Perched on a hilltop surrounded by greenery, Trakošćan is exactly what a romantic castle should look like, its crenellated towers and tub-shaped bastions pointing skywards from a stout central keep. Although of medieval origins it owes much of its current appearance to its nineteenth century owners the Draškovićes, who rebuilt their crumbling family seat in the then fashionable Neo-Gothic style.

Indeed the interiors are a Gothic delight, with their inlaid wooden cupboards, vast ceramic ovens and faux-medieval wall paintings. There are displays of medieval armour and weaponry, while canvases by lady of the manor and skilled painter Julijana Drašković cram the walls. The castle’s landscaped park provides plenty of strolling opportunities, and rowing boats can be rented on the park’s lake.

Practical Info

April 1 - October 31: daily 10:00 - 18:00

November 1 - March 31: daily 09:00 - 17:00

Tickets: €5

By car: Trakošćan is 30km west of regional capital Varaždin. Coming from the Zagreb direction, you can probably combine it with Kumrovec and Veliki Tabor as a long day trip.

By bus: There are several buses a day from Varaždin to Trakošćan

trakoscan.hr