Local Information

Karlovac is proud of its panoramic landscapes, the picturesque structures and the unique customs one ought to witness and experience when exploring the city. A city of past and present history, Karlovac is truly a jewel right in the heart of Croatia.

This 16th century fortress was known to have taken the shape of a six-pointed star. It is built on the Zrinski estate near the old town of Dubovac at the confluence of Kupa, Korana, Mreznica and Dobra rivers. Karlovac was known as Karlstadt, Carlstadt, or Carlstatt (Charles Town in German) after the Archduke Karl II of Habsburg (also known as Charles II of Austria), the first commander of the military frontier against the Turks, who ordered the fortress' construction with Matija Gambon as the architect. The Ottoman Empire made several unsuccessful attempts to conquer the city in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Karlovac is recognized with its valuable Baroque structures and the central square. Among its impressive buildings, the most well-known are the Holy Trinity church which was built in 1580 and the national shrine of St. Joseph in Dubovac which was built in 1968. Other remarkable structures include Zorin Dom, the Town Museum, the Music School and the very well preserved fortification of Dubovac, which at present is converted into a hotel.

Among the cultural and entertainment events in Karlovac the Beer Days at the beginning of autumn is the most festive. This event is the city's local version of the world-famous Oktoberfest in Munich. Other important events are the pilgrimage to St. Joseph in Dubovac every 19th of March, the floral exhibition and fair at the beginning of June, St. John's Bonfires at the end of June and the Karlovac Cultural Days celebrated in the months of October, November and December.

One of the famous customs of Karlovac is swimming and just enjoying the sun in the four rivers of the city. Also the landscape offers hunting and hiking opportunities. Locals recommend these activities to travelers and adventurers.

Finding car hire in Karlovac won't be a problem. As well as Karlovac car hire, we have a number of locations for car hire in Croatia, including car hire in Dubrovnik and car hire in Zagreb

There's a lot to discover in Karlovac, a six-pointed star city fortress, rich with its share of European history and grandeur. A must see for the curious traveler.

Don't forget, CarHire3000 offer car hire throughout the world, including car hire USA, car hire France, car hire Italy and car hire Portugal