The 60th Vinkovci Autumns have concluded, but the true experience of Vinkovci is just beginning!

Every year, at the turn of summer and autumn, Vinkovci comes alive with the special spirit of its most famous festival – the Vinkovci Autumns. The jubilee 60th edition, under the slogan “Autumns Blushed by Apples”, once again attracted over one hundred thousand visitors who enjoyed rich folklore, exquisite traditional cuisine, and music that reflects both the historical and contemporary significance of this largest Slavonian celebration. With countless participants in traditional folk costumes and elaborately decorated horse-drawn carriages, Mayor Josip Romić emphasised the importance of preserving heritage and community, while the legendary band Prljavo kazalište closed the festival with their music.

Every visitor to Vinkovci should take a stroll through the green square named after Ban Josip Šokčević, whose contributions to the city’s history remain indelible. The city park, established in 1868, with the Holy Trinity monument, the Baroque Church of St Eusebius and Polion, and surrounded by the buildings of the Brodska Imovna Municipality and the Vinkovci Gymnasium, tells the story of a rich past.

The City Museum is located on the square, and just a step away is the birthplace of Ivan Kozarac, ideal for a deeper understanding of the city’s history and culture. You can explore independently or hire a local guide through the Vinkovci Tourist Board.

Vinkovci, the oldest continuously inhabited town in Europe (with over 8,000 years of continuous settlement), has a rich history and a vibrant culinary story. This story is brought to life by guide Tihana Jurić, who will help you experience it with all your senses. With tastings of kulen, kulen sausages, Slavonian cheese, and rosy pastries known as ‘torn trousers’, you embark on a journey of authentic flavours through the streets of the city.

Along the way, you will be welcomed by the friendly hosts of restaurants such as Lu (try the breaded pork knuckle and Gazdin burger), Genscher (be sure to try the family platter), and Šokački Stan, where you can sample Slavonian čobanac stew and freshly made local sausages this autumn.

On Fridays, traditional fish is served at Restaurant Vatikan, which is also a popular evening venue. For the ultimate tasting experience, visit the Abelo distillery tasting room (located near the Korzo), featuring award-winning medica and Slavonian gins with glittering accents.

On Vinkovci’s Korzo, history meets modernity every day. Traditional elements such as the hand-crafted leather vests and bags of the Ivanković family, knitted pieces inspired by old reklas, and ethnic hairstyles promoted by the Gatalinka Cultural Centre bring freshness and authenticity to the fashion scene. These workshops and brands preserve heritage while adapting it for contemporary generations. If you want to see how the city’s finest fashion souvenirs are made, you can visit one of the workshops (by prior arrangement).

And finally – no visit to Vinkovci is complete without experiencing its nightlife. For those who wish to experience the city in an urban way, there is a selection of city pubs. Orion Pub or Zeleni, a small Irish pub, is known for its excellent beer selection and live weekend music, while the more modern Excellent Pub offers a contemporary atmosphere. For a truly urban night out, Hang Loose Café is the place for socialising and entertainment. Tamburitza music is also a staple at the popular Vatikan restaurant and on the Šokački Stan farmstead, where music and gastronomy combine perfectly for those who enjoy a traditional night out in the heart of Slavonia.

Foto: Nikola Zoko