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TRAVEL GUIDE

Croatia is a captivating destination along the Adriatic Sea, celebrated for its stunning coastline, rich history, and picturesque islands. From the ancient walls of Dubrovnik to the scenic beauty of Plitvice Lakes, Croatia offers an incredible variety of experiences for every traveler.

Start in the bustling capital of Zagreb or head straight to the coast to explore charming coastal cities like Split and Zadar. With crystal-clear waters, lush national parks, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Croatia is a paradise for history buffs, nature lovers, and beach enthusiasts alike.

Having been to Croatia couple of times for a summer holiday never disappoints and we've put together a quick overview of all the wonderful experiences this country has to offer along with tips on how you can make your experience an epic one!

OVERVIEW

Capital

Language

Main Airport

Weather

Zagreb

Croatian

Currency

Travel Apps

Zagreb Franjo Tuđman Airport

Transport

Euro

City Mapper Uber/Bolt

HAK

Jadrolinija

Ferry, Train, Bus, Taxi

Croatia’s coast is hot and dry in summer, mild and rainy in winter. Inland areas are warm in summer, colder with snow in winter

Required for many non-EU visitors, though citizens from select countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days

Visa

Useful Phrases

Hello - Bok

Thank you - Hvala

Goodbye - Doviđenja

Good Morning - Dobro jutro

CONTENTS

1. Top Destinations

2. Best Time to Visit

3. How to Get Around

4. Things to Do: Cultural Experiences

5. Costs and Saving Tips

6. General Travel Tips

7. Latest Travel Journals

TOP DESTINATIONS IN CROATIA

1. Dubrovnik

Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a must-see. Walk along the ancient city walls for panoramic views of the red-roofed Old Town and the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Explore the historic Stradun street, visit the Rector's Palace, and take a cable car to Mount Srđ for breathtaking views.

The city's Game of Thrones fame makes it even more exciting, with guided tours to famous filming locations. Be sure to visit the Franciscan Monastery, and enjoy some relaxation at Banje Beach or Lokrum Island for a perfect blend of culture and leisure.

2. Split
Split blends ancient history with modern coastal life. At the heart of it all is Diocletian’s Palace, a Roman fortress and UNESCO World Heritage site. You can wander its winding streets, visit St. Domnius Cathedral, and enjoy delicious food at outdoor cafes. The area comes allive at night with tourist and locals singing and dancing. The Riva promenade is also perfect for a leisurely stroll, while Bacvice Beach is great for a swim. For stunning views, hike up Marjan Hill, where you can see the whole city and sea!

3. Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a natural paradise, filled with crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls, and lush forests. Explore 16 stunning lakes connected by wooden walkways, perfect for photography or a peaceful walk. It’s busiest in summer, but spring and autumn offer quieter, equally breathtaking experiences.

4. Hvar Island
Hvar Island is famous for its vibrant nightlife, charming old town, and fragrant lavender fields. In Hvar Town, enjoy the historic fortress, marina, and lively beach clubs. For a more peaceful escape, visit Stari Grad, a quiet town with beautiful landscapes and authentic local life. You can also take a short boat ride to the peaceful Pakleni Islands for secluded beaches or Jerolim Island for a peaceful naturist spot. Carpe Diem Beach is perfect for lively beach clubs and nightlife. Or if you are up for more experiences, explore nudist-friendly beaches, with Jerolim being the top choice.

5. Zagreb
Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, mixes history with modern excitement. The Upper Town has cobbled streets, churches like St. Mark's, and the iconic Lotrščak Tower. Don’t miss the Museum of Broken Relationships! The Lower Town has trendy cafes, parks, and the bustling Dolac Market, where you can dive into Croatian culture. Zagreb’s festive spirit shines in its lively festivals, especially the famous Advent Christmas Market.

3 Days in Hvar: Island Hopping in the Adriatic

BEST TIME TO VISIT CROATIA

Spring (March to May)

A lovely time to visit, with mild weather and blooming flowers. It’s perfect for exploring cities and national parks before the peak tourist season.

Summer (June to August)

The peak season, with hot weather and lively beach scenes. It’s ideal for island-hopping and coastal adventures, but expect larger crowds and higher prices. We recommend visiting Hvar and neighbouring islands in this season.

Autumn (September to November)

This season brings cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower prices. It’s a fantastic time for cultural events, wine festivals, and outdoor activities in a relaxed atmosphere.

Winter (December to February)

Although quieter, winter is a special time to explore cities and inland Croatia. Dont miss Zagreb’s Christmas Market is particularly magical, while the coastal areas enjoy mild winter weather.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN CROATIA

Public Transport

Croatia’s public transportation is affordable and convenient. Buses are the main mode of transport for both cities and long-distance routes, with a single fare costing around €2–€5. Intercity buses can cost between €10 and €40, depending on distance.

Ferries

Croatia’s ferry network makes it easy to island-hop, with ferries connecting major islands like Hvar, Brač, and Korčula. Prices vary, with a one-way ticket between Split and Hvar costing around €6–€15. Tickets can be purchased online or at ports, and schedules vary based on the season.

Taxi Boats

Alongside ferries, taxi boats offer flexible island-hopping in Croatia, ideal for reaching smaller, secluded spots. Shared taxi boats, especially around Hvar, run frequently—often every 20 minutes between islands.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is a fantastic way to explore Croatia’s islands, national parks, and coastal towns at your own pace. Driving is on the right side of the road, with speed limits of 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on highways. Rentals range from €30–€50 per day, depending on the season, and fuel costs around €1.50 per liter.

Biking and Walking

Croatia’s cities, particularly in the coastal areas, are very walkable, and bike rentals are common. Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb are all bike-friendly and offer picturesque routes.

THINGS TO DO IN CROATIA

Enjoy Croatian Food

Croatian cuisine varies by region, with each area offering its own specialties. Along the coast, seafood is a must-try, with dishes like black risotto, grilled fish, and octopus salad. Inland, try traditional meats like peka (slow-cooked meat and vegetables) and sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls). Be sure to taste the local wines, including Plavac Mali (red) and Malvazija (white), as well as sweet treats like fritule and rožata.

Attend a Festivals

Croatia has a lively festival scene. Dubrovnik’s Summer Festival is a major event, offering outdoor performances in historic locations. Split’s Ultra Music Festival attracts electronic music fans from around the world, while Zagreb hosts a magical Christmas Market in December. Don’t miss the Rijeka Carnival in February, one of the largest in Europe, with parades, costumes, and festivities.

Explore Nature & Outdoor Activities

Croatia’s landscapes are perfect for outdoor adventures. In summer, enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and sailing along the coast, while kayaking around Dubrovnik’s city walls offers a unique perspective. Inland, there are hiking trails in the Velebit and Biokovo mountains, and biking trails in Istria and Krka National Park, which also has spectacular waterfalls.

Watch Football

Football is deeply rooted in Croatian culture, with fans passionately supporting both local clubs and the national team, known as the “Vatreni” (The Blazers). To experience Croatian football first-hand, check out a match by clubs like Dinamo Zagreb or Hajduk Split. If you're a fan of the national team, stop by a local bar during a game to join in the spirited atmosphere.

COSTS & SAVING TIPS

Croatia offers a blend of historic towns, beautiful beaches, and scenic landscapes, catering to all budgets. Here’s what to expect and how to save:

Accommodation

In Croatia, accommodation costs vary depending on location and season. Budget hotels or guesthouses range from €40–€70 per night, while mid-range options are around €90–€130, and upscale hotels can exceed €300, especially in coastal areas like Dubrovnik. To save, consider booking in advance, particularly for summer stays, and explore options like Airbnb for budget-friendly or unique stays. Hostels are also widely available and ideal for solo travellers, especially in cities like Split and Zagreb.

Food and Dining

Meals at casual spots or “konobas” (traditional taverns) typically cost around €8–€15, while dining at restaurants might run between €20–€50. Save by trying Croatian street food like burek (savory pastries) or cevapi (grilled meat), both affordable and delicious options. Grocery stores like Konzum or Lidl are convenient for picking up snacks, local produce, and budget meals.

Transportation

Public transport is efficient in cities like Zagreb and Split, with single bus or tram tickets costing around €1–€2. For intercity travel, consider using Croatia’s reliable bus network, which is usually cheaper than trains. Car rentals can be handy for coastal road trips, though book early in peak season to secure better rates. Ferries are essential for island hopping, and booking online can sometimes offer slight discounts.

Activities

Entry to popular attractions, like Dubrovnik’s city walls or Diocletian’s Palace in Split, is typically €10–€20. For savings, consider multi-attraction passes in cities or free walking tours available in larger towns. Croatia also boasts many natural wonders, such as Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Park, which are best explored with park passes or group tours for discounts. Beaches and seaside promenades are often free and offer spectacular views.

Car Rental

Renting a car can enhance your Croatian travel experience, especially along the stunning coastlines and less accessible areas. To save, book well in advance and compare prices across multiple providers. We use Booking.com. Check whether insurance is included, as some companies charge extra for coverage, especially for border crossings into neighbouring countries like Montenegro or Bosnia and Herzegovina.

More Saving Tips

Travel Off-Peak: Visit Croatia in May, June, or September to enjoy milder crowds and lower accommodation rates while still enjoying warm weather.
Use Local Transport: City passes can be a good deal if you’ll be using public transport frequently; Zagreb and Split both have affordable options.
Free Walking Tours: Many cities offer free guided tours, a great way to explore Croatian history and culture on a budget.
Cash on Hand: While credit cards are widely accepted, cash is handy for small purchases, especially in markets and rural areas where card payments may not be as common.

MORE TRAVEL TIPS IN CROATIA

Language

Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases like “Hvala” (thank you) or “Dobar dan” (good day) can be appreciated by locals.

Currency

Croatia uses the Euro (EUR) as its currency. They switched from Croatian Kuna since 2023. Credit cards are widely accepted, though carrying cash is helpful for small purchases or in rural areas.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory, generally around 10% in restaurants. In cafes and taxis, rounding up the bill is common.

Safety

Croatia is generally very safe for travellers, with low crime rates. However, in crowded tourist areas, keep an eye on your belongings.

Weather & Clothing

The climate varies significantly by region. Coastal Croatia has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Inland winters can be colder, particularly in mountainous areas. For coastal visits, pack light, breathable clothing for summer, and a light jacket for evenings. In winter, warmer clothing is advisable, especially in the north and mountainous regions.