Karlovac is a city in central Croatia built in the 16th century as a star-shaped fortress. Four rivers – the Kupa, Korana, Mrežnica and Dobra – meet in and around it.
Why visit
The old centre, Zvijezda, still follows the plan of the fortress. Aquatika, the freshwater aquarium, shows the fish of Croatia’s rivers, and Dubovac Castle on a hill gives views over the town. In summer locals swim in the Korana and Mrežnica.
Karlovac is an easy stop on the motorway between Zagreb and the coast, or on the way to Plitvice.
Where to stay
Hotels and rooms in the centre; riverside campsites and holiday houses on the Mrežnica and Korana.
Getting there and around
Karlovac is about 45 minutes from Zagreb by car or train, on the A1 motorway to the coast.
Parking
Parking is easy around the centre.
Day trips
Nearby destinations
Zagreb & Central Croatia
Hrvatsko Zagorje
Green hills north of Zagreb with castles, spas, pilgrimage churches and vineyards.
Zagreb & Central Croatia
Samobor
Small town west of Zagreb known for its cream cake, old centre and hiking hills.
Zagreb & Central Croatia
Varaždin
Baroque town in northern Croatia, once the country’s capital, with a castle and a famous street…
Zagreb & Central Croatia
Zagreb
Café culture, the Upper Town, Dolac market and a popular Advent season.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in the rivers near Karlovac?
Yes, the Korana and Mrežnica have popular swimming spots in summer.
Is Karlovac on the way to Plitvice?
Yes, the road to Plitvice starts in Karlovac.