Varaždin’s unique Saturday mornings

(Photo:Varaždin Tourist Board)

Saturday mornings in Varaždin are far from ordinary. As the city awakens, its historic centre transforms into a vibrant stage where music and cultural heritage meet, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere for both locals and visitors.

Varaždin, Croatia’s first and only city to hold the prestigious UNESCO title of City of Music, has once again brought back its popular and award-winning programme, The Musical Face of Varaždin on Saturdays (Glazbeno lice Varaždina subotom).

Organised by the Varaždin Tourist Board, the initiative breathes life into the old town each Saturday until the end of September.

Strolling through Varaždin on a Saturday is a multisensory experience.

Music flows from palace balconies and fills the air from Croatia’s first music camper van – a charming mobile stage that adds a modern twist to tradition.

Music camper van (Photo:Varaždin Tourist Board)

Adding a nostalgic touch, a traditional barrel organ grinder entertains passers-by with timeless melodies.

But the music is only part of the charm. In front of the City Hall, the Varaždin Civic Guard stands watch, while precisely at noon, the renowned Purgari (city guards) fire a ceremonial cannon shot from the Old Town.

As if stepping back in time, elegantly dressed ladies in lavish historical gowns stroll through the streets, capturing the essence of the city’s rich past.

Music from the balcony (Photo:Varaždin Tourist Board)

A new attraction this year is a vintage bicycle from the Museum of Vintage Vehicles and Old Technology, now making its way through the old town’s cobbled streets.

The presence of this charming piece highlights just how deeply bicycles are woven into the city’s identity.

Oldtimer bike (Photo:Varaždin Tourist Board)

Varaždin on a Saturday feels like a postcard from another era – a place where music, tradition, and daily life are seamlessly intertwined.

Far more than a tourist spectacle, The Musical Face of Varaždin on Saturdays is an authentic celebration of the city’s soul.

(Photo:Varaždin Tourist Board)

For those looking to truly experience Varaždin as the locals do, there is no better time than a Saturday. After all, this city doesn’t just have a story – it has a soundtrack. And it sounds wonderful.