Croatia Travel Guide

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Croatia is an amazingly diverse country. On a rather small territory there is room for warm sea, majestic mountains, ancient churches and temples, ancient cities, caves, waterfalls, rivers and lakes.

But the main thing in Croatia is not even its attractions, of which there are many. Most tourists sincerely love this country for the real Croatian hospitality and delicious cuisine. Unlike many other seaside resorts, the impressions of a vacation in Croatia turned out to be much brighter than one could expect. That is why we are so eager to tell you about this amazing country in our guide to Croatia and advise you to visit it more than once.

When is high season in Croatia?

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

What is the best time to visit Croatia?

The best time of year to visit Croatia is June and September. There are far fewer people around (no queues, traffic jams or crowded beaches), the weather is still warm and sunny, prices are more affordable and the sea is warm enough for swimming.

Another tip: the sea in Croatia is usually warmer in September than in June.

Also, keep in mind that Croatia is extremely popular with Germans and Austrians, especially in the northern Adriatic regions of Istria. So, the number of vacationers (and accommodation prices) tends to increase during German school vacations (this is either mid-May to early June or late May to mid-June, the time varies from year to year). But this also means that in a year when Germany has school vacations in May, hotels often offer special discounts for June, and vice versa.

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Climate in Croatia

The climate within Croatia is temperate continental. Winters are cold and wet with lots of fog, while summers are hot and dry. The average winter temperature is around 4° C and the average summer temperature is around 22° C.

Croatia has three climatic zones:

  • continental climate inland;
  • Mediterranean climate along the coast;
  • a mountain climate at altitudes above 1,200 meters.

Along the coast, there are usually dry, hot, sunny summers and mild, though sometimes wet winters. The weather in the southern Adriatic region of Dalmatia is usually drier and sunnier than in the northern Adriatic part of Istria.

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Weather in Croatia

Although the average summer temperature on the coast is around 22° C, in July and August you can expect more than 40 days with daytime temperatures above 30° C. The average winter temperature is around 10° C, with January being the coldest month with an average daytime temperature of less than 10° C. The average sea temperature ranges from 12° C in winter to 25° C, in summer.

Cash machines in Croatia

To withdraw money, it is better to use ATM machines of state-owned banks (such as Privredna OTP, Erste or Adikko Bank). ATMs of these banks are usually located next to their branches, so they are easy to find by their signs.

In Croatian resorts and hotels, the most common ATMs are Euronet (blue-yellow color) or Auro Domus (yellow-black color). Although they are located in more convenient places for tourists, they have higher fees for cash withdrawals. However, if convenience is more important than a few extra euros, using these ATMs is a good idea.

Bank machines in Croatia
Bank machines in Croatia

The first thing you’ll notice in Croatia is the abundance of ATMs, and everywhere

What clothes to take with you to Croatia in high season?

Croatia has four seasons and three climatic zones: Mediterranean climate on the coast, mountainous climate and continental climate inland.

This means that if you intend to visit Croatia in the summer, most of your clothing should be lightweight. Nevertheless, a windbreaker, a pair of pants and leggings will always come in handy too.

Otherwise, take a couple of shorts and t-shirts that can be combined, and girls, also, should bring a few casual summer dresses.

Don’t forget beachwear: swimsuits, capes, beach shoes, sunglasses and a towel. Also, sandals and light walking shoes are a must, and it’s good to have a money belt.

Other than that, don’t forget a waterproof phone bag and adapters.

How is the voltage in sockets in Croatia?

In Croatia, the voltage in sockets is the same as in Germany – 220 V, frequency 50 Hz. Therefore, in this country they use the familiar C and F type plugs (both types have two round pins with a distance of 19 mm between them).

What is the best means of transportation to travel around the country?

Croatia is a small country with excellent roads (both toll and free), there are many beautiful villages to visit.

The best way to travel in Croatia is by car. Whether it is your own car or a rental car, it is the most convenient and the most educational way to travel around the country.

Public transportation in Croatia

Intercity buses in Croatia

Another popular way to travel around Croatia is by bus. Buses are modern, fast, affordable and very frequent. The only places where traveling by bus is not recommended are the Croatian islands and the Istria peninsula. Otherwise, if for some reason you can’t travel by car, get on a bus and enjoy the ride.

Ferry services in Croatia

Ferries are still the most popular and sometimes the only way to reach the islands. The main ferry ports are Rijeka, Zadar and Split. But ferries also leave from smaller coastal towns such as: Brsečine, Makarska, Drvenik, Orebić, Ploče. Jadrolinija is the largest ferry operator in Croatia and its ferries cover most routes.

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Urban public transportation in Croatia

Public transportation in the major cities is quite developed. Split, Rijeka, Zadar, Pula and Dubrovnik use city buses. And in Zagreb, along with city buses there is an extensive network of electric streetcars. Public transportation costs about 2 euros per trip.

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Cabs in Croatia

Cabs tend to be expensive (with the exception of Zagreb and Rijeka), but since Uber entered the country’s market, in 2015, cab rides have become more affordable. UberX is available in most popular tourist cities such as Zagreb, Split, Rovinj, Dubrovnik, Zadar, etc.

Uber and Cammeo Taxi are the cheapest cab services in Croatia. However, both companies practice dynamic adjustment of their fares, depending on the current demand, and their fares usually increase during the main tourist season.

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Croatian National Parks

Croatia is a small country with an area of just over 56,000 m2. However, in terms of biodiversity, Croatia is one of the richest countries in Europe. All this, thanks to its geographical position, geomorphologic and ecological conditions, and climate.
The nature here is divine, from the Adriatic Sea and high mountains, to the plains of Slavonia, as well as, the hills of Istria and Zagorje.

The country has eight national parks, ten nature parks and two nature reserves. Almost 10% of the country’s territory are protected areas:

  • Kornati, Brioni and Mljet National Parks are located on islands and are characterized by rich marine fauna;
  • Risnjak, Northern Velebit and Paklenica National Parks cover mountainous areas.

     

All of them are filled with picturesque limestone cliffs, meadows and extensive forests.

Special mention should be made of Plitvice Lakes (perhaps the most visited national park in Croatia), as well as Krka Park, which are famous for their lakes, streams, river rapids and waterfalls.

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Tourist accommodation in Croatia

For tourists, Croatia offers quite a wide range of diverse accommodation: hotels, hostels, apartments, villa rentals and campgrounds. Which one is right for you depends largely on your travel style and budget.

Croatia is generally considered a 4-star destination for family vacations. However, it is worth considering that accommodation in Dubrovnik, Hvar and partly Rovinj, will cost more.

Hotels in Croatia

A good selection of 5-star hotels is available in Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Rovinj and on the island of Lošinj. All-inclusive vacations are rare, although, of course, there are hotels that offer vacations according to this formula. Although, here such a meal plan is called – “full board”. Many hotels in Croatia offer meals on a “half-board” system, and dinner in the hotel is often quite cheap, if you buy it already included in the price of the room.

Apartments for rent in Croatia

Many Croatians rent their apartments to tourists. Apartments here are a good alternative to local hotels. They are cheaper, more spacious and usually have a kitchen equipped with everything you need.

Apartments for rent, like hotels, are subject to licensing and must have an official star rating.

Villa rentals in Croatia

Another popular and actively developing type of daily accommodation in Croatia is villa rentals. Such villas, located mostly near major tourist resorts. They offer silence, peace and privacy. In addition, the villas always have a swimming pool where you can relax in privacy, all day long.

Camping in Croatia

In Croatia, this is a fairly common and popular type of accommodation. There are many campgrounds along the coast, and only a few of them are located in mainland Croatia.

The most popular Croatian campgrounds are:

  • Lanterna in Poreč;
  • Valkanela in Vrsar;
  • Polari in Rovinj
  • Umag Park and Zaton near Zadar.

Toll highways and free roads in Croatia

Croatia’s roads are in very good condition. A fairly new multi-lane highway connects the country from north to south: from Zagreb in the north to Rijeka in the northwest and Ploče in the south.

Tolls are charged on all multi-lane highways marked with the letter A, as well as for some tunnels (e.g. the Učka tunnel between Rijeka and Istria).

Link to an article about toll roads in Croatia

In addition to highways, it is possible to travel on free state roads. These roads are also well maintained, but they usually have one carriageway and one lane for each direction (and some of them, especially the coastal road D1, are also quite winding).

Car rental

The best way to experience the real Croatia is to travel by car. You’ll be able to sightsee, get off the beaten path, see more in less time and have the freedom to stop wherever and whenever you want.

Car rental in Croatia is very seasonal. You need to rent a car in advance if you plan to go to Croatia in July and August. This also means that rental prices increase dramatically during these two summer months.

Tourist registration

All tourists coming to Croatia must be registered at the local tourist office. And non-EU citizens will also be automatically registered with the police.

For this reason, any hotel, private sector or campsite will ask to see a passport or other identification during registration.

Food

Food in Croatia is varied and delicious, with plenty of local produce. In mainland Croatia, people eat a lot of meat, while dishes in the coastal regions are largely based on fish, other seafood and green vegetables.

As a traveler, you might make some false assumptions based on the range of dishes at tourist-oriented restaurants on the coast. These restaurants often offer what tourists ask for, and it’s not necessarily typical Croatian dishes.

Beverages

You can drink tap water in Croatia. However, if you still prefer to drink bottled water, keep in mind that such water is very expensive here. For example, a bottle of ordinary water, 1.5 liters, in the supermarket costs about 0.50 euros, which, for example, is 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 from 18 years old.

Drinking is usually possible in cafes and bars, which serve any kind of drinks, from coffee and tea, to wine, beer and any other strong alcoholic beverages. Cafes are open all day, opening from 6am and closing usually around midnight. Nightclubs, pubs and some bars are open until 4am.

Local wines are also good. Over the past two decades, many small family wineries have reached high standards in producing quality wines from local grape varieties, such as Malvazija (a white dry wine produced in Istria) or Plavac Mali (a red wine variety dominating the vineyards of southern Dalmatia).

Croats also drink a lot of beer, but you’re unlikely to find any impressive beer selection here. The most popular local mass-produced brews are Karlovacko and Ozujsko, both light lagers. In recent years, many mini-breweries have started to introduce more attractive craft beers to the market, such as San Servolo, LAB or Zmajska pivovara.

Spirits are very popular in Croatia and come in a variety of flavors. Here they are called rakija. The basic flavor of the drink is most often made from pure grape must, but then it is flavored with different ingredients. The most popular rakija are: travarica (brandy with herbs), medica (brandy with honey), orahovaca (brandy with walnuts), cherry (brandy with cherries), myrtle (brandy made from myrtle) and horn (brandy made from carob).

In-country itineraries and entertainment

Croatia offers a wealth of activities for all ages and tastes, all year round. The country is rich in history, natural beauty, ancient cities, beautiful architecture, unspoiled beaches and rocky mountains.

Foodies will love Croatia’s restaurants, especially in Istria, Zagreb, Dubrovnik and Split. The country produces some of the world’s best first cold-pressed olive oils. There are many places where you can go for olive oil tasting and learn how to tell the difference between real oil and surrogate. Visiting a winery is also a must in Croatia, especially in Istria.

The municipality of Tisno on the island of Murter, the town of Novalja on the island of Pag and the town of Hvar offer 24-hour parties for the young and restless.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Omiš, Paklenica and Čikarija. All of them offer an endless choice of various active adventures.

Check out the Get Your Guide website for a full list of tours and activities in Croatia.

If you plan to visit Croatia for less than a week, I highly recommend picking one destination and sticking to it. Take day trips from there, but don’t claim to visit the entire country in less than a week. Also, in July and August, you need to consider possible traffic jams and congestion, as well as ferry queues.

If you stay for ten days or more, you can include a few attractions such as Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, Split and Dubrovnik in your itinerary.

Possible week-long itineraries:

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

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

c | Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes – Istria

Possible two-week itinerary:

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

Shopping

When you think of shopping, Croatia does not seem to be associated with it. However, there are some great things to buy while in the country.

Croatian artisan olive oils are some of the best in the world. Croatian designers and stores with goods from local artisans are also gaining momentum; Visit Take Me Home in Zagreb or Prostoria in Rovinj: here you can find original souvenirs, accessories, unique clothes, bags and jewelry. And don’t forget the high-end tie store, Kravata Croata.

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

Supermarkets are open throughout the day, Monday through Saturday. On Sunday, some stores are open all day, especially in shopping centers, and stores in the city center often close at 1 or 3 pm. In summer on the coast, stores are open seven days a week, and often until midnight.

Is Croatia a safe country?

Croatia is a very safe country with a very low street crime rate. However, like everywhere else, take care of your belongings, especially when using public transportation.

Anti-personnel mines from the Serbo-Croatian war are still found, but in remote areas where tourists are already rare.

Internet

Wi-Fi coverage in Croatia is quite good. Many cities provide free Wi-Fi hotspots in famous tourist spots. Most guesthouses as well as hotels and even campgrounds have free Wi-Fi.

However, the broadband internet is not that fast. Although, it is more correct to say that it is fast not everywhere. In major cities, the internet is fast, affordable and reliable. According to speedtest.net, Croatia has the 18th fastest mobile internet in the world. But fixed broadband is quite slow (73rd in the world ranking).

The average internet download speed, at the beginning of 2021 is 69.20 Mbps (for mobile devices) and 45.52 Mbps (for fixed broadband networks).

Roaming

Roaming for other countries is still quite expensive. T-com sells packages with 7-day unlimited for 11 euros. It includes a nano, micro or SMS card. These packages can be bought at gas stations, newsstands, communication centers and post offices.

Beaches

The sea and the sun are still the two main reasons why so many people come to Croatia. The country has over 6,000 kilometers of coastline and more than 1,000 islands. The two most popular coastal regions are Istria in the north and Dalmatia in the south.

Croatia’s coastline is mostly rocky, with pebbly beaches often located in bays and coves. Makarska Riviera, in central Dalmatia, offers the most beautiful beaches in all of Croatia. Perfectly round and fine pebbles that feel like sand, but, at the same time, do not stick to the body. The sea here is clear and clean, and you can see the bottom from afar.

If you are looking for an ideal sandy beach, you may be disappointed. Although, there are also sandy beaches here, but for Croatia it is rather an exception.

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

Parking lots

If traveling by car, there is a question about the parking situation. Here, most hotels and private guesthouses offer parking space for free.

However, keep in mind that city centers are usually car-free zones or with limited car traffic. If your accommodation is in the city center, find out about parking before booking.

Parking in Croatia comes in three types: garage, open-air and street parking. Be prepared to pay between 0.50 and 1 euro per hour, in the city center. Some parking lots cost more. For example, parking in the Riva waterfront area in Split, costs 1.5 euros for the first hour and 2 euros for each subsequent hour; and then there’s Dubrovnik, where you’ll have to pay as much as 5 euros for an hour of parking in Zone 0 (red).

Is spoken English spoken in Croatia?

Most Croatians speak English, at least a little, and many speak at least one other foreign language. Apart from English, the most common languages in Croatia are German and Italian.

Is it expensive to go to Croatia?

Croatia is not a cheap place for a tourist. It is more expensive than neighboring countries such as Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia or Hungary.

In mainland Croatia, and in Zagreb in particular, the prices are moderate, I would even say it is quite cheap. On the coast, however, it is mostly expensive, and prices here tend to rise year after year.

Nevertheless, if you’re traveling on a tight budget, you can still have a great vacation here. In this case – stay away from popular tourist spots (you can visit them, but it is better to sleep somewhere else), come in the off-season, go to places that are on the periphery, forget about hotels, choose instead apartments with kitchens. Prepare breakfasts and small brakes for lunch, by yourself, ask locals about inexpensive restaurants.

Tip

Most Croatians in bars and restaurants just round up the bill. If you decide to go on a group bus tour, for example, be prepared that someone usually collects tips for the driver and guide at the end of the tour. Everyone puts in as much money as they think they need.

Can VAT be reclaimed after a trip?

Currently, VAT in Croatia is 25% for most goods. Foreigners without a permanent or temporary residence permit in Croatia, can request a tax refund for all purchases over 100 €.

To do this, ask the seller for a Tax Free form at the time of purchase. Fill it out and ask for the retailer’s stamp and then, again at the airport or at the border with the customs officer. You’ll have six months from the date of purchase to apply for a VAT refund by sending it back to the store where the item was bought.

Another way to get a VAT refund is to look for stores that are part of the Global Blue Tax-Free network. They have a corresponding sticker in the place where the data with opening hours and accepted credit cards are placed. The procedure is similar (fill out the Tax Free form, stamp it in the store and at the airport), but the refund is faster and can be received at the airport, directly at the Global Blue office.

Electrical plugs and adapters

In Croatia, the voltage is 220 V, the frequency is 50 Hz and the standard European plugs type C and F are in use. Both plugs are similar to each other with two round pins with a distance of 19 mm between them.

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