Karlovac: A Croatian gem you must not miss
In the heart of Croatia, there is a perfect little town that you wouldn’t want to miss when visiting the country. Everything is special about Karlovac – from its location, with the city being situated on four beautiful rivers, to its history, culture, residents and the way of life. This ideal renaissance city, originally known as ‘Karlstadt’ or (‘Charles’s Town’ in German), is shaped in a form of a six-point star and is one of the rare cities for which the exact date of founding is known – the construction of the city began on orders of the ruler on 13 July 1579. Previously a fort, the star-shaped old town popularly known as ‘The Star’ is nowadays a city center with the outlines of the star transformed into beautiful parks and promenades of chestnuts and linden trees. Take a walk through the perfectly aligned little streets within the Star, visit the main square with the Town Museum and experience some of the city’s rich history. Continue the stroll through promenades and parks and see for yourself why Karlovac considered to be one of the greenest cities in Croatia.
Besides the interesting architecture, Karlovac also boasts with interesting people both in past and present – did you know that inventor Nikola Tesla lived and went to high school here? Currently under construction, the Nikola Tesla centre is to open soon just next to his old school. To commemorate the great people who lived here or left a mark on the city, a neighbourhood is being transformed by contemporary graffiti artists into an open exhibition blending the city’s past and present in beautiful living art. No wonder Karlovac is one of the up and coming urban hubs in Croatia, attracting both tourist as well as new residents of the younger generation.
When in the city center, for a short, sweet break definitely the visit newly opened sweet oasis Tara Sweets in the city centre. Enjoy the cakes made from best ingredients according to recipes specially designed by a famous Croatian pastry chef Žaklina Troskot. Unforgettable taste is matched with unforgettable names and beautiful design – for a rich chocolate flavour try Boney M., Mr. Otto is for those who like nougats while, if you prefer fresh fruit flavours, Strawberry fields will definitely be the right choice for you.
1. Aquatika
While at Korana river, a definitive must-visit is also ‘Aquatika’, freshwater aquarium based on the bio-diversity of Karlovac rivers and lakes. Besides being very interesting in it’s content, it is also a beautiful work of architecture – the aquarium is perfectly immersed into its surroundings and in line with the nature around it for which it received many architectural prizes.
2. Konjicki klub
Don’t be surprised if you see horses in the city centre – the numerous parks and promenades are ideal for strolls and riding. And why not try yourself? Riding club Karlovac will be happy take you through parkways and greenery of the city in company of these beautiful animals.
3. Old Castle Dubovac
A place to visit is definitely the Old Castle Dubovac. The medieval castle overlooks the city and the Kupa river and is one of the most beautiful and best preserved examples of medieval architecture in Croatia. Visit the museum in the tower, climb the wooden stairs and enjoy the panoramic view of the city. Have a break within the thick castle walls and treat yourself with delicious meal in Bistro ‘Kastel’, restaurant with one of the most romantic settings in the city. We recommend lemon tart for a dessert!
4. Mreznicka kuca
For a relaxing afternoon in the nature, visit Mrežnička kuća (House of Mrežnica river) just outside the city, where you can enjoy delicious food and cocktails right by the river. Be a guest in their ‘Dnevni boravak’ (The Living Room), beautifully decorated open air concept with grass carpet and the river view. In beautiful ambiance, surrounded by nature, you can enjoy different delicacies and their specialty – carp chips. And if it is warm enough, you can even have a swim.
5. Fun night out
For a fun night out, choose one of the many events happening across the year like concerts, festivals and fairs or just go to the city center full of cozy bars such as Papas bar, Cohiba or Ziggy where you can enjoy good music with locals together with a pint of Karlovačko beer of course, local beer the production of which goes all the way to 1854. Cheers!