Croatia

Croatia is bordered by Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro, with a long coastline along the Adriatic Sea. The capital, Zagreb, is a vibrant city with Austro-Hungarian influences and a lively arts scene.

The population is around 3.8 million. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Croatia operates on Central European Time (GMT+1), with daylight saving time from late March to late October.

Croatian cuisine varies by region, offering a mix of Mediterranean and Central European flavours. Along the coast, seafood dominates, with dishes like bmaneštra od bobić. Inland, favourites include kulen or kulenova seka, Čobanac, and ćevapi.

Croatia produces excellent wines, particularly in regions like Istria, Dalmatia, and Slavonia. Local varieties such as Plavac Mali (red) and Pošip (white) are worth trying.

Croatia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Dalmatian Coast is ideal for sailing, kayaking, and island hopping, with Hvar, Brač, and Vis offering stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters.

Hiking in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Paklenica National Park reveals breathtaking waterfalls, forests, and limestone cliffs. Adventure seekers can go rafting on the Cetina River or explore the Blue Cave on Biševo Island.

Croatia’s diverse landscapes include rocky coastlines, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and rolling vineyards. Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features 16 interconnected lakes and stunning waterfalls.

Krka National Park is another natural wonder where visitors can admire waterfalls and swim in clear waters. The Kornati Islands, an archipelago of over 80 islands, are perfect for sailing and marine exploration. Croatia's fauna is interesting, with the red deer, red fox, Eurasian brown bear, and wolf dominating the scene.

Croatia’s festivals celebrate its vibrant culture and traditions. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival brings theatre, music, and dance to the city’s historic streets, while the Sinjska Alka, a medieval knight tournament held in August, keeps centuries-old heritage alive.

For electronic music fans, Ultra Europe in Split is a must-visit. It ranks among Europe’s top summer festivals. In winter, Zagreb’s Christmas Market transforms the city with dazzling lights, festive stalls, and a magical holiday atmosphere, earning recognition as one of Europe’s best.

Croatia has high healthcare standards, and no special vaccinations are required for entry. Tap water is safe to drink across the country.

Travel insurance is recommended. If you plan to go on a hiking or trekking adventure, watch out for ticks and tick-carrying diseases like encephalitis and Lyme disease.

The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are available throughout the country.

Croatia uses plug types C and F, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. Travellers may need an adapter depending on their home country.

Croatia has a well-connected transportation system. Buses are the most common mode of public transport, linking cities and coastal towns. Being a country endowed with beautiful coastlines, you will also find ferries and yachts ready to be boarded for access to the numerous islands in the country. You will be sure to find taxis, cars, and trains ready to serve you, too.

Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in major cities and tourist destinations.

Croatians are friendly and hospitable. A handshake is the standard greeting, and punctuality is appreciated. Croatians are very concerned about their identity, so referring to them as Yugoslav, Serbian, or Russian or describing the country as a Balkan state can spark a reaction.
When discussing with locals, it is important to be mindful that most are Roman Catholics, so whatever you say should be guided by this knowledge. Always keep your shoulders and body covered.

• Spring (March to May): The weather is mild and pleasant, and the air is crisp with scents of floral buds.

• Summer (June to August): The weather is bright and sunny. Expect hot days with temperatures fluctuating between 15℃ and 27℃. The summer is ideal for beach activities, sailing, and festivals.

• Autumn (September to November): There is pleasant weather with chilly weather at night, enhanced by frequent showers

• Winter (December to February): This season is usually cold. Expect to see the mountains and lakes covered in snow. Winter is usually the most festive season of all.

Croatia is affordable compared to Western Europe. Budget travellers can expect to spend €50–80 daily, covering hostels, local meals, and public transport. Mid-range travellers may budget €100–200 daily for boutique hotels and guided tours. Luxury travellers can expect costs above €250 daily, especially in the peak summer months.

• If you would like to have a working phone as soon as you arrive, consider getting an eSIM before your travel.

• Be careful not to refer to a Croatian as a Balkan or Yugoslav; they won’t take it lightly.