Croatia has become an increasingly popular travel destination in recent years, attracting over 20 million visitors annually—five times its population.
Croatia has become an increasingly popular travel destination in recent years, attracting over 20 million visitors annually—five times its population.
One of the most frequently asked questions for travelers considering a trip to Croatia is, “Is Croatia expensive to visit?” This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of travel expenses and prices in Croatia, helping you understand Croatia travel costs and effectively plan your budget.
Discover Croatia travel prices, including accommodation, transportation, activities, day trips, drinks, and meals, to ensure a memorable experience in this beautiful country.
Find out the Croatia travel prices, including accommodation costs, transportation, activities, day trips, drinks, and meals in Croatia.
Table of Contents
Is Croatia Expensive?
Croatia is still moderately priced and not overly expensive compared to many Western European destinations.
Yet, with the introduction of the Euro and ongoing inflation, prices have risen and remained higher than before 2021. 2022 inflation was 11% higher than the previous year, with an additional 8% in 2023.
However, with careful planning, enjoying the country on an affordable budget is possible. So, these price changes remain manageable and should not deter you from experiencing the beauty of Croatia.
How much money do you need in Croatia?
The amount of money you’ll need in Croatia largely depends on your travel style and the locations you choose to visit.
During the high season, solo travelers can expect to spend around €1.480 ($1.630, £1.260) for a 7-day stay in Croatia, while couples should plan for approximately €2.330 ($2.560, £2.000). For a family of four, the estimated cost rises to about €4.120 ($4.530, £3.500). This estimate covers accommodation, meals, drinks, sightseeing, and costs of traveling around Croatia. It doesn’t include costs of traveling to and from Croatia.
This calculation assumes you’ll be staying at an Airbnb, utilizing public transport if traveling solo or as a couple, and renting a car if you’re a family of four. It also includes expenses for two excursions during your week-long stay and dining out once a day at average tourist restaurants.
This budget affords a pleasant vacation in Croatia. However, remember it doesn’t account for luxuries like fine dining experiences or late-night cocktails at trendy bars.
Breakdown of Travel Expenses
Here is a breakdown of the weekly travel budget for solo travelers, couples, and families of four visiting Croatia.
| Item | Solo Traveler | Couple | Family of four |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation costs | €840 ($925, £715) | €1.050 ($1.150, £890) | €1.260 ($1.385, £1.070) |
| Transportation costs | €200* ($220, £170) *public transportation | €400* ($440, £340) *public transportation | €1.100* ($1.210, £935) *car rental |
| Food and Drinks | €300 ($330, £255) | €600 ($660, £510) | €1.200 ($1.320, £1.020) |
| Activities | €140 ($155, £120) | €280 ($310, £260) | €560 ($615, £475) |
| Total | €1.480 ($1.630, £1.260) | €2.330 ($2.560, £2.000) | €4.120 ($4.530, £3.500) |
Holiday Prices in Croatia
Holiday related prices in Croatia are generally moderate, with some items being quite expensive while others are surprisingly affordable. Gas, cigarettes, alcohol, baked goods, and restaurant meals are cheaper than in many Western European countries.
However, some grocery items, such as bottled water, soft drinks, and coffee, are significantly more costly. For instance, I pay around €5 for a 500g bag of Lavazza coffee in Italy, but it costs twice that amount in Croatia. Many prices in Croatia closely resemble those of other EU countries, making it a mixed bag for consumers.
If you book early enough, international flight prices start at €500 ($550, £425). However, during the high season, the cost of flights ranges from €1,000 (from the USA and Canada) to as much as €1,800 (from Australia). Low-cost flights from major European and UK airports cost anywhere between €80 and €300, depending largely on the time of booking.
During the high season in Croatia, accommodation costs typically range from €120 to €500 per day, depending on the type of lodging—whether hotels or apartments—and the level of luxury, which can vary from 3 to 5 stars.
A short-term vacation rental for solo travelers, such as a studio apartment, typically costs around €120 per day. For couples, a one-bedroom apartment averages €150, while a family of four can find a two-bedroom apartment for about €180. Additionally, we recommend budgeting approximately €90 per person per day to cover activities, dining, drinks, transportation, internet access, and other miscellaneous expenses.
Below, you will find a breakdown of all Croatian prices. That should answer your question about whether Croatia is expensive!
Prices of accommodation in Croatia
Croatia boasts an excellent tourist infrastructure and offers diverse accommodations to suit every type of traveler. There’s something for everyone, from budget-friendly dorm rooms and camping sites to vacation rentals, luxurious villas, and high-end hotels.
However, whether traveling on a budget or indulging like a celebrity, accommodation expenses typically constitute the largest portion of your cost of travel in Croatia.
The following table compares the cost of a weekly stay for two people across various accommodations along the Croatian coast and throughout different seasons.
| Accommodation type / Season | A weekly stay in the high season (July, August) | A weekly stay in the shoulder season (June, September) | A weekly stay in the low season (April, October) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostel (1 pax) | €350 ($370, £310) | €210 ($225, £185) | €105 ($112, £93) |
| Camping Pitch (2 pax, water, electricity) | €420 ($445, £375) | €280 ($300, £250) | €180 ($190, £160) |
| Apartment Rental (2-4 pax) | €1.190 ($1.320, £1.010) | €630 ($670, £560) | €420 ($445, £375) |
| Villa Rental (3 bedrooms, 6 pax) | €3.500 ($3.750, £3.115) | €2.100 ($2.250, £1.870) | €1.500 ($1.600, £1.335) |
| 2star hotel with breakfast (2 pax) | €910 ($975, £810) | €630 ($670, £560) | €490 ($525, £435) |
| 3star hotel with breakfast | €1.400 ($1.500, £1.250) | €1.050 ($1.125, £935) | €630 ($670, £560) |
| 4star hotel with breakfast | €1.950 ($2.075, £1.720) | €1.540 ($1.640, £1.350) | €1.050 ($1.125, £935) |
| 5star hotel with breakfast | €3.850 ($3.800, £3.100) | €2.800 ($2.900, £2.460) | €1.750 ($1.865, £1.540) |
During peak tourist season (June to September), prices rise significantly, especially in July and August.
Popular tourist spots like Rovinj, Dubrovnik, Poreč, and Split attract many visitors but come with higher lodging costs. In contrast, less crowded areas like Pelješac, Zadar, and Opatija offer unique experiences and more affordable options, though they may lack extensive tourist infrastructure. A car can enhance travel convenience, or visitors can explore public transportation options.
When booking in advance, expect to pay around €200 ($220, £170) a night for a double room with breakfast in July or August in a 3-star hotel, €280 ($310, £240) in a 4-star hotel, and €550 ($605, £465) in a 5-star hotel. Alternatively, the daily rental price for a studio apartment in the old town is €150 ($165, £130).
Last-minute prices can reach as much as €300 ($330, £255) for a double room with breakfast in a 3-star hotel.
This diverse range of accommodation prices demonstrates that Croatia is well-equipped to meet a variety of budgets and travel preferences.
How to save on accommodation in Croatia?
- Avoid traveling to Croatia in July and August when the prices are the highest! Choose June or September instead.
- Prices are the most affordable if you stay in a fully equipped apartment. Look for apartments that offer a kitchen, laundry facilities, and other amenities that can help you save on additional costs during your stay.
- Price shop! Accommodation prices change with demand. Book early, opt for a flexible rate, and watch your accommodation choice closely. The closer the date of your holiday, the firmer your booking can be. If you find a better deal in another property or better rates with less flexible conditions, take the opportunity to re-book your accommodation.
- Use the Booking.com site to compare accommodation prices in Croatia. It has a user-friendly interface, simple price calculations, and by far the largest choice of accommodation in Croatia.
Lodging budget for a week stay in Croatia
Budget approximately €840 for a week-long stay in Croatia for a solo traveler during peak season. A couple can expect to spend a similar amount if they choose a studio apartment, as prices are typically set per unit rather than per person. However, if you prefer more comfort and opt for a one-bedroom apartment, you should budget slightly more—around €1.050 for a couple.
A family of four can also spend the same amount as a couple by booking a one-bedroom apartment and utilizing a pull-out sofa, as many such apartments offer this option. If the family desires a more spacious two-bedroom apartment, the accommodation budget will increase to approximately €1.260.
Transportation costs to and within Croatia: Flights, Bus, Ferry, Train, and Car Options
Transportation costs make up a significant portion of a trip to Croatia, especially for overseas travelers from the USA, Canada, or Australia. Due to limited direct flights, these travelers must connect through European hubs like Amsterdam, Frankfurt, or Paris.
While Air Transat offers only direct flights from Toronto to Zagreb, low-cost airlines operate from various European cities to Croatian coastal towns from April to October.
Buses are the most popular and affordable way to travel within Croatia, with prices varying by time and route.
Ferries are reasonably priced for passengers but can be expensive for cars. Train services are limited and generally slow but affordable.
Traveling by car offers flexibility but is the most expensive option, particularly with high rental costs and additional expenses like fuel and tolls. Renting a car is cheaper in the shoulder season compared to the high season.
How much does it cost to fly to and within Croatia?
Direct, nonstop flights between North America and Croatia are limited. United Airlines connects New York with Dubrovnik from late May to late September. Similarly, Air Transat offers direct flights between Toronto and Zagreb.
The prices start at €500 ($550, £425) for a round trip, but they can reach €1.000 ($1.100, £850) and more for flights in July and August and last-minute bookings.
Numerous low-cost airlines, such as Ryanair, Wizz Air, Eurowings, Vueling, and EasyJet, operate flights to all Croatian airports, including Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, Rijeka, Pula, and Zagreb. These airlines connect Croatia with various European and UK cities, including Manchester, London, Dublin, Barcelona, Milan, Frankfurt, and more. Most of these flights operate seasonally, from May to October, while Zagreb offers a consistent schedule of flights year-round to destinations such as Sevilla, Milano, London, and others.
Low-cost flights to Croatia from various European and UK cities range from €20 to €300 ($22-$330, £17-£255), influenced by factors such as the season, booking time, and specific destination. To secure cheaper rates, book flights to Croatia early.
Croatia Airlines, the country’s leading carrier, operates most national flights connecting various Croatian towns. Ticket prices for local flights range from €40 ($44, £34) to €100 ($110, £85), depending on the destination and the timing of the booking.
How much does it cost to travel by bus to and within Croatia?
Traveling to and within Croatia by bus is a popular and convenient option. Croatia boasts an extensive network of bus lines operated by local companies, such as Croatia Bus, Samoborcek, and Cazma Trans, and international operators like Flixbus, Nomago, and Arriva.
When traveling by bus, particularly on international routes, booking your ticket as early as possible is advisable, as prices rise as seats fill up. Additionally, ticket prices can vary significantly based on your travel dates.
For off-season travel or early bookings for July and August, expect to pay around €60 ($66, £51) per person for a bus ticket between Split and Munich or Split and Milan. However, if you wait until the last minute during July or August, the same ticket could cost €150 ($165, £128) or more.
Traveling by bus in Croatia is one of the most economical ways to explore the country. Numerous bus companies operate throughout Croatia, and fare prices vary based on the time of day, route, duration of travel, advance booking, and the specific company chosen.
Generally, early morning or nighttime buses are generally less expensive than those during the day. Additionally, booking your ticket in advance can help you save money. Local carriers like Samoborcek often provide lower fares than international companies such as Flixbus.
Below are the prices of bus tickets on the most popular routes in Croatia.
- Zagreb-Split: €25-€50 ($28-$55, £21-£43)
- Zagreb-Dubrovnik: €33-€80 ($36-$88, £28-£68)
- Zagreb-Pula: €15-€35 ($17-$39, £13-£30)
- Split-Dubrovnik: : €15-€25 ($17-$28, £13-£21)
- Pula-Rovinj: €6-€8 ($6.6.-8.8, £5-£6.8)
You can check the departures and book a seat online through the Get by Bus or Bookaway website.
How much does it cost to travel by Ferry to and within Croatia?
Croatia offers an international car ferry service connecting Split and Zadar to Ancona in Italy, as well as a regular ferry line between Dubrovnik and Bari.
The Zadar-Ancona ferries, operated by Jadrolinija, run from late June to early September, while the Dubrovnik-Bari route, also serviced by Jadrolinija, operates from June through October. Two companies run the Ancona-Split route: Jadrolinija offers year-round services, while SNAV operates seasonally.
For one-way tickets, expect to pay approximately €75 ($83, £64) per person and €100 ($110, £85) for vehicles on routes from Ancona to Split, Ancona to Zadar, and Bari to Dubrovnik.
If you plan to explore the Croatian islands using ferries, it’s wise to budget for ferry costs. Prices are generally affordable if you don’t travel by car; while passenger tickets are quite reasonable, taking a vehicle on a ferry increases the overall travel expenses in Croatia.
Below are some examples of one-way ferry ticket prices in Croatia.
- Split-Brač (Supetar): Adults €6.5 ($7, £5.5); Car €22 ($24, £19)
- Split-Hvar (Stari Grad): Adults €8.4 ($9, £7); Car €48 ($52, £40)
- Split-Vis: Adults €8.6 ($9.4, £7.3); Car €49 ($54, £42)
- Orebić-Korčula (Dominče): Adults €4.1 ($4.5, £3.5); Car €15 ($17, £13)
- Brestova-Cres (Porozina): Adults €1.5 ($1.6, £1.3); Car €8.4 ($9, £7)
How much does it cost to travel by train in Croatia?
Train travel in Croatia is quite limited and generally slow. The train routes connect Zagreb to Split in the south, Rijeka in the west, and Osijek in the east. However, we advise against relying on trains to travel to and within Croatia. Below are examples of one-way train fares in the country.
- Zagreb-Split: €15 ($17, £13), 7-hours drive
- Zagreb-Rijeka: €8.4 ($9, £7), 4.5-hours drive
- Zagreb-Osijek: €15.5 ($17, £13), 5.5-hours drive
How much does it cost to travel by car in Croatia?
The cost of traveling by car in Croatia depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle, fuel prices, toll fees, and parking expenses.
If you’re considering renting a car in Croatia, the average daily rate for a standard economy vehicle begins at €25 ($28, £21). However, prices rise significantly during peak tourist season or for more luxurious models.
In high season, a daily rental with comprehensive insurance and unlimited mileage starts at around €70 ($77, £60) for a mini car like the Fiat 500. An economy car, such as the Polo, typically costs €90 ($99, £76), while an intermediate model like the Skoda Octavia will set you back approximately €110 ($121, £93). If you want to rent a station wagon, expect to pay around €250 ($275, £210) daily.
Fuel prices also add to your overall travel expenses. The price for one liter (0.26 gallons) of gasoline is between €1.5 €2 ($1.6-$2.2, £1.3-£1.7), and for diesel, between € 1.4 and €1.9 ($1.54-$2.1, £1.2-£1.6). Prices change every two weeks.
Highways operate on a ticket system, where you collect a ticket upon entering and pay upon exiting. A one-way journey from Zagreb to Split will cost €26.4 ($29, £22.4). If you continue south to Ploče, the last motorway exit at Karamatići, the fare rises to €33.7 ($37, £28.6). For a trip from Zagreb to Rijeka, expect to pay €10.1 ($11.1, £8.6) each way. Traveling from Umag to Pula will cost you €7.1 ($7.8, £6).
Tolls apply to certain tunnels in addition to motorways. For instance, passing through the Učka tunnel while traveling to or from Istria incurs a fee of €11.30 ($12.40, £9.60).
Transportation budget for a 7-day stay in Croatia
If you intend to use public transportation in Croatia for a week and visit at least three destinations, budget around €200 per person. On the other hand, if you rent a car, the weekly expenses increase to approximately €1.100 per stay, including the rental fee, fuel, and highway tolls.
Costs of food and drinks in Croatia
Dining out in Croatia offers a range of prices, with mid-range meals costing around €60 per person and local taverns offering options for about €30. Street food is budget-friendly, typically around €5-10. Traditional dishes like Black Risotto and Peka are must-tries.
Drink prices vary as well, with wine costing €4-6 per glass and local rakija around €3-4 per shot.
Grocery shopping is accessible, with prices varying by location and season; for instance, a liter of milk is about €1, and a kilogram of chicken breasts costs around €10.
Overall, Croatia’s dining and grocery prices are comparable to other European countries.
Prices of dining out in Croatia
Croatia is famous for its delicious and diverse regional cuisine, influenced by Mediterranean, Central European, and Balkan traditions.
You’ll find plenty of seafood dishes along the coast, while inland regions are known for hearty meat-based dishes. The country also boasts a wide selection of local wines and alcoholic beverages like rakija (fruit brandy).
If you choose to dine out in Croatia, prices will vary depending on location and type of restaurant. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around €60 ($66, £51) per person, while an upscale dinner can reach up to €130 ($143, £110) per person. A meal at a local tavern costs around €30 ($33, £26) per person, while pizza costs between €10 ($11, £9) and €15 ($17, £13)..
For a budget-friendly option, try street food stalls and markets, where you can find delicious snacks like cevapi (grilled sausages) or burek (savory pastry). These options typically cost around €5-10 ($5.50-$11, £4-£8) per meal.
In general, dining out in Croatia is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. However, prices may vary depending on the tourist season and location. It’s always a good idea to check menu prices before ordering to avoid surprises.
Take the chance to enjoy traditional Croatian cuisine! Try Black Risotto a delicious rice dish made with cuttlefish ink and fresh shellfish. Experience Pasticada, a slow-cooked beef stew served with gnocchi. Don’t miss Peka, a dish cooked under a dome, where meat or seafood is slow-cooked with vegetables, herbs, and spices. Grilled fresh fish and many other delightful dishes await you!
Prices of drinks in Croatia
In addition to its delicious food, Croatia also offers a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic local drinks. Prices of drinks vary depending on location and type of establishment.
A glass of wine can cost anywhere from €4 to €6 ($4.4-$6.6, £3.4-£5) in a local tavern or restaurant, while the price per bottle begins at €30 ($33, £26) and upwards. For beer lovers, a pint (0.5 L) typically costs around €4 ($4.4, £3.4), with cheaper options available at supermarkets or convenience stores.
Cocktails cost around €9-€12 ($9.9-$13.2, £7.7-£10.3), and the price of whiskey, rum, vodka, and tequila starts from €4 ($4.4, £3.4) per shot and go up to €7-€8 ($7.7-$8.8, £6-£7) for aged spirits or famous brands.
If you’re looking for something local, rakija (fruit brandy) is a popular choice and costs around €3-€4 ($3.3-$4.4, £2.5-£3.4) per shot.
Non-alcoholic beverages are also widely available. A soft drink, such as cola, juice, or water, costs between €3-€4 ($3.3-$4.4, £2.6- £3.4). For a coffee or tea, expect between €1.8-€3 ($2-$3.3, £1.4-£2.6).
Prices of groceries in Croatia
If you prefer to prepare your own meals or buy some snacks and drinks for your trip, there are many supermarkets, grocery stores, and green markets on the coast of Croatia, offering various products, from dairy and eggs to meat and fish.
You will find many international brands such as Spar and Interspar, Lidl, Kaufland, Studenac (local name, Polish owners), and also domestic ones, with Konzum being the biggest retailer in Croatia, but there is also Tommy (in Dalmatia), Plodine and small local shops.
Studenac is the most expensive supermarket chain in Croatia. However, Studenac and small independent grocery shops are a good solution if you need something urgent. However, they do have higher prices than supermarkets.
Also, green markets tend to have higher prices than supermarkets, but on green markets, you will find a more extensive choice of local products and, thus, fresh fruit and vegetables. The green markets are usually open daily, and they are in the center of every town on the coast of Croatia.
It is important to mention that the prices of groceries vary depending on the location (coastal Croatia is more expensive than continent) and the season (prices rise additionally in summer on the coast).
For a litter of milk, expect to pay €1 ($1.1, £0.85), the same price as for a 1,5 litter of still or sparkling water. A 500g loaf of bread typically costs approximately €1.60 ($1.80, £1.40).
A dozen of eggs costs between €2-€3 ($2.2-$3.3, £1.7-£2.6), 100 grams of ham €1.5-€2 ($1.7-$2.2, £1.3.- £1.7) and 100 grams of cheese €1 ($1.1, £0.85).
The price for a kilogram of apples, bananas or oranges is between €2-€3 ($2.2-$3.3, £1.7-£2.6), peaches €3 ($3.3, £2.6 and a kilo of melon is €1 ($1.1, £0.85).
The average price for a kilogram of tomatoes and paprika is between €1.5-€2 ($1.7-$2.2, £1.3-£1.7), and zucchini, cucumber or lettuce €1 ($1.1, £0.85).
For a kilogram of chicken breasts, expect to pay €10 ($11.1, £8.5); for a kilogram of pork €7 ($7.7, £6); and for a kilogram of beef €13 ($14.3, £11).
Sea bass or sea bream costs €14 ($15.4, £12) per kilo, a kilo of squid is €30 ($33, £25.5), a fresh octopus €18 ($20, £15.3), and shrimps go from €27 ($30, £23) per kilo upward.
Food expenses for a 7-day vacation in Croatia
Plan to budget an average of €300 ($330, £255) per person for food and drinks for a week-long vacation in Croatia. This amount will cover two meals at mid-range restaurants, along with street food, grocery shopping, and preparing your own meals for the remainder of your stay.
Shopping Expenses in Croatia
In addition to grocery shopping, tourists often enjoy browsing through the local souvenir shops for unique and authentic gifts or keepsakes. These range from traditional handcrafted items to modern trinkets representing Croatian culture and landmarks. Souvenir prices vary greatly depending on the item and location, so it is advisable to shop around before purchasing.
Popular souvenirs from Croatia include exquisite handmade lace products, stylish neckties, a variety of liquors and liqueurs, high-quality olive oils, delectable charcuterie, sweets, pralines, salt from Nin or Ston, and fragrant lavender products from Hvar Island.
Prices for these souvenirs can vary significantly. Common items like fridge magnets start at just a couple of euros, while a 1-liter bottle of reputable Istrian olive oil brands such as Chiavalon or Ipsa can cost around €60 ($66, £51). If you opt for olive oil as a souvenir, smaller bottles of 0.1 liters or 0.25 liters are also available, often packaged in attractive gift boxes.
For example, the Agrolaguna souvenir pack contains three 0.25-liter bottles of assorted single-sorted olive oils beautifully presented in a gift box for €20 ($22, £17). Various liquors and liqueurs typically retail for about €15 ($22, £17). Renowned Pag Cheese is priced at €35 ($38.5, £30) for a 675-gram package, while Nin salt ranges from €5 to €11 ($5.5-$12, £4.3-£9.4), depending on the size and design of the packaging.
Bajadera pralines are priced between €6 and €14 ($6.6-$15.4, £5-£12), again influenced by the size and design of the package.
Croatia travel costs for day Trips, Activities and Attractions
Croatia, a country brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty, offers a wealth of attractions to explore, from stunning national parks to fascinating museums and scenic boat excursions.
Admission to national parks like Plitvice Lakes, Krka, or Brijuni costs €40 ($44, £34) for a day ticket. Museum entries are approximately €10 ($11.1, £8.5).
For those planning an extended stay, day trips provide an excellent opportunity to discover various locales, with prices ranging from €50 ($55, £43) to €150 ($165, £128) for different boat excursions or organized tours.
For wine enthusiasts, tastings are available at prices ranging from €30 to €60 ($33 to $66, £25.5 to £51). The wine tasting experiences typically feature a charcuterie board, homemade olive oil, bread, and a selection of 3 to 5 wines to savor.
A Get Your Guide website is a great place to check excursions, day trips, activities and attractions in Croatia.
Tours and Excursion Travel Budget in Croatia
For a 7-day stay, to keep your expenses moderate, plan for two excursions, activities, or attractions. An average budget of €140 ($155, £120) per person should be sufficient to cover your chosen experiences.
We hope this post assists you in planning your holiday in Croatia. The information provided gives a clearer idea of what to expect in terms of travel expenses in Croatia.
If you have any further questions about travel costs in Croatia, please leave a comment below. We’re more than happy to answer your inquiries. Additionally, we’d love to hear your thoughts on Croatia’s travel costs: do you find them expensive, cheap, or moderate? Your feedback is welcome!
Hello!
Any recommendations around Rijeka?
Thank you!
Hi Terry, definitely Kuna. Kuna, as Croatian currency, is used everywhere, while Euro in Croatia has limited use.
Frank,
Good day to you. You have a great website. Thanks for all of the in-depth and interesting information!
We will be spending 4 nights in Rovenj. During this time, we will also make day trips to Porec and Pula.
To get us started, we thought we would purchase approx. $200 USD in either Euros or Kunas before arriving in Croatia. This will save us some time of not having to purchase upon our arrival. Which currency is most widely used in these three areas where we will be travelling (Kuna or Euro)?
Thank you, Terry
Hello Frank.
Thank yo for all your information. I am arranging a visit to Croatia from 04/07/19 – 18/07/19 for 6 people. 3 sisters and hubbys!
The plan is:
Arrive Split for 2 nights. 04/05
Gulet cruise from Dugi Rat 06-13th. ( already booked)
Pick up a vehicle from Split Town centre. Drive to Mostar for 1 night 13/07 ( up to 3 drivers)
Leave Mostar for Dubrovnik 2 nights. 14/15th
Dubrovnik to Bay of Kotor 2 nights 16th/17th
Return flight from Dubrovnik 18/07 Drop car at Dubrovnik airport.
I have checked distances and it seems doable!
We are experienced travellers ( toured Spain, 3 weeks in Uganda, across Europe, Cyprus) and are used to ” doing it ourselves”. However i think age may be catching up with me and a bit of confidence has gone.
Do you thin the above is doable!!! Thanks
Slovenia is wonderful! Also, easy and safe to drive. Besides Bled, make sure to visit the capital, Ljubljana. You can also visit northern Adriatic islands, Krk, Cres, and Rab.
Hi Darwin,
shuttle buses are usually in line with flights. The company that operates the shuttle bus is Fils Pula.
It all depends how many museums and attractions you plan or are interested to see. The more you do, the more worth Dubrovnik card is.
Iam in Dubrovnik for 7. Days is it worth buying the 350kn tourist pass?
Hi Frank
My Girlfriend and I are going to Croatia next month we are staying In Opatija for 10 days.
Do you have any tips on nice places to go and activities, apart from Rovinj, Plitvice and Krka?
Also, we were thinking to drive to Lake Bled in Slovenia, do you any experience of driving through Slovenia?
Thanks you
Hi Frank,
I’ll be visiting Croatia by early Oct and I’m planning on taking 3-4 days in Istria after Plitvice & Zadar. How is the public transport from Pula airport at around midnight? The flight sched I’ve seen of Croatian Airlines from Zadar to Pula arrives at 23:30HR. Unfortunately, I’ll be missing the Friday Jadrolininija ferry. The only other option I guess is taking the late afternoon bus thru Rijeka.
Thanks
Hello, we are off to Croatia to visit many relatives and will be in Zadar as our base. Would you know whether there are any excursions (day trips) from the Island of Vir to Dugi Otok (to get to Sakarun beach) please? We will be there August/September. Many thanks Frank
Thanks, Neil! Checked the prices, but they are still pretty much the same.
Hello – which would be the best place to go for diving and snorkelling and not so touristy – is June or September better for visibility?
Hope you can help.
Thank you
Hi,
My sister and I are heading to Croatia next week and spending one day in Split before heading to Bol on the Island of Brac for three nights. We love the water and particularly stand up paddle boarding. Do you know where we can find out more about this in Split/on Brac?
Thanks so much!
Michelle & Nicky
Hi Frank,
We booked a last minute holiday to Novigrad arriving this Tuesday. Flying to Pula through Thompson airlines. We have rented an apartment with AirBnB for the week. However, we have hit a problem in hiring a car, without a credit card. Companies double the cost with debit cards and have high holding fees. It’s to late to apply for a credit card. Could you advise on car hire company and best way of getting around if we do not have a car please. Best wishes and thank you Debbie & Dudley
Hello Frank – we ( two ladies late 60’s) are travelling to Porec for a wedding, then want to get to Split on 5 th July. Any good ideas?
Hi!
We are planning a September honeymoon in Croatia. We’ll visit Venice for two days either at the beginning or the end of the trip. In Croatia we know we want to visit Split, Dubrovnik, Plitvace (and/or Krka), and Korčula. We’re thinking about two weeks.
Can you offer any guidance on which order would be best? How to get around? Where to stay?
Thanks so much!
Lasara and Adam
Frank:
Although I find your information helpful, don’t you think that a blog on savings on costs from 2014 is out of date and that a new evaluation of this topic is needed? January 31,2016
We are travelling in Croatia for 2+ weeks Nov 12 till end of November. We will be travelling from Budapest. What is the best way to get there. Are the ferries running in November? Will a lot of the venues be closed in November? Is it possible to travel from Dubronvik to Rijek on ferries? Any information you could provide would be great.
Hi Annette & Harvey,
thanks for reading! Glad to hear you’ll explore Croatia for five weeks. That should give you plenty of time to get to know the country. Since you are travelling on bus, it can be a bit tricky, as small villages usually don’t have very good bus connections, particularly in Istria and the islands.
You can check villages along Makarska Riviera; Split, although a big town, can be a good base to explore the rest of Dalmatia on bus and ferries (it’s a major transport hub in Dalmatia).
My in-laws have a seafront villa with apartments to rent in a small village of Komarna (70 km north of Dubrovnik). It’s a great place to unwind, and feel the local vibe. Besides, the views from the balcony are top.
We also like a lot Peljesac peninsula. It’s still not too crowded with tourists, has lovely beaches, and the best red wine in Croatia is produced here. Viganj is an interesting village, popular among wind surfers (laid back atmosphere is guaranteed).
You can also considered staying at the less visited islands like Vis, Dugi Otok, or Silba.
Besides AirBnB, check also Booking.com. I believe that in Croatia Booking has the largest choice of private accommodation (and they don’t charge a booking fee).
Let us know if we can help with anything else.
Hi Frank,
My hubbie and I are arriving in Croatia on 1st September and travelling for 5 weeks.
We would like to stop for at least a week in 3 places to soak up the local atmosphere.
Can you recommend some small quiet local villages that are by the sea side that maybe have a couple of restaurants and a supermarket as we will be using the local buses to get around and doing a bit of self catering as well. We also use AirBNB a lot for booking self contained apartments and find this a good way to find what your after for your budget.
Loved reading all the information and very timely for us. We are in Bulgaria currently and it sounds like Croatia will be a bit more expensive than here.
Cheers
Annette & Harvey
Australia
Hi John,
thanks for stopping by.
There are great restaurants in and around Rovinj; we’ve reviewed many on them here at our blog. The easiest is if you start with our summery post on best places to eat in Rovinj – https://www.frankaboutcroatia.com/restaurants-in-rovinj/
Have a great holidays in Rovinj and Croatia, and let us know if we can help with anything else.
My wife and I are going to spend two weeks in Croatia starting August 8th. We are driving from Zagreb to Rovinj and then south to Dubrovnik. I didn’t see any restaurant recommendations for Rovinj in your Istria article. Do you have any? Or should we drive north for dinner?
Frank,
Thank you for this thoughtful and helpful post. We are coming in early September and staying for 2 weeks. We are thinking of renting a boat and a skipper in the Split vicinity. Would you happen to know how much that would cost for 3 days. If too expensive, do you have any other ideas as to how to cruise some of the islands with some privacy?
Thank you for all your help.
Ronit
Regarding rental cars, what is the cost crossing the border into Slovenia? Is there a fee or any paperwork required? Same with driving through the short part of Bosnia heading South to Dubrovnik? Also, is there a toll sticker/pass available in Croatia as there is for slovenia?
I think that Croatia is one of the cheap destinations in Europe, when you take all of its attractions and beauty that Croatia has to offer.
if you need a car in Dalmatia please check our prices..:) lovely blog
Thanks for your comment, Monika! Glad to hear that Croatia wasn’t too expensive for you. Apartments usually aren’t that expensive. You’ll find majority of them renting for 70 euros a day. However, they can go as expensive as 180 euros a day. It takes some planning and searching to find a right match.
Thanks for stopping by, Laura! It sure does. So like you said: Come on, people, hurry up :)
What a fabulous post. You have done all the hard work for visitors to Croatia so they know exactly what to expect. We’re coming to visit you in August this year…not the ideal time as you mention but sometimes you’ve gotta visit when you can. I know it is going to be so much more expensive than our visit in June and July last year but the beaches will still be stunning and the food fresh and delicious! See you soon!
Lovely post. I think Croatia is getting more and more expensive, so everybody hurry up and visit it RIGHT NOW! :)
Thanks for putting in all the hard work for us Frank. This breakdown of costs is invaluable.
Croatia overall wasn’t very expensive for us but the renting apts – yes it was. Regards
Wow Frank! What a fantastic breakdown of costs. I think anyone could (and should) budget a trip to Croatia now!
Yes, we were aware Croatia isn’t cheap. We found restaurant prices to be about the same as in Canada. And we found the weather in September to be glorious – not too hot for sightseeing but still warm enough for swimming… Good money tips here!
I took the bus from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes when I was in Croatia in May – really reasonable, and comfy too! Would definitely recommend it as a way to travel. :-)