Karlovac, known as the city of four rivers, was founded in the 15th century by Charles II of Styria as a defence against the Ottoman invasion. To this day, it still retains its importance, and you can feel it through its streets and imposing buildings. Read on to find out all the things to do in Karlovac.
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Best places to see in Karlovac
1. Château de Dubovac
At the top of a hill overlooking the town of Karlovac, you will find the iconic Dubovac Castle, one of the town’s must-see monuments.
The tower was built in the 13th century. However, you can feel the Renaissance influence, which shaped the design in the reconstruction of the castle that took place two centuries later, sometime in the 15th century.
The castle had several owners, among them Slavic families of the nobility, up to numerous Croatian counts and dukes.
Little is known about the origins of the building, as only the tower remains. Today, the castle serves as a museum, and there is also a restaurant inside.
2. The Pauline Monastery
Among the most remarkable pieces of architecture left by the medieval period in Karlovac, the Pauline Monastery is undoubtedly among our favourites.
The beauty of the monastery is intensified by its proximity to the Kupa River, in which its façade is reflected and leaves a beautiful image that is not easily erased.
It was built in 1404 and had to be rebuilt after World War II, as the main structure was damaged. A few metres away is another church, the Church of Our Lady of the Snows, which is also a must-see.
The interior of the monastery is also a must-see if you visit this building in Karlovac, as it has some impressive frescoes, as well as religious sculptures in very good condition.
3. The Centre of Karlovac and Radiceva Street
By the Kupa River, Radiceva Street begins, one of the main streets to see in Karlovac and a perfect way to start your tour of the historic centre of the town.
On the way you will see some of the main monuments of Karlovac, such as the main museum of the town. You will also come across the central square of Karlovac, the Trg bana Josipa Jelaci?a square and the Church of the Holy Trinity.
As you go along, you’ll come across Gradska Straža. It’s a perfect place to enjoy the local gastronomy and rest after a stroll through this collection of charming, narrow streets.
4. Karlovac Market
No doubt, if you enjoy gastronomy and getting to know the real essence of a city, the market is a must-see on your adventure in Karlovac.
This market has been in the town for four hundred years, although it was originally located next to the Trg bana Josipa Jelacica square. About fifty years ago, it was moved to another part of the city, but it retains the magic of the original.
It’s completely open, with large areas filled with vendors offering local produce, making it a perfect opportunity to enjoy the local cuisine.
5. The Museum of the Patriotic War
This is a unique museum. For some, it is a must-see in Karlovac, collecting heritage from the Patriotic War, a conflict that saw the break-up of Yugoslavia and the creation of Croatia.
Located towards the north of the town, at the confluence of two of the four rivers that run through Karlovac, you can see this museum with military aircraft, tanks and remnants of weaponry used in the conflict.
It is said that the place where the museum stands today was once a strategic point of defence of the town of Karlovac against invaders. If you are a history buff, this museum is a must-see.
6. The Church of St. Nicholas
Another memorable religious building is the Church of St. Nicholas, a building that illustrates the beauty of the city’s Baroque influence.
Next to Trg bana Josipa Jelacica Square, this church was destroyed during the conflicts of World War II and the Patriotic War, but was rebuilt and reopened to the public in 2007.
In its interior reside 74 wooden carved idols, which are restored with perfect workmanship and are among the main attractions of the city and the Church of St. Nicholas.
7. Karlovac Aquarium
A unique and different experience you can enjoy is Aquatika, the first freshwater aquarium in all of Croatia.
Croatia has more species of freshwater fish than any other country in Europe, with around 150 species swimming in its waters.
It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the local wildlife, in a space with panoramic views containing the species that reside here.
Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.
What to see in Karlovac and its surroundings?
1. Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia
Given the proximity, if you are heading to Karlovac, we recommend that you spend at least 1 day in Zagreb. The capital of the beautiful country of Croatia has much to offer.
Often, despite being the capital, it is overlooked compared to other destinations within the country. But don’t be fooled, there are plenty of things to see here. For exemple, the Lotrscak Tower, from the 13th century a part of the city wall, is undoubtedly a highlight. Today, the tower serves as an art gallery.
Another attraction is its many churches, such as St Mark’s Church. Initially built in Romanesque style, but later restored in Gothic style.
Further reading about all the things to see and to do in Zagreb
What to see in Karlovac in 1 day?
So that you don’t miss out on anything and can more easily choose what to see and do in Karlovac, we’ve put together an itinerary:
- The Pauline Monastery
- Dubovac Castle
- The historic centre of Karlovac
- The Aquarium of Karlovac
If you have more time, take a tour of one of the city’s rivers. Also, check the various museums around the city, as they don’t disappoint at all.
Best places to eat in Karlovac
The number of places to enjoy Croatian cuisine in Karlovac is very large. So don’t worry, below is a list of must-visit restaurants:
- Restoran Kalvarija: The most luxurious you will witness in Karlovac. A refined Mediterranean restaurant, with a clear influence of Croatian gastronomy and an excellent selection of wines. Prices range from €30 to €60 per person.
- Bistro Kastel: Another of the most complete options in Karlovac, a perfect restaurant in which to enjoy Croatian food and food from other nearby countries. Prices range from €12 to €20 for dinner.
- Tiffany: Pizza lovers will find a meeting place at Tiffany, a restaurant that surprises in its execution of Italian food. Prices are around €15.
Sites where to stay in Karlovac
There is a lot of accommodation in Karlovac and that is why we have prepared a short list of places to stay in Karlovac, so that you can choose easily:
- Boutique Hotel Korana Srakovcic: On the banks of the Korana River, this is one of the most charming hotels in town. In addition to its location, the facilities are superb. The price is about €277 for two nights and two people.
- BnB Cindra: These fantastic flats are exquisitely decorated and have facilities to match. The price is around €140 for two people for the weekend.
- Rooms Šu Šu: The façade is striking, and a stereotypical Italian chef greets you in the form of a figure. The interior is surprising, with wooden finishes and excellent facilities. The price is €134 for a weekend for two people.
How to get to Karlovac?
The best way to get to Karlovac is to take a flight from one of the main cities in Spain to the city of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia.
Flights cost around €200 at times like June, though at the moment they have at least one stopover, so the journey is about five hours from Madrid.
After landing, one of the most affordable options to conclude your journey is to take a bus, which will get you there in just an hour and will cost around €4. You can also hire your own car, which will make it easier to get around the area.
Tips about a trip to Karlovac
- The official currency of Croatia is the Kuna.
- If you are travelling by car, the lights must always be switched on.
- We recommend that you exchange money before you set off on your trip, as this will be cheaper for you.
- As European citizens, we don’t need a visa to enter the country either, just your ID card or passport is enough.
- The best time to travel to Karlovac is in spring and autumn, as there are fewer tourists and the temperatures are more pleasant than in winter or summer.
- Buy museum tickets in advance to avoid queues.
- The city is safe, but as with any tourist destination, it’s best to be careful with your belongings.
- Be covered for possible medical emergencies: travel insured.
How to organize what to see in Karlovac?
Register or download the Passporter App and discover all its possibilities.
- Get inspired by the experiences of other travellers.
- Create your own itinerary and add suggestions from the app to it.
- Add the stops you’re most interested in, as well as the restaurants and bars where you want to eat (you can use the points of interest listed in this post as a reference).
- Organize your itinerary by route days according to their location on the map (you can take inspiration from the routes presented in the post).
- Check out the travel budget that the app calculates for you based on your travel stops, restaurants, and leisure activities.
- Make any modifications you need to make and you’re all set for your trip.
- Share your experience. Upload photos of places you visited on your trip to the app and recommend other travellers what to see in Karlovac, Croatia.
If you have any doubts about how to do it, you can check our post: How to create a travel itinerary in Passporter.
Frequently asked questions about a trip to Karlovac
It is best to fly to Zagreb and from there take a bus to Karlovac, which will drop you off in an hour in the city and costs about 4€ at the exchange rate.
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