Trakoscan Castle
Trakošćan 4, Bednja
Set against a backdrop of hillside vineyards and lush woodlands, Trakoš?an Castle is Croatia's best preserved and most visited medieval castle. White-trimmed crenelations, a dramatic drawbridge, and red-roofed towers add a fairy tale element, while the sprawling grounds feature a romantic landscape of English-style gardens and a lake with hiking trails.
This grand Gothic fortress dates back to the 13th century, but much of its current appearance is owed to mid-19th century restorations. Owned by the Draškovi? family until 1944, the castle is now the property of the state, reopening in 1950 as a museum. Impeccably restored with period-style decor, the castle's three floors display a mix of neo-Renaissance, Gothic, and baroque designs, featuring many original furnishings and artworks amassed by the Draškovi?s over the years. Other highlights include the castle's eerie underground dungeons, a vast collection of 15th- to 19th-century weaponry, and painter Julijana Erdödy's study.
A scenic path around a tree-lined lake on the castle grounds is a popular option for walking and picnicking. The castle’s proximity to Zagreb makes it a popular day trip from the capital. Organized tours generally feature a guided overview of the castle and gardens, often combined with a visit to the nearby baroque city of Varaždin.
- A restaurant is located near the parking lot and lake, though the menu is limited.
- Children age 7 and under are free.
- Free audio guides are available to learn about the castle’s history and exhibits.
- Photography is not allowed inside the castle.
- The road from the parking lot to the castle entrance is unpaved and not wheelchair accessible.
Trakoš?an Castle is located in Zagorje, just an hour north of Zagreb near the Slovenian border. A parking lot is available on the grounds but requires an uphill walk to the castle. Horse-and-carriage rides are sometimes available to reach the entrance. Most guided tours from the capital include transportation, with small-group and private options available.
The castle is open daily, with extended evening hours between April and October.
From romantic storybook palaces like Trakoš?an to imposing stone fortresses still standing from the Middle Ages, Croatia boasts castles across a range of eras and styles waiting to be explored. Nearby, the Gothic Renaissance Varaždin Castle is home to the town’s history museum with many artifacts, while Veliki Tabor castle in Zagorje is steeped in legends and surrounded by pristine forestland. All three castles could technically be visited in a full-day trip from Zagreb.
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