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Croatia Travel Guide: Things To Know Before Traveling To Croatia

Welcome to our Croatia Travel Guide where you will find all the information you need for planning a trip to Croatia.

When I think of Croatia, I associate it with small, safe, sublime, pebbles, islands, sea, and countryside. The country has over a thousand islands , 8 national parks , 11 nature parks, over 6.000 km of coastline, and ten World Heritage sites .

From Paklenica climbing sites , beautiful beaches of central Dalmatia , the great food of Istria , Croatia’s fabulous wines, partying on the islands, and sailing the Adriatic , Croatia has much to offer its visitors.

We’ve dedicated this entire website to this wonderful country. Vera was born and raised in Croatia, and I moved here in 2005. We’ve been traveling around Croatia extensively. And here at our blog, we share the best of Croatia just as we discover it.

Visitors to Croatia can find useful travel tips , in-depth destination guides, things to do , places to stay , and lots of information on Croatian food and restaurants. I also sometimes share my musings on ex-pat life in Croatia .

Table of Contents

Where is Croatia located?

Before moving forward, let’s get the basic facts sorted out. Croatia is located in Europe! It is a Central European and Mediterranean country, bordered by the Adriatic Sea to the west. Croatia shares borders with Italy, Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Montenegro. It shares The longest land border with Bosnia and the longest sea border with Italy.

Below you will find the location of Croatia on the map.

Do you need a visa?

Most foreign visitors don’t need a visa to enter Croatia, including, but not limited to, EU countries, the UK, the USA, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Foreign citizens of those countries can enter Croatia and stay here for 90 days within 180 days.

Citizens of EU countries can enter Croatia using only their ID cards; all others need to travel with a valid passport to enter Croatia.

If you require a visa to enter Croatia but hold a valid Schengen visa, as well as visas for Cyprus, Romania, and Bulgaria, you don’t need a separate visa for Croatia. You are free to travel to Croatia under the condition of your current visa from the above-mentioned countries.

If you require a visa for Croatia, you can print and fill out the application forms here and submit them along with the requested documents to the Croatian Embassy, Consulate, or an accredited tourist agency.

To apply for a Croatian visa, you’ll need a valid passport issued less than 10 years ago with an expiry date at least three months after the intended departure date from Croatia.

All questions regarding visa you can send via [email protected].

Weather in Croatia

Croatia has three distinct climates: the continental climate in its interior, the Mediterranean along the coast, and the mountain above 1200 m.

Along the coast, you can expect dry, hot, and sunny summers and mild, although sometimes wet, winters. Weather along the south Adriatic region of Dalmatia is generally drier and sunnier than in the northern Adriatic region of Istria. Daily temperatures can differ up to 5°C (40°F).

Although the average summer temperatures are around 22°C (72°F), in July and August, you can expect over 40 days with daily temperatures of over 30°C (86°F).  Average winter temperatures are around 10°C, with January being the coldest month with daily average temperatures of less than 10°C (50°F).  The average sea temperature varies from 12°C (54°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer.

Croatia’s interior has a moderate continental climate. Winters are cold and wet, with lots of fog, while summers get hot and dry.  Average winter temperatures are around 4°C (40°F), while the average summer temperature is around 22°C (72°F).

Money in Croatia

Croatian currency.

The Croatian currency is Euro, a common European currency, as of January 1, 2023. At the time of writing this article, for 1 $, you get almost 1 € (0,94  to be exact), for 1 £ you get 1,13 €, for 1 CAD, you get 0,70 €, and 1 AUD will get you 0,64 €.

Exchanging the money in Croatia

The majority of the exchange offices advertise a “no commission policy”. While it is true that they don’t charge the typical commission, they do set their own exchange rates. These rates can vary significantly. Beware of these discrepancies, and shop around for the best rate.

ATM machines in Croatia

When withdrawing money from an ATM, try to use official banks’ ATM machines (they should have a sign of one of the Croatian banks like Zagrebacka, Privredna OTP, Erste, or Adikko Bank). These ATM machines are usually near the bank’s branch offices.

In resorts and hotels, you’ll often find Euronet (blue and yellow), Auro Domus ATM machines (yellow and black), or any other non-bank ATM machine. While they are often located at more prominent spots in towns, hotels, and resorts and are thus more convenient to use, they are also more expensive. However, if convenience is more important to you than a few euros here and there, go ahead and use these machines as well. I personally never use them.

Credit cards in Croatia

Although credit cards are widely accepted in Croatia, they aren’t accepted everywhere. One of the first things you will notice in Croatia is the abundance of ATM machines wherever you go. Smaller businesses, as well as some restaurants and bars, prefer cash. A general rule of thumb is that if you see a credit card sticker at the door or near the cashier, you should be able to pay by credit card. But the only safe way to know is to actually ask.

Another thing regarding money that you need to be aware of is the so-called dynamic currency conversion . This basically means that the amount of your credit card transaction is converted to your home currency at the point of sale (rather than by the card issuer).

In hotels or restaurants, or just about anywhere you intend to pay by credit card, the staff will ask you if you prefer the charge in local currency (Euro) or your own currency. While theoretically, you might sometimes profit from being charged in your own currency by a merchant on the spot, it rarely happens in reality. You will just end up paying more than you otherwise would. So, always choose to pay in local currency . Or ask for the exchange rate and compare it with the one you find that day on the internet.

When is the high season in Croatia?

The high season in Croatia is from mid-June to mid-September. The peak travel time includes the last week of July and the first two weeks of August.

However, the busiest time is not always the best time to visit Croatia.

Best time to visit Croatia

The best time of the year to visit Croatia is in June and September . There are far fewer people around (definitely no queues, traffic jams, or crowded beaches), the weather is still warm and sunny, prices are more affordable, and the sea is warm enough to swim in. Another tip: The Sea is usually warmer in September than in June.

Also, remember that Croatia is extremely popular among Germans and Austrians, especially the northern Adriatic regions of Istria and Kvarner. So, crowds (and accommodation prices) tend to increase around German school holidays (like Corpus Christi – it’s either in mid-May to early June or late May to mid-June; it changes from year to year). Ha, but this also means that in the year when German school holidays are in May, hotels often offer special discounts for June. And vice versa.

What to bring to Croatia

We all have our own rules and tricks when it comes to packing. However, we’ll give you a few ideas on what to bring and what to wear in Croatia.

Croatia has four seasons and three distinctive climates: a Mediterranean climate along the coast, a mountain climate on its rugged mountains, and a continental climate inland.

This means that if you are visiting Croatia during the summer, most of your clothes should be light. Nevertheless, a windbreaker jacket, a pair of long pants, and leggings always come in handy. For the rest, take a couple of shorts and tops that you can mix and match or a few casual summer dresses. Don’t forget your beachwear, including swimsuits and cover-ups, water shoes, sunglasses, and a microfiber towel. A pair of sandals and a pair of walking shoes are also a must, as well as a travel money belt .

Also, with luggage restrictions and weight limits, it’s worth investing in lightweight luggage  to travel to Croatia.

As for the rest, don’t forget your photo equipment (with plenty of extra batteries), waterproof phone bag, adapters, converters, and other small things you will find indispensable in Croatia. Croatia uses 220V, 50 Hz frequency, and type C & F plugs. Both are similar plugs with two round prongs with 19 mm between them.

Here is our full post on what to bring and what to wear in Croatia. 

Getting to Croatia

Traveling to Croatia from anywhere in Europe is quite easy. From April through September, many airlines have direct flights from all over Europe to all major Croatian towns. Besides, Split and Zagreb are connected by plane with the rest of Europe throughout the year. For detailed information on flights scheduled to Croatia, consult the CheapOair website.

We’ve also recently found out about Scott’s cheap flights program . They basically search for airline mistakes or intentionally great deals and email them to you. We haven’t used it, but it seems worth a try (they have a free plan too).

You can also travel to Croatia from other European towns by bus . Bus schedules are a bit harder to search for as many bus companies run the service. However, if you want to travel by bus, we highly recommend using the GetByBus website to check and book intercity buses in Croatia and beyond.

You can also check with a local bus station once you are at your destination and can physically walk there. Getting information over the phone or email can be impractical and expensive (yes, they still use automated phone machines that make you wait forever and charge you a fortune for waiting!).

Find out more here:

• Zagreb Bus Station
• Split Bus Station
• Zadar Bus Station

Train connections to and around Croatia are quite limited, and we generally don’t recommend traveling by train to Croatia. However, if you really have to, you can find more information on the Croatian Railways website .

International ferries connect Croatia and Italy. Directferries’ website is the best place to check ferries schedules and book tickets online. Jadrolinija operates Bari to Dubrovnik, Split to Ancona, Split to Bari, and Zadar to Ancona car ferry lines, while Venezialines passenger ferry connects Porec, Rovinj, and Pula with Venice.

Our favorite way to travel around Europe, and to Croatia as well, is by car . Whether it’s your own car or a rental car , it’s the most convenient way to move around Europe.

Getting around Croatia

The best way to travel around Croatia is by car . Croatia is a small country with great roads and nice little villages , totally worth a detour. The only way to really discover the country is to travel by car. We’ve written a full post about driving in Croatia and car rental in Croatia .

Another excellent way to travel around Croatia is by bus . Buses are modern, fast, affordable, and frequent. The islands and Istria are the only places we wouldn’t recommend bus traveling . For the rest, if you can’t travel by car for whatever reason, hop on the bus and enjoy the ride. Use BookAway to check lines and schedules and to book your bus ticket online.

Ferries are still the most popular and sometimes the only way to get to the islands. The main ferry ports include Rijeka, Zadar, and Split, but ferries also depart from smaller coastal towns like Brsecine, Makarska, Drvenik, Orebic, Ploce, and Prapratno. Jadrolinija is the largest ferry operator in Croatia, and its ferries cover most of the routes. You can also book your ferry tickets for some routes online through the Bookaway website .

Public transportation in bigger towns is reliable and efficient. Split, Rijeka, Zadar, Pula, and Dubrovnik use city buses, while Zagreb has an extensive network of electric trams and city buses. Public transport costs around 2€ per ride.

Taxis are generally pricey (except in Zagreb and Rijeka), but since Uber entered the market in 2015, cab rides have become more affordable. UberX is available in most popular tourist towns like Zagreb, Split, Rovinj, Dubrovnik, Zadar, etc… Uber and Cammeo Taxi are the cheapest taxi options in Croatia. However, both companies also adjust their rates to demand dynamically, and rates generally increase during the main tourist season.

Croatia holiday destinations

One of the most common questions is  where to go in Croatia . Many visitors who travel to Croatia for the first time tend to visit the main tourist towns and attractions, like Zagreb, Split, Plitvice, Hvar, and Dubrovnik. However, Croatia has many hidden gems , charming villages , wonderful natural sites , and  beautiful beaches .

Where to go depends heavily on the type of traveler you are, the things you want to do , the time you plan to spend in Croatia, and your budget .

We have written extensive travel guides on the following holiday destinations in Croatia:

• Split Travel Guide
• Dubrovnik Travel Guide
• Zagreb Travel Guide
• Plitvice Lakes Travel Guide
• Hvar Island Travel Guide
• Rovinj Travel Guide
• Porec Travel Guide
• Rabac Travel Guide
• Pula Travel Guide
• Brac Island Travel Guide
• Peljesac Peninsula Travel Guide
• Dalmatia Region Travel Guide
• Dubrovnik Region Travel Guide
• Istria Travel Guide

National parks

Croatia is a small country with a surface of just over 56.000 m2. However, due to its geographical location, geomorphological and ecological conditions, and climate, in terms of biodiversity, Croatia is one of the richest countries in Europe.

The nature here is divine: from the Adriatic sea and high-rising mountains to the plains of Slavonia and the rolling hills of Istria and Zagorje.

The country has eight national parks, ten nature parks, and two strict reserves. Almost 10% of the country’s territory is protected. The national parks of Kornati, Brijuni, and Mljet are located on the islands and are characterized by rich marine life. The Risnjak, Northern Velebit, and Paklenica national parks cover mountainous areas. They all feature interesting limestone rocks, meadows, and vast forests.

Plitvice Lakes, Croatia’s most visited national park, and Krka national park are famed for their lakes, streams, rapids, and waterfalls.

Unesco World Heritage Sites

Croatia doesn’t lack cultural and historical sites. Even ten of them made it to the Unesco World Heritage Sites list.

These sites include The Euphrasian Basilica in Porec, St. James Cathedral in Sibenik, the old town of Trogir, Diocletian Palace in Split, Dubrovnik old town , Stari grad planes on the island of Hvar, Plitvice Lakes, the Venetian Works of Defence from the 16th and 17th centuries in Zadar and Sibenik, Stećci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards in Cista Provo and Konavle, and Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests in national parks Paklenica and Northern Velebit.

With the exception of the Plitvice Lakes, all other sights are located along the coast. Here is our list of 10 Unesco World Heritage Sites in Croatia not to be missed.

Accommodation

We often get asked about the best type of accommodation in Croatia. For this reason, we’ve written a full post on different types of accommodation in Croatia , with their pros and cons.

Croatia offers a variety of accommodations to choose from: hotels, hostels, apartments, villa rentals, and campsites. Which is right for you depends heavily on your travel style and budget.

Croatia is mostly seen as a  4-star family destination . However, some destinations are fancier than others. This is particularly true for Dubrovnik, Hvar Town, and partially Rovinj.

We’ve written extensive guides on accommodation in the following destinations in Croatia:

• Where to stay in Split
• Where to stay in Dubrovnik
• Accommodation in Zagreb
• Where to stay in Rovinj
• The Best Hotels in Rovinj
• Where to stay in Porec
• Plitvice Lakes Accommodation
• Where to stay in Pula
• The 12 Best Makarska Hotels

Hotels in Croatia

A good choice of 5-star hotels you’ll find in Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Rovinj, and Losinj Island. Although some hotels offer an all-inclusive formula, all-inclusive resorts aren’t popular in Croatia. All-inclusive Croatia mostly refers to a full board meal plan with unlimited selected drinks at mealtimes. Many hotels in Croatia offer a half-board meal plan , and dinner often comes cheap when purchased as a part of a room rate.

Booking.com is by far the most popular website for browsing and booking hotels in Croatia. They offer the most flexible booking policy and offer the most choice of properties. You can also check the hotel’s official website. Sometimes hotels offer special deals available only through their website.

Apartments in Croatia

Many Croatians rent apartments to tourists. Apartments are a good alternative to hotels. They are cheaper, offer more space, and come with a fully-equipped kitchen.

Apartment rentals, just like hotels, need to be licensed and get an official star rating. The most popular websites for apartment rentals in Croatia are Booking.com and Airbnb.

Villas in Croatia

Another popular and emerging type of accommodation is villa rentals . Mostly located off the big tourist resorts, these villas offer peace and quiet, and lots of privacy. Besides, villas come with a pool where you can chill all day long.

Croatia is also a very popular camping destination . There are lots of campsites all along the coast, and just a few of them are in continental Croatia.

Popular campsites in Croatia include Lanterna in Porec , Valkanela in Vrsar, Polari in Rovinj, Park Umag, and Zaton near Zadar. The best place to make yourself familiar with Croatian campsites is the Camping.hr website, an official website of the Croatian Camping Association.

Many of our readers reach out to us with a question about driving in Croatia, road condition, and safety on Croatian roads. Croatian roads are in very good condition. A fairly new multi-lane motorway connects Zagreb to the north and Rijeka to the northwest with Ploce in the south.

Tolls apply on all multi-lane motorways named with the letter A, as well as on some tunnels (eg. Ucka tunnel between Rijeka & Istria), etc. A one-way fee from Zagreb to Split (approx. 400 km) costs 24 € (25 $)*.

Besides motorways, you can also travel on toll-free state roads. These roads are also in good condition, but a single carriageway road, with a single lane for each direction, and some of them, particularly a coastal road D1, are winding.

*prices checked in January 2023

Renting a car

The best way to explore Croatia is by car. And if you don’t travel in your own car, don’t shy away from renting a car in Croatia. You’ll be able to take in the sights; travel off the beaten path; see more in less time, and have the freedom to stop wherever and whenever you feel.

Car rental in Croatia is very  seasonal . This simply means that you’ll need to secure your car rental well in advance if you plan on visiting Croatia in July and August. This also means that  rental prices  increase dramatically in these two summer months. We recommend using Rentalcars.com for your car rental in Croatia.

Tourist registration

All tourists staying in Croatia need to be registered at a local tourist office. And non-EU citizens will also be automatically registered with the police.

This is the reason why during the check-in process at any hotel, private accommodation, or campsite, you’ll be requested to show (and often leave until the next morning) your passport or an ID card.

We love food in Croatia. It’s varied, fresh, local, and tasty. In continental Croatia, people eat lots of meat, while a diet in coastal regions is heavily based on fish, other seafood, and green veggies.

As a traveler, you might also make some false assumptions based on food offered in touristy restaurants along the coast. These restaurants often offer what tourists ask for, and not necessarily typical Croatian dishes.

One of the most popular posts on our blog is our post on must-try Croatian dishes . Make sure to read it so you don’t miss some of the local specialties.

We also give a couple of tips on where to find local, delicious, and cheap eats in Croatia .

And don’t miss our ultimate list of the best places to eat in Croatia . Istrian restaurants rank the highest on this list.

Tap water is safe to drink in Croatia. However, if you still prefer to drink bottled water, bear in mind that bottled water is extremely expensive here. For instance, a 1.5 L bottle of natural water costs around 0.9 € in a supermarket, three times more expensive than in Italy. You can find cheaper bottled water in Lidl, and Eurospin supermarkets.

The legal drinking age in Croatia is 18. Among alcoholic drinks, wines, beer, and spirits are very popular in Croatia.

Drinking usually takes place at cafe bars, serving any kind of drinks, from coffee, and tea, to wine, beer, and any alcoholic drinks. Cafes work all day, opening as early as 6 am, and closing usually around midnight. Nightclubs, pubs, and some bars work until 4 am.

Local wines are good. In the last two decades, many small, family-run wineries have set high standards in the production of quality wines made of indigenous grape varieties, like Malvazija, a dry white wine produced in Istria , or Plavac Mali, a red variety dominating vineyards of the southern Dalmatia .

Croatians also drink lots of beer , but you’ll hardly find an exciting choice of beers here in Croatia (not the case any longer, the craft beer scene in Croatia is now super exciting! ). The most popular mass-produced local beers are Karlovacko and Ozujsko, both light-lager types. In recent years many microbreweries started putting on the market a more appealing craft beer, like San Servolo , LAB, or Zmajska Pivovara .

Spirits are very popular in Croatia, and they come in a variety of flavors. Here they are called rakija . The basic one is most often produced from grapes (called Loza), but then they are flavored with different ingredients. The most popular are travarica (herb brandy), medica (honey brandy), orahovaca (walnut brandy), visnja (cherry brandy), mirta (myrtle brandy), and rogac (carob brandy).

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance covers all kinds of situations if things go wrong: from luggage loss, to trip cancellation, to medical assistance.

If you are an EU citizen then your European Medical Insurance Card covers your basic medical needs and emergency medical care. However, it doesn’t cover emergency transport to your home country.

Non-EU citizens are advised to check with their embassies for what level of medical care they are covered in Croatia, as it heavily depends on the bilateral and reciprocal agreement between the countries.

For other damages like document and baggage loss, loss of belongings, and trip cancellation, you’ll definitely need to purchase travel insurance. There are many travel insurance companies offering different insurance options and packages. You can compare all your options using a website like Travel Insurance Review .

We recommend buying travel insurance from Safety Wing . Available to people from the majority of countries (only sanctioned countries are exempt) it’s designed for all kinds of travelers. And it covers overseas medical, evacuation, baggage, and a range of travel misadventures and delays. And, one child up to 10 years of age is included in an adult’s policy free of charge. You can buy it and claim it online , even after you’ve left home.

Tours and activities

Croatia offers a lot of activities to do for all ages and all year round. The country is rich in history, natural beauty, ancient towns, wonderful architecture, pristine beaches, and rugged mountains.

Foodies will enjoy exploring restaurants in Croatia, especially in Istria, Zagreb, Dubrovnik , and Split . Croatia produces some of the world’s best extra virgin olive oils (if you wonder why you should care, read Tom Mueller’s book Extra Virginity: the sublime and scandalous world of olive oil ). There are lots of places where you can go for an  olive oil tasting , and learn how to distinguish the real stuff from the crap. A visit to a winery  is a must in Croatia, particularly in Istria.

Tisno on the island of Murter, Novalja on the island of Pag, and the town of Hvar offer 24 h partying for the young and restless.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Omis, Paklenica, and Cicarija. They all offer an endless choice of adventures  to enjoy.

We’ve written a full post on  things to do in Croatia . You can also check the Get Your Guide website for a full list of tours and activities in Croatia.

Itineraries

We are often asked to suggest or revise a proposed itinerary for Croatia. So here are a few things to bear in mind when planning your Croatian itinerary.

Although the country is relatively small, it’s long (from Umag in the northwest to Dubrovnik in the south there is over 700 km), and it’s not that quick to travel from north or west to the south.

If you plan to visit Croatia for less than a week , we highly recommend you pick up one destination and stick to it. Do day trips from there , but don’t pretend to visit the entire country in less than a week. Also, in July and August, you need to take into account possible traffic jams, and congestion on the roads, as well as queues for ferries.

If you stay a week or ten days , you can include a few highlights in your itinerary, like Zagreb, Plitvice, Split, and Dubrovnik.

Suggested week itineraries

a | Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes – Split – Hvar – Dubrovnik

b | Dubrovnik – Peljesac Peninsula – Korcula – Split – Zagreb

c | Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes – Istria

Suggested two-week itineraries

a | Zagreb – Opatija – Istria – Plitvice Lakes – Zadar – Krka Waterfalls – Split – Brac Island – Korcula – Peljesac – Dubrovnik

If you prefer to join a group tour, we highly recommend checking tours proposed via Tour Radar. They have a classical coach and boat tours, but they also have a great choice of adventure, cycling, and various themed tours.

Here are a few suggested group tours found on Tour Radar:

Croatia & Adriatic Cruise

This 11-day tour gives you the best of continental Croatia and the Adriatic. The tour starts in Zagreb, and ends in Split, with a visit to 10 other destinations in between. We like that this tour takes you to the Peljesac Peninsula, one of our favorite regions in Croatia. You also get to see Korcula, Hvar, Elafiti Islands and Mljet islands. The small cruise ship can fit 30 passengers in air-conditioned cabins.

Check availability and prices!

Best of Croatia and Slovenia

This 11-day discovery coach tour starts in Zagreb and ends in Dubrovnik. However, it’s packed full of exciting destinations in Croatia, and neighboring Slovenia including Ljubljana, Bled, Rovinj, Opatija, Plitvice, Trogir, Split, and Peljesac peninsula. You will get to see many great destinations in a short period of time, while still having ample time on your own. The tour also includes one special “Be my guest” dinner where you get a chance to experience a traditional meal with a local family.

Croatia Island Hopper from Split

This 8-day island hopping tour operated by G Adventures is one of the most popular tours in Croatia on Tour Radar. The boat tour starts and ends in Dubrovnik with stops in Hvar, Mljet, Korcula, Brac, and Solta.

Cycling the Dalmatian Coast

A small group tour takes you from Split to Dubrovnik in 8 days on your bicycle. The tour provides accommodation, meals, and transportation. You’ll get a chance to test your cycling abilities in Hvar and Korcula Island, along the Peljesac peninsula and Dubrovnik. The tour is intended for all levels of cyclists. The scenery along the route is lovely.

When you think of shopping, Croatia doesn’t necessarily come to mind. However, there are a couple of awesome things to buy in Croatia.

Croatian artisan olive oils are some of the best in the world. Croatian design and concept stores are also making momentum; check the Take Me Home store in Zagreb or Prostoria in Rovinj for some original souvenirs, accessories, unique clothes, bags, and jewelry.

We’ve written a full post on the subject: Croatian souvenirs: fun, cool, and authentic . Don’t forget a high-end tie store – Kravata Croata .

Open markets , where you can buy fresh produce, are popular in Croatia. The largest national supermarket chain is Konzum. Other popular supermarkets in Croatia include Lidl, Kaufland, Plodine, and Spar.

Supermarkets are open throughout the day, Monday to Saturday. On Sunday some shops are open all day, particularly in shopping centers, while downtown shops often close at 1 pm or 3 pm. In summer, along the coast, shops are open seven days a week, and often as late as midnight.

Is Croatia a safe place?

Croatia is a very safe country with very little street crime and almost no violence. However, as everywhere, take care of your belongings, especially when using public transport.

Land mines are still present but in remote areas where tourists rarely visit anyway.

Croatia travel guide: Internet

The Internet in Croatia is widely available. WiFi coverage is pretty good, with many towns offering free wifi hot spots at prominent places in a town. Most of the private accommodations, as well as hotels, and even campsites, offer a free WiFi internet connection.

However, the broadband internet in Croatia isn’t as fast as you are perhaps used to. At least it’s not as fast everywhere in Croatia. In bigger towns, the internet is fast, easily available, and reliable. According to Speedtest.net , Croatia has the 22nd fastest download speed for mobile internet in the whole world. But, the fixed broadband is pretty slow (Croatia takes 89th place on the global scale).

The average internet download speed in Croatia in March 2023 was 71,16 Mbps for mobile, and 45,61 Mbps for fixed broadband.

Roaming charges

Since the summer of 2017, roaming surcharges within EU countries don’t exist longer. This means that, if you are with any EU mobile provider, you will pay the same prices for data, calls, and SMS as you would pay back home.

How free is free? You need to check with your provider what’s the amount of roaming data within the EU. For example, we have a flat rate for internet data in our mobile phone rate package. But, when we spent two months in Spain in the winter of 2022, we realized that we have only 10 GB of data free of charge in other EU countries.

So while the roaming data is free in the EU, the free data isn’t unlimited. Anyways, 10 GB is pretty enough, unless you are binge-watching Netflix shows for hours at times. I hope you don’t do that on vacation!

However, roaming charges for other countries are still pretty high. You can purchase some of the mobile operators’ packages either in your home country or in Croatia.

In Croatia, Telemach sells 10-days unlimited surfing for less than 11 € while T-com sells 7-days unlimited surfing for 11€ . It includes nano, micro, or SMS card. You can buy these packages at gas stations, newsstands, T-com or Telemach centers, and Croatian post offices.

The Airalo eSim packages are a good alternative to local SIM providers. We always use Airalo when traveling abroad.

Is Croatia part of the EU & Schengen visa regiment

As of January 1, 2023, Croatia is a member of Schengen, and thus it is a part of the Schengen visa regiment. This means that there aren’t border or customs controls between Croatia and other Schengen member countries for people crossing the borders by road, rail, or water. However, border and customs controls at the airports will stay in place until March 2023.

If you have a valid Schengen visa, you don’t need a separate visa to visit Croatia and vice versa. This also means that visiting Croatia and the days spent here will count toward 90 days maximum stay within 180 days for your Schengen visa.

When crossing into and out of the non-EU, and non-Schengen countries, you’ll still need to show your documents at the border, and vice versa. These include Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Montenegro.

The sea and sun are still two main reasons for so many people to visit Croatia. Croatia has over 6.000 km of coastline and over 1.000 islands. The two most popular coastal regions are Istria to the north and Dalmatia to the south.

The Croatian coast is mostly rocky with pebble beaches mostly formed in coves and bays. Makarska Riviera, located in central Dalmatia, offers  the most beautiful beaches in all of Croatia . Perfectly round and small pebbles that feel almost like sand but that don’t stick on you forever.

The sea is limpid and clear, you can often see the seabed from far away. My in-laws have a seafront property in Komarna , in southern Dalmatia, and I can see the fish swim in the sea from the third floor of their house.

So, if you search for that perfect sandy beach, you might get disappointed with the beaches in Croatia. Although there are some sandy beaches here too, they are simply not a Croatian thing.

In Istria, the coast is a bit rougher than in Dalmatia, and pebbles are rare to find. However, the beaches here feel less crowded, due to the well-preserved coastline.

Parking in Croatia

If you travel to and around Croatia by car, you might wonder about the parking situation in Croatia. Generally speaking the majority of hotels and private accommodations offer a parking spot free of charge.

However, bear in mind that city centers are usually car-free zones or have limited car traffic. If your accommodation is within the city center enquire about parking before booking.

There are three types of parking: garage parking, open-air parking lots, and street parking. Expect to pay around 1.1 € to 1.6 € per hour in town centers. However, some parking is more expensive, like parking at Riva in Split which cost 4 € an hour; then, in Dubrovnik, where you will pay for an hour of parking in Zone 0 as much as 10 €.

We talk more in-depth about parking in our destination guides . Don’t forget to check them once you decide on your destination .

Do people speak English in Croatia?

You don’t speak Croatian? No worries, most Croatians speak at least some English, and many speak at least another foreign language. Besides English, German and Italian are the most widely spoken languages in Croatia.

Is Croatia expensive to travel to?

Croatia isn’t a cheap place to visit. It’s more expensive than the neighboring countries, like Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, or Hungary.

Generally speaking, continental Croatia and Zagreb, in particular, keep prices moderate to, I would dare to say, even cheap.  However, the coast is mostly expensive, and the prices tend to increase year after year.

That said, if you travel on a tight budget, you can still keep it under control. Stay away from top destinations (visit them but sleep somewhere else), come in the off-season, explore places off-the-beaten-path, forget hotels, choose instead an apartment with a fully-equipped kitchen and prepare your own meals, ask locals for good value restaurants, etc.

Check our budget tips for traveling in Croatia , and also a post on the total Croatia trip cost .

Tipping in Croatia

People often ask us what’s tipping etiquette in Croatia. In short, tipping isn’t necessary but it is widely appreciated and accepted.

The majority of Croatians, in bars and restaurants, simply round up the bill. We on the other hand, out of habit, always leave around 10%, and only if we are satisfied with the service.

If you are taking a group bus tour, someone will usually collect the tips for the driver and the guide at the end of the tour. Here, usually, people chip in on what they feel is appropriate.

What time zone Croatia is in?

Croatia belongs to the Central European Time Zone, meaning it is one hour ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time), and two hours ahead of GMT when daylight saving time is observed.

Daylight saving time makes us move our watches one hour ahead. It takes place from the last Sunday in March until the last Sunday in October.

Find here the time differences between some major towns when compared to Croatia:

• Barcelona: 0
• London: – 1 hour
• Montreal: – 6 hours
• New York City: -6 hours
• L.A.: -9 hours
• Chicago: -7 hours
• Tokyo: +7 hours
• Sydney: +8 hours

If you are traveling from overseas, you will certainly experience jet lag when visiting Croatia. You can check this no-jet lag homeopathic remedy to ease your symptoms.

How much is VAT in Croatia and is it refundable?

At the moment, VAT in Croatia is 25% for the majority of products. If you are a foreigner without permanent or temporary residence in Croatia, you can ask for a tax refund for all purchases above 100 €.

Ask the salesperson for the tax-free form at the moment of purchase. Fill it up, get it stamped right there, and then again at the airport, or at the border by a customs officer. You have six months from the purchase date to claim your VAT return by mailing it back to the shop where you originally bought the item.

Another way to achieve a VAT tax refund is to look for shops that are part of the Global Blue Tax-Free service . They all have a sign displayed in the window along with the working hours, and credit cards that they accept. The procedure is similar (fill up the tax-free form and get it stamped at the shop, and at the airport), but the refund is quicker and can be obtained already at the airport, in Global Blue’s office.

Croatia plugs, adapters, and converters

Croatia uses 220V, 50 Hz frequency, and standard European type C & F plugs. Both are similar plugs with two round prongs with 19 mm between the two.

If the plugs of your devices are different,  you will certainly need an adapter in order to charge them. You can find one here.

While adapters will help you use your plugs in Croatia, converters will help transform voltages from higher to smaller or vice versa. If you need a converter you can easily buy one on Amazon .

Recommended travel guides

• Fodor’s Croatia Travel Guide (we are co-authors!).
• Lonely Planet Croatia Travel Guide  
• Rick Steves Croatia & Slovenia

Further reading from our Croatia travel guide

• Croatia Travel Guide: Things To Do In Croatia
• Ultimate Guide To Accommodation In Croatia
• Packing List For Vacation In Croatia
• How To Choose Your Destination In Croatia
• Where to go in Croatia: best places to visit in Croatia
• Car Rental In Croatia
• Driving In Croatia
• Cost of Travel To Croatia
• Croatia On Budget: Money-saving Tips 
• Outdoor Activities in Croatia
• 49 Awesome Beaches In Croatia
• Snorkeling In Croatia
• White Water Rafting In Croatia
• 20 Must-Try Foods In Croatia

We hope you’ve found our Croatia Travel Guide useful. Is there anything else you’d like to know? Let us know in the comments below.

Frankaboutcroatia.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This post might also contain affiliate links to other sites, like accommodation or activities. And if you purchase anything using these links, we earn a little commission with no extra costs for you. Thank you for supporting our blog! Read full disclaimer here.

Home / Croatia Travel Tips / Croatia Travel Guide: Things To Know Before Traveling To Croatia

48 thoughts on “Croatia Travel Guide: Things To Know Before Traveling To Croatia”

Love your blog. A lot of useful info.

We’re thinking of coming in mid-October to November 4. Will tourist sites still be open in that first week of November?

Thanks for your input.

I am Croatian and I must say, epic post!

Hi we plan to travel to Croatia in July 2020. I am trying to convince my husband to rent a car but he is worried about driving in a foreign country. Can you give any opinion on this topic? I am more worried about the inconsistency of travelling by train and having to wait and plan with the transportation schedules, as well as carrying luggage everywhere.

Hi Marcia, this is the exact reason why we suggest that you take your charges in Kuna. Because your credit card doesn’t charge you a transaction fee. If you take it in your home country, then Croatian bank will charge the transaction fee, or rather they will use the less favorable exchange rate, so they make money. Just keep it in the local currency, even more so if your credit card doesn’t charge these fees. Hope this helps.

You stated that it is probably best to request credit charges be made in kuna, rather than US currency. If my credit card does not charge a foreign transaction fee, would that still be true?

Firstly, congratulations on your brilliant web site, so helpful to first time visitors to Croatia. We are staying on Korcula at the end of September, would you recommend booking the ferry, and if so which is the best web site to use?

It all depends. Zagreb is ok for a day or two, Split for two or three, the same goes for Dubrovnik, or Rovinj.

Thanks for all the info. We are coming from Canada for a 10 day stay beginning of July. We fly in & out of Zagreb but want to see Split & go up north for a bit too to see some family birthplaces. How much time do you recommend for each city stay & absolute must sees while we are there?

Epic post Frank! I’ve spent the last couple of summers sailing around Croatia and think it’s incredible. Favorite island is most probably Kos. Have some great memories of playing cricket with some of the locals. Cant wait to get back!

What is the best option to travel from Zagreb to Venice

This was amazing and super helpful! For first timers going to Croatia (about a week) where do you recommend going? Was planning for a July trip, but your post sort of scared me to be mentally prepared ha!

Do you ever work with readers to come up with an itinerary?

This was super helpful! Thanks!

Great info…thank you very much. My Bride and I will be in Croatia from Sep 11 to Sep 20. We will arriving in Dubrovnik and leaving from Zagreb. We are planing to stay 3 days in Dubrovnik, 3 in Split and 2 in Zagreb. Would you recommend any changes to this and what places around those three cities are a must? We will have a car. We love waterfronts, small (Mom & Pop) licensed restaurants, some beach time and sightseeing. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Mário & Fatima Sousa…….Mississauga, Canada

Hi Frank! Thank you for all of the info. I am a bit overwhelmed. My husband, 2 adult daughters and I are planning our trip to Croatia in late May/early June 2019 for a week to 10 days. We love adventures! What itinerary would you suggest?

Great info, thank you. We are planning our trip for Sept/Oct 2019, touring around Croatia and neighboring countries for 2 weeks. Planning on staying just outside of Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik. We are travelling from Canada, renting a car and booking Apartments and BnB’s. Wondering if there would be any significant differences between September and October for weather, costs, tourism, crowds, etc. Thanks in advance.

Your blog is really helpful.

We are from India and we are planning to visit croatia in the last week of february, 2019. And we are majorly looking to cover North (Alps, Gorski Kotar) and South (the beaches and other popular places).

Since we are not fully aware of the weather conditions in Feb, I wanted to ask whether it is decent enough to travel in feb? without any complications brought in by weather?

I am planning a week-long trip to Croatia in September with 8 young adult family members. Is it best to go from city to city staying in a hotel, rent a villa one place and do day trips or rent a boat and go down the coast? Amy

In Septemeber everything should still be open. No worries.

I always go with 10% when in restaurants. As for the rest, you give what you feel. Normally, you collect from the entire group and you give it at the end of trip if you were happy with the service. I am not aware that there is a tipping rule for drivers and guides as for how much should you tip. You basically tip what you feel they deserve.

There is plenty things for kids to do. If I knew where exactly you go, I could have provided more info

Porec, Rovinj, Bol, Brela

thanks for sharing, Lynn! Great clip, it shows well what to expect. However, most of the video is made in the northern part of the road, between Rijeka and Zadar.

Thanks for reading, May! Hope you had a great time in Croatia.

Haven’t been there, Kass. Sorry!

great! let us know if we can help with anything

Have fun, and drop us a line if you have a question

You can stay in Zagreb for a day, Plitvice either for a day or in transit from Zagreb to Split, Hvar for 2-3 days if you want to visit the entire island; otherwise book an island tour from Split. So if you only want to stay in two or three of these towns, make it Zagreb, SPlit and Dubrovnik, because they are best located to do day trips elsewhere.

Thanks for all the great advice. For a two week holiday, can you suggest which towns to stay in? I’d love to visit Zagreb, Plitvice, KrKra, Split, Hvar and Dubrovnik. I’d like to stay in two or three places and do the rest from there.

Great blog. Thanks for the info. We – fellow Canadians – plan to spend Jan to Mar 2019 in Croatia, basically in the Trogir area. We’d appreciate any further thoughts you’d wish to pass on.

I would like to know about tipping in Croatia for bus drivers and tour guides. Our travel club is bring a group to Croatia in May 2019.

Hi..We are planning to visit next year..Have children who will be agedelivered 11 and 13..are there things for them to do?

Hi there. Thanks for all the information. So useful! Question re timing. I would head over in the September holidays to beat the crowds but want to check most of the bars etc are still open all year round. Sometimes in countries like Japan where we lived for 8 years they are very strict on seasons and so going outside (even slightly) means u go to a great beach bar only to find it closed. Thanks

Thank you for your blog and the very valuable information you provide. My family (a total of 16 of us) are visiting Croatia at the end of this month. 3 of us are from BC Canada so it has been even more exciting to hear what you have to share.

Hello Just found your blog and its just what i,m after, so much information. I am visiting Croatia next month with my son, we are staying near Trogir. I was going to take kuna but you say most places take Euros? I have rented a car and plan to travel around a bit. Thanks Karl

I am watching the World Cup finaland cheering for the team! I decided to visit the beautiful country in 2019 with my family. Look forward to it!

We’re going in September to visit Lokve, where my husband’s people are from. Have you been there? Can you tell us anything about it? Thanks!

We are currently in Croatia and it is just beautiful. The water shades from turquoise to deep blue and the rocky hills provide a beautiful contrast in the landscape.

We stayed rather in the south and we took the E65 coastal road. If you have time to spare and you are not in a hurry, I recommend this road compared to the highway. I wish I could describe it but I will never be able to narrate the full picture, so I made a short clip on our journey that I wish to share.

It is on YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKEiQI4NOos&t=60s

Hello, very nice blog of yours! I was wondering what area you would suggest a family of four to stay in. A place that is child friendly and filled with entertainment is something I had in mind, but would like to know what places wold exactly fit my needs. Thank you!

Hi there, me and my husband have been trawling the internet looking for ideas of where to visit with our two children (2 & 9 years) and we’ve stumbled upon your AMAZING site. It’s literally a godsend!! Please could i pick your brains and ask where you would best recommend? We love the beach, history and lovely food!! Any advice would be so gratefully recived!

Hi, loving the information on your website. We are coming to Croatia for 2 weeks from the 6th of September, and are wondering if you think we need to pre-book accommodation or should we be able to book a few days in advance? Cheers, Karen

Hi Frank, just found your website and love it. My husband and I will be vacationing from US to Croatia from Sept. 5 to 19. First time. Don’t plan on seeing the entire country on this visit but would like a few highlights. We will land in Split and leave from Dubrovnik. Are there any and can you recommend a private tour guide company?

Hi – so glad I stumbled upon your wonderful post ! We are thinking of travelling to valamar island in July . I am concerned it will be very busy and hugely commercial ? X

Hi Colleen, if you would like to receive our newsletter, please sign up for it through the website. Let us know if we can help with anything regarding your upcoming trip to Croatia.

Frank, Please add me to your list. I plan to visit this wonderful country in 2019. Colleen

Hi. Will be in Croatia July 17-31. We’d love to book a 3-5 day sailing or yacht trip around the islands. Possibly start and end in Split. Do you have any recommendations?

I have been to Croatia with my mum last year and this charming country won our hearts, Frank! I still haven’t crossed Dubrovnik off my bucket list, but your post was truly inspiring. I guess now I have plenty of more reasons to explore magnificent Croatia!

Really enjoy your detailed travel guide! My gf and I (early/mid 20’s) are traveling to Dubrovnik, Croatia next week and we plan to rent a car for about 10-11 days. Our plan is do explore the coast of Croatia, spend some time in several cities and eventually make our way to Slovenia where we’ll return the car.

Do you have any advice with regard to having the “luggage” of the car, and doing trips to islands and etc.? We want the car to have the flexibility, but we may not use it EVERY day. We also don’t want to try and pack too much into the week and a half we are in Croatia. There is the potential we stay longer, but we thought it may be neat to make our way up to Slovenia, spend a few days there then make our way to Austria for a week.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Hi guys, we love your blog and passion for Croatia. We are a family run business, that runs 3 adventure bases in Croatia. We only employ local staff and follow green responsible policies. We would love to talk about working with you. Whats your best mobile number?

Leave a Comment

Croatia Travel Guide

The jewel of the Adriatic! Croatia boasts pristine beaches, age-old towns, and a blend of tradition, cuisine, and historic marvels.

Best time to visit Croatia

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Following a Mediterranean climate, Croatia’s weather is fantastic, particularly between May and October! Spring and Autumn are prime seasons to explore, offering mild sunny temperatures and fewer visitors.

Cities in Croatia

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Islands in Croatia

Kamenjak national park (croatia’s natural gem), visiting the medieval truffle town of motovun, croatia, 10 best things to do in rovinj, croatia, national parks in croatia, krka national park, croatia: travel guide to the waterfalls, how to rent a car in croatia, best travel insurances.

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find Hostels via Hostelworld
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Croatia via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
• Get a Visa via iVisa
• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Croatia worth visiting?

Croatia is an absolute gem! From dreamy islands to historic cities, it’s a paradise for adventure seekers. Dive into sapphire waters, savor delicious cuisine, and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

Is Croatia cheap to visit?

Croatia has become more expensive in recent years due to its popularity, particularly in towns like Dubrovnik and Split; however, staying in self-catering accommodation, eating local, and visiting outside of the peak months can help you stay on a budget.

Can I drink tap water in Croatia?

The tap water in Croatia is high-quality and readily available, with beautiful water fountains dotted around many of the cities, so make sure to bring your reusable water bottle.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Croatia?

Most travelers don’t need a visa for Croatia for stays of up to 90 days. Check your country’s entry requirements in advance and make sure to have a valid passport ready for your Croatian adventure.

What language do they speak in Croatia?

While Croatian is the official language, English is like a second language to many who depend on tourism for their livelihood. Enhance your experiences by learning a few Croatian phrases, and the locals will warmly welcome your efforts to communicate in their language.

Do I need travel insurance for Croatia?

Travel insurance ensures peace of mind during your adventure through Croatia, protecting you from unexpected events. Hike through national parks, cliff jump off the rugged coastline, and kayak around beautiful islands with zero worries!

Is Croatia safe?

The crime rate in Croatia is low, and it is generally a very safe country for tourists. Exercise precautions as normal, and you’ll have an incredible trip filled with friendly locals and beautiful landscapes.

What power plug type does Croatia have?

Croatia primarily uses type C and F plugs, the European-style two-pin plugs with a voltage of 230V. Make sure to bring a plug adapter to keep you charged on the go!

Why do people love Croatia?

Commonly known as the Jewel of the Adriatic, Croatia is one of the best holiday destinations in Europe! With an incredible blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and warm hospitality, unforgettable memories are created here.

Travel to Croatia

Croatia, the Jewel of the Adriatic, is a captivating European destination known for its stunning coastlines, picturesque islands, historic cities, and incredible national parks. As one of the greatest vacation destinations in Europe, Croatia offers a diverse range of experiences, from the ancient walled city of Dubrovnik to the lush Plitvice Lakes National Park . Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or beach enthusiast, there’s something for everyone, making for an unforgettable vacation in Croatia!

How to plan your trip to Croatia

Follow our Croatia travel guides to plan an unforgettable road trip in this Mediterranean paradise. There are so many amazing things to do in Croatia, including historic cities like Split , natural wonders like Krka National Park, and charming islands like Hvar.

Short on time? Tick off the highlights of Croatia with our ultimate 7-day travel guide , road-tripping through ancient fortresses, UNESCO valleys, turquoise shores, and waterfall villages .

Ready for an incredible holiday in Croatia? The weather varies by season, and choosing the best time to visit depends on where in the country you’re planning to see and the kind of vacation you’d like to have.

High Season (July – August): If you’re dreaming of sunny days and beachfront relaxation, consider visiting between June and August. These are the peak summer months, with warm temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rainfall. The coastlines are at their finest during this period, making it an ideal time for beach enthusiasts, and the party scene is at its best in Hvar , Brac , Dubrovnik, and Split for those looking for nightlife. This period brings crowds of tourists, so booking accommodations and tours in advance, particularly in well-traveled destinations like Dubrovnik, is definitely worth it.

Shoulder Seasons (May, June, September & October): If you prefer a more budget-friendly, less crowded experience, the shoulder seasons are generally the best times to visit Croatia. During these months, the climate in Croatia is pleasant, the tour operators and hotels are open, and the crowds are much more manageable in popular cities. May and June are also the best months to visit the National Parks when the lakes and waterfalls are flowing.

Croatia’s climate can also vary depending on the region. Central Croatia tends to be a little cooler than the coastal areas, so it is always worth packing layers if you plan to explore different parts of the country.

Whichever season you choose for your Croatia holiday, this beautiful country will not disappoint!

Coastlines and beaches in Croatia

Croatia’s coastline along the Adriatic Sea is a paradise. With a diverse range of beaches, from pebbly shores to secluded coves, there’s something to suit every traveler’s taste.

One of the best things to do in Croatia is to explore its stunning coastline, starting with the Dalmatian Coast. This stretch of coastline is famous for its crystal-clear waters and unique pebble beaches. Zlatni Rat, located on the island of Brač , is often referred to as the “Golden Horn” due to its distinctive shape and offers a picturesque spot for sunbathing and water sports.

For a blend of history and relaxation, Banje Beach in Dubrovnik is an amazing spot, only a 10-minute walk from the Old Town. With panoramic views of the city’s historic walls, it’s a unique spot to unwind and enjoy the Croatian sun. This spot is very popular, so come early to rent a daybed or find a spot on the nearby cliffs or visit Sveti Jakov Beach instead, a quieter spot in Dubrovnik closed off to boats, making it one of the best places to visit in Croatia.

If you’re looking for a more tranquil getaway, hop on a boat tour around Hvar Island, exploring the secluded beaches, natural caves, swimming in the crystal blue waters of Budikovac Lagoon, and taking in the picture-perfect scenery.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing vacation or a crazy backpacking adventure, Croatia’s coastlines and beaches are out of this world!

Food, culture and religion in Croatia

Dive into the heart of this Mediterranean gem, and you’ll discover warm hospitality, distinct regional cuisines, and prominent architecture from its religious influence.

Food: Croatian cuisine is a delicious blend of influences from Central Europe, Italy, and the Mediterranean. As you travel Croatia, your taste buds will be treated to an array of flavors. On the coast, you’ll find food similar to Greek, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisines, with freshly caught seafood from the pristine waters and plenty of olive oil and fresh herbs. Further inland, food is known to be a little more hearty, with warming stews and decadent pastries.

Culture: Croatia has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with red and white checkered items, known as šahovnica, the coat of arms, featuring everywhere throughout the country, highlighting how proud locals are to be Croatian.

Religion: Religion holds a significant place in the hearts of Croatians, with the majority of the population following the Catholic faith. This influence is evident in the beautiful churches and cathedrals that grace the country’s landscapes, from the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Dubrovnik, to St. Stephen’s Church in the small hilltop village of Motovun .

Why you should travel to Croatia

One of the best European vacation destinations, Croatia’s charm is endless, with sun-soaked beaches, captivating cities, pristine islands, and breathtaking natural parks. As you navigate its winding roads, you’ll encounter UNESCO-listed valleys, wander through Game of Thrones Croatia film sets, explore ancient fortress cities, visit breathtaking waterfalls, and relax on the beautiful shores.

The country’s diversity is the standout feature of the country. The Adriatic coastline, dotted with pebble and sandy beaches, offers a seaside paradise for sun-seekers. While the coastline may steal the limelight, picturesque cities like Dubrovnik and Split, with their well-preserved historical architecture, beckon history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Additionally, the numerous islands, such as Hvar and Korčula, provide an idyllic escape from the bustling mainland, offering a laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere. The national parks, including Krka and Plitvice Lakes, display cascading waterfalls, pristine lakes, and lush forests that provide a haven for nature lovers.

Croatia offers an enriching experience whether you’re a backpacking adventurer, a history enthusiast, or a sunseeker in search of the perfect vacation.

Safety and travel advice Croatia

Croatia is generally a safe travel destination, but it’s essential to stay informed about safety measures and travel tips when planning your trip to the country.

Natural Disasters: While Croatia is not prone to major natural disasters, occasional minor earthquakes and forest fires may occur. Additionally, heavy rainfall, particularly during the winter, can lead to localized flooding. To stay updated on potential emergencies during your trip, always follow the local weather and plan accordingly. Outside of the tourist areas, there may be unexploded mines from the past war, so always stick to marked paths.

Crime and Safety in Croatia: Overall, Croatia has a low crime rate. However, in crowded tourist areas, such as city centers and popular coastal destinations, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur. It’s wise to leave valuables at your accommodation and stay vigilant in crowded places. There have also been several reports of crime in taxis, so if you’re traveling alone, it’s advisable to take a photo of the number of the taxi and send it to a friend or family member.

Traffic and Driving: In the busier towns and cities, Croatia can experience traffic congestion, particularly during the high season. If you plan to drive a rental car in Croatia, always pay attention to traffic signs and adhere to local driving rules. Also, be aware that it is illegal to drive with more than 0.05% of alcohol in your system.

Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance for your vacation in Croatia, ensuring peace of mind in case of unexpected events, such as hiking accidents or lost luggage. Find the best travel insurance to best suit your needs.

Introducing Croatia

About croatia.

• Images of Croatia
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Croatia
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

• Dubrovnik Airport
• Split Airport
• Zadar Airport
• Zagreb Airport
• Porec beaches
• Pula beaches
• Split beaches

Croatia travel guide

Occupying a stunning stretch of the Adriatic coastline, Croatia is one of Europe's top seaside destinations. Boasting more than 1,100 islands, the country is renowned for its limpid waters and picture-perfect scenery.

But Croatia is much more than sea and sunshine – it’s home to historic walled cities and spectacular Roman ruins, as well as imposing castles and unspoiled national parks. The fantastic cuisine, including seafood on the coast and truffles in Istria, fine wines and buzzing café culture add to the appeal.

The capital, Zagreb, can be called quintessentially Central European. Everything from the architecture to the hearty cuisine reflects the region’s centuries-old ties with the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The city also makes a good base from which to explore the historic castles and vineyards of Zagorje.

One thing that has changed greatly in the last decade in Croatia is tourism. The coast was once an undiscovered, undeveloped natural wonder as beautiful as Italy's, but without the fanfare. Now tourists from Britain, Germany and beyond flock to the Dalmatian region, and many have snapped up holiday homes.

The gorgeous seaside cities of Split and Dubrovnik still maintain their charm, but tend to be crowded with tourists during the day. The evenings in these coastal hubs tend to be much quieter, and there are often classical music concerts and other events in the city centres.

Beyond the tourist zones, Croatia is full of isolated places where you can discover more traditional, local life. Head to Plitvice for its amazing, lake-strewn national park, or explore the rugged mountain ranges of Velebit and Gorski Kotar, havens for hiking.

Back on the Adriatic, Croatia offers ideal sailing conditions, scuba diving and sea kayaking. And of course, those in search of a more restful holiday can enjoy hours of sunshine on the beach. As Europe's top naturist destination, Croatia is also a place where you can even get that all-over tan.

Clothing is advised if you’re planning to explore the country’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, world-class museums and festivals, which come thick and fast throughout the summer.

56,542 sq km (21,831 sq miles).

4,218,584 (UN estimate 2016).

79 per sq km.

President Zoran Milanović since 2020.

Prime Minister Tihomir Orešković since 2016.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications for Croatia when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Croatia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Croatian Embassy in London .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Croatia.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Croatia, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter Croatia (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Contact the Croatian embassy in the UK if your passport does not meet both these requirements.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document, or try to use a passport that has been lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

Border checks have been introduced at Slovenia’s borders with Croatia and will be in place for 6 months. If travelling from Croatia, to Slovenia, consult our travel advice for Slovenia .

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

If you’re a visitor, your passport must be stamped when you enter or leave the Schengen area (which includes Croatia). Border guards will use passport stamps to check you haven’t overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for stays in the Schengen area. If your passport was not stamped, border guards will presume you have overstayed the visa-free limit.

If your passport was not stamped, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Croatia .

At Croatian border control, you may also need to:

• show proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking confirmation or proof of address for a second home
• show proof of your travel insurance
• show a return or onward ticket
• prove that you have enough money for your stay – the amount varies depending on your accommodation

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area (including Croatia) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you’re travelling to Croatia and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must meet the Croatian government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Croatian embassy in UK .

If you stay in Croatia with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Croatia guide .

Registration with the police

Your accommodation provider must register your arrival in Croatia with the police within 48 hours. Your hotel will normally register you. If your accommodation provider is unable to do this for you, fill in and print out the form obrazac 16a . The completed form must be handed in at the police station. Alternatively you should go to the nearest police station with the owner of the accommodation to register your address in Croatia.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Croatia . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into Croatia

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Croatia

Terrorist attacks in Croatia cannot be ruled out. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.

Crime levels are low and violent crime is rare.

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Tourists have been overcharged at bars and clubs (‘gentlemen’s clubs’), sometimes by thousands of Euros, and threatened with violence if they will not pay.

Pickpockets operate in tourist areas. Avoid carrying large sums of cash, do not leave valuables unattended and use hotel safes if possible.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

Always carry your passport or, if you’re a resident, your Croatian ID card. Keep a photocopy of your passport’s photo page in a safe place. If your passport is lost or stolen, report it to the police and get a police report.

Antisocial behaviour

In some Croatian town centres, for example in popular coastal tourist destinations such as Split and Dubrovnik, you can get on-the-spot fines for behaviour seen as inappropriate, including:

• drinking alcohol or using drugs in public spaces (drugs are illegal)
• sleeping in public spaces
• urinating or vomiting in public spaces
• walking through towns shirtless or in swimwear
• wearing clothing that promotes drug use
• climbing on monuments

You can also be fined up to 4000 euros for public order disturbances, including:

• verbal abuse (shouting, arguing)
• drunken behaviour
• belittling or insulting police officers or other public officials

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Drug offences are punished with fines and jail sentences.

Unexploded mines

If you travel outside the tourist resorts, beware of unexploded mines in previously war-affected areas, including:

• Eastern Slavonia
• Brod-Posavina County
• Karlovac County
• areas around Zadar County
• more remote areas of the Plitvice Lakes National Park

For more information about mine-affected areas, visit the Civil Protection website (in Croatian only) or contact the Civil Protection offices.

If you’re travelling in these areas, do not walk on uncultivated land or step off the marked paths. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Hiking and mountaineering

If you’re hiking in the mountains, get expert advice from local guides, however tame the mountain might seem. Weather in the Croatian mountains can change quickly, even in summer, and temperatures can get very low overnight. Be aware of the risks of getting lost in the mountains when out hiking alone and using unmarked paths. Read the Croatian Mountain Rescue tips on mountaineering , follow their Twitter at Hrvatska GSS , and see their maps. If you get into trouble, call the emergency number 112 for help from the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service.

Transport risks

Road travel.

You can drive in Croatia using your UK driving licence for up to 12 months. You don’t need an International Driving Permit.

If you’re driving in Croatia, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC Croatia guide .

The Croatian Automobile Association lists current traffic hazards .

Attacks and sexual assaults in taxis

There have been reports of sexual assaults in taxis or Ubers in Croatia. To reduce risk and help prevent potential assaults you can:

• take a photo of the inside, where the number of the taxi is visible, and send to a friend or someone else
• share your ride status on the Uber app
• make a call while in the taxi telling someone which taxi it is and where you are going

For local information and support, see Getting help

Driving regulations

It is illegal to drive with more than 0.05% of alcohol in your blood system.

• have your headlights on and dipped when driving a car from 1 November until 31 March, even during daytime. For scooters and motorcycles, you must drive with dipped headlights year-round
• use winter tyres between 15 November and 15 April
• carry a fluorescent vest kept in the car, not in the boot. Wear the vest while attending to a breakdown

You must not use a mobile phone while driving.

Do not drink alcohol if you’re in charge of a yacht or boat. There are heavy penalties for being caught drunk in charge of a boat and a zero tolerance approach.

It is a requirement that you sail by the most direct route to a port of entry upon entering territorial waters.

Authorities can arrest you for entering a non-designated entry port without telling them. If you cannot use the correct entry port, contact the local harbour master or the police before entering.

Register your presence on a boat in Croatia by filling in a police form obrazac 16a . The completed form must be handed in at a police station.

All captains must have an International Certificate of Competence .

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Follow media reports and the advice of local authorities if a forest fire, earthquake, floods or other natural disaster occurs in your area.

Forest fires

Fires are common during Croatia’s hot and dry summers. Take care when visiting or driving through woodland and forest areas. If you see a fire, call the emergency services on 112. If you’re affected, follow the advice of local authorities.

From 1 June to 31 October it is illegal to set outdoor fires and barbecues except in designated areas. Intentionally causing a fire is illegal in Croatia and you could be fined from approximately 2,000 to 20,000 euros, or even imprisoned.

You can also be fined for unintentionally causing a fire. Properly extinguish cigarette ends and do not leave any rubbish behind, particularly empty bottles, as these are known to start fires. Fines in these cases have ranged from 260 to 1,200 euros.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes in Croatia can be strong and cause deaths and damage to infrastructure. In recent years, there have been earthquakes in Zagreb and in Petrinja, near Sisak in central Croatia. Both caused extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure and 8 people died. Heavily damaged buildings, which are not always signposted, may be unstable.

There are small tremors several times a month throughout the year. Most pass without consequences. To learn more about what to do before, during and after an earthquake, visit the website of the US Federal Emergency Management Agency .

Flash floods can happen with very little warning and lead to dangerous water flows and disruption to transport and other networks. There is the highest risk of flooding in central Croatia, between Karlovac and Slavonski Brod. Monitor weather forecasts and follow the advice of local authorities.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

For more information read guidance on healthcare when travelling in Europe .

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in Travel HealthPro’s Croatia guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare facilities in Croatia

FCDO has a list of English-speaking doctors in Croatia .

COVID-19 healthcare in Croatia

If you have symptoms of coronavirus, contact the nearest specialist clinic – there are contact details on the Croatian government’s COVID-19 website .

The Croatian government provides information about COVID-19 in Croatia .

If you take a COVID-19 test, you should check that the test result can be provided in the format and language that you need.

Health insurance cards

Apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) or European Health Insurance Card ( EHIC ) before leaving the UK. If you already have an EHIC , it will still be valid if it remains in date.

The GHIC or EHIC entitles you to state-provided medical treatment necessary during your trip. Any treatment provided is on the same terms as Croatian nationals. If you do not have your GHIC or EHIC with you or you’ve lost it, contact the NHS Overseas Healthcare Team .

It’s important to take out appropriate travel insurance for your needs. A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance, and you should have both before you travel. An GHIC or EHIC does not cover all health-related costs, for example, medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment and non-urgent treatment. Read more about what your travel insurance should cover .

GHIC and EHIC cover state healthcare only, not private treatment. You will be responsible for the cost of any treatment provided by a private doctor or private clinic.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Croatia

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you’re involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers , funeral directors and translators and interpreters
• dealing with a death in Croatia
• being arrested or imprisoned in Croatia
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are in Croatia and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy Zagreb .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Book a Hotel

© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

• Living In Croatia
• Croatian Recipes
• Balkan Recipes

Home > 27 Traveling In Croatia Tips – First Time Travel Guide

27 Traveling In Croatia Tips – First Time Travel Guide

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Planning your first trip to Croatia? You’re in for an unforgettable adventure! Croatia, with its stunning coastlines, rich history, and diverse landscapes, offers a unique blend of experiences for travelers.

As someone who fell in love with this country during my first visit in 2000 and now calls it home, I’m excited to share some valuable tips and insights to ensure your Croatian getaway is nothing short of amazing.

Whether you’re seeking sun-soaked beaches, exploring ancient cities, or indulging in local cuisine, Croatia has something for everyone. So, let this Croatia travel guide be your trusted companion as you embark on your Croatian journey. Get ready to discover hidden gems, soak in the culture, and create lasting memories in this beautiful Mediterranean paradise.

These tips will make your first break in Croatia extra fun and extra exciting.

• Croatia now uses the euro
• Check if you need a visa
• Don’t be afraid of driving
• Book ahead of time
• Hop from island to island
• Know about tipping
• Croatia is safe
• Make use of public transportation
• Avoid peak season and travel in the shoulder season
• We speak English
• Don’t forget the national parks
• Check the cruise ship schedules 
• Keep some cash with you
• Don’t be afraid to try new foods
• Know that the beaches are rocky
• Venture outside of the main cities
• Explore the Istrian Peninsula
• Check out a local sporting event
• Take a day trip (or more)
• Rental apartments can be a great option
• Drink local
• Use Zadar as a base
• Spend time on Pag Island
• You can drink the tap water
• Don’t be drunk
• Croatia is now in the Schengen Zone
• Pack comfortable shoes

I am going to assume that “tips” like “ visit the old city of Dubrovnik ,” “ see Plitvice Lakes National Park ,” or “ check out Croatia’s islands ” are apparent and don’t need to be repeated.

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia, Dubrovnik  is likely the first place you’ve heard about. Instead, here are some suggestions that are guaranteed to make your journey that much smoother, take you a bit off the beaten path, and even save you a little money no matter the time of year you go.

1. We Now Use The Euro

Since January 2023, Croatia has adopted the euro as its official currency. This means you won’t need to exchange currency if you’re coming from a Eurozone country. It simplifies your financial transactions during your stay.

• Money & Currency In Croatia

2. Check If You Need A Visa

Visa rules vary according to nationality, so always make sure that you check your particular needs before traveling. Croatia is now in the Schengen zone, so if you travel to other countries in the group, they’re going to add up within your allowance.

• Croatia Visa Requirements Info
• Croatia Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

3. Book Ahead Of Time

A lot of Croatia’s most popular spots tend to become very full during the summer months, particularly Dubrovnik. If you want to avoid disappointment and get the best rates, make sure you book accommodation well ahead of time.

You can head online and find plenty of options, no matter where you want to go.

4. Skip The High Season And Travel In The Shoulder Season

If possible, avoid the prime tourist season months of July and August. Temperatures are high, tourist crowds are insane, and hotel prices are at their peak. You’ll also pay more for ferries, national park entry fees, and other attractions. Do you need any more reasons to avoid the prime months of the year?

We visited Croatia for three weeks in September, starting north of the country and working south. The weather was still warm and comfortable, the sea temps were still suitable for swimming, it was easy to find excellent accommodation , and the worst of the tourist hordes were gone. Now, don’t get us wrong, places like Dubrovnik and Split were still crowded…but imagine how much worse it could have been!

However, one quick heads-up: If you’re traveling to the islands by ferry, the number of scheduled boats reduces dramatically outside of June through to September. Keep that in mind if traveling outside those peak times.

• Best Time To Visit Croatia

5. Croatia Is Safe

Croatia is a destination where you can explore with peace of mind.

Croatia is widely considered safe for you, with low crime rates, especially when it comes to violent crimes against tourists. While petty theft can happen, it’s not rampant, so a little vigilance goes a long way.

Our locals are welcoming and often speak English, making it easy to navigate and ask for help. Croatia’s healthcare system is reliable, and Croatia offers excellent medical facilities if you need them.

6. Make Use of Public Transport

If you want to explore further, don’t be afraid of using the local buses. The inter-city services are efficient and very clean while also being mostly tourist-friendly. Buses visit all popular tourist sites and cities, and it’s a lot cheaper than taxis or car hire.

• Croatia Bus Timetables, Information & Online Tickets

7. Don’t Be Afraid Of Driving, But Do So Carefully

If you want the freedom to explore on your own steam, you could hire a car. However, do be aware that some of Croatia’s roads are very steep and winding. Don’t let that put you off; make sure that you stick to the speed limit and only use the roads you feel comfortable on.

• Car Rental In Croatia

8. Croatia Is Now In The Schengen Zone

As of January 2023, Croatia has officially become a member of the Schengen Zone, marking a significant milestone in its integration with the European Union.

After years of preparation and meeting the necessary criteria, Croatia’s entry into the Schengen Area has streamlined travel for both its citizens and international visitors. This development allows you passport-free movement across borders between Croatia and other Schengen countries, making travel within the region more convenient and efficient. 

9. Hop From Island To Island

Rather than making day trips from Split or Dubrovnik to the islands of Hvar , Vis, Korcula, etc., plan your itinerary to jump from one island to the next. Each has a distinctly different character, and there are ferries and shared water taxis that will take you from one to the next without having to backtrack to the main port.

A bit of planning will save you time and money and is an excellent way to work your way from Split to Dubrovnik or vice versa.

• Planning Your Croatia Island Hopping Adventure

We visited both Hvar (as a day trip) and Korcula (over several days) and vastly preferred Korcula . While Hvar is beautiful and definitely has its charm, its higher-end type of travel seems to attract more of the “monied” party crowd . Since we left our yacht at home, it wasn’t our scene. It depends on what you’re looking for, but Korcula was our favorite.

In contrast, Korcula is quiet, laid back, beautiful, and relaxing. If you go, rent bicycles to tour the island and explore beautiful beaches and fun beach bars. If you’re into wine, you should also pop into local wineries and try some of their Grk wine, found only in Korcula.

10. Know About Tipping

It can be hard to know from location to location about tipping. You’re not expected to tip in Croatia, but it’s always appreciated. If you want to do so, e.g., you enjoyed the service you received, then around 10-15% of the total bill is a good rule of thumb.

• How To Tip In Croatia

11. We Speak English

While many Croatians in tourist areas speak English, it’s always appreciated when travelers make an effort to speak a bit of the Croatian language. Simple phrases like “hello” (bok), “thank you” (hvala), and “please” (molim) can go a long way in enhancing your interactions with us locals.

• Croatian Phrases With Pronunciation

12. Don’t Forget The National Parks

It’s easy to stick to the beaches and cities, but the national parks in Croatia are so blindingly beautiful it would be a crying shame to miss them. Check out Plitvice Lakes (a UNESCO world heritage site, by the way), Krka National Park , and Paklenica to get you started.

• 8 National Parks In Croatia

13. Check The Cruise Ship Schedules

But you’re not going on a cruise, we hear you say! Maybe not, but you will want to be aware of them regardless. Dubrovnik can have 10,000 cruise ship passengers on high-traffic days , resulting in shoulder-to-shoulder congestion in the Old Town combined with all the other coach bus tour groups and independent travelers.

Split and Dubrovnik are popular areas famous for their Old Towns. Medieval towns tend to have narrow streets and cover a finite, typically small, area. Cruise passengers often explore these towns in large tour groups. Do you see what we’re getting at?

If you can visit either of these cities on a day where there are only 1 or 2 cruise ships in port , rather than 7 or 8 (or even when the ports are hosting smaller vessels rather than the behemoths), the Old Town that you want to enjoy will be noticeably less crowded. This worked out well for us in Dubrovnik ! Explore another part of the city on high-traffic cruise ship days or take a day trip to an island or another town.

• How To Avoid The Crowds In Dubrovnik
• Dubrovnik Cruise Port Guide

14. Cash Is King In Some Places

While credit cards are widely accepted in most bars, restaurants, cafes, and attractions, especially in tourist areas,  main resorts, towns, and cities, smaller businesses, local markets, and rural areas may prefer cash.

It’s a good idea to have some local currency – remember, we now use the euro – on hand for these situations.

15. Know That The Best Beaches Are Rocky

Before you go to the beach, know that most of Croatia’s beaches are rocky. There are a few sandy beaches, but the majority will have pebbles or rocks. It’s a good idea to take some sea shoes with you, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

• Best Sandy Beaches In Croatia
• 63 Of The Best Beaches In Croatia

16. Don’t Be Afraid To Try New Foods

Croatian cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean, Central European, and Balkan flavors. Don’t miss the chance to savor local dishes like seafood risotto, peka (a delicious meat and vegetable dish), and pasticada (marinated beef). And, of course, indulge in the local desserts.

• Must Try Foods In Croatia
• Delicious Desserts, Cakes & Sweets In Croatia
• Guide To Ordering Food In Croatia

17. Venture Outside Of The Main Cities

When we toured around southern Croatia , eventually, the crowds got to us. You don’t have to go too far outside the main tourist centers to find peace and still have the beautiful scenery you want.

Less than an hour’s drive from Split, Trogir is a fantastic town right on the water with a small but atmospheric old town and beautiful beaches. Trogir can be visited as a day trip from Split, or better yet, make it your base with Split being the day trip.

Near Dubrovnik, a great day trip option is Cavtat. Reachable by bus, or even better by water taxi, Cavtat is a small town that feels worlds away from busy and crowded Dubrovnik in about an hour. You can do walks around the island and plenty of accommodations and waterside restaurants, so bring  your comfy shoes.

There is so much more to Croatia than Dubrovnik , Split, and the islands in between them.

• Weird, Interesting & Unique Things To Do In Croatia

18. Drink Local

Croatia boasts a long tradition of winemaking, and each region has its own distinct grape varieties and winemaking techniques. Whether you find yourself in Istria, the Pelješac Peninsula, or the beautiful vineyards of Slavonia, take the opportunity to go wine tasting. Sample local wines like Plavac Mali, Malvazija, and Graševina while enjoying the picturesque vineyard landscapes.

Croatia’s craft beer scene is flourishing, with microbreweries popping up across the country. Try the local craft beers, which often incorporate unique ingredients and flavors. Seek out a local pub or brewery, and ask for recommendations from the locals. Some popular Croatian craft beers include Velebitsko, San Servolo, and Zmajsko Pivo.

• Top Wine & Wineries In Croatia
• Different Flavors Of Croatian Rakija
• Drinking Age In Croatia & 10 Drinks To Try

19. Tap Water Is Safe

One less thing to worry about while in Croatia is the tap water. It’s perfectly safe and very drinkable. Feel free to fill up your reusable water bottle and stay hydrated as you explore the beautiful landscapes and cities without the need to purchase bottled water.

• Our Favorite Collapsible Water Bottles

20. Don’t Be A Drunk

Croatia is known for its warm hospitality and vibrant nightlife, but it’s important to enjoy it responsibly. After years of dealing with unruly behavior from tourists, some destinations, like Hvar Town, have implemented fines for public drunkenness. It’s not only frowned upon but can also result in a fine of up to €700 .

So, while enjoying the nightlife, keep in mind to drink responsibly and avoid public disturbances to ensure a pleasant experience for yourself and those around you. 

• Where To Party In Croatia

21. Use Zadar As A Base

Zadar is a fascinating cit y to explore in its own right, but it can also be used as a base for a couple of days to explore several of Croatia’s incredible national parks . This includes the famous Plitvice and Krka National Parks waterfalls and hiking in the nearby mountains at the less touristy Paklenica National Park.

Rent a car to give yourself the most flexibility if you feel comfortable driving – or get a private transfer for a luxury touch. Our top off-the-beaten-path tip for visiting Zadar is to check out Pag Island.

• Where To Stay In Zadar
• Family Friendly Islands In The Zadar Region

22. Explore The Istrian Peninsula

Istria, the northern part of Croatia bordering Slovenia, was one of our favorite parts of the country. We based ourselves in Rovinj  and explored the coast and inland from there.

Istria should be on the itinerary of any foodie out there . The region is home to some of Croatia’s best wines, truffles, and olive oil . Since the Italians once ruled the area, it has a distinctly Italian feel that you don’t experience in the rest of Croatia . Unfortunately, that often manifests itself in low-quality pizza and pasta in tourist restaurants.

Do yourself a favor and stick to ordering dishes with local ingredients. Renting a car to explore the small hilltop town s, such as Groznjan and Motovun, makes for a great road trip!

Rovinj itself is an interesting town to explore on foot. With some great weather, you can work on your farmer’s tan, exploring the shops, restaurants, and churches during the morning.

Then show off that tan on the beaches, walking distance south past the harbor and along the coast . Just be warned – the further you walk, the fewer clothes people wear.

The southern end of the beaches is not for the shy. Let it all hang out, as they say!

• Best Beaches In Istria
• Guide To Central Istria
• Rabac & Labin – Eastern Istria Guide
• Northwest Istria -Umag & Surrounding Areas

23. Spend Some Time On Pag Island

Pag has an entirely different landscape than much of the rest of Croatia; in some parts, it almost seems like you’re driving on the moon. A handy bridge from the mainland to Pag Island makes it an easy one-hour drive from Zadar. The island is probably best known for its cheese.

While they make many different types of cheese, the most famous is made from sheep’s milk. Salt from the surrounding ocean gets deposited on the vegetation of Pag Island, particularly a hardy type of local sage, which the sheep then eat. This provides a distinctive flavor to the Pag cheese.

• Cheese Tasting At Sirana Gligora – A Highlight Of The Island!

Pag Island also has some great beaches . Zrce Beach is the “Ibiza of Croatia during the summer months.” Get your rave on at the Hideout Festival or laze about one of the enormous beach clubs. If dancing with drunk 20-something strangers isn’t your thing, the beach is deserted by September, but the water is still warm and swimmable. We practically had the place to ourselves!

When you’re sitting in your hotel room (or rental apartment) balcony in Rovinj or Zadar, eating some incredible truffle cheese from Pag Island and washing it down with a nice bottle of Istrian wine, you can thank us later. ;) You’re welcome!

24. Check Out A Local Sporting Event

Few things offer a better immersion into the local culture than attending a local sporting event. In most of the world, this means checking out the local club schedule for a nearby football match. In other parts of the world, this could mean anything from cricket to sumo wrestling. This goes for any country, really, but keep it in mind for Croatia, a nation filled with sports enthusiasts.

Some of the major sporting events in Croatia are:

• Davis Cup: Croatia has a successful tennis history, and the Davis Cup matches featuring the Croatian national team are highly anticipated events
• Zagreb Indoors: This ATP Tour tennis tournament attracts top-ranked players and is held annually in Zagreb
• Zagreb Marathon: Held in the capital city, the Zagreb Marathon attracts both local and international runners, offering a scenic route through the city.
• Croatian Basketball League: Basketball is another beloved sport in Croatia, and attending a game featuring top Croatian teams is a thrilling experience
• Croatian Handball League: Handball is highly popular, and the Croatian Handball League features competitive matches that sports enthusiasts can enjoy
• Water Polo Matches: Croatia has a strong water polo tradition, and attending matches featuring top Croatian clubs or the national team is a great way to experience this exciting sport
• Striking Football Pitches In Croatia

25. You Need Comfortable Shoes

Croatia’s cities and towns are often best explored on foot, and a sturdy pair of comfortable walking shoes is an essential part of your travel gear. Many of Croatia’s urban centers boast picturesque cobblestone streets that exude old-world charm but can be less forgiving on your feet if you’re not well-prepared.

These uneven surfaces are not only found in the historic old towns but also many scenic coastal areas.

Whether you’re admiring ancient architecture, enjoying seaside promenades, or wandering through bustling markets, your feet will thank you for the support and comfort of your chosen footwear.

• All Time Best Shoes For Travel
• Comfy Flats For Travel

26. Take A Day Trip (Or More) To Mostar

The city of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina is an easy (although somewhat long) day trip from either Split or Dubrovnik. Plenty of travel companies offer tours. Public, long-distance buses are also comfortable and easy to arrange yourself.

• How To Get From Dubrovnik To Mostar

Mostar is one of our favorite places in the Balkans. The culture is vastly different from Croatia because of its history, religious diversity, and fantastic food . If you can spare the time, spend a night here to see the sights and enjoy the food thoroughly.

Thrill-seekers can even sign up for a course to jump off the famous bridge . For wimps like us, keep your eye out for tour groups. There are plenty of “fake” divers on the bridge who can only attract a crowd and then solicit tips. The actual dives seem to happen as soon as the next tour group shows up on the water’s edge.

27. Rental Apartments Can Be A Great Option

When it comes to accommodation in Croatia, don’t overlook the convenience and cost-effectiveness of rental apartments. This lodging option not only offers comfort and privacy but can also save you money, especially if you’re open to staying a bit further from the bustling city centers or old towns.

Many travelers find that renting an apartment allows them to immerse themselves in the local lifestyle and experience the destination from a more authentic perspective. Plus, you can often get valuable insights and recommendations from your hosts, who are usually eager to share their local knowledge.

One significant advantage of choosing an apartment is the ability to cook your meals. Croatia’s fresh produce markets and local grocery stores offer a wide array of ingredients, making it easy to whip up your favorite dishes. This not only saves money on dining out but also gives you the opportunity to savor homemade meals with local flavors.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family, rental apartments provide flexibility and the freedom to create your own schedule. So, consider renting an apartment during your Croatian adventure and enjoy the benefits of both cost savings and an enriched travel experience.

• Make Tasty Croatian Recipes From Your Rental

So, there you have it – our insider’s guide to tips for traveling to Croatia. As a local, I’ve shared our best tips to help you make the most of your time in this incredible country. Enjoy your Croatian adventures!

• A Massive List Of Things To Do In Croatia
• Best Things To Do With Kids In Croatia
• Car Rental Tips And Deals
• Best Museums In Croatia
• Tiny Villages And Towns In Croatia You’ve Gotta See
• What Language Is Spoken In Croatia

Comments (6)

What a great post. Like you, I find it impossible to have a ‘favourite’ destination in Croatia. I loved Cavtat (for the reasons you mention!), Rovinj and Pula, Trogir, Zadar, Sibenik (and Krka Park is majestic) and also Korcula. I went to Brac for a day from Split and hired a scooter – an awesome way to explore the gorgeous coastal villages like Postira, etc. Reading your blog has fuelled my flames – I’m desperate to go back there now!!

One word, amazingly beautiful country. If this country had 10 months of tropical weather like Thailand it would get 100 million tourist as the towns, the food, the nature, the watetrfalls and 1200 islands are so unique and just heaven on earth.

Thanks Trish. Will look & dream ????

This is really great…..

A month away…

great ideas here!

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The Croatian word for street, ulica , is either abbreviated to ul. or omitted altogether if the meaning is clear enough without it. The street name always comes before the number. Buildings that don’t have a street number are often designated by the letters “bb”, meaning bez broja or “without a number”.

Crime and personal safety

Electricity, entry requirements, lgbt travellers, opening hours, public toilets, tourist information, travellers with disabilities, travelling with children, public holidays, tailor-made travel itineraries for croatia, created by local experts.

16 days  / from 5243 USD

Gorgeous gems of Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia

From the spas of Budapest to Lake Bled with its castle and further on to Croatia - this itinerary takes you across 3 countries, with a special focus on Slovenia's lake area and the Dalmatian coast in Croatia.

10 days  / from 2800 USD

Sailing Croatia

If you want to experience the Dalmatian coast from a whole different perspective, then this trip is for you! Hop aboard a beautiful cruiser and sail along some of Croatia's most stunning islands.

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Southern Pearls

This ten-day trip will take you around three adjacent countries, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Your tour starts in Split, Croatia, moving south (hence the name "Southern Pearls") over the island of Hvar and Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina to end up in Montenegro.

Tailor-made trips for   Croatia

Croatia is by no means a bargain destination, and the cost of accommodation – on a par with Western European countries for most of the year – shoots upwards in July and August. Eating and drinking, however, remain reasonably good value.

If you’re staying in hostels or private rooms, self-catering and travelling by public transport, then bargain on spending at least 600Kn/£60/€80/US$85 per person per day. If you are staying in a decent apartment, eating out once a day and enjoying yourselves in the evening, then 850Kn/£85/US$120 per day seems more reasonable. Staying in a good hotel, eating in nice restaurants, renting a car and not skimping on the cocktails will involve a daily outlay of 1500Kn/£150/US$220 or above.

Accommodation will be your biggest single expense, with the average private room costing around 300Kn for a double, rising to 450Kn in fashionable places like Dubrovnik and Hvar. In high season the cheapest doubles in three-star hotels hover around the 800Kn mark, although they can be significantly cheaper in spring or autumn.

As for transport , short journeys by ferry and bus (say from Split to one of the nearby islands) cost in the region of 45Kn, while moving up and down the country will naturally be more expensive (a Zagreb–Split bus ticket, for instance, costs upwards of 130Kn. The prices of accommodation, ferry tickets, international bus tickets and tourist excursions are often quoted in euros , although you can pay in kuna.

About 200Kn per person per day will suffice for food and drink if you’re shopping in markets for picnic ingredients, maybe eating out in inexpensive grill-houses and pizzerias once a day, and limiting yourself to a couple of drinks in cafés; 500Kn a day will be sufficient for breakfast in a café, a sit-down lunch and a decent restaurant dinner followed by a couple of night-time drinks.

Prices often include a sales tax , known locally as PDV, of up to 22 percent. Visitors from outside the EU can claim a PDV tax refund at the Croatian Customs Service for goods over 750Kn, as long as they have kept all original invoices – though the refund can take up to a year to arrive.

The crime rate in Croatia is low by European standards. Your main defence against petty theft is to exercise common sense and refrain from flaunting luxury items. Take out an insurance policy before you leave home and always stow a photocopy of the crucial information-bearing pages of your passport in your luggage – this will enable your consulate to issue you swiftly with new travel documents in the event of your passport being stolen.

Croatian police ( policija ) are generally helpful and polite when dealing with foreigners, and usually speak some English. Routine police checks on identity cards are common in Croatia: always carry your passport or driving licence. If you get into trouble with the authorities, wait until you can explain matters to someone in English if at all possible. The police are not allowed to search your car or place of abode without a warrant. Should you be arrested , you can be held in a police station for 24 hours without charge. The police are supposed to notify your consulate of your arrest automatically, but often fail to do so.

There are few specific situations in which female travellers might feel uncomfortable and no real no-go areas, although some of the more down-at-heel café-bars can feel like male-only preserves. By Western standards, Croatia’s streets are relatively safe at night, even in the cities.

Wall sockets in Croatia operate at 220 volts and take round, two-pin plugs . British and US travellers should purchase a continental adaptor before leaving home.

Citizens of EU countries need only a valid passport to enter Croatia. Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand are allowed to enter Croatia without a visa for stays of up to ninety days. Citizens of other countries should check visa regulations with the nearest Croatian embassy or consulate before leaving home.

Visitors to Croatia are required by law to register with the local police within 24 hours of arrival. If you’re staying in a hotel, hostel or campsite, or if you’ve booked a private room through a recognized agency, the job of registration will be done for you. If you’re staying with friends or in a room arranged privately, your hosts are supposed to register you. Failure to get registered only becomes a problem if the police have reason to question you about where you’re staying, which is very rare. Even if they do, official attitudes to registration are flexible: the police often turn a blind eye to tourists and hosts alike if you’re merely enjoying a short holiday on the coast, but can throw you out of the country if you’ve been staying in Croatia unregistered for a long period of time.

There are no customs restrictions on the kind of personal belongings that you need for your holiday, although you are limited to two hundred cigarettes, one litre of spirits and 500g of coffee. It’s a good idea to declare major items – laptop computers, televisions and other electronic equipment, boats – to ensure that you can take them out of the country when you leave. Pets are allowed in, providing you have a recent vaccination certificate. Note that when leaving you can only take 2000Kn of currency with you.

No inoculations are required for travel to Croatia. Standards of public health are good, and tap water is safe everywhere. However, anyone planning to spend time walking in the mountains should consider being inoculated against tick-borne encephalitis.

Minor complaints can be treated at a pharmacy ( ljekarna ); in cities, many of the staff will speak some English, while even in places where the staff speak only Croatian, it should be easy enough to obtain repeat prescriptions if you bring along the empty pill container. A rota system ensures that there will be one pharmacy open at night-time and weekends – details are posted in the window of each pharmacy.

For serious complaints, head for the nearest hospital ( bolnica or klinički centar ), or call an ambulance ( t 112 or t 94). Hospital treatment is free to citizens of EU countries, including the UK and Ireland, on production of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC; available online in the UK from w ehic.org.uk; in Ireland from w ehic.ie ); nationals of other countries should check whether their government has a reciprocal health agreement, or ensure they have adequate insurance cover.

You’d do well to take out an insurance policy before travelling to cover against theft, loss and illness or injury. A typical travel insurance policy usually provides cover for the loss of baggage, tickets and – up to a certain limit – cash or cheques, as well as cancellation or curtailment of your journey. Most of them exclude so-called dangerous sports unless an extra premium is paid: in Croatia this can mean scuba-diving, whitewater rafting, windsurfing and trekking, though probably not kayaking or jeep safaris. If you need to make a claim, you should keep receipts for medicines and medical treatment, and in the event you have anything stolen, you must obtain an official statement from the police.

An increasing number of hostels, hotels and cafés offer free wi-fi access to their customers, and internet cafés are common in cities and Adriatic resorts. Prices in internet cafés are generally reasonable: expect to pay around 20–30Kn per hour online.

Self-service launderettes are hard to come by outside Zagreb and Split, although most towns have a laundry ( praonica ) where you can leave a service wash.

Although homosexuality has been legal in Croatia since 1977, it remains something of an under-ground phenomenon, and public displays of affection between members of the same sex may provoke hostility, especially outside big cities. The younger generation is more liberal in its attitudes to homosexuality, and though there are few recognized gay hangouts, some of the more alternative clubs in Zagreb have a reputation for attracting a tolerant, mixed crowd. Adriatic beaches where same-sex couples will feel comfortable include those around the Istrian resorts of Rovinj and Poreč, on Sveti Jerolim near Hvar, and on Lokrum near Dubrovnik.

A Zagreb Pride march has been held every June since 2005 and, despite the presence of counter-demonstrations in the early years, has become a regular feature of the city’s calendar. The first Split Pride procession, in June 2011, was notoriously halted by a mass demonstration of an estimated ten thousand homophobes, but has passed off without incident on every occasion since.

The website W friendlycroatia.com offers useful travel tips on various Croatian destinations.

Most post offices ( pošta or HPT ) are open Monday to Friday from 7 or 8am to 7 or 8pm, and Saturday 8am to 1 or 2pm. In villages and on islands, Monday to Friday 8am to 2pm is more common, though in big towns and resorts some offices open daily, sometimes staying open until 10pm.

Airmail ( zrakoplovom ) takes about three days to reach Britain, and eight to ten to reach North America; surface mail takes at least twice as long. Stamps ( marke ) can be bought either at the post office or at newsstands. If you’re sending parcels to non-EU destinations, don’t seal the package until the post office staff have had a look at what’s inside: customs duty is charged on the export of most things, although newsprint and books are exempt.

The biggest range of maps covering Croatia is by Freytag & Berndt , which produces a 1:600,000 Slovenia , Croatia and Bosnia-Hercegovina map, a 1:300,000 Croatia map, a 1:250,000 Istria and Northern Croatia map and 1:000,000 regional maps of the Adriatic coast.

City and town plans are more difficult to come by, although tourist offices often give away (or sell quite cheaply) serviceable maps of their town or island. In addition, Freytag & Berndt publishes city plans of Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik. The best map of Zagreb is the 1:20,000 plan prepared by the Geodetski zavod Slovenije (Slovene Geodesic Institute), which is available in three versions: one published by a local firm in Zagreb, a second published by the Hungarian firm Cartographia and the third by Freytag & Berndt. All the above are available from shops in Croatia.

Croatia’s unit of currency is the kuna (Kn; the word kuna , meaning “marten”, recalls the medieval period when taxes were paid in marten pelts), which is divided into 100 lipa. Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 lipa, and 1, 2 and 5 kuna; notes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 kuna.

The best place to change money is at a bank ( banka ) or exchange bureau ( mjenjačnica ). Banks are generally open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm, and Saturday 8am to 11am or noon. In smaller places they normally close for lunch on weekdays year round, and aren’t open at all on Saturdays. Exchange bureaux are often found inside travel agencies ( putničke agencije ) and have more flexible hours, remaining open until 9 or 10pm seven days a week in summer if there are enough tourists around to justify it. The larger post offices also have exchange facilities, offering rates similar to those in banks. Exchange rates in hotels usually represent extremely poor value for money.

Naturism (denoted locally by the German acronym “FKK”) has a long history on the Adriatic coast. There are self-contained naturist holiday villages in Istria (the biggest are just outside Poreč, Rovinj and Vrsar), and naturist campsites in Istria and the island of Krk. Throughout Croatia, you’ll find isolated coves or stretches of beach where it is OK to be nude, providing it is at a discreet distance from the main family-oriented sections.

Shops in Croatia are usually open Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, and on Saturdays from 8am to 2 or 3pm, though we have listed exact times throughout the Guide. City supermarkets often stay open late on Saturdays, and open on Sundays as well. On the coast, during summer, shops introduce a long afternoon break and stay open later in the evenings to compensate. Office hours are generally Monday to Friday 8am to 3 or 4pm.

Tourist offices, travel agents and tourist attractions often change their opening times as the year progresses, generally remaining open for longer during the summer season (usually June to September).

On the coast, museums and galleries are often open all day every day (sometimes with a long break in the afternoon) in July and August, and closed altogether in the depths of winter. At other times, things can be unpredictable, with attractions opening their doors when tourist traffic seems to justify it. In big cities and inland areas, museums and galleries are more likely to have regular opening times year-round, and are often closed on Mondays.

Churches in city centres and well-touristed areas usually stay open daily between 7am and 7pm or later, but many in smaller towns and villages only open their doors around Mass times. Churches or chapels that are known for being architecturally unique or that contain valuable frescoes may have set opening times and admission fees (in which case we’ve mentioned them in the Guide); otherwise you’ll have to ask around to establish which of the locals has been nominated as holder of the key ( ključ ). Monasteries are often open from dawn to dusk to those who want to stroll around the cloister, although churches or art collections belonging to the monasteries conform to the opening patterns for museums and churches outlined above.

Croatian phone booths use magnetic cards ( telefonska kartica ), which you can pick up from post offices or newspaper kiosks. They’re sold in denominations from fifteen up to one hundred units ( impulsa ). Generally speaking, a single unit will be enough for a local call, and the fifteen-unit card (costing around 15Kn) will be sufficient for making a few longer-distance calls within the country or a short international call. It’s best to avoid making international calls from your hotel room : charges can be extortionate.

If you want to use your mobile phone abroad, check the likely call costs and be aware of any charges for data roaming (you can turn off your data roaming facility).

Croatia’s mobile phone operators (T-Com, VIP and Tele 2) all offer pay-as-you-go SIM cards that you can use during your stay. However, you’ll first need to check that you have a phone that isn’t automatically blocked by your home operator when you insert a foreign SIM card. It will cost you around 200Kn for the card (although a certain amount of this fee is in the form of prepayment for your future calls), after which you can purchase prepay top-ups in increments of 50Kn and upwards.

Public toilets ( zahod or WC ) are rare outside bus or train stations, although every restaurant and café-bar will have one.

Croatia is one of the few countries in Europe to introduce a total smoking ban (in May 2009), only to rescind it mere months later. At present, smoking is banned in restaurants, large cafés and the larger club-gig venues, but is permitted in cafés and bars that are smaller than 50 square metres, and smoking zones in clubs.

Croatia is one hour ahead of the UK, six hours ahead of US Eastern Standard Time, nine hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time, ten hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time and twelve hours behind New Zealand. The clocks go back and forward by one hour in late October and late March, in line with other EU countries.

Tips ( napojnice ) are not obligatory, and waitstaff don’t expect them if you’ve only had a cup of coffee or a sandwich. If you’ve had a round of drinks or a full meal, it’s polite to round up the bill by ten percent or to the nearest convenient figure.

The best source of general information on Croatia is the Croatian National Tourist Office . The tourist office can also supply brochures, accommodation details and maps of specific towns and resorts.

All towns and regions within Croatia have a tourist association ( turisti č ka zajednica ), whose job it is to promote local tourism. Many of these maintain tourist offices ( turisti č ki ured or turisti č ki informativni centar ), although they vary a great deal in the services they offer. All can provide lists of accommodation or details of local room-letting agencies, but can’t always book a room on your behalf. English is widely spoken, and staff in coastal resorts invariably speak German and Italian as well. Opening times vary according to the amount of tourist traffic. In July and August they might be open daily from 8am to 8pm or later, while in May, June and September, hours might be reduced to include an afternoon break or earlier closing times at weekends. Out of season, tourist offices on the coast tend to observe normal office hours (Mon–Fri 8am–3pm) or close altogether – although there’s usually someone on hand to respond to emails and enquiries.

Many public places in Croatia are wheelchair accessible , especially in larger cities, though in general access to public transport and tourist sites still leaves a lot to be desired. There are a growing number of wheelchair-accessible hotels , though these tend to be in the more expensive price brackets and they are not spread evenly throughout the country. Tourist offices throughout Croatia will usually find out whether there are any suitable accommodation facilities in their region if you ring in advance, but be sure to double-check the information they give you – some tourist offices optimistically state that establishments have disabled facilities, when in fact they don’t.

Croatia is a family-oriented society and children are made welcome in hotels, restaurants and cafés, though this does not necessarily mean that facilities for children are widespread. Although some hotels, beaches and town centres will be equipped with play areas and parks, many will not. However, most Croatian beaches are full of other children – so finding playmates is not difficult. Families stay up quite late on the Adriatic – it is common to see children running around town squares and pavement cafés after 10 or 11pm. International brands of baby food, disposable nappies, formula milk and other supplies are widely available in Croatia. Breastfeeding in public is becoming more common among the current generation of Croatian mums, though Croatia is still a conservative country and discretion is advised. Baby-changing facilities are usually available in shopping malls and in the larger motorway service stations, but might be few and far between elsewhere. Whether you come across high chairs in restaurants is very much a hit-and-miss affair.

Most Croatian hotels have three- and four-bed family rooms and suites, and each resort area will have a wide range of self-catering apartments of varying sizes. Hotels and apartment owners are generally very welcoming towards families with young children, but this does not necessarily mean that they will be equipped with the cots and children’s beds that you might need, and they may expect you to improvise with sofa beds instead. Many of the big international accommodation-booking websites are rather vague about the provision of cots and children’s beds, and it’s often better to book accommodation the old-fashioned way through a local agency who will be in a much better position to find exactly what you need. There are no hard-and-fast rules regarding pricing policy in hotels and private accommodation, some apartment owners are very flexible and may provide an apartment with a child bed for the same price as a two-person studio; make it clear what you want when booking and see what is available. A lot of Adriatic towns have narrow stepped streets; so if you are travelling with a buggy, be sure to ask about ease of access.

Travelling by public transport in summer can be a hot and crowded affair so make sure you include plenty of liquid and other essentials in your hand luggage. On buses and trains, babies and toddlers travel for free providing they do not take up a seat of their own; children under 12 travel at half the adult fare. Folded pushchairs and buggies can be transported in the hold of the bus for a nominal luggage fee (7–10Kn). On ferries and catamarans, under 3s travel free, those aged 3–12 get a fifty percent discount.

Most shops and all banks are closed on the following public holidays:

January 1 New Year

January 6 Epiphany

March or April Easter Monday

May 1 Labour Day

June Corpus Christi

June 22 Day of the 1941 Anti-Fascist Uprising

June 25 Day of Croatian Statehood

August 5 National Thanksgiving Day

August 15 Assumption

October 8 Independence Day

November 1 All Saints’ Day

December 25 & 26 Christmas

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Tourism in Croatia: A Comprehensive Guide

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Tourism in Croatia has grown significantly in recent years. But why? What is so special about this tourist destination ? Find out in this article all about tourism in Croatia .

Geography of Croatia

The tourism industry in croatia , beautiful coastline, historical cities, outdoor activities, culinary experiences, festivals and events, popular types of tourism in croatia, most popular tourist attractions in croatia, impacts of tourism in croatia, types of tourists who travel to croatia, crime and safety in croatia, required budget to visit croatia , 10 interesting facts about croatia, 10 faqs about tourism in croatia, tourism in croatia: to conclude, tourism in croatia .

As a tourism academic, it is my pleasure to introduce this article on the fascinating topic of tourism in Croatia . This small country on the Adriatic Sea has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, attracting millions of visitors each year with its stunning coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture.

In this article, we will explore the many facets of tourism in Croatia, from the best places to visit to the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. We will also examine the impact of tourism on Croatia’s economy, society, and environment, and consider strategies for sustainable tourism development. Join me as we delve into the world of tourism in Croatia and discover why this country is a must-visit destination for tourists from around the world .

Croatia is a country located in Southeast Europe, bordering Slovenia to the northwest, Hungary to the northeast, Serbia to the east, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the southeast, Montenegro to the southeast, and the Adriatic Sea to the west.

The country has a varied landscape that includes mountains, plains, forests , lakes, and rivers. The Dinaric Alps run along much of the coast and provide a stunning backdrop to many of Croatia’s coastal cities and towns. The highest peak in Croatia is Dinara, which reaches an elevation of 1,831 meters.

Inland, Croatia is largely characterised by its low-lying plains and river valleys. The most significant rivers in Croatia are the Sava, Drava, and Danube, which flow through the country’s northern regions. Croatia’s interior is also dotted with numerous lakes, including the largest, Lake Vrana.

The country’s coastline , which stretches for over 1,700 kilometres, is one of its most striking features. The coastline is dotted with over a thousand islands, the largest of which are Krk, Cres, Brač, Hvar, and Korčula. The Adriatic Sea is known for its crystal-clear waters, rocky cliffs, and picturesque beaches.

Croatia has a Mediterranean climate on the coast, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The interior of the country has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Precipitation is distributed evenly throughout the year, with the highest amounts falling in the winter months.

The tourism industry is a significant contributor to the Croatian economy. According to the Croatian Bureau of Statistics , the country welcomed over 19 million visitors in 2021, which is a 35% increase from 2020, despite the pandemic. The majority of tourists are from Germany, Slovenia, Austria, and Italy . Here are some key statistics about the tourism industry in Croatia:

• Revenue: In 2019, the tourism industry generated over 12 billion euros in revenue, accounting for approximately 19% of the country’s GDP.
• Employment: The tourism industry employs around 120,000 people directly and indirectly, making up around 6% of the country’s total employment.
• Accommodation: Croatia has over 1,200 registered hotels , with a total of around 240,000 beds. There are also thousands of private accommodation options, including apartments and villas.
• Attractions: Croatia’s most popular tourist attractions include its historic cities such as Dubrovnik and Split, its beautiful coastline and islands, and its national parks, including Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park.
• Peak Season: The peak tourist season in Croatia is from June to September, with July and August being the busiest months.
• Tourism Trends: In recent years, Croatia has seen a rise in adventure tourism , including hiking and cycling, as well as cultural and gastronomic tourism, with an increasing number of visitors interested in experiencing the country’s traditional food and wine.

Whilst these are a few of the current statistics about the country, tourism in Croatia continues to grow and develop, attracting visitors from all over the world with its beautiful scenery, rich history, and diverse attractions.

Why people travel to Croatia

So why is tourism in Croatia so big? Well, this is largely attributed to the things that there are to do in Croatia. People travel to Croatia for many reasons, including its stunning coastline, historical cities, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities.

Here are some of the main reasons why people travel to Croatia:

Croatia’s coastline is known for its crystal-clear waters, rocky cliffs, and picturesque beaches. Visitors come from all over the world to swim, sunbathe, and sail along the country’s stunning Adriatic Sea .

Croatia has a rich history, and its cities are full of historic architecture, ancient ruins, and cultural landmarks. Popular cities for tourists include Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb, which all offer a unique glimpse into Croatia’s past.

Croatia’s natural beauty provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. The country’s national parks, including Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park, are popular destinations for nature lovers.

Croatia’s traditional cuisine is a unique blend of Mediterranean and Central European influences. Visitors can sample fresh seafood, cured meats, cheese, and wine, and experience local food festivals throughout the country. Culinary tourism is popular here.

Croatia hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, film festivals, and art exhibitions. The most popular of these is the Ultra Music Festival, which attracts electronic music fans from around the world.

Tourism in Croatia is a diverse industry and Croatia offers a wide range of tourism options, and visitors can choose from various types of tourism experiences depending on their interests. Here are the most popular types of tourism in Croatia:

• Coastal and Beach Tourism: Croatia’s stunning coastline is the most popular tourist destination in the country. Visitors come to swim, sunbathe, and sail along the Adriatic Sea, with popular destinations including Dubrovnik, Split, and Hvar.
• Cultural Tourism : Croatia has a rich cultural heritage, with many historical cities and landmarks to explore. Visitors can immerse themselves in Croatia’s history by visiting ancient ruins, museums, and galleries.

• Adventure Tourism : Croatia’s natural beauty provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, kayaking, and rafting. National parks such as Plitvice Lakes and Krka are popular destinations for nature lovers.
• Food and Wine Tourism : Croatia’s traditional cuisine is a unique blend of Mediterranean and Central European influences. Visitors can sample fresh seafood, cured meats, cheese, and wine, and experience local food festivals throughout the country.
• Health and Wellness Tourism : Croatia is known for its natural healing properties, with many spas and wellness centers offering treatments based on thermal springs and medicinal mud. Health and wellness tourism has become increasingly popular in recent years, with visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Nautical Tourism: With over 1,000 islands , Croatia is an ideal destination for sailing and yachting. Visitors can explore the secluded coves and hidden beaches of Croatia’s islands, and experience the country’s maritime traditions.

Tourism in Croatia involves visits to a wide range of tourist attractions , from ancient cities to stunning national parks. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Croatia:

• Dubrovnik Old Town : Dubrovnik’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Croatia’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the ancient city walls, stroll along the marble-paved streets, and take in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
• Plitvice Lakes National Park : Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a series of interconnected lakes and waterfalls . Visitors can walk along the wooden footbridges and trails, take boat rides, and admire the park’s natural beauty.

• Diocletian’s Palace in Split : Diocletian’s Palace in Split is a well-preserved ancient Roman palace and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the palace’s ancient ruins, walk along the seaside promenade, and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
• Krka National Park : Krka National Park is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a series of waterfalls and natural pools. Visitors can swim in the pools, hike along the trails, and take boat rides to explore the park’s natural beauty.
• Hvar Island : Hvar Island is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore the island’s historic landmarks, relax on the beaches, and enjoy the local cuisine and culture.
• Zagreb : Croatia’s capital city, Zagreb, is a cultural and historical hub and is home to many museums, galleries, and landmarks. Visitors can explore the city’s medieval architecture, stroll through the city’s parks and gardens, and enjoy the local food and wine.

The growth of tourism in Croatia has had both positive and negative impacts on the country.

On the positive side, tourism in Croatia has become a major contributor to the economy, generating significant revenues and creating jobs in the service sector . The tourism industry has also helped to promote Croatia’s cultural heritage and natural beauty, raising the country’s profile as a tourist destination and attracting investment in the tourism infrastructure.

However, the rapid growth of tourism in Croatia has also brought some negative impacts, such as overcrowding and environmental degradation . During the peak tourist season, some popular destinations in Croatia can become overcrowded with tourists, leading to strains on infrastructure and resources. This can lead to increased waste, pollution, and traffic congestion, which can harm the environment and quality of life for local residents.

In addition, some forms of tourism in Croatia can contribute to the degradation of natural and cultural resources. For example, uncontrolled tourism development can damage fragile coastal ecosystems, while excessive tourism can put pressure on historical sites and monuments. It is therefore important for Croatia to manage its tourism industry in a sustainable way, by balancing economic growth with environmental and social considerations.

To address these issues, the Croatian government has taken steps to promote sustainable tourism practices, such as limiting the number of visitors to sensitive areas, promoting low-carbon transport options, and investing in sustainable tourism infrastructure. By adopting sustainable tourism practices, Croatia can ensure that its tourism industry continues to contribute to economic growth while preserving the country’s natural and cultural assets for future generations.

Croatia attracts a diverse range of tourists from all over the world. Here are some of the most common types of tourists who travel to Croatia:

• Beachgoers : Croatia’s stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters make it a popular destination for beachgoers looking for a relaxing seaside vacation.

• History and Culture Enthusiasts: Croatia’s rich history and cultural heritage make it a popular destination for visitors who are interested in exploring ancient ruins, historic cities, and museums. There is plenty of cultural tourism in Croatia.
• Outdoor Enthusiasts : Croatia’s natural beauty provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and rural tourism such as hiking, cycling, kayaking, and rafting, attracting visitors who seek adventure and exploration.
• Food and Wine Enthusiasts: Croatia’s traditional cuisine and wine culture are increasingly attracting food and wine enthusiasts, who come to sample local specialties and attend food and wine festivals.

• Nautical Enthusiasts : With over 1,000 islands and a rich maritime tradition, Croatia is a popular destination for sailors, yacht enthusiasts, and maritime history buffs.
• Music Festival Attendees : Croatia has become a popular destination for music festival-goers, with events such as the Ultra Music Festival attracting electronic music fans from around the world.

As you can see, Croatia offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors, attracting tourists of all ages and interests from around the world.

Croatia is generally considered a safe country for tourists, with a low crime rate and a well-functioning police force. However, as with any destination, visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety.

Petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft can occur, especially in crowded tourist areas. Visitors should be cautious with their belongings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and be aware of their surroundings.

Traffic accidents are also a concern, particularly during peak tourist season when roads can be congested. Visitors should exercise caution when driving and follow traffic laws.

In terms of political stability, Croatia is a democratic country with a stable government and a functioning legal system. There are no major political or social issues that would pose a threat to visitors.

Overall, Croatia is a safe destination for tourists, but visitors should exercise common sense and take precautions to ensure their safety. It’s always a good idea to stay informed about current events and local conditions, and to follow the advice of local authorities

The budget required to visit Croatia can vary depending on the season, the type of accommodation, transportation, activities, and the duration of the trip. Here is a general breakdown of the costs:

• Accommodation : Budget hotels and hostels in Croatia can cost between 25-50 EUR per night, while mid-range hotels can cost between 50-100 EUR per night. Luxury hotels and resorts can cost over 100 EUR per night.
• Food and Drink: Food and drink costs can vary depending on the type of cuisine and the location. In general, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around 10-15 EUR, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around 20-30 EUR. Local wines and beers can cost around 2-4 EUR.
• Transportation : Public transportation, such as buses and trains, are relatively inexpensive in Croatia. A one-way bus or train ticket can cost between 2-20 EUR, depending on the distance. Taxis are also available, with fares starting around 1-2 EUR per kilometer.
• Activities : Croatia offers a wide range of activities, including sightseeing tours, water sports, hiking, and more. The cost of activities can vary widely, but guided tours and activities can range from 20-100 EUR per person

Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around 50-70 EUR per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around 100-150 EUR per day. Luxury travelers should budget for 200 EUR or more per day.

It’s important to note that prices can vary depending on the season, with higher prices during peak tourist season (June-August). To save money, consider travelling during the shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) when prices are lower and crowds are smaller.

Tips for visiting Croatia

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Croatia, I would like to share some general tips with yopu for your visit.

• Plan your trip ahead : Croatia is a popular destination, especially during peak tourist season (June-August). To ensure availability and avoid crowds, it’s best to plan and book your trip ahead of time, especially for popular destinations and activities.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes : Croatia has many historic cities and towns with narrow streets and cobblestone paths, so be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes.
• Learn some basic Croatian phrases: While many people in Croatia speak English, it’s always appreciated when visitors make an effort to speak the local language. Learn some basic Croatian phrases such as “hello” (dobar dan), “thank you” (hvala), and “goodbye” (doviđenja).
• Dress appropriately for cultural sites: Croatia has many cultural and religious sites, such as churches and cathedrals, which may require visitors to dress modestly. Be sure to pack appropriate clothing such as pants and covered shoulders.
• Take advantage of local transportation : Croatia has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries, which can be an affordable and convenient way to travel around the country. Consider using local transportation to save money and avoid the hassle of driving and parking.
• Try local cuisine and wine : Croatia has a rich culinary tradition with a focus on fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local wines. Be sure to try some of the local specialties and attend food and wine festivals if possible.
• Respect the environment: Croatia is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and national parks. Be sure to respect the environment by not littering, staying on marked trails, and following park rules and regulations.

Tourism in Croatia is so big in part because Croatia is such an interesting country! Here are 10 of my favourite interesting facts about Croatia:

• Croatia has over 1,000 islands along its coastline, making it a popular destination for beach vacations and island hopping.
• The necktie, known as the cravat, was invented in Croatia in the 17th century and became popular among European nobility.
• The town of Hum in Istria is considered the smallest town in the world, with only 30 residents and a town center that can be walked in just a few minutes.
• The city of Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was used as a filming location for the popular TV series “Game of Thrones.”
• Croatia has eight national parks, including the Plitvice Lakes, which feature stunning waterfalls and lakes.
• The Dalmatian dog breed is named after the Dalmatia region of Croatia, where it is believed to have originated.
• The town of Rijeka is home to the oldest continually operating public theater in Europe, dating back to 1765.
• Nikola Tesla, the inventor and physicist, was born in the town of Smiljan in Croatia in 1856.
• The traditional Croatian folk costume, known as the narodna nošnja, features vibrant colors and intricate embroidery.
• The Adriatic Sea, which borders Croatia’s coastline , is one of the clearest and cleanest seas in the world, with visibility up to 50 metres deep.

Lastly, lets answer some of the most common questions that people have about tourism in Croatia.

• Is Croatia a safe country to visit?

Yes, Croatia is generally a safe country for tourists. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas, so it’s important to take normal precautions such as keeping your belongings secure.

• What is the best time of year to visit Croatia?

The best time to visit Croatia depends on your preferences. Peak tourist season is from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. Spring and fall can be less crowded and more affordable, with mild temperatures.

• Do I need a visa to visit Croatia?

It depends on your country of origin. Citizens of the EU, US, Canada, Australia , and many other countries can enter Croatia for up to 90 days without a visa. Check with the Croatian embassy or consulate in your country for specific visa requirements.

• What is the currency in Croatia?

The currency in Croatia is the Croatian kuna (HRK). Euros are accepted in some tourist areas, but it’s recommended to have kuna for smaller purchases.

• What languages do people speak in Croatia?

The official language of Croatia is Croatian, which is similar to Serbian and Bosnian. Many people in Croatia also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

• What is the best way to travel around Croatia?

Croatia has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries. Renting a car is also an option, but it’s important to note that parking can be limited and expensive in cities.

• What are some must-see tourist attractions in Croatia?

Popular tourist attractions in Croatia include Dubrovnik, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Hvar Island, Diocletian’s Palace in Split, and the city of Zagreb.

• What is the food like in Croatia?

Croatian cuisine is heavily influenced by Mediterranean and Eastern European flavors, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, grilled meats, and locally sourced ingredients. Popular dishes include cevapi, grilled meat sausages, and burek, a savory pastry.

• Is Croatia a good destination for families?

Yes, Croatia can be a great destination for families. There are many family-friendly activities such as beach days, water sports , and outdoor adventures.

• How much money should I budget for a trip to Croatia?

The cost of a trip to Croatia depends on factors such as the time of year, type of accommodation, and activities. On average, travellers can expect to spend around $100-150 USD per day on food, accommodation, and activities

As you can see, tourism in Croatia is big business. Not only does tourism in Croatia make lots of money for the country, but it also emphasises the culture traditions and attractions that Croatia has to offer. However, as I pointed out earlier, sustainable tourism in key in ensuring that tourism in Croatia remains fruitful.

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15 top things to do in Croatia in 2024

Mar 16, 2024 • 7 min read

Exploring the winding streets of Dubrovnik's ancient cities is a magical way to discover their beauty © Henglein and Steets / Getty Images

There’s much more to Croatia  than its glittering Adriatic coast.

While you absolutely shouldn’t miss all those dazzling islands and the beauty of  Dubrovnik and  Split , the country also offers sophisticated culture in  Zagreb , baroque beauty in Varaždin and a range of landscapes throughout the country that promise both beautiful views and hair-raising adventures.

As you plan your trip to this magical destination, keep in mind our list of the best things to do in Croatia. 

1. Marvel at Plitvice Lakes National Park’s waterfalls

Sixteen lakes and countless waterfalls make walking through the UNESCO-listed  Plitvice Lakes National Park a dreamy experience. Over centuries, this travertine landscape has created a vivid world of shallow lakes and waterways shaded by beech forests, with every shade of blue and green reflected in its mesmerizingly clear waters. Follow the footpaths – many of them on raised wooden walkways – until you reach Kozjak Lake, where an electric boat awaits to take you across the glass-like water. 

Local tip: This is Croatia's largest national park, with forests home to bears, wolves and rare bird species.

2. Get lost in the Diocletian’s Palace in Split

It’s not often you see a Roman palace become such a fundamental and lived-in part of a city. The  palace the Roman emperor Diocletian built for himself in the 2nd century CE soon fell into ruin and, by the Middle Ages, had become colonized by apartments and shops. Today, it’s the place to wander and stop for a coffee as you admire graceful columns and arches that are millennia-old.

Local tip: Not only is it a UNESCO World Heritage site, around 3000 people live within the Diocletian’s palace still today.

3. Walk Dubrovnik’s walls

These magnificent medieval and Renaissance ramparts curve around Dubrovnik’s old town for nearly 2km (1.2 miles), leading you up and down stone steps and past hulking forts and defensive towers. Set aside at least 90 minutes to wander along the walls, taking in glorious views of the Adriatic, Lokrum island and the town’s sea of terracotta rooftops while peeking into the gardens and terraces of the houses below.

Planning tip:  Avoid the crowds by turning up first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon. 

4. Cycle, hike and swim in Mljet National Park

Often visited as a day trip from Dubrovnik or  Korčula , lusciously green  Mljet is worth a more leisurely exploration, especially its national park . Taking up nearly a third of the island, the park is dominated by two saltwater lakes fringed with pine-shaded trails, offering plenty of places to stop for a swim. Hike to the top of Montokuc at 256m (840ft) for sublime views while breathing in the scent of Aleppo pines.

Detour:  Don’t miss the chance to take the little ferry to St Mary’s Island for a wander around its church and monastery. 

5. Take a boat ride through Kopački Rit Nature Park

Spreading across north-eastern Croatia by the Serbian border, the vast wetlands of  Kopački Rit Nature Park  offer some of the most serene landscapes in the country. For a wonderfully soothing experience, hop on one of the boats that gently float through this peaceful nature reserve, where the Danube and Drava rivers meet – the birdlife is quite extraordinary. 

6. Brave the Skywalk Biokovo

You’ll soon discover if you have a head for heights when you step on the glass horseshoe-shaped platform that hovers at 1228m (4029ft) in the  Biokovo Nature Park . Surrounded by the stark, barren beauty of the Dinaric Alps, the Skywalk gives you superlative views of the Adriatic, islands in the distance and mountains that loom behind. If you’re feeling fit, you can hike for three hours from the nature park entrance.

7. Wander through Krka National Park

Not to be outdone by Plitvice, the waterfalls and forested landscapes of  Krka National Park are just as impressive. Start in the village of Skradin, where you’ll pick up the boat service that runs along the Krka River, passing one spectacular waterfall after another. Stop at Skradinski Buk to see one of the most majestic cascades as it tumbles down limestone rocks. Carry on towards the island of Visovac and its enchanting Franciscan monastery . 

8. Take a picnic to Lokrum

A 10-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Port takes you to a totally different world. Little  Lokrum manages to squeeze in a Benedictine monastery, a Napoleonic fort, a botanical garden, a couple of bars and a restaurant – plus a saltwater lagoon (nicknamed "The Dead Sea") and several rocky beaches. Pick up some picnic snacks from the bakery by the pier and prepare to spend a few hours exploring – or just lazing about. 

9. Visit Pula’s Roman amphitheater

Built around the end of the 1st century BCE,  Pula ’s enormous Roman amphitheater – the sixth largest surviving one in the world – is remarkably well preserved. Check out the lower chambers, where instead of gladiators and caged animals, you’ll find displays harking back to Istria’s Roman-era wine-making tradition. It’s one of Croatia’s most atmospheric concert venues, particularly during the annual summertime Pula Film Festival . 

Planning tip:  If your visit falls between June and September, check out the Spectacvla Antiqva (adult/child €20/10), an evening event held at least once a week featuring gladiator fights and Roman-style clothing, hairstyles, food and drinks.

10. Sip superb wines in Pelješac

Drive along  Pelješac , the long finger-shaped peninsula that veers away from the Adriatic coast north of Dubrovnik, and you’ll soon be surrounded by scrubby hillsides covered in vineyards. Look out for the signs inviting you to come and taste some seriously good wines made by boutique wineries throughout the area. Red wine is king here, notably the robust plavac mali and dingač grape varieties. 

11. Soak up Zagreb’s cafe culture

There’s a good reason why Starbucks hasn’t been able to get a toehold in Croatia. Coffee is the lifeblood of this place, and it goes hand in hand with the need to share some good gossip rather than burying your head in your laptop. And ground zero for this cultural mainstay is  Zagreb , where the cafes buzz with the sound of friends regularly meeting over coffee.

Planning tip:  If you turn up on a Saturday between 10am and 2pm, you can watch the ritual known as špica , when everyone dresses up to the nines just to go from café to café around the main Ban Jelačića Square . 

12. Hit the white water in the Zrmanja River Canyon

With Croatia’s dramatic karst landscapes, it’s no surprise that superb rafting opportunities beckon. North of Zadar, the Zrmanja River slices through the limestone to create deep canyons that guarantee an exhilarating experience. Where the Zrmanja meets the Krupa River, there’s even more drama in store, complete with waterfalls and rapids. 

13. Admire Zadar’s public art

Zadar ’s history is a particularly rich one, with Roman, Byzantine and Renaissance traces all happily layered together in this beautiful port city, the oldest in Croatia. But the modern world blends in seamlessly when you walk along the seafront and hear the haunting sound of the  Sea Organ , an art installation created by Nikola Bašić in which underwater pipes get “played” by the tide. Just next to it is Sun Salutation , a huge circle of glittering panels that light up at night. 

14. Get the best view in Hvar Town

Chic Hvar Town , a place of glossy marble streets and glossier cocktail bars, has a few more aces up its sleeve. For one of the best views along the Adriatic, follow the zigzagging path to the citadel –  Fortica – which has been standing sentry above the town since the Venetians built it in the 13th century, then strengthened it 300 years later. The view from the top is worth the climb, and, at night, the medieval castle is lit up romantically. 

Detour: While you're here, hire a boat and head out to explore the crystal-clear waters and secret nooks of the Pakleni Islands .

15. Explore baroque Varaždin

Briefly the capital of Croatia in the 18th century, Varaždin epitomizes elegance. It’s a riot of rococo and baroque buildings, with beautifully tended gardens and a pedestrianized center that invites relaxed, sauntering strolls. It’s fitting that the city is the setting every September for two weeks of baroque concerts, adding an apt touch of refinement to a truly dignified place.

This article was first published June 2022 and updated March 2024

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18 Absolute Best Places to Visit in Croatia

Home » Blog » Europe » Croatia » 18 Absolute Best Places to Visit in Croatia

From medieval cities to jewel-bright beaches and coastal towns, there are endless locales in Croatia that will blow your mind. In this guide, we’ve gathered both the most popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations so you can choose the best places to visit in Croatia for your travel style.

Quick Note: As of January 1, 2023, Croatia joined the Eurozone and adopted the Euro as their currency. Kuna (kn or HRK), the former currency of Croatia, will no longer be accepted as a form of payment. However, Kuna banknotes and coins can be exchanged until December 31, 2023. This also means Croatia is now part of the Schengen Area and adheres to those laws and visa requirements . 

For many people, the colorful city of Dubrovnik is the first place that comes to mind when thinking about the Mediterranean paradise of Croatia.

Rightfully so – not only is Dubrovnik the most visited place in the country, but it was also the backdrop to the beloved HBO series, Game of Thrones.

However, Croatia is full of exciting destinations outside of its renowned metropolis. It’s overflowing with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, rich history, sleepy coastal towns, world-class architecture, and ancient ruins.

While millions of history buffs and Game of Thrones fans flock to the main cities, we believe you can discover the true charm of Croatia with a little digging in lesser-known places.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the very best places to visit in Croatia. Add these to your itinerary for the perfect trip around historic cities, Adriatic islands, and endless beaches.

Once you decide where to go, be sure to check out our guide to the best time to visit Croatia to help you decide when to go.

1. Dubrovnik

An ancient walled city on the coast that is as beautiful as it is popular

Undoubtedly one of the most famous cities in all of Croatia, Dubrovnik is popular for many reasons. 

First, the Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, deservingly so. 

And of course, we can’t ignore the fact that Dubrovnik spiked in popularity after HBO featured the city as a filming location for Game of Thrones . Die-hard fans can visit one of the original iron thrones from the set and even take a Game of Thrones walking tour . 

To be sure, the medieval stone buildings and churches in Dubrovnik Old Town are fascinating, but some have transformed into bars, restaurants, and pirate-themed candy stores. Personally, we find it takes away from the authenticity of the city.

Regardless, you can still have a good time getting lost in the city’s narrow alleyways and finding yourself among hidden nooks and crannies.

Top things to do in Dubrovnik

We’ve got a huge list of all the best things to do in Dubrovnik , but here are some highlights:

• Walk along the Dubrovnik City Wal l for 2 km and take in the city from above (Entrance: 35 € / ~$36.90 USD).
• Hit up the “hidden” sunset bar. Make your way over to the western side where you’ll find the famous Buza Bar – a particularly great spot for sundowns and cliff jumping.
• Take the cable car up Mt. Srd for breathtaking views of the walled city, seas, and surrounding islands. It’s especially spectacular at sunset (but also especially crowded, so get there early to get a spot in line!). The cable car costs 27 € (~$28.50 USD) for a return ticket. Otherwise, you can take a taxi or Uber to the viewpoint at the top. 
• Kayak around the Old Town. You can rent kayaks from a number of shops in the Old Town and paddle your way around the Old Town Walls. If you have the stamina, make your way all the way out to Betina Cave Beach . 
• Enjoy a picnic with a view. Walk uphill through neighborhoods until you get a good view of the city. We packed a picnic (and a bottle of wine!) and enjoyed the view from a small patch of grass as the sun set over Old Town. This was our favorite view, not to mention we had it all to ourselves!

Psst! If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and away from touristy spots, think about using ViaHero to plan your trip to Croatia . ViaHero connects travelers with locals, who then create an itinerary with a strong local perspective. 

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

There are many fantastic places to stay in the city, but we’ve highlighted a few of the best to fit every budget.

Hostel Free Bird : Situated right in the city center next to a ton of eateries and the main bus station, this hostel is very affordable and convenient. With free Wifi, a kitchenette, and quality AC, you’ll have the ideal base for exploring the city.

Apartments Franka Old Town : Nestled in a quiet neighborhood of Old Town, these apartments are within walking distance to Porporela and Buza beaches, plus many of the best things to see in the city. They’re spacious, well-equipped with kitchen amenities, and offer free Wifi.

Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik : This cliffside boutique hotel has sweeping coastal views just a short, scenic walk away from Old Town. Their world-class seafood restaurant, wine bar, indoor pool (with a sea view!), spa, gym, and pebble beach access will make you feel like a celebrity after exploring the city.

2. Plitvice Lakes National Park

National park with spectacular waterfalls and aquamarine lakes

We couldn’t make a list of the best places to visit in Croatia without including this otherworldly beauty. It literally looks like you are walking in a fairytale land. 

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a stunner, and it’s popular for good reason. So popular, in fact, that if you visit during peak season, you’ll likely be walking behind lines of other tourists in parts of this national park.

We’ve got tips for avoiding said crowds, as well as everything else you need to know to plan an unforgettable visit in our guide to Plitvice Lakes National Park . 

A modern city with plenty of nightlife and beaches

As the second-largest city in Croatia, Split has soared to the top of travelers’ radars due to its charming streets and prime location along the Dalmation Coast.

The dazzling beaches are enough to draw anyone to the shores of Split, but meandering the well-preserved history flooding the city is enough to make anyone stick around for a while.

Together with Dubrovnik, you can visit a handful of filming locations for HBO’s Game of Thrones around the city. If you’re part of the fandom, there is a great Game of Thrones walking tour you can take to relive your favorite episodes.

Split is also a centralized city that serves as the iconic departure port for Yacht Week each summer. From here, you can access beautiful islands just off the coast that would be an injustice to gloss over.

Things to do in Split

We’ve got a huge list of can’t-miss things to do in Split , but here are some highlights:

• Explore the Old Town city center. Diocletian’s Palace, a remnant of the Roman Empire, makes up the majority of the city center known as “Old Town”. Make your way through the narrow alleyways, shop around, grab a bite to eat or climb the old bell tower for magnificent views of the city.
• Make your way to the beach. There are plenty of beaches to choose from in this coastal town. Some of the best include Bačvice Beach, near Old Town and by far the most popular, and Trstenik Beach, more of a local secret and not nearly as crowded.
• Climb Marjan Hill for sunset. To escape the city, head west and enter the Park Šuma Marjan. It’s a bit of a climb (up hundreds of steps), but if you go later in the afternoon, you’ll be rewarded with unbeatable sunset views of Old Town and the sea.
• Indulge in the food at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar. Whether you’re going for a boozy brunch on the weekend or a fancy night out, Bokeria was hands-down our favorite restaurant in Split and worth checking out for the decor alone. 

Psst! Not only is Split one of the best places to visit in Croatia, but we also think it’s one of the best cities to visit in Europe .

Where to stay in Split

Choosing the best place to base yourself in Split can be tricky, but Old Town is convenient and centrally-located to all the nearest dining, shopping, ports, and transport stations.

Downtown Hostel : You can’t get any more central than this hostel in the heart of Diocletian’s Palace. It’s walking distance to all the best attractions in Split and only a stone’s throw away from the main port, bus stop, and train station. To top it off, the best nightlife, culture, nature, and entertainment are just steps away from your bunk. 

Villa Domina : Step into old meets new at this well-equipped and stunning villa just a 5-minute walk from all the best dining, shopping, and attractions in Old Town. The kitchenette, free Wifi, and private parking (especially in this part of town!) are huge perks of this villa, as well as its access to the main port and train/bus stations.

Time Boutique Hotel : This 4-star hotel boasts extensive amenities for a relaxing stay. The spa & wellness center, saunas, hot tubs, and indoor pool are the ultimate way to wind down after touring the city. The onsite restaurant and parking are massive perks, as well as its location, only 0.5 miles away from Old Town. 

The resort island known for its vibrant nightlife

Hvar is an island off the Croatian coast near Split. It’s best known as a boujee resort destination with lots of partying. 

While there are some luxurious resorts on Hvar, it is also possible to experience the island on a budget. In addition, there are plenty of things to do on Hvar that aren’t party-hopping. 

How to get to Hvar from Split

The easiest way to get to Hvar Island is by ferry from Split. The Jadrolinija ferry operates year-round and runs daily from Split to Hvar and back. The 1-hour journey will cost a reasonable 17.25 € for adults (~$18 USD) and there are plenty of times to catch the ferry throughout the day.

Top things to do in Hvar

• You can also walk along the road between the Hvar marina and Pokonji dol Beach to find some hidden spots to take a plunge with a bit more privacy.
• Visit Stari Grad. Literally translated to “Old Town,” Stari Grad dates back to prehistoric times and is the oldest town in all of Croatia (one of the oldest in Europe). Rent a scooter and drive the stunning 15-mile stretch on the coastal Old Road from Hvar Town to Stari Grad.
• Indulge in local food and wine. Hvar has lots of wineries, each creating their own special blend that is begging to be taste-tested at one of Hvar Town’s many delicious restaurants. Some of our favorites include Black Pepper Restaurant , Fig Cafe , and Lungo Mare .
• We recommend packing a picnic and heading up there for the sunset with a bottle of local wine!
• Rent a boat to explore the Pakelni Islands. For a reasonable price, you can rent a speedboat for a half or full day to explore the neighboring archipelago, the Pakelni Islands. With crystal-clear waters, untouched beaches, and hidden lagoons, you can easily spend the day in this undeveloped paradise. 
• Climb Sveti Nikola. With just over 2,000 ft in elevation gain, Sveti Nikola is the island’s highest peak and makes for an active day’s climb. 
• Hit up a beachless beach club. Hula-Hula is one of Hvar’s most popular beach clubs for younger crowds. You can head here for an afternoon of sunning, seafood, cocktails, and dancing, but you won’t find a beach. The party peaks for sunset, then dies down shortly after and closes by 10 p.m.

Where to stay in Hvar

Hvar Town is the largest town on the island. It’s very walkable with plenty of restaurants, bars, and beaches, making it the most convenient place to stay on Hvar.

Hostel Villa Zorana : Seaside views and sunny terraces are a match made in heaven at this hostel. Just a few minutes walk from Hvar’s center attractions, it has everything you need for a comfortable stay. Its fully-equipped kitchen , nightly pub crawls, and free Wifi are just a few of the many perks.

Villa Fio : These well-equipped 3-star apartments are just minutes away from Hvar’s center and exceptional beaches. The rooms are spacious with a small kitchenette and terrace overlooking the coast, the perfect contrast to Hvar’s busy party scene.

Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort : Just 2 minutes away from the beach and 10 minutes from Hvar’s center, this hotel is the epitome of luxury. Indulge in its coastal views, multi-level pool, rooftop restaurant, and beach club. Enjoy free parking onsite and book tours/activities directly from the front desk.

A unspoilt, forest-shrouded island with captivating natural beauty

Since the majority of travelers flock to Croatia’s main cities and islands, Mljet remains an untouched treasure as the southernmost pearl of the Mediterranean.

It’s one of the greenest Croatian islands and holds one of the country’s 8 national parks.

The island is also famous for its role in Homer’s classic epic, the Odyssey . Legend says the island of Mljet captivated Odysseus so much, he sought refuge in a cave here for seven years.

Similarly, the shores of Mljet have captured the hearts of local tourists and Greek sailors dating back to the 4th century BC. Since it remains off the radar, it’s the perfect destination to indulge in both local Croatian culture and pristine nature.

How to get to Mljet from Dubrovnik

The best way to get to Mljet is by passenger ferry from Dubrovnik.

The TP Line is the only year-round operator to all three of Mljet’s ports ( Sobra , Polace, and Pomena). Double-check where your accommodation is before you purchase your ticket. Note: during the low season, it only operates to Sobra.

The ride takes about 1 hour 20 minutes and costs 7.5-16 € (~$8.25-17.59 USD), depending on which departure time you choose. There are only a few departure times each day.

Top things to do in Mljet

There are endless ways to enjoy Mljet, but these are some highlights you don’t want to miss:

• Biking is the best way to get around the park. You can rent them at either entry point to the park, Pomena or Polace, or at Mali Most.
• Taste the specialized local wine . The wine in Mljet has over 1,000 years of history. It’s exceptionally good, though with limited supply. You can find two staple wines here: Maraština (red) and Plavac the Little (white). They’re the perfect complements to local Croatian cuisine, as well as staples of the Adriatic.
• Hike to the legendary Odysseus Cave in just an hour. The hike to the famous cave rumored to be inspiration for Homer’s Odyssey starts in the village of Babino Polje. Terrain is mildly rocky and steep with incredible views. Once you get to the cliffside, you’ll plunge into the water to swim through the actual cave. View the trail notes . 
• Visit Crkva Sv. Marije (Saint Mary’s Island) . This small island lies within Veliko Kezero (Big Lake). It features Roman ruins and a 12th-century monastery. You can either take the ferry or rent a kayak and paddle to this pocket-sized treasure. 
• Go snorkeling or diving in crystal-clear water . The pristine waters of Mljet attract divers from all over the world. The coral reef within Big Lake is the only one in Croatia. You can spot rocky corals, octopus, sea cucumbers, sponges, scorpionfish, anemones, and small crabs.

Where to stay in Mljet

Pomena and Sobra are two ideal locations to base yourself while in Mljet. Whichever port you booked your ferry for, that’s where you’ll want to book your accommodation because taxis are expensive.

Apartments Lampalo : These beachfront apartments are just south of Sobra, close to restaurants, cafes, and the grocery store. Enjoy a terrace with seaside views, free Wifi, and a fully-equipped kitchenette in central Mljet.

Hotel Odisej : Right on the coast of Pomena, this hotel is in the heart of Mljet National Park with its own onsite restaurants and terrace. This hotel is fantastic value, since some rooms come with both breakfast and dinner included, and it’s surrounded by opportunities to explore nature.

Apartments More Luxury : This modern luxury apartment is just north of Sobra in a stunning beachfront location. It has a fully-equipped kitchen, free Wifi, and sunny terrace with amazing views, and is walking distance from Klačna Luka Beach.

A charming island without the crowds

One way to avoid the huge crowds of Dubrovnik and Split is to get off mainland Croatia and visit some of the country’s most beautiful islands, such as Hvar , Vis, Brač, and Mljet.

If you’re looking for a laid-back island in Croatia that is bursting with old-time charm, Korčula may just be the one for you.

We enjoyed Korčula a lot more than Dubrovnik. The walled cities look strikingly similar, but Korčula was lacking the crowds that made our visit to Dubrovnik a bit of a disappointment. We saw a good chunk of this island via bicycle, and think it’s a perfect way to explore this Croatian gem.

How to get to Korčula

Situated in the Adriatic, almost exactly in the middle between Split and Dubrovnik, you’ll have several options for traveling to Korčula. 

The passenger ferry from Split will take about 2.5 hours and costs 8.50-26 € (~$9-28 USD) per person, depending on the ticket and carrier options. You can purchase tickets at the ferry terminal pier in Split. 

There are also regular buses running between Dubrovnik and Korčula that take approximately 3 hours and cost about 13.50 € (~$14 USD). 

Another option is to take a ferry from Dubrovnik, which is both faster and more scenic than taking a bus. The Nona Ana Ferry runs this route only during the summer months (July – September) and the journey takes about 2.5 hours. You can either purchase tickets in Dubrovnik at Petka Pier or in Korčula at the Korkyra Tourist Agency.

Top things to do in Korčula

• Rent a bike in town for around 20 € (~$21 USD) for the day. Pack a picnic lunch and a map, and head out on an adventure! We discovered hidden beaches and small villages along the way, making this one of our favorite memories in Croatia. Stop in Lumbarda, a small village on the eastern side of the island where the hills are filled with vineyards and the beaches have crystal-clear water.
• Visit a winery and try the famous white wines. There are lots of wineries on the island of Korčula . But be sure to check the hours they are open to the public, as some of the wineries have blocks of time set aside for tour groups. 
• Have a beach day. The beaches in Croatia are world-renowned for their turquoise Mediterranean waters, but don’t expect powdery sand that you can bury your toes in while drifting to sleep. Instead, most Croatian beaches are pretty rugged, and powdery sand is replaced with small stones. But don’t let that deter you from taking a refreshing dip in the water.
• Rent a scooter. If we had more time in Korčula, we would have loved to explore the western part of the island via scooter.
• Explore the Old Town, which is surrounded on all sides by water. The old churches are gorgeous and the restaurants on the water look delicious. Lose yourself walking up and down the alleyways. 
• Get a view of the Old Town. Take a short hike up the hill opposite the city and find the lookout point to get a great view.

Where to stay in Korčula

If it’s your first time in Korčula, the medieval walled Old Town is a solid base. It’s the island’s epicenter, full of entertainment and the best things to do.

Apartments Galerija : Just south of Old Town and steps away from the beach, these apartments are in an ideal location close to restaurants, bars, and shops. There’s a fully-equipped kitchen, spacious rooms, free Wifi, and a sun-filled terrace perfect for relaxing.  

Apartments & Room Nina : In the heart of Old Town, this stay overlooks shimmering waters and is walking distance from the port, bus station, shops, restaurants, and nightclubs. The nearest beach and top historical sites are steps away. Wind down with the host’s local olive oil and wine offerings on the terrace.

7. Krka National Park

Nature reserve with impressive waterfalls, gorges, and monasteries

Krka National Park is like a bite-sized version of Plitvice Lakes National Park. The sparkling waterfalls flowing into verdant-rimmed pools look like they are straight from a fairytale.

Krka is much smaller and cheaper than Plitvice Lakes. Dotted in a more convenient location between Split and Zadar, it also makes for a very popular day trip. 

The scenery of this park is downright gorgeous, so it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best parks in the country. Krka draws a record number of tourists each year, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.

We’ve got tips for avoiding said crowds and everything else you need to know to plan your visit in our guide to Krka National Park .  

Known as the Venice of Croatia

Trogir is a beautiful city of contrasts and a must-see for your trip to Croatia. Here, you’ll discover a storied past, unique blend of cultures, and idyllic location along the Dalmatian Coast comparable to Venice, Italy.

Since this UNESCO Heritage City is overshadowed by those taking to the streets of Split, Trogir remains a relatively undiscovered gem.

Narrow passageways shaping the city and bridges connecting a nearby island give this magical town its Venetian feel. It’s the perfect atmosphere for recharging your batteries in a stunning coastal setting. 

Top things to do in Trogir

Among its centuries-old streets, Trogir is full of amazing sights and opportunities to take in authentic Dalmatian culture.

• Visit the St. Lawrence Cathedral. One of the finest architectural works in Croatia dominates the Old Town. For a few euros, you can climb the bell tower to get sweeping views over Trogir.
• Wander the Town Square. Narrow alleyways, museums, and historic churches surround this beautiful square in the center of Trogir’s UNESCO-tagged Old Town.
• Take a walk along the Riva , a seaside walkway with gorgeous ships on one side and a maze of stalls and restaurants on the other. It’s the perfect spot to relax while enjoying an afternoon coffee or cocktail.
• Climb the Kamerlengo Fortress. This trapezoid-shaped fortress is a monumental part of the city built in the 15th century. Climb to the top to get views over Čiovi and Trogir. (Entrance: 4 € / ~$4 USD)
• Laze on the beaches of Čiovo. This island connects to Trogir via two bridges and has endless picturesque beaches to choose from.
• Admire works in the Trogir City Museum. This cluster of palaces and houses blend Roman and Baroque styles. Inside are collections of historical items from the foundation of Trogir to present day.

Where to stay in Trogir

Although the city is a popular half- or full-day trip from Split, these are idyllic places to stay near the city center if you have more time.

Residence Providenca : Just south of Trogir on Čiovo, this 3-star guesthouse is a short walk away from the beach. It features a bar, restaurant, bicycle rentals, and stunning stone details throughout the property. A quick stroll over the bridge takes you into Old Town, where all the main shops and sights are located.

Nerium Penthouse : This penthouse is the perfect blend of centuries-old details and modern features. Nestled among the city’s stunning palaces, it’s in a prime location within Old Town. The scenic rooftop, full-service kitchen, and courtyard create an authentic Croatian atmosphere.

Apartment Tragurium : Centrally located in Trogir’s Old Town, this apartment is steps away from the main bars, restaurants, and shops. It has all the charm of a historic Croatian home, but with updated amenities and features. The full-service kitchen, intimate patio, and city views create the perfect atmosphere to wind down after a day of sightseeing.

An offbeat escape with authentic island life

Brač is undeniably one of the best islands along the Dalmation coast for experiencing an authentic Croatian way of life. It’s chock-full of rolling olive groves, vineyards, and quiet fishing villages lining pebbled shores.

Brač is most famous for Zlatni Rat. This golden beach extends from the town of Bol and is one of the leading points of interest for the country’s tourism campaigns.

The island is also well known for its radiant white limestone. The famous rock was used to build Diocletian’s Palace in Split as well as many other UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world. 

As the largest island in Dalmatia, Brač’s nearly uninhabited interior is filled with hiking and cycling trails among steep cliffs. Conversely, the shores are lined with beaches and vibrant towns to relax in.

Top things to do in Brač

These are some must-see sites dotted around the island:

• Hike or drive to Vidova Gora . Not only is this peak the highest point on Brač, but at an impressive 2552 feet (780 meters), it’s the highest point in the Adriatic Sea. Sweat your way for 2 hours uphill to get a bird’s eye view of Zlatni Rat and sweeping coastal views, including neighboring Hvar Island. View the trail notes . The peak is also accessible by car.
• Blaca Hermitage . This cliffside refuge came to be in 1551 when a group of priests and their servants ran from Ottoman Turks on the mainland. 
• Soak up the sun at Zlatni Rat (Golden Beach) . This tail-shaped beach is laid with fine white pebbles and surrounded by the aquamarine waters of the Adriatic. Known as Croatia’s most famous beach, photos often don’t do this treasure justice. It’s much more spectacular in person!
• Visit the sleepy coastal towns , such as Milna, Bol, Supetar, Skrip, and Pucisca. These small fishing villages are perfect for soaking up the essence of Brač’s island life.
• Sample award-winning olive oil . The olive tree is the symbol of the island. More than one million trees were planted here over 1,000 years ago. Now, you can relish in traditional Dalmatian architecture and heritage at the centuries-old Museum of Olive Oil in Skrip where they offer a local food and olive oil tasting .

Where to stay in Brač

We recommend basing yourself in Bol, the main hub on the island with the best dining and things to do.

Apartments Obala : 10 minutes away from the city center, this traditional home has a modernized interior and warm atmosphere. You’ll feel like a local in their terrace and garden and enjoy a full-service kitchen, free Wifi, and beaches within walking distance.

Accommodation Stella Mare : A quick walk from the port and you’ll arrive at this stay in the heart of Bol, overlooking glittering waters. It’s close to beaches, dining, and shopping, as well as the main bus stop in Bol.

Nono Ban Hotel & Villa : In a quiet neighborhood north of Bol, this hotel detailed with stone, wrought iron, and wood creates an ambient and relaxing atmosphere. It has an onsite pool with a bar and restaurant nearby, plus they have car rentals available to get around.

10. Istria Peninsula

Where continental Croatia meets the sea

The northern part of Croatia that juts out into the Adriatic Sea is known as the Istria Peninsula. 

This peninsula has a unique history. Firstly, it was considered part of Italy after WWI. Then it was part of Yugoslavia following WWII. Now, it’s a slice of Croatia where the locals are of both Italian and Croatian descent. 

The Istria region of Croatia is not as well-traveled as its lower coastal half. Thus, the towns and historical charm are much more preserved .

Istria is also the region known for growing truffles. The presence of this rare fungi, considered a delicacy in most of the world due to its intense umami flavor, makes Istria one of the best places to visit in Croatia for foodies.

One of our top recommended things to do in Croatia is take a truffle hunting tour in the Istria Peninsula. 

Photogenic coastal city that resembles the Italian coast

If there’s one thing Croatia seems to do exceedingly well, it’s charming historical towns on the coast. Rovinj may just be the underrated crowning glory. 

A fishing port on the west coast of the peninsula, the enchanting Old Town of Rovinj is built up on a hill. The narrow cobblestone streets all lead to the church at the top, whose steeple dominates the horizon. 

Top things to do in Rovinj

Rovinj is a fantastic place to explore without any set itinerary or to-do list; however, there are a few staples to do while you’re here:

• Get lost in the tangled web of streets as you make your way through the town. Duck into alleyways to reveal dazzling blue waters framed by the outer walls of the town.
• Discover the local market , filled with fresh produce, spices, and all the truffles you can get your hands on. 
• Take a dip at Lone Bay , one of the area’s pebble beaches, just south of Old Town. 
• Have a cliff-side snack or drink at La Puntulina . With only a few tables on their outside terrace, you’ll want to get a spot to take in the views as you indulge in a glass of wine or some Italian-inspired bites.

Where to stay in Rovinj

The best base for Rovinj is near the port in the city center.

Rooms Villa Duketis : Right in the historic center, this villa is close to all the action, yet tucked away in a quiet area. The rooms have a rustic aesthetic and come with a kitchenette and free Wifi. Steps away are the main port, surrounding islands for day trips, and many bars and restaurants.

Studio Apartment Lily : Right in the center of town, this 4-star apartment is within walking distance to practically everything. Its studio setup is well-equipped with everything you’ll need for a cozy stay, including a kitchen, fridge, stove top, and free Wifi.

A historic and cultural city with eclectic architecture

This seaside town on the southern tip of the Istria Peninsula is known for its beach-lined coast and Roman ruins. 

Pula is the largest city in the Istria region and has a history of being occupied, destroyed, and rebuilt. 

The most prominent marker of its history is the Pula Arena, which bears a striking resemblance to Rome’s Colosseum. It’s also the only remaining Roman amphitheater on earth that has all four side towers with all three Roman architectural orders entirely preserved. 

Pula is a great starting off point to discover the rest of the Istria Peninsula. 

Top things to do in Pula

These are some of the top historic sights and points of interest in Istria’s main city:

• Visit the Pula Arena, the last remaining (and best preserved) Roman amphitheater in the world with a complete circular wall. It’s still used today, more than 1,000 years after its construction in 1st-century AD.
• Soak up the sun at the beach . Although Pula is known for its history, it also has some of the best beaches on the Istria Peninsula. Galebove stijene, Ambrela Beach, and Hawaii Beach are some of the most popular. 
• Wander the Forum . This has been the town’s square since Roman times. There are many points of interest in the area, including the Temple of Augustus, Arch of Sergii, Archaeological Museum of Istria, and the Gate of Hercules.
• Wine and dine at Batelina in Banjole . This gem is widely recognized as one of the best seafood restaurants in Croatia, owned by a family of fishermen. Be sure to reserve a table well in advance and bring cash as they don’t accept cards.

Where to stay in Pula

Pula is filled with endless places to stay, whether you’re looking for something simple, chic, or more family-friendly.

Adrion Aparthotel : Enjoy all the creature comforts of an apartment with the amenities of a hotel at this hybrid stay north of town. The rooms are modern and updated with access to the outdoor pool, spa center, onsite restaurant, and bike rentals.

Pula City Center Accommodations : This 4-star B&B is right in the Forum near all the town’s most popular historic sites. The rooms are completely modern and upgraded with endless bars, shops, and restaurants just a short walk away.

A totally different side of Croatia…

With its very own ‘big’ small village feel and distinct, yet unsuspecting features, it’s surprising that Croatia’s capital city is often overlooked by many travelers.

You’ll experience a breath of fresh air from the bustling coastal towns in Zagreb’s cafe culture, important historic sites, and modern contemporary scene. 

The mix of Austro-Hungarian architecture in the Old Town and Yugoslav builds in Novi (New) Zagreb makes for interesting twists and turns as you explore.

The city of Zagreb actually really surprised us. It feels worlds different than the coastal towns, and has a very welcoming and accessible vibe.

Top things to do in Zagreb

This modern capital has endless things to see among its cobblestone streets:

• Wander Tkalčićeva Street. This pedestrian-only street is packed with restaurants and bars serving happy hour deals. 
• Pop into one of the many cute coffee shops. There are hundreds throughout this city, so find one in a busy square, relax, and people watch. 
• Visit St. Mark’s Church. This church, built in the 13th century, has colorful roof tiles showing the Croatian, Dalmatian, and Slavonian coats-of-arms. 
• Visit Dolac Market. Be sure to walk through the massive Dolac Market to pick up some fresh fruit. 
• Gaze at street art. Get lost in alleyways in search of the city’s street art. During our free walking tour, our guide brought us to some seriously cool murals.
• Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships. This quirky museum is a collection of personal items people received from former lovers, complete with stories.
• Take a free walking tour in Zagreb. Always a good way to see the city and its major sites while getting a little history lesson too. 

Where to stay in Zagreb

Central Zagreb is a fantastic area to base yourself. Lower Town and Kapitol are within walking distance to local transport options and main sites of the city. 

Main Square Hostel : This sleek and modern hostel is right next to ​​Ban Jelačić Square. It’s a budget-friendly option without sacrificing comfort and amenities. It’s also in an ideal location, within walking distance to all the best things to do in the city.

Rooms Zagreb 17 : Right above Tkalčićeva Street, these apartments are modern, spacious, and steps away from the restaurants, bars, and shops of the main square. Each space has modern, luxurious furniture, great views, and free Wifi.

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel : This luxurious five-star hotel is centrally located in Lower Town, an ideal hub for sightseeing. Beyond its elegant, art-nouveau decor, enjoy the rooftop terrace, gym, sauna, and onsite restaurant within walking distance to local stations and historic sights.

Stunning island isolated from commercialization

Out of all the popular islands in the Adriatic (Brač, Korčula, Hvar), you’ll find Vis has a significantly different vibe and culture than the rest.

It has an unpretentious, humble, and charming atmosphere since the island wasn’t open to tourism until 1991.

So, what makes the island special is all the things you won’t find here: cheap souvenir shops, dressed-up tour guides, and hordes of tourists that outnumber the locals.

Instead, you’ll find ruins, shipwrecks, and stories all influenced by the island’s array of rulership over the years from the British, Ancient Greeks, and, most noticeably, the Venetian Empire. 

Top things to do in Vis

Croatia’s most distant island is filled with endless ways to discover its rugged adventure and multi-cultural heritage: 

• Sunbathe at Stiniva Beach . Enclosed by two dramatic cliff faces, this beach is often recognized as both the best beach in Croatia and one of the best beaches in Europe. Note: the way to get down is rocky, so bring sturdy shoes.
• Boat to Budikovac Island . With its very own Croatian ‘Blue Lagoon’, the turquoise waters surrounding this island make for the perfect day trip from Vis. 
• Explore old military tunnels . Vis is most famous for its old Yugoslav military tunnels. They’re not safe to visit on your own, so a tour is recommended. Get your adrenaline pumping on this quad tour or combine the tunnels with the best sights of the island on this Vis tour .
• Tour the famous Blue Cave . Bright blue shades illuminate this renowned cave. It’s located on a small island called Biševo, which is just off the coast of Vis. You can book Blue Cave tours in Komiža, which is about 20 minutes away by boat.
• Hike to the top of Hum Mountain . The best sunset view on Vis is at the summit of this 1,925 foot (587 meter) mountain. You can make it to the very top, but the views just below are panoramic and downright beautiful. On the way, you can take a detour to Tito’s Cave to explore the one-room dwelling of this Partisan leader.

Where to stay in Vis

Vis Town and Komiža are the two main areas to stay on the island. Both are solid options, but keep in mind that the ferries and many tours leave from Vis Town.

Villa Kuljis : This family-owned villa is right in the heart of Komiža, within walking distance to restaurants, shops, and a pebble beach. You can purchase groceries from the neighboring market and cook up meals in the full-service kitchenette while enjoying views of the Adriatic from your balcony.

ViSun Apartment : Only a 5-minute walk from the Vis Town port, these apartments are close to beaches, shops, restaurants, and cafes. Free wifi, stellar terrace views, and a fully-equipped kitchen are all highlights of this modern stay.

Hotel San Giorgio : Right in the historical center of Vis, this small, family-run hotel is filled with greenery and art in a cozy and modern atmosphere. While close to all the action, it’s tucked in a quiet alley away from the bustle. The jacuzzi, knowledge of the island, and quality of the rooms are second to none on Vis.

15. Šibenik

An unsuspecting medieval island 

While almost all the islands along the Adriatic coast have been established by international powers over centuries, Šibenik is authentically Croatian.

Even after the city was passed from the Byzantine Empire to the Venetian Republic and other powers over centuries, Šibenik still maintained its very own Croatian flare.

Nestled in a port between Zadar and Split, its history is just as dynamic as Dubrovnik’s, but with a labyrinth of streets experienced by a fraction of the tourists. 

Šibenik is home to a variety of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Game of Thrones filming locations (if that’s up your alley – pun intended!), and has the authentic local life that has slowly moved out of Dubrovnik.

Top things to do in Šibenik

These activities will engulf you in the charm of this port:

• Marvel at the St. James Cathedral . This architectural masterpiece is world-renowned and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s the largest church in the world built solely from stone (without brick, mortar, or wooden supports). Keep an eye out for the 71 stone sculptures depicting 15th-century citizens who helped build the cathedral. 
• Get lost in Old Town . Centuries-old stone buildings and charming squares are connected through alleys and passageways. You can easily spend a day exploring all the monasteries, churches, boutiques, restaurants, laid-back bars, and museums in this part of town.
• Visit the Fortress of St. Nicholas . This triangular structure served as a guard to the city during the 16th century and is the second UNESCO World Heritage Site in Šibenik. Although the fortress is connected to the city with a stone footpath, it’s best explored on a boat tour.
• Visit Kornati National Park . These islands off the coast are uninhabited and full of unspoilt nature. Hike to panoramic peaks, explore the traces of past civilizations, and dive into the park’s rich waters.
• Take a day trip to Krka National Park . Šibenik is the ideal basecamp for exploring this verdant park full of coursing waterfalls. You can drive directly to the park or take a bus from town to the entrance.

Where to stay in Šibenik

Although not as popular as other cities, Šibenik still boasts stellar accommodation options right along the coast.

Hostel Scala : More a hotel than a hostel, this modern and beautiful stay has its own seasonal swimming pool, garden, restaurant, and shared kitchen. It’s in an ideal location near the main bus stop and all the sights in Old Town. 

Sebenico Luxury Rooms : Fitted with a terrace and Dalmatian details, these modern apartments are within walking distance to the beach and Town Hall. After exploring nearby restaurants and sites, you’ll come back to a full array of amenities. Ask for a higher room for better views over the city.

Heritage Hotel Life Palace : This charming hotel is in the center of Šibenik. Enjoy free Wifi, hot tub, sauna, and onsite bar with your stay and the ideal location just a few minutes walk to all the sights in Old Town.

Lesser-known historic port

Although Zadar doesn’t often top lists of the best places to visit in Croatia, it’s definitely worth considering adding it to your itinerary, as it isn’t like any other city in Croatia.

Its uncrowded beaches, ancient Roman streets, and world-famous sunsets are the total antithesis of the crowds and commercialization of cities such as Split and Dubrovnik.

The massive port specializes in Northern Dalmatia food and has hundreds of beaches to explore.

Even if you just pass through to sample a touch of Zadar’s charm, it makes an excellent base camp for exploring four of Croatia’s national parks and several neighboring islands (that also made this list!). 

Top things to do in Zadar

Zadar is filled with vibrant and captivating sights you don’t want to miss:

• Listen to the Sea Organ . This installation is both a musical instrument and an interesting piece of architecture. You’ll listen to movements of the sea and air as they are transformed into intriguing sounds.
• Watch the Sun Salutation Light Show . Also along the southwestern quay is the “Greeting to the Sun”. Over 10,000 solar panels capture light during the day and use it to put on a show at sunset.
• Wine & dine at Fosa . One of Zadar’s best restaurants features both fine seafood and over 120 local wines. It’s nestled in an intimate port, marrying age-old tradition and modern trends.
• Explore the city’s wealth of cathedrals . A handful of centuries-old medieval churches are worthy of exploring in Zadar. St. Donatus Church is the most famous, but be sure to stop into St. Simeon’s Church and St. Anastasia Cathedral.
• Wander Narodni trg . This public square is constantly buzzing as it’s the center of life in the city. There are a variety of things to explore from varying centuries.

Where to stay in Zadar

Zadar has so many nooks you can base yourself in, but the best location is along the marina inlet next to Old Town. These are some highlighted stays close to everything to do:

Angel’s RM : This apartment has incredible value for being steps away from the center of Old Town. With the perfect balance between cozy and luxurious, the fully-stocked kitchen, location, and quiet neighborhood are enough to bring you back to Zadar to stay here again.

Apartment Alex : A stone’s throw away from Old Town, you can enjoy a sunny terrace with views of the city, a full-service kitchen, and a private pool ideal for cooling down after a day of sightseeing. It’s in a quiet neighborhood, but still close to the main areas.

Alma Lofts : Just a few steps from Zadar’s center, these apartments have a full-service kitchen and onsite restaurant, and are within walking distance to various beaches and sightseeing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars on the same road.

17. Dugi Otok

Long island with quaint villages

Spread out between 12 villages and only 1,600 residents, Dugi Otok is an offbeat treasure accessible from Zadar.

Its name translates literally to “long island” as it’s only a few miles wide. You can drive from one end to the other in about an hour.

You’ll experience true tranquility here amidst untouched nature and some of the most unique sites in Croatia.

Top things to do in Dugi Otok

You could spend weeks exploring the island, but here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Explore Telašćica Nature Park . This bay area dominates the southern end of Dugi Otok with woodlands, dramatic cliffs, beaches, stunning views, and clear water. Hike along the stene (plunging cliffs), take a dip in Mir Lake, or head to Grpašćak viewpoint for panoramic views atop an old fortress.
• Relax at Sakarun Beach . Fine white sand and turquoise water make up this bay, secluded from the high seas and wind. Veli Žal beach is another great option nearby, although not as secluded.
• Say hello to the local donkey population . These furry friends are a staple of the island’s culture. You can visit them at the shelter within the nature park or spot them roaming around Mir Lake. 
• Climb the Veli Rat Lighthouse . This landmark is the tallest in Croatia and one of the most popular things to do in Dugi Otok. At the top, you’ll stand at 135 feet, looking out at panoramic sea views.
• Take a SUP tour around the island . A unique and interesting way to explore the island is by paddling around its tranquil waters. On this paddle board tour , you’ll explore natural inlets, secluded beaches, and submarine tunnels, and relax on Sakarun Beach for a full day of excitement.

Where to stay in Dugi Otok

Dugi Otok is pretty compact, so there are a lot of great places to stay around the island. We recommend staying in Sali since it’s the main hub and close to the Nature Park.

Apartments Žman : Near the middle of the island in Žman, this apartment has modern amenities, a terrace with sea views, and a well-equipped kitchen. It’s also a short drive away from Sali and Telašćica Nature Preserve and walking distance from restaurants and shops.

Long Island Olive Apartment : A short walk from the center of Sali is this updated and cozy stay. Ankica is a lovely and informed host that will make you feel right at home once you arrive on the island. 

TEONA Luxury Apartment : On the coast of Sali, neighboring Telašćica Nature Park, these apartments overlook the scenic Adriatic coast. With their own private hot tub, full-service kitchen, and easy access to restaurants and shops, they have everything you need for a comfortable stay.

18. Trsteno

Medieval village with lush vegetation

Just north of Dubrovnik, this small village is most famous for its exotic arboretum lining the Adriatic coast.

While not filled with a wealth of activities, it makes a relaxing location for a day trip, or a pit stop if you’re driving the coastal route from Dubrovnik to Split.

Top things to do in Trsteno

You can blink and pass right by this charming village, but if you stop to explore you’ll find some treasures.

• Explore the Trsteno Arboretum . This Renaissance arboretum is the largest along the Dalmation Coast was significantly featured in Game of Thrones as the mystical garden within King’s Landing. Don’t miss Neptune’s Fountain and the two 500-year-old plane trees at the entrance, reaching over 100 feet high.
• Relax at a postcard-worthy beach . Many sunny beaches line the Adriatic coast throughout the village, such as Osmoliš , Bresčine , Sjekirica Beaches .
• Eat at a family-run restaurant . Dotted near the village are a variety of restaurants that offer farm-to-table fare. Agroturizam Laptalo , for example, serves some of the best in the area.

Where to stay in Trsteno

There are no hotels in Trsteno, but there are plenty of amazing apartments and local homes to rent if you’re staying overnight.

Trsteno Home : Right next to the Trsteno Harbor, this home is in a secluded location with seaside views. This villa has 4 bedrooms and a full-service kitchenette, and is within walking distance to the arboretum.

Summer Cottage : Stay in a dreamy stone cottage within walking distance to family-run restaurants, Trsteno Beach, and the arboretum. It has a full-service kitchen and everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay, only a 20-minute drive from downtown Dubrovnik.

Trsteno Dream House : This home has an authentic Dalmation exterior and a fully modernized interior with two bedrooms, a shaded veranda with seaside views, and a big kitchen. It’s a short walk from the village center and arboretum, as well as a quick drive to tranquil beaches. 

Are you planning a trip to Croatia?

We have lots of resources on travel in Croatia and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Croatia Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or start by reading some of our favorite Croatia articles here:

• Croatia: A Completely Honest Travel Guide
• Fun Things to Do in Dubrovnik + Advice for Traveling
• Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Split, Croatia + Travel Guide
• Absolute Best Things to Do in Croatia + Adventurous Day Trips

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Croatia - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Croatia.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Croatia.

If you decide to travel to Croatia:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Croatia.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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U.s. embassy zagreb.

Ulica Thomasa Jeffersona 2 10010 Zagreb, Croatia Telephone: +(385) (1) 661-2200 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(385) (1) 661-2200 Fax: +(385) (1) 665-8933 Email:   [email protected]

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Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

You need a valid U.S. passport to enter Croatia. EU regulations require that U.S. passport holders have no less than three months’ validity when they depart Croatia. U.S. passport holders with less than three months may be denied entry. The U.S. Embassy strongly suggests that you have at least six months of validity to avoid problems when you travel.

Croatia is a member of the  Schengen area.  Land border controls between Croatia, Slovenia, and Hungary and the sea border with Italy ceased in 2023. The land borders with Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro continue to have police and customs checks in place, as these countries are outside of the Schengen area. Airport controls for flights between Croatia and other countries within the Schengen area ceased in 2023. Visit the  Embassy of Croatia website  for the most current visa information.

• U.S. passport holders do not need a visa if they are traveling to Croatia for tourism or business for less than 90 days within a 180-day period.
• For entry, residence, and work requirements in Croatia, please visit the Croatian Ministry of Interior’s website . The U.S. Embassy is not able to intervene in the issuance of a Croatian residence permit.
• You must register at a local police station within three days of arrival in Croatia. If you are staying at a hotel, hostel, or vacation rental, you will be registered by the property owner.
• Foreign documents submitted for residence in Croatia must be translated into Croatian and have an apostille stamp. The U.S. Embassy cannot authenticate documents. For information on applying for apostille and authentication services, please see the  Department of State’s Office of Authentications  website.

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to, or foreign residents of, Croatia.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs  regulations on our websites.

Military/Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) Travelers : While active-duty U.S. military personnel may enter Croatia under the SOFA with proper Department of Defense (DOD) identification and travel orders, all SOFA family members, civilian employees, and contractors must have valid passports. Active-duty military personnel should obtain a tourist passport before leaving the United States to accommodate off-duty travel. DOD travelers should consult with their unit for clearance before leaving the United States

Safety and Security

Terrorism : Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking soft targets and are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, rudimentary IEDs and vehicles – to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our  Terrorism  page.

Land Mines: Armed conflict ended in all parts of Croatia in 1995; however, de-mining of areas along former confrontation lines continues. Known mined areas are well marked with Croatian-language warning signs using the international symbol for mines: a skull and crossbones inside a red, upside-down triangle. Drivers in former conflict areas should stay on paved roads to reduce the risk of encountering unmarked mines and unexploded ordnance.

• For more information about mine-affected areas in Croatia, please visit the  Croatian Mine Action Center's website

Crime: Violent crime is rare but isolated attacks targeting specific persons or property can occur and may be racially motivated or prompted by lingering ethnic tensions from Croatia's war for independence.

• Safeguard your belongings , especially when using public transport. Report incidents of theft to the local police. File a police report if your passport is stolen.
• Don’t display outward signs of wealth . It may make you a target for thieves.
• Avoid "gentlemen's clubs." In the past, such establishments have presented foreign customers with inflated bills and threatened those who refuse to pay.

U.S. business entities are encouraged to read the most recent  Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) Annual Crime and Safety Report for Croatia .

Demonstrations : While civil disorder is rare, U.S. citizens should monitor local media coverage, review their personal security practices, and be always aware of their surroundings. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent with little or no notice. Security messages about demonstrations can be found  here  on the U.S. Embassy in Croatia’s website. Some soccer matches result in violent clashes of fans from rival teams. These clashes often cause disruptions in traffic in the affected area. High profile matches are often accompanied by heavy police presence.

International Financial Scams: See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime : Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault may contact the  U.S. Embassy  at +385 (1) 661-2200 and check the information on local resources for  victims of sexual assault  on the U.S. Embassy in Croatia’s website. See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• provide information about  local resources for victims of crime
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home if you are destitute
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence : U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the U.S. Embassy in Croatia for assistance. You can find additional local resources for  victims of domestic violence  on the U.S. Embassy’s website.

Tourism: The tourism industry in Croatia is regulated and rules generally enforced regarding safety inspections. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to reach a patient and provide assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties : You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be arrested, imprisoned, or deported.

Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Recreational Drugs : Some recreational drugs may be illegal in Croatia. The Government of Croatia maintains a  List of Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Plants Which Can Be Used for Preparation of Narcotic Drugs , which lists illegal substances.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods : Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the  U.S. Department of Justice website  for more information.

Real estate : U.S. citizens should exercise due diligence when considering purchasing real estate in Croatia. Consult with an attorney before undertaking a real estate purchase and be careful to fully understand the implications of all parts of a real estate contract. Working with a translator can help ensure your rights are protected. The U.S. Embassy cannot assist U.S. citizens with legal disputes. Be prepared to take your case to the local courts. Please review the U.S. Embassy’s website for  additional information on buying real estate in Croatia .

Travelers checks, or personal checks are no longer accepted in Croatia . ATMs are common, and credit cards are generally accepted. Facilities are available for wiring or transferring money.

Recreational Boating: The Croatian government requires all recreational captains chartering Croatian-flagged vessels to have a certificate of competence.

• Croatia recognizes certain certificates issued by the U.S. Sailing Association and licenses issued by the national authorities of other countries.
• Details on  classes of licenses recognized by country  can be found on the  Ministry of the Sea, Transport, and Infrastructure ’s webpage.
• Tourists in Croatia can be certified by passing a test at harbormasters' offices in Pula, Rijeka, Senj, Zadar, Sibenik, Split, Ploce, Dubrovnik, or at the Ministry in Zagreb.
• Travelers arriving by private marine craft should refer to the  Ministry’s website  for information on nautical regulations.

Climbing and Hiking: If you intend to hike or climb in the mountains, seek local guides’ expert advice. For emergencies, call 112. Rock climbers in Paklenica National Park should consult a local guide or contact  Paklenica National Park  prior to their visit.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions regarding same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Croatia. Although LGBTQI+ individuals are afforded full rights in Croatia, same-sex couples may face legal challenges in the areas of adoption and next-of-kin determinations. In 2014, Croatia enacted the Law on Life Partnership of Same Sex Couples allowing for formal registration of same sex unions. The LGBTQI+ community is protected by anti-discrimination laws, and there are no legal or governmental impediments to the organization of LGBTQI+ events. However, there have been incidents against LGBTQI+ groups, notably during annual pride events, both in Zagreb and Split. Individual cases of attacks on members of the LGBTQI+ community have also been reported.

See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information  page and section six of our  Human Rights Report  for further information.

Travelers With Disabilities or Who May Require Accessibility . Accessibility and accommodation in Croatia are different from those in the United States. Croatian law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities. It also mandates access to transportation, communication, and public buildings for persons with disabilities; however, there is a marked difference in new construction compared to old construction, where access can still be limited. Croatia’s geography is hilly and often steep, particularly along the coast, and it presents challenges to some persons with disabilities. Access to public transportation may not always be available. Outside urban areas, accessibility worsens significantly.

Many cities in Croatia are making access improvement for travelers with disabilities.

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Adequate medical care is readily available in Croatia, but facilities may not be comparable to U.S. standards. Travelers to Croatia may obtain  a list of English-speaking physicians  on the U.S. Embassy’s website. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. You may need a prescription to get some medications that you can purchase over the counter in the United States.

For emergency services in Croatia, dial 194 or 112.

Ambulance services  are:

• not widely available, and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.

Health facilities in general:

• Adequate health facilities are available in major cities but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
• Public medical clinics may lack advanced resources and specialized medical supplies.
• Credit card payment is not always available. Some hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Private hospitals may require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient.
• Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Public hospitals are minimally staffed overnight in non-emergency wards.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.
• There are shortages of medical staff (nurses, doctors) throughout the country that may delay exams, imaging, surgeries, etc. at public healthcare centers. Occasionally shortages of special medications may occur.

We do not pay medical bills. U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers in Croatia accept cash or credit card payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Pharmaceuticals

• Prescription medication: If traveling with prescription medication, please check with the government of Croatia and its  Customs Administration  to make sure the medication is legal in Croatia. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Visit the U.S. Embassy’s website for information on  bringing medical drugs for personal use when traveling to Croatia . Note that Croatian law prohibits the importation of drugs via postal mail.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  and the  Food and Drug Administration  websites for more information.

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations recommended  by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• If you will be in Croatia for more than three months, especially if you anticipate hiking, camping, or other outdoor activities in forested areas, you may wish to get a tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine. According to the CDC, the TBE  vaccine is now available in the United States, but is carried only in larger travel clinics.

If you are in Croatia, it is available from local doctors. Use insect repellent and inspect your body for ticks after spending time outdoors.

• Influenza  is prevalent during the winter season.
• HIV/AIDS: There is a low prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Croatia. HIV/AIDS treatment and medication are available in Croatia.

Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about  Resources for Travelers  regarding specific issues in Croatia.

Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery

Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  website for more information on medical tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Croatia.

• We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
• Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Croatia.
• Although Croatia has several elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Croatia, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and that professionals are accredited and qualified.

Adventure Travel

Visit  Adventure Travel  and  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information.

Air Quality : Cities in Croatia have air pollution levels slightly higher than those in major U.S. cities, with higher levels measured in winter. Visit  the European Environment Agency’s website  for information on air quality in Croatia.

Water Quality

• Croatia has an abundance of fresh water and the public drinking water systems cover around 87% of the population. Water quality is tested daily throughout the country. Tests are performed according to internationally accepted standards. Water in Croatia is of high quality with potable tap water being available in most places. Some rural areas rely on private wells that may not be subject to quality testing standards. Some older buildings in major cities may have led-laced piping leading to increased levels of lead in the drinking water. You can learn more by visiting the  Croatian Institute of Public Health website .

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety : Road conditions in Croatia may differ significantly from those in the United States. Current information about traffic and road conditions is available in English from the  Croatian Automobile Association  (HAK) or by calling +385 1 464-0800 (English-speaking operators available 24 hours) or +385 1 661-1999.

• Exercise caution when driving in Croatia. On the highways, be aware of aggressive drivers passing on curves or in oncoming lanes.
• Highway tolls are higher than in the United States and can be paid in cash or by credit card. 
• Croatian radio  broadcasts programs in foreign languages on several frequencies. From mid-June to mid-September, Channel 2 broadcasts foreign news, traffic information, and important information in English, German and Italian.
• Within Croatia, emergency roadside assistance is available by calling 1987 or, if calling internationally, +385 1 1987. Dial 112 or 192 to speak to the police and dial 194 for an ambulance. Dial 112 for emergency services and they will automatically forward your call to either the police, ambulance, fire department, the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service or all of the above.

Traffic Laws: Vehicles drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left. Speed limits range from 110 to 130 km/h (68 to 80 mph) on highways and motorways and 50 to 90 km/h (30 to 55 mph) on urban thoroughfares.

• A Croatian driver's license is required for drivers who stay longer than twelve months. 
• Don’t drink and drive . The maximum legal blood-alcohol limit for drivers is 0.05 percent (0.00 percent for drivers with less than two years’ experience, drivers under 24 years of age, and truck or bus drivers).
• Police routinely spot-check for drunk driving  and administer breath-analyzer tests at the scene of all accidents. Refusal to take a breath test is considered a de facto admission of driving while intoxicated. Penalties may include fines up to 2,500 euros and/or prison sentences.
• For traffic accidents involving a foreign-registered vehicle, the responding police officer must issue a vehicle damage certificate to the owner of the foreign-registered vehicle; this is necessary to cross the border out of Croatia. Upon written request, the police station in the area where the accident occurred will issue a traffic accident investigation record.
• Seat belts for drivers and passengers are mandatory . Infants must travel in child-safety seats. Children shorter than 150cm in height and younger than 3 years may not ride in the front seat.
• No right on red at traffic lights unless allowed  by an additional green arrow. 
• Pedestrians have the right of way when crossing in designated, white-striped crosswalks. You must stop.

Headlights must be used all winter (from the start of November until the end of March), as well as during fog and other inclement weather.

• It is illegal to talk on a cell phone while driving unless using a hands-free device.
• For specific information concerning Croatian driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, please contact the  Croatian National Tourist Board .

Public Transportation : Pay attention to trams (streetcars) in Zagreb, which travel at high speeds through the narrow streets.

See our  Road Safety webpage  for more information. Visit the websites of the  Ministry of the Interior , the  Croatian National Tourist Board , and the Croatian  Ministry of the Sea, Transport, and Infrastructure , which are responsible for road safety.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Croatia’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Croatia’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

For Coastal Countries:

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Croatia should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at  www.marad.dot.gov/msci . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings  website (select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Croatia .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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When you fantasize a great holiday, you dream of wide open roads that take you to spectacular corners of the world. You think of sitting by the beach, walking under a clear blue sky and enjoying the vibrant sounds of nature. So, if you already are planning a great holiday this season then you must take notice of this Mediterranean abode named Croatia. Pleasant days by the stretch of azure waters in the guarded colorful environs of ancient walled towns, Croatia is the place to turn your usual vacation to a dreamland experience. Offering the best tourist places in Croatia. A very young Democracy, Croatia has a plethora of breathtaking sights and an unimaginably attractive history to offer.

The Croatian nation has changed hands from one empire to the other, from one political belief to another extreme political inclination. History of this nation is enigmatic and has given birth to a culturally rich economy with Global standards. The main attraction here is of course the coastline and its long white- washed, sandy, pebbly beaches. An island nation which Croatia is, makes it a popular choice amongst the globetrotters of the world. Croatian hospitality is yet another story altogether. You have to try the range of delicious local seafood and the organic products of this wonderland.

A moment of staring at the endless magnificent sea water, there can be chance encounters with the mighty mountains gazing back at you. The Dinaric Alps, stretching from Italy to Albania, surround much of the coastline. The limestone karst has bestowed upon the Croatian land, a wonderland range of rugged peaks, grottos, tiny clear canyons, wild waterfalls, preposterously pretty lakes, huge farmlands and vibrant stretches of flora and fauna. There is something for everyone in Croatia. Right from adventure sports to rejuvenating beach side coziness, this Central European, offers the best tourist places in Croatia. The haven is there to create lingering memories for your travel diary.

Croatia Packages

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1. Visit Dubrovnik: Dubrovnik ranks as being one of the most romantic places in the world. After Buenos Aires and Bora and Bora – Dubrovnik is the most visited locations in Croatia. This city is filled with stones, lights and great history that can be dated back to the days of Balkan war. Among the finest in the world, you must surely visit this place at least once before you leave Croatia. 2. Relive History at Zadar: Zadar is a historic town in Croatia that is loaded with beautiful locations and has a lot of activities to offer to its visitors. The sight by the shore is the primary highlight of the location as it is something that you may never seen before. 3. Explore the Museum of Broken Relationships:   Exploring the Museum of Broken Relationships is one of the best things to do in Croatia that allows you to treasure and share your heartbreak stories and symbolic possessions. On your visit to this physical and virtual public space in Croatia, the museum lets you witness the developing collections of items that talk about relationships and the method of loving and losing. The visitors can hear the personal stories of the contributor’s past relationship so they can come out of the emotional stress through creativity. You can contribute to the universal collection of the museum and help people on their empathetic journey across the world. 4. Day trip at National Park Plitvice Lake:  You can explore the UNESCO-listed landscapes of the National Park Plitvice Lake through a day trip in Croatia. Go on a tiny hiking expedition around the remarkable tree-lined Upper Lake, which is also known as Gornja Jezera. The visitors can also indulge in a cruising experience around the Lower Lakes or Donja Jezera and soak in the tranquility of the place. The National Park Plitvice Lake also gives you an opportunity to admire the beauty of the biggest waterfall in Croatia, Veliki Slap. It is a wonderful opportunity to click pictures and create memories around the glittering lakes, dramatic canyons, and cascading waterfalls. 5. Get 360-Degree views of Zagreb’s Main Square:  If you want to see the bustling life of Croatia city, you should head to Zagreb’s Main Square. Upon visiting this square, you can relish the panoramic views of the city lined with shops, businesses, and offices. Since the place experiences a constant flow of people passing the street, it is a wonderful opportunity to indulge in with the locals. The visitors can witness the statue of Count Josip Jelacic standing profoundly in the center of the square with a backdrop of lovely facades with different kinds of architectural styles. You can also make a wish by throwing a coin into the magical Manduševac Fountain in Zagreb’s Main Square.  6. Take a Walk through Zagreb’s streets:  Tourists can take a walk through Zagreb’s streets to discover the historical highlights of the city. When you follow the route past Zagreb’s Main Square, i.e., Ban Jelacic Square, you will get an insight into the cathedrals, churches, squares, and other attractions of Croatia’s capital city. You can go to the Tkalciceva streets and watch Stone Gate, St. Mark’s Church, Cathedral, Zrinjevac, and much more. The visitors can also learn about all the inside and outside stories of the streets of Zagreb while walking down the alleys. You will even be surprised to know about the legend of hidden gold under the street of Zagreb that has been kept by a sleeping dragon. 7. Explore Upper Town:  Among the other Croatia activities, exploring the Upper Town is another remarkable thing to encompass the medieval hilltop settlements of Kaptol and Gredec. The visitors can walk along the cobblestone streets, indulge in the cheerful café culture, and visit the medieval squares to learn more about the Upper Town in Croatia. You can also pay a visit to the different bars, restaurants, and historical sights of the Upper Town or meander down the luscious alleyway of the Strossmayer Promenade that once included the ancient city walls. It is also advisable not to miss witnessing the dramatic Stone Gate that once connected the Upper Town with the Lower Town. Check Now:  Croatia Trip Packages                         Islands in Croatia

Which are the major tourist attractions in Croatia?

Which are the best places to visit in croatia at night , what are the best adventurous things to do in croatia, which are some famous beaches in croatia, what is the currency of croatia and where can i get my money exchanged.

The currency of Croatia is Kuna. You can easily exchange money at the offices located in the airport, railway stations, bus stations and ferry stations. Please note, these offices are not open 24*7, so it is advisable that you prepare days before you land Croatia. There are many reliable online options you can check. Also, you can exchange your money at a bank or an ATM.

However, you must know that the Croatian Kuna cannot be exchanged outside Croatia. You might as well decide to go for last minute shopping to finish off the currency or else get it exchanged back to your home currency at one of the banks there. Euros are widely accepted in Croatia as most of the facilities and items here are tagged in Euros. But this is unofficially done simply to please the many European tourists visiting Croatia every season. Accepting Euros save the travelers time and energy.

How to reach Croatia?

Tourism in Croatia plays a vital role in the economy of the nation, making it a tourist-friendly zone. You can travel to Croatia from any part of the world.

By Air: Major airline services from UK and Ireland operate in this route. You can choose from a detailed list of airlines as per your budget.

By Bus: A bus or a coach service is an extremely reasonable mode of transport to reach Croatia from many neighboring European countries like Slovenia, Italy, Austria, Germany, Czech Republic and Switzerland. The expedition is usually safe and smooth. You will only get more of this endearing landscape on this road trip to Croatia.

When is the best time to visit Croatia?

Before you start any of your journey, you must be well prepared for the climatic conditions the land has to offer. Croatia, of course, has a Mediterranean climate for the tourists to savor. The following are the months one can plan to visit this magical country, which is also the place extensively shot in the much talked about series of ‘Game of Thrones’.

 May to September : These are the favorable seasons when one must plan their holiday in Croatia. There is beautiful warmth and clear skies. The sea feels great during these months. The beaches are crowded and the peak season demands more price. After all, the surprising landscape makes the trip worth it

Which are the best islands to visit in Croatia?

Which are the best cruise options available in croatia, what kind of water sports can be done in croatia.

The sea is idyllic for water sports in Croatia. You can go swimming, sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, diving, the water here is warm, friendly and not so fierce, making it a great zone for water sports.

Which are the best hiking trails in Croatia?

Adventure comes to those who seek it. If you want to explore the wildness of Croatia, you must follow some of the challenging yet calming hiking trails of Croatia:

Which are some best places for road trips in Croatia?

The road trips in Croatia can be smooth, if you follow the laws of the land. Many beautiful destinations can be discovered while you are on road. If you have time by your side, you can rent a splendid ride and feel the air of Croatia through and through. Some of the marvelous road trips include:

Which are the best shopping places in Croatia and what are they famous for?

Shopping is inevitable. You must take home some pretty memorabilia from the places you visit. Croatia has several symbolic elements which are only locally found. Like the Licitarsko srce/ Gingerbread heart, ‘Maraschino’ an alcoholic liqueur, ‘Rakija’ a fruit liqueur, Vegeta a seasoning made out of spices and vegetables, Paski sir, a cheese from the island of Pag, are some of the few originally Croatian souvenirs you can take back home. The generally crowded shopping areas are:

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Make 2024 the year you visit Croatia

Croatia is the kind of destination you'll always find a reason to return to, no matter how many times you visit. Part of this is due to the sheer number of locations worth seeing; vibrant cities such as Dubrovnik, Zagreb and Zadar, not to mention around a thousand islands, are all vying for the attention of travellers. Another reason is the extraordinary variety of activities. With the country offering sports such as cave exploration, paragliding and diving, plus a plethora of museums, galleries and festivals, you could try something different every day of the year and still never tick everything off your to-do list.

Split, photo: Julien Duval/CNTB

For a city break with culture and history, plus the chance to escape into nature when you tire of the crowds, Dubrovnik is unbeatable. Its imposing architecture and incredible coastline mean there really is something for everyone here, whether you'd prefer to remain in the Old Town (a Unesco World Heritage Site) or venture further afield to discover Dalmatia's rich culture.

In Split, for example, little fishing ports now draw in superyachts and travellers eager to see the beautifully preserved Roman Diocletian’s Palace and operatic performances during the summer festival. Meanwhile Zagreb, the capital, is full of interesting galleries and museums (including the kitschy Museum of Broken Relationships), as well as excellent bars and restaurants that range from fantastic under-the-radar local spots to those recommended by the Michelin Guide. And that's without even mentioning the seasonal events that draw in visitors from around Europe such as the Pula Film Festival, which stages screenings around the ancient city and within its magnificent Roman amphitheatre, Zagreb's mesmerising Festival of Lights and a variety of electronic music festivals in the region such as Hideout and Dimensions. Whenever you visit, there's sure to be something happening.

Zagreb city, photo: Julien Duval/CNTB

As well as experiencing Croatia's culture, you can also try your hand at a range of exhilarating activities. Make the most of the miles upon miles of Adriatic coastline with sailing, canoeing and diving; thanks to the country's environmental efforts, there is a thriving world waiting to be discovered beneath the waves. The island of Brač is a particularly popular spot, with dolphins leaping through the unusually warm waters, as is Lokrum Island with its sunken shipwrecks and colourful marine life. On land, craggy mountain ranges and dense forests are the perfect backdrop to hiking, biking and horse-riding adventures, while sports such as ziplining, parachuting and paragliding will get your heart racing. Or you could venture deep underground to explore Croatia's cave systems: more than 50 per cent of the country's topography is karst, which is created when limestone dissolves to create subterranean caverns. Wander among the halls of stalactites in the Kingdom of Feštini near Istria, or sail through the otherworldly waters of the Modra Špilja (or Blue Grotto) in the Dalmatian archipelago.

Island Mljet, photo: Aleksandar Gospić/CNTB

Croatia is also one of the sunniest places in Europe and, with around a thousand little inlets scattered along the coastline, is made for island-hopping. There are few better ways to spend the long days of summer than setting sail and discovering a handful for yourself. From the wild forests and unspoilt beaches of Mljet to the historic streets of Korčula, each has its own distinctive character, and you could easily spend a lifetime exploring them all. Croatia is a place where memories are made – there is no limit to the kind, or number, of holidays you can have here.

Inspire yourself at croatia.hr

Kindness of Strangers & Safety – Overlooked Croatian Tourism Gems

Paul Bradbury

April 11, 2024

April the 11th, 2024 –  The land of sun and sea, but also the land of kindness of strangers and safety – Get better acquainted with the overlooked Croatian tourism gems.

One of the things I like about working in the media in Croatia is TCN’s position of being local and being foreign – local knowledge with a foreign eye. It means that while we understand how things work in Croatia, we also have an understanding of what foreigners – and in particular – tourists are looking for in terms of information. One simple example of this was soon after we started Total Split. 

As a foreigner, I knew how complicated and confusing it was for tourists looking to buy ferry and catamaran tickets, but as a local I knew how easy it was – locals had simply grown up with the system. 

A simple guide for tourists ensued (and needs to be updated…), which has proved very popular over the years, with many locals seeing the value of it and placing a link on their accommodation websites. 

And so to my point. A tourist from Minnesota posted on his personal Facebook page about the kindness of waitress Ana from Restaurant Riva in Trogir. Having left his wallet at the restaurant the next day, he returned not expecting it still to be there with all the money inside. But that is exactly what he found as Ana returned the wallet to him. She refused a tip and so the tourist bought her flowers instead. A nice story which many locals would take as standard, for this kind of thing happens often in Croatia. And while it also happens in other countries of course, it is sadly increasingly rare in the Western world. Someone tagged me in the original Facebook post, suggesting it would make a great story. I agreed, and 20 minutes later,  What Happens If You Leave Your Wallet in a Restaurant in Trogir , Croatia was live. Apart from telling the story, a chance also to put in some images of gorgeous Trogir and a link to a more detailed article on this UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Having learned how the Croatian media works after several years of running TCN, my work did not end there – a link sent to a couple of people with connections with the decision-makers in certain publications, and I sat back and watched the story unfold – Slobodna, Dalmacija Danas, Jutarnji, Index – a nice positive story to lighten the day. 

There were plenty of reactions to the story, and two of the main themes got me thinking. The first was the number of locals who didn’t think that this was much of a story, for what Ana had done was second nature in Croatian society. And the second response was from the considerable number of people who added their own anecdotes of how they had left things – money, cameras, laptops – only to return and find them where they left them. Something which many concluded would simply not happen these days in their home country. 

Every foreigner I know here has a similar story, and I have lost count of the number of times I have left something in a bar, only to return and find it still there. Perhaps my finest hour in this respect was last year after a cold one too many when I realised the next morning in Varazdin that my laptop had fallen out of my backpack somewhere in the streets of Zagreb. While I was contemplating how I would survive the loss of the machine that fed the family, I received a message on Facebook asking if I had lost a laptop in Zagreb. Expecting this to be the start of an intricate blackmailing process for cash, I could not have been more wrong. And two hours later, I was reunited with my laptop, one which had been repaired by the kind stranger who had found it abandoned in a street in central Zagreb.  It is one of my favourite stories of my 17 years in Croatia . 

The kindness of strangers is something I have become used to over the years in Croatia, as has the safety. Truly, there is no better place in the world to bring up children in those impressionable early years. Starting life on the idyllic island of Hvar, surrounded by nature, community and learning to swim at the age of three, childhood in Croatia is still As It Once Was. 

I have had several conversations in recent weeks with returnee Croats, several of whom have returned with family. As a place to bring up family, Croatia was easily the safest option to bring up a family. There was no part of Zagreb I am afraid to walk late at night, said one, and I certainly couldn’t say that of Sydney. 

And with the digital and remote worker revolution around the corner potentially addressing one of the biggest causes of the crushing emigration in Croatia – jobs – a key aspect to making this happen is to communicate the message that Croatia is a safe place to bring up families, where the kindness of strangers is the norm and not the exception. While locals may realise that Croatia is a kind and safe society, the message needs to be exported. 

This theme of how Croatians want tourists to see them and what tourists actually experience came into focus at the recent Croatia 365 conference in Zagreb. Katarina Milicevic from thinktank  Think Tourism  took the example of gastronomy. Many of the conference participants agreed with her suggestion that gastronomy was Croatian tourism’s most important offer after sun and sea. As a scientist, Milicevic went on to present some results of social media analysis of the promotion of Croatian gastronomy in official tourism promotion.  In a recent interview with Poslovni , Milicevic explained one of the reasons why Croatia’s average tourism spend of 86 euro was a lot lower than some of the neighbours – while Croatia believed that it was a gourmet destination, it was doing a very poor job at projecting that gourmet image, so that arriving tourists were unaware. 

According to the Milicevic interview in Poslovni, she analysed the social media of the Croatian Tourist Board over 12 months, and the results told their own story of how gastronomy was perceived as a pillar of Croatian tourism excellence. Of the 1,100 Instagram posts, just 20 were related to food and wine, of the 440 Facebook posts, just 15 were related to gastronomy. Little wonder that tourists arrive with low gourmet expectations, perhaps. 

The good news is that all this is easy to fix. Croatia, the lifestyle destination – for tourism, bringing up young families, remote living – it has so much to offer. 

We just need to be a bit better at communicating the message of the treasures we possess. And the currency of the kindness of strangers and safety are increasingly in demand in this crazy world. 

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