Thinking about moving to Varazdin? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Varazdin.
Varazdin, a city in Northern Croatia, is known for its baroque buildings, music, dance, and puppet festivals. It’s a city that offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. But like any place, living in Varazdin has its pros and cons. Let’s delve into the specifics of what it’s like to live in this Croatian city.
Pros of Living in Varazdin
One of the most significant advantages of living in Varazdin is its rich history and culture. The city’s Old Town, with its well-preserved baroque buildings, offers a glimpse into the past. The Varazdin Cemetery, with its park-like design and artistic monuments, is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Europe. The city is also home to numerous museums, including the Varazdin City Museum, the Varazdin County Museum, and the Museum of Angels.
Varazdin is also known for its vibrant arts scene. The city hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Baroque Evenings, the Street Festival, and the Špancirfest. These events attract artists, musicians, and performers from around the world, providing residents with a chance to experience a variety of cultural performances.
Another advantage of living in Varazdin is its proximity to nature. The Drava River, which flows through the city, offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and bird watching. The nearby Medvednica and Ivanš?ica mountains are perfect for hiking and skiing. The city also has several parks and green spaces, such as the Vatroslav Jagi? Park and the Varazdin Park Cemetery, where residents can relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Varazdin also offers a high quality of life. The city has a low crime rate, excellent healthcare facilities, and a good education system. The University of North, located in the city, offers a variety of programs in fields such as economics, law, and engineering. The city also has several international schools, making it an attractive place for expats with children.
Finally, Varazdin has a strong sense of community. The city’s size makes it easy for residents to get to know each other, and there are numerous clubs and organizations where people can get involved. For example, the Varazdin Volunteer Fire Brigade, one of the oldest in Croatia, offers opportunities for residents to contribute to their community. The Varazdin Rotary Club is another organization where residents can network and participate in community service projects.
Cons of Living in Varazdin, Croatia
Despite its many advantages, living in Varazdin also has its drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is the city’s relatively small size. While this contributes to its charm and sense of community, it also means that there are fewer job opportunities compared to larger cities. The economy of Varazdin is primarily based on manufacturing and services, and while there are some opportunities in these sectors, they may not be sufficient for everyone.
Another disadvantage of living in Varazdin is the language barrier. While English is taught in schools and many younger people speak it, not everyone in Varazdin is fluent in English. This can make it challenging for expats to communicate with locals, especially older residents. However, this can also be an opportunity to learn Croatian, which can enrich the experience of living in the city.
The weather in Varazdin can also be a disadvantage. The city has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The temperature can drop below freezing in the winter, and snowfall is common. This can make it difficult to get around, especially for those who are not used to such conditions.
While Varazdin has a good healthcare system, it may not be up to the standards of some expats, especially those from countries with highly developed healthcare systems. The city has a general hospital and several smaller clinics, but specialized care may require travel to larger cities like Zagreb.
Finally, while Varazdin is generally safe, like any city, it has its share of crime. While the crime rate is low compared to other cities, residents should still take precautions to protect themselves and their property. For example, it’s a good idea to lock doors and windows when leaving home, and to be aware of one’s surroundings when walking around the city at night.
