The Varaždin–Ludbreg region lies in north-western Croatia, close to the Slovenian and Hungarian borders and about an hour’s drive from Zagreb. Varaždin and Ludbreg are well connected with the rest of Croatia by road and rail, making the region accessible year-round.
For an easier overview of the different ways to reach Varaždin or Ludbreg, you can use the Rome2Rio website – simply select Varaždin or Ludbreg, Croatia as your destination to see available transportation options from locations around the world.
By Plane
Zagreb Airport (ZAG) is the closest major international airport and the most convenient choice for most international visitors. It is approximately 84 km by road from Varaždin and 90 km from Ludbreg. From the airport, travelers can continue by car, bus or a combination of public transport. (Rome2Rio)
Other international airports can also be practical alternatives, particularly for visitors arriving from neighbouring countries. Graz Airport (GRZ) is about 130 km from Varaždin by road, while Ljubljana Airport (LJU) is approximately 174 km away by road
Flight information and connections should be checked directly with the respective airport.
By Car
Varaždin and Ludbreg are easily accessible by motorway and major regional roads.
From Zagreb, take the A4 motorway north towards Varaždin. The motorway provides a fast connection from the Croatian capital to Varaždin and continues towards the Hungarian border. Ludbreg can also be reached conveniently from the A4 using the appropriate exit and local roads.
From Slovenia, Varaždin can be reached via the northern Croatian and Slovenian road network, including routes through Ormož and Ptuj, while visitors arriving from Austria can travel via Graz and Maribor.
From Hungary, the region is accessible via the motorway and road network through the Letenye–Goričan border area, with connections continuing towards Varaždin and Ludbreg.
For current road conditions, traffic information and border-crossing information, check the Croatian Automobile Club (HAK). Motorway toll information is available from Hrvatske autoceste (HAC).
By Bus
Varaždin has regular bus connections with Zagreb and other Croatian cities, as well as international connections. FlixBus currently operates multiple daily services between Varaždin and Zagreb, with the fastest journeys taking around 1 hour 20 minutes depending on the departure. (FlixBus)
Ludbreg has fewer long-distance bus connections, so travelers arriving by public transport will often find Varaždin the more convenient arrival point, with onward connections by local bus or train.
Timetables and tickets can be checked with FlixBus, Arriva and other individual bus operators. (FlixBus)
By Train
Both Varaždin and Ludbreg have railway stations and are served by HŽ Putnički prijevoz. Varaždin is connected by rail with Zagreb, Čakovec and other destinations in northern Croatia, while Ludbreg lies on the railway line connecting Varaždin with Koprivnica and the wider Croatian rail network. (Turistička zajednica grada Varaždina)
Train connections are particularly useful for travelers arriving from other parts of Croatia, although journeys from Zagreb may involve longer travel times or transfers than travelling by road. Current timetables and any temporary service changes should always be checked with HŽ Putnički prijevoz before travelling. (hzpp.hr)
Useful links:
HŽ Putnički prijevoz: https://www.hzpp.hr/
FlixBus: https://global.flixbus.com/
Arriva: https://www.arriva.com.hr/
HAK – road conditions: https://www.hak.hr/
HAC – motorways and tolls: https://www.hac.hr/