Discover the Beauty and Culture of Croatia: A Mediterranean Gem
With its magnificent coastline of picturesque islands and reefs, and a countryside scattered with Roman ruins and medieval villages, Croatia is fast becoming a rival to Greece for tempting those looking for beautiful beaches, great food and rich history.
After centuries of being geographically sliced and diced to suit empires, conquerors and political and ethnic divisions, Croatia has been left with a diverse cultural legacy and a wealth of historical attractions. The long Adriatic Coast forms the western leg of the arc-shaped country, tapering to the unique ancient seaport of Dubrovnik in the south, while the land between the rivers Drava and Sava form the northern section. The capital, Zagreb, sits in between.
Although Croatia’s history is dramatic, the atmosphere of this balmy Mediterranean country is now tranquil, with sleepy old towns and impossibly picturesque lakes and beaches. The wonderful landscape is easily explored on foot or by mountain bike as the country is criss-crossed with good trails, which might come in handy as the delicious food and wine will have to be walked off.
But the most prominent feature of Croatian holidays is the glorious Dalmatian Coast, which is indented with rocky cliffs, dramatic peninsulas and small inlets. Many quality hotels and marinas have been resurrected or constructed in the past few years, rapidly making Croatia an exceedingly popular cruise destination.
There is a special atmosphere in Croatian towns and villages, many of which were built on the sites of ancient Greek settlements from as far back as the 4th century BC. With a reserved but hospitable population, a Mediterranean climate and scenic beauty, Croatia is one of Europe’s best tourist hotspots.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The official language is Croatian.
- Passport/Visa:
All foreign passengers to Croatia must hold return or onward tickets and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, as well as proof of sufficient funds (at least EUR 70 per day of stay, at least EUR 30 per day of stay if holding a confirmed invitation or a tourist voucher). It is highly recommended that travellers’ passport have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The official unit of currency is the euro, which was introduced on 1 January 2023. ATMs are plentiful throughout the country and banks, authorised bureaux de change, post offices and most hotels exchange foreign currency. Banks open Monday to Saturday and some banks also open on Sundays in the main cities. Major credit cards are widely accepted at the main hotels and restaurants, and may be used to draw cash from ATMs, which are widely available throughout the country.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. European-style, round, two-pin plugs are standard.
Overview
Croatia’s popularity as a European holiday destination has grown rapidly over the last few decades. There is much to see and do along its magnificent coastline, which boasts over 1,000 islands, islets and reefs. Most visitors come to Croatia for the cruises, boating and beaches, but the country also has cultural attractions and plenty of ancient history.
Many of Croatia’s cities are built on the sites of Greek and Roman settlements dating from as far back as 400 BC. Visitors are encouraged to explore the Roman ruins in Zagreb and Split, stroll through the cobblestone streets of fairytale medieval villages or simply take in the local cuisine and history. The Croatian History Museum in Zagreb features an impressive display of Neanderthal remains, while culture vultures will enjoy a trip to the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb.
Dubrovnik is one of Croatia’s top holiday destinations, thanks to a picturesque Old Town and exquisite beaches along a rugged coastline. The breathtakingly beautiful Split is a great base for exploring the Dalmation Coast and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It also has such gems as the city of Trogir and Brac Island just off shore.
Spring and autumn are good seasons to visit as milder weather, fewer crowds and lower prices mean travellers can discover the country more freely. But summer (June to August) is the peak season because it’s the best time to enjoy Croatia’s stunning beaches.
Travelling by bus is economical, while ferries and catamarans are the only mode of transport to the islands, and a way of life on the coast. For a more relaxed but slightly more expensive option, hiring a car allows visitors to get off the beaten track and discover this Balkan gem at their leisure.
Climate in Croatia
Croatia’s climate differs quite dramatically from the coast to the interior of the country. The coast has a typically Mediterranean climate with hot, dry, and sunny summers (June to August) and relatively mild, sometimes wet winters (November to February). Summer temperatures average around 79°F (26°C) but it frequently gets as hot as 90°F (32°C).
Winters are significantly colder but they are not severe and along the coast snow is unusual. Winter temperatures seldom drop below 41°F (5°C). Visitors should experience some sunny days in autumn and even a few in winter, but the colder months can be rainy.
In the interior of Croatia the climate is continental and more extreme with colder winters and more common snowfall; temperatures in winter frequently drop below 32°F (0°C). Summers, on the other hand, are similar in temperature to the coastal regions but feel hotter in the interior due to the lack of refreshing cool breezes from the sea.
The peak tourist season in Croatia is in the summer months when the weather is hottest and driest, but the best time to visit is probably September or May when the weather is still warm enough for swimming but the country is less crowded.
Health Notes when travelling to Croatia
The medical facilities and care in Croatia are fairly good, with free emergency medical care available to EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). After Brexit, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC allows UK citizens access to state healthcare during visits to the EU. The GHIC is not valid in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, nor is it an alternative to travel insurance. Non-EU nationals are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance, and those who need particular medications should take the supply needed for the duration of their stay with them, plus a doctor’s letter to get the items through customs.
Safety Notes when travelling to Croatia
Most visits to Croatia are trouble free. Crime levels are low and violent crime is rare but, as petty theft occurs in busy tourist areas, it’s worth keeping a careful eye on valuables. Visitors should be vigilant when attending soccer matches and sports rallies, which sometimes lead to rowdy behaviour and violent incidents. Croatia is a popular party destination but partying carries safety, legal and financial risks. Nightclub fires, balcony collapses, and crowd crushes can occur; accidents resulting in serious injuries have taken place on party boats.
Customs in Croatia
It’s prohibited or considered inappropriate to walk around cities and some town centres shirtless or in swimming costumes. In some places, such as parts of Dubrovnik, there is signage indicating that people are required to cover up and that fines will be imposed on those who don’t comply. Even when there is no such signage, travellers are advised to be sensitive to local conventions and sensibilities.
Duty Free in Croatia
Non-EU travellers to Croatia can enter the country with the following items without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 4 litres of wine, 1 litre of spirits and up to 16 litres of beer; and other goods up to the value of HRK 3,200 if arriving by air or HRK 2,200 if arriving by other means of transport.
Doing Business in Croatia
Business in Croatia tends to be quite formal. Punctuality is key, dress should be smart and handshakes are the preferred form of greeting. Titles and surnames are usually used unless otherwise indicated and business cards are often exchanged at the beginning of a meeting. English and German are widely spoken but any attempt at speaking some Croatian will be appreciated. Women frequently hold high positions in business and are well respected.
Building a good working relationship is important and it’s useful to work with a reliable local partner. Although Croatia appears typically European in its dealings, business can take some time to conclude. Business hours are usually 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.
Communication in Croatia
The international access code for Croatia is +385 and WiFi availability is good.
Tipping in Croatia
A tip of 10 percent will be appreciated in tourist or upmarket restaurants, though it’s common to simply round up the bill if the service has been good in other establishments. Tour guides expect to be tipped.
Passport/Visa Note
All foreign passengers to Croatia must hold return or onward tickets and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, as well as proof of sufficient funds (at least EUR 70 per day of stay, at least EUR 30 per day of stay if holding a confirmed invitation or a tourist voucher). It is highly recommended that travellers’ passport have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must present a passport valid for three months beyond period of intended stay, and visas are not required for stays of up to 90 days. Visitors don’t need to provide their Covid vaccination status for entry to Croatia.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport valid for three months beyond period of intended stay in Croatia, and no visa is required for stays of up to 90 days. Visitors don’t need to provide their Covid vaccination status for entry to Croatia.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK nationals must have a passport valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay, and a visa is not required for up to 90 days. Visitors don’t need to provide their Covid vaccination status for entry to Croatia.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in Croatia, and no visa is required for stays of up to 90 days. Visitors don’t need to provide their Covid vaccination status for entry to Croatia.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals must have a passport valid for the period of intended stay in Croatia, and no visa is required. Visitors don’t need to provide their Covid vaccination status for entry to Croatia.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in Croatia, and no visa is required for stays of up to 90 days. Visitors don’t need to provide their Covid vaccination status for entry to Croatia.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African nationals must have a passport valid for three months beyond the period of intended stay in Croatia and a visa is required, unless travellers already hold a multiple-entry Schengen C visa. Visitors don’t need to provide their Covid vaccination status for entry to Croatia.
Tourist Offices
Croatian National Tourist Board, Zagreb: +385 (0)1 469 9333 or http://www.croatia.hr
Croatia Embassies
- In the United States:
Embassy of Croatia, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 588 5899.
- In Canada:
Embassy of Croatia, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 562 7820.
- In the United Kingdom:
Embassy of Croatia, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7387 2022.
- In Australia:
Embassy of Croatia, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6286 6988.
- In Ireland:
Embassy of Croatia, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 476 7181
- In New Zealand:
Consulate of Croatia, Auckland, New Zealand: +64 274 998850.
- In South Africa:
Embassy of Croatia, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 342 1206.
Foreign Embassies in Croatia
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Zagreb: +385 (0)1 661 2200.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Zagreb: +385 (0)1 488 1200.
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Zagreb: +385 (0)1 600 9100.
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Zagreb: +385 (0)1 489 1200.
- Irish Embassy
Embassy of Ireland, Zagreb: +385 (0)1 627 8920.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Consulate, Rome, Italy (also responsible for Croatia): +39 06 853 7501.
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Budapest (also responsible for Croatia): +36 1 392 0999
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
