Croatia Travel Guide: All You Need To Know Before Traveling and Visiting Croatia

Welcome to our Croatia Travel Guide, covering all the information you need to plan a trip to Croatia.

We provide information on Croatia travel itineraries, the best cities to visit, historical landmarks, beaches, national parks, hotels, travel costs, and expert tips on Croatia, including the best time to visit, how to get around, and what to pack.

Croatia is a Southeast European country with a rich history, diverse culture, and a stunning Adriatic coastline. Its vibrant capital, Zagreb, features cultural and historical landmarks. The historic city of Dubrovnik is known for its Old Town and medieval walls.

The Adriatic Sea is home to beautiful beaches and islands like Hvar, Brac, and Korčula. Inland, Plitvice Lakes National Park, and Krka National Park showcase Croatia’s natural beauty.

Cities like Split and Trogir feature well-preserved historical sites, such as Diocletian’s palace. The Istria Peninsula is famous for the picturesque coastal towns of Pula, Rovinj, and Porec, and the seaside town of Opatija offers a luxurious retreat.

Croatia provides a blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant coastal life for every type of traveler.

Where is Croatia located?

Croatia is located in Southeast Europe, along the Adriatic Sea. Croatia shares borders with Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro and has a sea border with Italy. It covers an area of 56,594 square kilometers and has a coastline of approximately 5,835 kilometers, including 1,246 islands. The mainland coastline is around 1,770 kilometers.

The country features diverse geography, including mountains, fertile plains, and karst landscapes. Major cities include the capital, Zagreb, located in the northwest, along with Split, Dubrovnik, and Rijeka.

Croatia’s latitude and longitude coordinates are 45.1667° N and 15.5000° E.

Below is the map of Croatia and surrounding countries.

Basic Facts about Croatia

What is the population of Croatia? The population of Croatia is approximately 3.9 million people as of 2023.

What time zone is Croatia in? Croatia is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), also known as UTC+1 or GMT+1. During daylight saving time, from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, Croatia shifts to Central European Summer Time (CEST), or UTC+2 (GMT+2).

What is the time difference between Croatia and other countries? The time difference between Croatia and other countries varies depending on their respective time zones. For example, Croatia is 6 hours ahead of New York City, which operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST, UTC-5) and 7 hours ahead during daylight saving time. Conversely, Croatia is only 1 hour ahead of London on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT, UTC+0).

What is the official language of Croatia? The official language of Croatia is Croatian. It is a South Slavic language and is written using the Latin alphabet.

What is the Surface Area of ​​Croatia? The total surface area of Croatia is 87,661 square kilometers, encompassing a land area of 56,594 km² and a territorial sea area of 31,067 km².

What is Croatia’s official name? Croatia’s official name is the Republic of Croatia. It became an independent nation in 1991 after an independence referendum. The Croatian name for Croatia is “Hrvatska.”

What is Croatia’s phone and country code? Croatia’s phone code is +385, and Croatia’s country code is HR.

What is Croatia’s internet extension? Croatia’s internet domain extension is .hr. This country code top-level domain (ccTLD) was established in 1993 and is managed by the Croatian Academic and Research Network (CARNet).

What is the capital of Croatia? The capital of Croatia is Zagreb.

What are the other cities of Croatia? Other major cities in Croatia include Split, Rijeka, Osijek, Zadar, and Dubrovnik.

Is Croatia a European Union Country and a member of the Schengen Visa Regiment?

Yes, Croatia has been a member of the European Union (EU) since 2013 and a member of the Schengen Visa Regiment since January 1, 2023.

Travelers with a valid Schengen visa can visit Croatia without needing an additional visa, and time spent in Croatia counts toward the 90-day limit in 180 days for the Schengen visa. However, travelers must present their documents at the border when crossing into non-EU and non-Schengen countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Montenegro.

Do you need a visa for Croatia?

Most visitors, including EU countries, the UK, the USA, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, don’t need a visa to enter Croatia. Citizens of those countries do not require a visa to stay for up to 90 days in 180 days.

However, some travelers visiting Croatia need a visa based on their nationality, including citizens of Brazil, India, South Africa, and Turkey. Applicants need a valid passport issued within the last 10 years to apply for a Croatian visa, with an expiry date at least three months beyond the intended departure from Croatia.

You do not need a separate visa if you require a visa for Croatia but hold a valid Schengen visa or visas for Cyprus, Romania, or Bulgaria. You can travel to Croatia under the conditions of your existing visa from those countries.

Citizens of EU countries only need their ID cards to enter Croatia, while all other visitors must possess a valid passport.

To apply for a Croatian visa, print and complete the application forms available here, then submit them along with the required documents to the Croatian Embassy, Consulate, or an accredited tourist agency.

For any visa-related inquiries, feel free to reach out at vize@mvep.hr.

Do US citizens need a visa to visit Croatia?

No, US citizens do not need a visa to visit Croatia for stays of up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism, business, or transit purposes. However, a valid passport is required, and it must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure date from Croatia.

Starting in 2025, US travelers must apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) visa waiver to enter Croatia and other Schengen Area countries.

Is English Commonly spoken in Croatia?

Yes, many people in Croatia speak English, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. English proficiency is highest among younger generations and those working in hospitality, education, and business sectors.

While English is not an official language, it is commonly taught in schools, leading to many conversational speakers. However, English proficiency is lower in rural regions.

Tourists find it relatively easy to communicate in English throughout Croatia.

What other languages are spoken in Croatia?

Besides English, German and Italian are Croatia’s most widely spoken foreign languages. Several minority languages, including Serbian, Hungarian, and Slovene, are spoken in Croatia, particularly in regions with diverse populations.

In Croatia’s Istrian Region, Italian is an official second language alongside Croatian. Italian is prevalent in local government, education, and public signage.

Approximately 30,000 residents speak Italian as their mother tongue, and the bilingualism in Istria contributes to the region’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Is Croatia safe for tourists?

Croatia is a safe place to visit, with very little street crime and almost no violence. The country’s crime rate is low, with violent crime being rare. As of 2024, Croatia ranks 15th on the Global Peace Index, recognized as one of the safest countries in the world among 163 nations evaluated.

Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occur sometimes in tourist hotspots and crowded areas. So, like everywhere, take care of your belongings, especially when using public transport.

Some land mines are still in remote areas where tourists rarely visit.

What is the best time to visit Croatia, and when is the high season?

The best time to visit Croatia is from May to September. June and September are the best months to visit Croatia due to fewer crowds, warm weather, and more affordable prices.

Croatia’s high season runs from mid-June to mid-September, with peak travel occurring in late July and early August. During this time, travelers should expect larger crowds and higher accommodation costs. However, summer remains the best season to visit Croatia if you are looking for sea and sun.

German tourists represent one of the largest groups of visitors to Croatia, significantly increasing the number of travelers during German school holidays. Additionally, major holidays such as Easter, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve attract many visitors to the country.

What is the Weather like in Croatia?

Croatia’s weather varies by region, featuring three distinct climates: Mediterranean along the coast, continental inland, and Alpine in the mountains. Coastal areas enjoy hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, while inland regions experience warm summers and cold winters. The mountainous areas see snowfall in winter and mild summers. For optimal outdoor conditions, the ideal time to visit Croatia is from late spring to early autumn.

How Many Days Should You Stay in Croatia?

The ideal length of stay in Croatia depends on what you want to see and do, but for a well-rounded experience, we recommend staying for 7 to 10 days. This allows enough time to visit major cities like Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik, explore a few islands like Hvar or Korčula, and experience Croatia’s natural beauty, such as Plitvice Lakes or Krka National Park.

For shorter trips (3-5 days), focus on one region, such as Dubrovnik and its surroundings, or Split with island day trips. Longer stays of two weeks or more allow you to dive deeper into different regions, like Istria or inland Croatia.

How many people visited Croatia in 2024?

In 2024, Croatia saw significant growth in the tourism sector, with almost 17 million arrivals and 90 million overnight stays by the end of August. This marked a 4% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

In 2024, the total number of tourists is expected to surpass 20 million.

As of mid-2024, Germany is the largest source market, contributing 17,7 million overnight stays. Other significant markets include Slovenia, with 9.5 million overnight stays; Austria, 6.5 million; and the UK, 3 million.

In the first eight months of 2024, Croatia welcomed 540,000 tourists from the USA, contributing 1.5 million overnight stays.

What are the best travel itineraries for Croatia?

The best travel itineraries for Croatia include visits to Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, the Istria region, Split, Hvar, and Dubrovnik.

Croatia Itinerary: 8–12 Days

• Zagreb: 1–2 days
• Plitvice Lakes National Park: 1 day
• Istria Region: 2–3 days
  • Towns to visit: Rovinj, Poreč, and Pula
• Split & Islands: 2–3 days
  • Day trip options: Hvar or Brač
• Dubrovnik: 2–3 days

Below are suggested week itineraries for Croatia.

• Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes – Split – Hvar – Dubrovnik
• Dubrovnik – Peljesac Peninsula – Korcula – Split – Zagreb
• Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes – Istria

Below is a suggested two-week itinerary for Croatia.

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

For stays in Croatia of less than a week, choose one destination as your base and take day trips from there. Stays of a week or longer allow you to include more destinations in your itinerary and explore different regions of Croatia. However, be mindful of peak season traffic and crowds.

Ultimately, there are many different ways to plan your trip to Croatia, depending on your interests and time constraints.

Should you join a group tour or plan your Croatia trip independently?

Whether to join a group tour or plan your Croatia trip independently depends on your travel style and goals. A group tour is convenient for those who prefer structured itineraries, as it covers transport, accommodations, and guided tours of popular sites like Dubrovnik’s Old Town and Plitvice Lakes. It’s also a great way to meet other travelers and access exclusive activities, often at a fixed cost.

Planning independently offers flexibility to explore at your own pace, visiting lesser-known destinations, such as Vis Island or secluded beaches on the Peljesac Peninsula. Independent travel allows for personalized choices in accommodation and activities, though it requires more research and organization. If you value convenience and social interaction, a group tour is better for you, while independent travel is ideal for flexibility and personal exploration.

Our Croatia travel consultancy specializes in helping travelers create unique, independent itineraries.

Are there travel consultants To help plan a trip to Croatia?

Yes, travel consultants are available to help plan a trip to Croatia, including our dedicated Croatia Travel Consultancy service. We specialize in creating personalized, one-on-one travel plans tailored to your interests and travel style, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking for new experiences.

Our services include customized itineraries, insider tips on hidden gems, recommendations for boutique hotels and restaurants, and guidance on transportation and logistics across Croatia’s coastal and inland regions. You’ll receive expert advice to help you confidently make your bookings, with the flexibility to adjust plans as needed. Contact us today to craft an unforgettable Croatia adventure uniquely suited to you!

What multi-day Group tours are available in Croatia?

What are Croatia’s must-see cities and towns?

Croatia boasts several top destinations for travelers. With its medieval architecture and UNESCO-listed Old Town, Dubrovnik draws 1.1 million visitors annually. Home to Diocletian’s Palace, Split attracts around 1 million tourists per year. Famous for its interconnected lakes and waterfalls, Plitvice Lakes National Park has about 1.5 million visitors.

Krka National Park offers beautiful waterfalls and swimming spots, while Hvar Town is known for its nightlife and stunning 16th-century architecture. The capital city, Zagreb, combines historical and modern attractions, welcoming 1.3 million tourists a year. A charming coastal town, Rovinj attracts around 800,000 visitors, and Pula, known for its Roman amphitheater, sees about 500,000 tourists each year.

What are the Top Historical Landmarks and UNESCO Sites in Croatia?

Croatia has many historical landmarks, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites and unique cultural sites.

Diocletian’s Palace in Split is a 4th-century Roman palace filled with shops and restaurants among ancient ruins. Dubrovnik’s Old Town, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” has medieval walls offering stunning sea views.

Plitvice Lakes National Park features beautiful terrace lakes and waterfalls. Stari Grad Plain on Hvar Island highlights ancient Greek vineyard layouts. The Cathedral of St. James in Šibenik is famous for its Renaissance style, while Trogir’s Historic Centre has a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance buildings.

Unique landmarks include the Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters, and the Church of St. Donatus in Zadar, which showcases early Christian architecture. Trakošćan Castle in Zagorje is a charming 13th-century castle near a lake. The walls of Ston are among the longest defensive walls in Europe.

These sites highlight Croatia’s diverse historical influences, making it an excellent destination for culture and history enthusiasts.

Which are Croatia’s best beaches?

Croatia’s best beaches include Zlatni Rat on Brač Island, known for its unique, shifting shape and ideal conditions for windsurfing; Stiniva Beach on Vis Island, a secluded cove surrounded by cliffs, perfect for snorkeling; and Punta Rata in Brela featuring clear turquoise waters and the famous Brela Rock.

Near Dubrovnik, Sveti Jakov Beach offers scenic views of the Old Town and Lokrum Island, while Sakarun Beach on Dugi Otok provides shallow, azure waters, ideal for families. These Croatian beaches showcase diverse coastal beauty, catering to adventurous and relaxing beach experiences.

What are Croatian national parks?

Croatian national parks encompass diverse landscapes and ecosystems, with eight unique parks to explore. Notable parks include Plitvice Lakes, famous for its stunning waterfalls and interconnected lakes, and Krka, known for its beautiful waterfalls and attracting a million visitors yearly.

Other parks like Brijuni, Kornati, and Mljet offer rich marine life and peaceful forests, while Risnjak, Paklenica, and Sjeverni Velebit showcase varied habitats and wildlife.

How many islands are in Croatia, and What are the most visited?

There are 1,246 islands, islets, and reefs in Croatia, with only 66 Croatian islands inhabited. The largest islands, Cres and Krk, span around 405 and 410 square kilometers, respectively.

The most popular islands include Krk, Losinj, Pag, Rab, Hvar, Brač, and Korčula. Krk Island attracts over 700,000 visitors annually and is known for its historical sites and stunning beaches. Lošinj, Pag, and Rab islands draw about 300,000 visitors yearly, celebrated for their picturesque beaches and cultural heritage. The islands of Hvar and Brač welcome over 250,000 visitors each, renowned for nightlife and beautiful landscapes. Korčula Island, with its medieval town and landmarks, receives over 150,000 visitors.

What are the regions of Croatia?

Croatia is divided into seven distinct regions.

1. Istria and Kvarner – Known for rolling hills, vineyards, and the bustling port city of Rijeka.
2. Dalmatia – A coastal region famous for its stunning beaches and historic cities like Split and Zadar.
3. Croatian Islands – Home to over 1,000 islands, including popular destinations like Hvar and Brač.
4. Dubrovnik Region – Features the UNESCO-protected city of Dubrovnik and its scenic surroundings.
5. Zagreb and Surroundings – Includes the capital city and nearby areas like Medimurje and Zagorje.
6. Gorski Kotar and Lika – Known for their mountainous landscapes and national parks like Plitvice Lakes.
7. Slavonia and Baranja – Rich in agriculture and traditional culture.

Additionally, Croatia is administratively divided into 21 counties, further enhancing its rich diversity.

What are the Best activities in Croatia?

The best activities in Croatia range from water sports like sailing, island hopping, and snorkeling to adventure sports such as rock climbing, river rafting, and zip-lining. Croatia also offers rich outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching; cultural experiences in museums and historic sites; and culinary adventures like cooking classes, truffle hunting, and wine tasting.

Along the Adriatic Sea, water sports like sailing around Hvar, Korčula, Brač, and Vis, plus snorkeling and jet skiing, offer thrilling ways to explore the coast’s beauty. Inland, hiking in Biokovo and Paklenica mountains, river rafting on the Cetina and Zrmanja Rivers, and zip-lining in Omiš provide scenic adventures, while national parks like Plitvice Lakes and Krka showcase Croatia’s natural wonders.

Croatia’s coastline also offers photography tours and relaxing spa retreats in Istria, Dubrovnik, and inland regions, adding to the country’s well-rounded appeal for travelers.

Cultural exploration includes museum visits in Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik, historical tours, and market shopping across Croatia. Foodies enjoy wine festivals and tasting events in Istria, Dalmatia, and the Uplands, along with truffle hunting and olive oil tasting in Istria.

What local dishes should you try in Croatia?

Croatia’s cuisine offers various flavors influenced by Mediterranean and Central European traditions. Peka is a Croatian specialty where meat or seafood is slow-cooked under a domed lid with vegetables and herbs.

Try Crni Rižot (black risotto), a Dalmatian classic made with cuttlefish ink, for a unique seafood option. Inland, Štrukli is a popular dish from the Zagreb region, made with dough filled with cottage cheese and cream, then baked or boiled. Another traditional favorite is Pašticada, a slow-cooked beef stew marinated in wine and herbs, usually served with gnocchi and particularly popular around Split. In Istria, Fuži pasta with Truffle Sauce showcases the region’s famous truffles, lending an earthy, fragrant taste.

For those interested in group tours, Tour Radar offers a variety of options, including classic coach and boat tours, adventure, cycling, and themed tours.

What traditional drinks should you try in Croatia?

Some of the traditional drinks in Croatia include rakija, wine, and beer. In Croatia, try traditional rakija, a fruit brandy that comes in varieties like travarica (herbal), medica (honey), and orahovica (walnut). Croatian wines are also exceptional, with Malvazija Istarska, a crisp white from Istria, and Plavac Mali, a rich red from southern Dalmatia, setting the standard for local quality wines. Croatia’s craft beer scene is thriving, with popular options from microbreweries like San Servolo, LAB, and Zmajska Pivovara, complementing the lighter, widely available Karlovacko and Ozujsko lagers.

What is the legal drinking age in Croatia?

The legal drinking age in Croatia is 18.

Is tap water safe to drink in Croatia?

Yes, tap water is safe to drink in Croatia.

How much does it cost to travel to Croatia?

Budget around €160 per day for holidays in Croatia. This is the average daily cost in the high season (mid-June to mid-September). A mid-range hotel room generally costs about €75 per night per person. Additionally, expect to spend around €40 per day on food, €25 on transportation, and approximately €20 daily on activities and tours.

A weeklong vacation in Croatia for a couple amounts to €2,300 in high season. Solo travelers will pay about €1,500, making it more expensive per person than the same trip for a couple. Consequently, families of four often benefit from lower costs per person, thanks to shared accommodations, car rental costs, and discounted tickets for children.

What currency is used in Croatia?

Croatia’s currency is the euro (EUR). As of January 1, 2023, Croatia adopted the euro, a common European currency, replacing its previous currency, the Croatian kuna (HRK).

€1 is equivalent to $1.10, £0.85, CAD1.49, and AUD1.63. Conversely, $1 purchases €0.90, £1 buys €1.20, CAD1 equals €0.67, and AUD1 provides €0.60.

How do you exchange money in Croatia?

To exchange money in Croatia, visit currency exchange offices (mjenjačnice), banks, or ATMs. Currency exchange offices typically offer better rates than banks. Most ATMs dispense euros (EUR) as well. Expect to pay a fee of 1% to 3% for transactions.

Always check the current exchange rate to avoid unfavorable rates; as of 2024, €1 equals approximately $1.10, £0.85, CAD1.49, and AUD1.63. Conversely, $1 purchases €0.90, £1 buys €1.20, CAD1 equals €0.67, and AUD1 provides €0.60.

Bring a valid ID for bank transactions. Many exchange offices claim a “no commission policy,” but they often set varying exchange rates. Compare rates and fees before exchanging significant amounts.

Are ATMs widely available in Croatia?

ATMs are widely available in Croatia, with over 5,000 machines spread across cities, towns, and tourist areas. Most ATMs dispense euros (EUR) and accept major credit and debit cards.

Depending on the bank, some machines charge a withdrawal fee, typically between €1 and €5. Availability is high in urban areas, near airports, and in popular tourist destinations. Rural locations have fewer ATMs, but they are still available.

When withdrawing money from an ATM in Croatia, use official bank ATMs like Zagrebacka, Privredna OTP, Erste, or Adikko Bank. They are usually near the bank’s branch offices. You’ll often find Euronet or Auro Domus ATMs in resorts and hotels, which are more convenient but expensive.

Are credit cards accepted in Croatia?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Croatia. Major cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are commonly used in hotels, restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions. Approximately 80% of businesses in urban areas accept credit cards. However, always carry some cash as some smaller businesses and restaurants are cash-only.

Withdrawals from ATMs using credit cards are also possible, though fees apply. Some establishments impose a minimum payment limit for card transactions, often around €10 to €20.

Before traveling, notify your bank to prevent issues with card usage abroad. Always check for potential foreign transaction fees and exchange rates aligned with your card’s terms.

Beware of dynamic currency conversion when using your credit card in Croatia. Dynamic currency conversion allows the amount of your credit card transaction to be converted into your home currency at the point of sale rather than by your card issuer. Avoid dynamic currency conversion, and pay in local currency to avoid additional charges.

What is tipping etiquette in Croatia?

People often ask us about 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 round up the bill. However, many USA or overseas tourists leave a 10% tip.

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 is the cost of living in Croatia compared to other EU countries, the UK, and the USA?

The cost of living in Croatia is lower than in many Western European countries. For example, it is 30% lower than in Germany and France, 35% lower than in the UK, and almost 45% lower than in the USA.

According to a comparative study by Eurostat, Croatia’s overall living costs are about 29% lower than the EU average, making it an attractive destination for expatriates and tourists.

Housing costs in Croatia are about 50% lower than in cities like Paris or Munich. Utility bills for a standard apartment average €150 ($165, £130) per month, significantly less than in more expensive European capitals.

Groceries are also still affordable; for instance, a liter of milk costs about €1 ($1.10, £0.85), compared to €1.10 in France.

Public transportation is relatively cheap, with a monthly pass costing around €40 ($44, £34). Dining out at inexpensive restaurants is around €10-€15 per meal.

What are the Best hotels in Croatia?

Hotels in Croatia range from small, family-run establishments to large luxury chains. Popular national chains include Maistra, Valamar, and Aminess, while international chains like Hilton, Sheraton, and Park Plaza are also present.

Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Rovinj, and Losinj Island offer an excellent selection of luxury hotels in Croatia. Although all-inclusive hotels are uncommon in Croatia, many hotels provide a light all-inclusive option, such as a full or half-board meal plan.

Booking.com is the most popular website for browsing and booking hotels in Croatia.

What other types of accommodation are available in Croatia?

Croatia offers various accommodation options for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious five-star hotels. Popular types of accommodation in Croatia are listed below.

• Hotels
• Guesthouses
• Apartments
• Hostels
• Villas
• Campsites

In addition to these traditional types of accommodation, Croatia offers various alternative options such as farm stays, lighthouses, houseboats, treehouses, wine-barrel cabins, and the like.

What is Croatia known for?

Croatia is known for its stunning Adriatic Sea and coastline, featuring over 1,000 islands, islets, reefs, and beautiful beaches, such as Zlatni Rat Beach on Brac Island. Among these stunning islands are Hvar and Korcula, each offering unique charm and vibrant culture. 

The country boasts historical cities like Dubrovnik, Split, Trogir, and Zadar, which are rich in architectural heritage and cultural significance.

Additionally, Croatia is famous for its nature, food, quality olive oil and wine production, and sports achievements in soccer, water polo, handball, and even skiing.

Natural attractions include national parks such as Plitvice Lakes and Krka, showcasing waterfalls and diverse wildlife.

Croatian cuisine is notable for its variety, including fresh seafood, spicy sausages, and regional delicacies. The country produces exceptional wines, particularly from the Pelješac and Istria regions, and is famous for high-quality olive oil, often considered among the best worldwide. Over 30 Croatian olive oils are listed in the prestigious Flos Olei guide.

With a favorable Mediterranean climate, Croatia is a prime destination for relaxation and adventure.

How to get to Croatia?

Traveling to Croatia from other countries is easy by air, train, bus, and sea. Major airports include Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik. Direct flights from major European hubs to various cities in Croatia are readily available, particularly from April to September. For detailed flight information, check CheapOair.

Buses are also popular, and the GetByBus and Bookaway websites are recommended for booking.

Train travel is also accessible, but connections are limited. International ferries connect Croatia and Italy. Jadrolinija and DirecftFerries websites provide schedules and online booking for ferry travels.

Whether personal or rental, traveling by car is the most convenient way to explore Croatia and beyond.

How to travel around Croatia?

Various modes of transportation, such as cars, buses, ferries, public transportation in larger towns, and taxis, are available to travel around Croatia.

Getting around Croatia is best done by car, thanks to Croatia’s excellent roads and charming villages.

For those unable to drive, modern, fast, and affordable buses are a good option for most areas except the islands and Istria.

Ferries are necessary to reach the islands. Rijeka, Zadar, and Split are the main ferry ports, and major operators like Jadrolinija, TP Line, and Krilo offer various routes.

Public transport in larger towns is efficient and costs around 2€ per ride. Taxis are generally expensive, but Uber provides a more affordable alternative in popular tourist areas.

How are driving conditions in Croatia?

Driving in Croatia is generally easy, with well-maintained roads and clear signage. A modern motorway connects major cities like Zagreb, Rijeka, and Split. But be cautious on narrow rural roads and watch for aggressive drivers. Speed limits are 130 km/h on highways and lower in towns. Always carry a valid driver’s license, and be prepared for tolls on motorways and certain tunnels. Alternative toll-free state roads offer scenic views, but it takes longer due to their single-lane nature.

Is it better to rent a car or use public transport in Croatia?

Renting a car in Croatia benefits those looking to explore the country at their own pace and convenience. It allows for more freedom and flexibility than public transportation, especially when visiting remote areas or popular tourist spots that are not easily accessible by bus or train.

However, consider the cost of renting a car versus using other forms of transportation. While rental rates are reasonable during off-seasons, prices increase during peak tourist seasons. Additionally, consider toll fees, fuel, and parking charges as they add up quickly to the overall cost.

If renting a car in Croatia, research reputable companies and carefully read the rental agreement’s terms and conditions. Purchase zero-excess insurance for peace of mind during your travels.

Overall, renting a car in Croatia enhances the travel experience by offering flexibility and convenience. Car rental in Croatia is also necessary if you visit certain remote areas, islands, or Istria, where public transport is limited and has inconvenient timetables.

What is the parking like in Croatia?

Parking in Croatia is available on streets, in lots, and in garages, typically requiring payment through various methods. In town centers, rates range from €1.10 to €1.60 per hour, with some areas like Riva in Split costing €4 and Dubrovnik’s old town costing €10 per hour. It’s important to follow parking signs to avoid fines or towing. Finding parking is often tricky in popular tourist areas during peak seasons, but hotels usually provide free on-site parking. Paid parking is available at national parks and beaches for visitors.

Are there any health concerns about traveling to Croatia?

Yes, there are some health considerations for traveling to Croatia, but overall, it’s a safe destination. Ensure you’re up-to-date on routine vaccines such as MMR, tetanus, and hepatitis A. Tap water is safe to drink throughout Croatia, and healthcare facilities are of high quality, especially in urban areas.

Summer travelers should protect against sunburn and dehydration as temperatures get high along the coast. Mosquitoes are present, so consider insect repellent, especially when visiting inland parks or lakes.

What to Pack for Croatia?

We all have our packing strategies and tips. However, here are some suggestions for what to bring and wear during your trip to Croatia.

Plan to pack mainly lightweight clothing if visiting in summer. Nevertheless, bringing a windbreaker jacket, a pair of long pants, and leggings is handy.

Additionally, consider bringing a few pairs of shorts and tops that you can easily mix and match or a couple of casual summer dresses.

Remember your beach essentials, including swimsuits, cover-ups, water shoes, sunglasses, and a microfiber towel. A pair of sandals and comfortable walking shoes are also essential, as is a travel money belt for convenience.

Given luggage restrictions and weight limits, investing in lightweight luggage makes your travels to Croatia easier.

As for your tech items, pack your camera equipment (with plenty of extra batteries), a waterproof phone bag, and the necessary adapters and converters.

What plugs, adapters, and converters do I need for Croatia?

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

You will need an adapter if your devices have different plugs. Buy an electric adapter here!

While adapters help to adapt your devices’ plugs to Croatian standards, converters help transform voltages from higher to smaller or vice versa. If you need a converter, easily buy one from Amazon.

Is Travel Insurance Necessary for a Trip to Croatia?

Travel insurance isn’t necessary for a trip to Croatia, but it is highly recommended because it covers various situations, such as luggage loss, trip cancellation, and medical assistance.

EU citizens have basic coverage through the European Medical Insurance Card, which doesn’t include emergency transport home. Non-EU citizens should check with their embassies for medical coverage in Croatia.

Purchasing travel insurance is recommended for other issues like lost documents or baggage. Websites like Travel Insurance Review compare different options, and Safety Wing offers comprehensive travel insurance suitable for most travelers, including coverage for medical emergencies and one child for free.

What are typical Croatian souvenirs?

Typical Croatian souvenirs include licitar hearts, colorful, heart-shaped souvenirs from Zagreb often used as ornaments. Lavender products from Hvar, including sachets, oils, and soaps, are popular for their calming scent. Pag lace, handmade on Pag Island, is a unique and intricate textile often framed as art. Istria’s Olive oil and truffle products are highly valued and frequently purchased as gourmet gifts. Croatian rakija, a fruit brandy, and hand-painted ceramics are also common keepsakes.

How reliable is the internet in Croatia?

The internet in Croatia is generally reliable, with average fixed broadband download speeds of around 55 Mbps and mobile data speeds reaching 75 Mbps, according to Ookla’s Speedtest. Croatia’s 4G coverage is extensive, covering over 90% of the population, and 5G is expanding in urban areas, improving connectivity further. The top internet providers include Hrvatski Telekom, A1 Croatia, and Tele2, all of which offer strong coverage and a range of mobile and home internet packages. In tourist areas, Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces, making it easy to stay connected.

How are roaming charges in Croatia?

Roaming charges in Croatia vary depending on whether you’re traveling from an EU or non-EU country. For travelers from the EU, Croatia follows the “Roam Like at Home” policy, meaning that the charges for calls, texts, or data are the same as in your home country.

However, for non-EU travelers, roaming charges depend on your provider, often resulting in higher data, calls, and text costs. Non-EU visitors should check with their carrier for specific rates or consider purchasing a local SIM card or international roaming package to avoid high fees.

In Croatia, Telemach offers 10 days of unlimited data under €11, while T-Com provides 7 days for €11. Both options include nano, micro, and standard SIM card formats. These packages are available at gas stations, newsstands, T-Com or Telemach centers, and Croatian post offices.

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

What printed Croatia travel guides are available?

• 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

• 63 Best 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 helpful. Is there anything else you’d like to know? Let us know in the comments below.