absolutely stunned with the buildings that are like a history book telling the story to you. In the 18th century, Varaždin was the capital of Croatia, and as such, many famous architects were coming to the city. From that period, you can see the Patačić Palace and Patačić-Puttar Palace. Simple but yet so charming buildings with its wonderful colors will bring you an unusual sense of peace. Go for a walk down the Old Town/Castle and find your own place under the tree. You will be amazed by how much green areas this city has. You will see remains of the protection walls that were the city defense from the Ottoman empire in the 16th century. Old town is located in the northwestern corner of the city and in the castle of the old town today is located Varaždin City Museum. Definitely worth of visiting.

Sacral objects

Varaždin Catedral is one of the smallest, but also with its baroque style one of the most colorful ones. It is located nearby a park where you can go for a walk or just sit somewhere in the pedestrian part of the nearby street. After that, you can visit St. Nicolas Church on your way to the town cemetery, that is like the one you never see before. It looks like a big park with trees and green bushes everywhere. 

If you visit the town in the summer, don’t miss to be part of Špancirfest – the street festival of happy emotions, where you can see the street exhibition, listen to some concerts or taste something from traditional gastronomy. Another important festival for the city is Varaždin Baroque Evenings, where can hear baroque music in the churches and theatres. 

Let your fairytale begin here

You will not be tired after exploring Varaždin, but you will for sure need at least one cup of coffee. Get some rest in the center of the Old Town, in one of many coffee shops. Everywhere you turn, you will feel like you are in some fairytale - the grass is green everywhere, mowed grass, preserved old buildings with facades in bright colors and cobblestone paths. Don’t miss to visit Varaždin, the best Croatian city. Let your fairytale begin here.