Castles of Croatia

Three Castles Near Zagreb, Croatia
(and Why They Stole My Heart)

Croatia is a land shaped by history, borders, and resilience—and nowhere is that more visible than in its castles. Scattered across the countryside are hundreds of fortresses, strongholds, and noble residences, each one carrying centuries of stories in its stone walls.

During my time near Zagreb, I had the opportunity to visit three very different castles—each unforgettable in its own way.

Trakošćan Castle

Often called the most visited castle in Croatia, Trakošćan feels like it was lifted straight from a fairy tale. Originally built in the 13th century, it began as part of a medieval defensive system before gradually transforming into a noble residence.

What makes Trakošćan especially fascinating is that, while its roots are medieval, much of the castle as we see it today was romantically restored in the 19th century, giving it that storybook silhouette so many people fall in love with. Surrounded by forest and a tranquil lake, it’s not hard to understand why this castle has become one of Croatia’s most beloved landmarks.

Veliki Tabor Castle

Veliki Tabor—whose name translates to “Big Camp”—sits high above the rolling hills of Hrvatsko Zagorje and looks like something imagined rather than built. Dating back to the 15th century, the castle blends Gothic and Renaissance architecture and has served both defensive and residential roles over the centuries.

This visit held a bit of unexpected magic for me: while filming, I discovered a bride and groom taking their wedding photos within the castle walls. It felt like a beautiful reminder that these ancient places are still part of living, breathing stories—still witnesses to joy, love, and new beginnings.

Ozalj Castle

Ozalj Castle stands dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Kupa River, and it’s one of the oldest castles in the country, first mentioned in 1244. Over time, it passed through the hands of some of Croatia’s most powerful noble families, including the Frankopans and the Zrinskis.

This castle marked a personal milestone for me—I filmed my first-ever night drone flight here. Watching the illuminated stone walls rise above the dark ribbon of river below was nothing short of mesmerizing, and it gave me a completely new perspective on how these fortresses were positioned to command both land and water.

Each of these castles tells a different story, yet together they paint a vivid picture of Croatia’s layered past—one shaped by defense, beauty, ambition, and survival.

I hope this little castle journey inspires you to look more closely at the places you visit… because sometimes, the walls really do talk—if we slow down enough to listen.

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