Varazdin

executive summary by darmansjah

A remarkably well preserved Baroque centre ensures this lesser-known northern city draws comparisons with Vienna and Prague. It’s  also set amongst some of the most beautiful countryside in Croatia.

 Don’t miss while the city is distinguished by its architecture, gardens and festivals, it’s worth a trip out into the surrounding countryside. Along with the dramatic Drava Driver and Mount Ivanscica, the gentler hills and lakes  are perfect for a stroll. South of the city is a Roman thermal spa and the restored 12^th-century Trakoscan castle – one of the few of its kind still standing in Europe.

Options are limited in Varazdin, but the Hotel Turist offers visitors a good choice a few minutes’ walk from the city centre (from US$92).

Pivnica Raj Beerhall offers the perfect end to a day’s exploring with hearty food, flowing Knaput beer and a lively atmosphere (mains from US$6; Gundulica 11).