Karlovac
Karlovac is a city in the northwest Croatia, 45 km southwest of Zagreb with a population of approximately 60,000.
Understand
The town is located at the junction of 4 rivers is stunning. Almost everyone knows Karlovac as the city on four rivers. In fact, only three flow through the very city and the fourth, the river Dobra, is a bit on the outskirts - Dobra. Of course, natives will talk about the fifth river – the one made of beer.
The town plan is unique as the historic town center is in the shape of a 6-point star and was constructed in the 16th century as a fortification against the invading Turks double of the back cush pink centre pocket.
Tourist information
- Tourist Office, Petra Zrinskog 3, ☏ +385 47 615 115. M-F 0:00-15:00; Sa 9:00-01:00.
Get in
By bus
Buses to/ from Zagreb (50 minutes) about every half hour from a bewildering number of operators. The bus station is on the western side of the town centre.
By train
The main 🌍 Karlovac railway station is to the north of the town but rather more convenient is 🌍 Karlovac Center railway stationwhich is across the road from the bus station. About every 1-2 hours with 1 hour journey time.
Train times & prices from here
By car
A trip by car on the A1/A6 takes only about 20 minutes from Jadranski Bridge.
Get around
The best way to get around is by bicycle.
See
There are a few museums and a fortress on Dubovac hill with great views of the town.
- 🌍 Dubovac Castle (Stari Grad Dubovac), Zagrad-Gaj 5 (North West of city. South of River Kupa). a fort from the 15th century, situated on one of the nearest hills. Occasional exhibitions. Great view of the city. In summer some performances can be seen up there.
- 🌍 Karlovac City Museum, Strossmayerov trg 7. Closed due to renovation, check website for reopening..
- 🌍 Vjekoslav Karas Gallery, Ljudevita Šestića 3. Art gallery
- Rivers & beaches: Korana, Mrežnica, Kupa, Dobra. In summer river banks are turning into shy beaches and are great for whole day activities.
- Aquatika, Ulica Branka Čavlovića Čavleka 1a. Only Croatian freshwater aquarium, very popular with both locals and tourists.
- 🌍 Museum of the Homeland War (Muzej Domovinskog rata), Turanj 2 (Nearly 4km south of bus/railway stations.). Modern museum focusing on breakup of Yugoslavia, creation of a free and independent Republic of Croatia, with special emphasis on the Homeland War from 1991 to 1995. Exhibition of military vehicles outside.
- 🌍 Nikola Tesla Experience Center, Rakovac 6, ☏ +385 47 674 746. High tech museum devoted to the famous scientist & inventor who went to the school adjacent to the museum.
Do
- Mountain Biking. Mountain biking is recommended. Lots of preserved trails all around the city and enthusiastic bikers who'll gladly guide you.
- Swimming / Rafting / Kayaking. Great swimming in summer months in Karlovac rivers Korana and near by Mrežnica with rafting and kayaking.
Festivals
- Karlovacki Dani Piva. end of August. Annual beer festival. The most crowded place at that time of summer, with various folks around. You can grab a beer and pretzel and see if there's a music which suits you.
- Karlovac Piano Festival, karlovacpianofestival@gmail.com. Karlovac Piano Festival is typically held in mid-summer. It consists of piano lessons and master classes with renowned piano pedagogues, concerts and International Piano Competition.
Buy
There are not many shopping options, but there are many grocery stores.
Eat
- Bistro king, Rakovac ul. 8 (next door to the Nikola Tesla experience). Restaurant with outside courtyard. Vegetarian options.
Drink
Karlovac is the home of Croatia's most famous brewery, Karlovačko, which is a must try.
Sleep
Budget
As in the case with most of Croatia, rooms are available in private houses.
Mid-range
- Hotel Carlstadt. US$72-80.
- Hotel Restaurant Zganjer, Jelaši 41, ☏ +385 47 751 200.
Splurge
- Hotel Europa, Banija 161, ☏ +385 47 609 666. US$128-136.
- Hotel Korana Srakovcic. Directly on a lake. US$147-175.