Castles & Villages of the Zagorje Region, Zagreb

Just a few miles northwest of Zagreb lies Zagorje, a bucolic hilly region dotted with Renaissance and medieval fortresses, numerous baroque castles, and family-run vineyards and farms. It's a memorable, romantic landscape that will take you back in time to a sense of both the aristocratic past and the rural traditional way of life that still exists in Croatia today. A quick day trip from Zagreb allows you to immerse yourself in this beautiful region.

First, find your way to Trakošćan Castle, an excellent example of one of a storybook locale, as it sits perched on a hill adjacent to a glassy lake. The castle, a historic landmark, was built in the 14th century as a defensive fortress but was later used as a home for aristocratic Croatian families. Enjoy exploring the castle grounds and interiors, including four floors that function as a museum with permanent exhibitions. 

Afterward, visit Veliki Tabor Castle, located just southwest of Trakošćan. This gothic-renaissance castle dates to the 16th century and sits atop a green hill overlooking the fertile countryside. It was originally built for a noble Hungarian family, its fortifications designed to defend against Turkish invaders. A tour of Veliki includes visits to the towers, guardhouses, inner courtyard, and a small museum featuring exhibitions of medieval artifacts like armor, weapons, and paintings. 

Apart from castles, explore nearby villages, like Kumrovec, where you'll find restored peasants' houses from the 19th century. These are great areas to browse local craft shops and enjoy traditional country cuisine like grilled lamb, meat skewers, and veal stuffed with cheese and ham. Kumrovec is most well-known for being the birthplace of Marshal Josip Broz Tito, the communist revolutionary who was President of Yugoslavia from 1953 to 1980.

Discover more family-friendly experiences, historic activities, and interesting excursions from Zagreb.