Varaždin: The old town’s secret courtyards unveiled

(Photo: Varaždin Tourist Board)

For ten years, the Festival of Varaždin Courtyards has invited visitors to peek behind the elegant facades of palaces and houses in the heart of Varaždin’s old town.

Organised by the Varaždin Tourist Board, this event has grown into a cultural highlight, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s hidden courtyards and vibrant spirit.

This year’s festival takes place on 14 and 15 June, and it promises a big celebration for its 10th birthday, reaffirming its status as a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

15 Unique Courtyards, 75 Events

The 2025 edition will transform 15 carefully selected locations into intimate stages for 75 diverse programmes. Each courtyard becomes a canvas for music, art, fashion, science, gastronomy, and more.

Visitors can expect:

• Classical music concerts for children that nurture emotional development from a young age

• Interactive music workshops highlighting the unifying power of sound

• Creative fashion challenges, including the opportunity to design a handbag and see the winning idea brought to life

• Science exhibitions, such as a special astronomy showcase at Villa Bedeković presented by students from Varaždin’s 2nd Primary School

• Tastings of local delicacies and dishes inspired by the region’s culinary heritage

• Cultural and historical workshops, including exhibitions and storytelling from the Varaždin City Museum

(Photo: Varaždin Tourist Board)

Programmes on Saturday will run in two sessions – from 10:00 to 13:00 and again from 16:00 to 21:00. On Sunday, the festivities continue from 10:00 to 13:00, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the courtyards at a relaxed pace.

(Photo: Varaždin Tourist Board)

After enjoying the artistic and cultural offerings, visitors are encouraged to round off their experience with a meal in one of Varaždin’s restaurants, which will be serving special menus inspired by local flavours.

Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in traditional desserts at local patisseries.

(Photo: Varaždin Tourist Board)

The festival is also part of the broader initiative “Courtyards of the North: Discovering Hidden Gems”, supported by the Croatian National Tourist Board. The project includes partnerships with the tourist boards of Varaždinske Toplice, Novi Marof, and Centar svijeta, working together to highlight the cultural richness of the wider Varaždin region.

(Photo: Varaždin Tourist Board)

With a rich and inclusive programme designed to delight visitors of all ages and interests, the Festival of Varaždin Courtyards continues to showcase the city’s heritage, creativity and authentic charm — one hidden courtyard at a time.

(Photo: Varaždin Tourist Board)