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Croatia Travel Guide

The jewel of the Adriatic! Croatia boasts pristine beaches, age-old towns, and a blend of tradition, cuisine, and historic marvels.

Best time to visit Croatia

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Following a Mediterranean climate, Croatia’s weather is fantastic, particularly between May and October! Spring and Autumn are prime seasons to explore, offering mild sunny temperatures and fewer visitors.

Cities in Croatia

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Islands in Croatia

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• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find Hostels via Hostelworld
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Croatia via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
• Get a Visa via iVisa
• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Croatia worth visiting?

Croatia is an absolute gem! From dreamy islands to historic cities, it’s a paradise for adventure seekers. Dive into sapphire waters, savor delicious cuisine, and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

Is Croatia cheap to visit?

Croatia has become more expensive in recent years due to its popularity, particularly in towns like Dubrovnik and Split; however, staying in self-catering accommodation, eating local, and visiting outside of the peak months can help you stay on a budget.

Can I drink tap water in Croatia?

The tap water in Croatia is high-quality and readily available, with beautiful water fountains dotted around many of the cities, so make sure to bring your reusable water bottle.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Croatia?

Most travelers don’t need a visa for Croatia for stays of up to 90 days. Check your country’s entry requirements in advance and make sure to have a valid passport ready for your Croatian adventure.

What language do they speak in Croatia?

While Croatian is the official language, English is like a second language to many who depend on tourism for their livelihood. Enhance your experiences by learning a few Croatian phrases, and the locals will warmly welcome your efforts to communicate in their language.

Do I need travel insurance for Croatia?

Travel insurance ensures peace of mind during your adventure through Croatia, protecting you from unexpected events. Hike through national parks, cliff jump off the rugged coastline, and kayak around beautiful islands with zero worries!

Is Croatia safe?

The crime rate in Croatia is low, and it is generally a very safe country for tourists. Exercise precautions as normal, and you’ll have an incredible trip filled with friendly locals and beautiful landscapes.

What power plug type does Croatia have?

Croatia primarily uses type C and F plugs, the European-style two-pin plugs with a voltage of 230V. Make sure to bring a plug adapter to keep you charged on the go!

Why do people love Croatia?

Commonly known as the Jewel of the Adriatic, Croatia is one of the best holiday destinations in Europe! With an incredible blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and warm hospitality, unforgettable memories are created here.

Travel to Croatia

Croatia, the Jewel of the Adriatic, is a captivating European destination known for its stunning coastlines, picturesque islands, historic cities, and incredible national parks. As one of the greatest vacation destinations in Europe, Croatia offers a diverse range of experiences, from the ancient walled city of Dubrovnik to the lush Plitvice Lakes National Park . Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or beach enthusiast, there’s something for everyone, making for an unforgettable vacation in Croatia!

How to plan your trip to Croatia

Follow our Croatia travel guides to plan an unforgettable road trip in this Mediterranean paradise. There are so many amazing things to do in Croatia, including historic cities like Split , natural wonders like Krka National Park, and charming islands like Hvar.

Short on time? Tick off the highlights of Croatia with our ultimate 7-day travel guide , road-tripping through ancient fortresses, UNESCO valleys, turquoise shores, and waterfall villages .

Ready for an incredible holiday in Croatia? The weather varies by season, and choosing the best time to visit depends on where in the country you’re planning to see and the kind of vacation you’d like to have.

High Season (July – August): If you’re dreaming of sunny days and beachfront relaxation, consider visiting between June and August. These are the peak summer months, with warm temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rainfall. The coastlines are at their finest during this period, making it an ideal time for beach enthusiasts, and the party scene is at its best in Hvar , Brac , Dubrovnik, and Split for those looking for nightlife. This period brings crowds of tourists, so booking accommodations and tours in advance, particularly in well-traveled destinations like Dubrovnik, is definitely worth it.

Shoulder Seasons (May, June, September & October): If you prefer a more budget-friendly, less crowded experience, the shoulder seasons are generally the best times to visit Croatia. During these months, the climate in Croatia is pleasant, the tour operators and hotels are open, and the crowds are much more manageable in popular cities. May and June are also the best months to visit the National Parks when the lakes and waterfalls are flowing.

Croatia’s climate can also vary depending on the region. Central Croatia tends to be a little cooler than the coastal areas, so it is always worth packing layers if you plan to explore different parts of the country.

Whichever season you choose for your Croatia holiday, this beautiful country will not disappoint!

Coastlines and beaches in Croatia

Croatia’s coastline along the Adriatic Sea is a paradise. With a diverse range of beaches, from pebbly shores to secluded coves, there’s something to suit every traveler’s taste.

One of the best things to do in Croatia is to explore its stunning coastline, starting with the Dalmatian Coast. This stretch of coastline is famous for its crystal-clear waters and unique pebble beaches. Zlatni Rat, located on the island of Brač , is often referred to as the “Golden Horn” due to its distinctive shape and offers a picturesque spot for sunbathing and water sports.

For a blend of history and relaxation, Banje Beach in Dubrovnik is an amazing spot, only a 10-minute walk from the Old Town. With panoramic views of the city’s historic walls, it’s a unique spot to unwind and enjoy the Croatian sun. This spot is very popular, so come early to rent a daybed or find a spot on the nearby cliffs or visit Sveti Jakov Beach instead, a quieter spot in Dubrovnik closed off to boats, making it one of the best places to visit in Croatia.

If you’re looking for a more tranquil getaway, hop on a boat tour around Hvar Island, exploring the secluded beaches, natural caves, swimming in the crystal blue waters of Budikovac Lagoon, and taking in the picture-perfect scenery.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing vacation or a crazy backpacking adventure, Croatia’s coastlines and beaches are out of this world!

Food, culture and religion in Croatia

Dive into the heart of this Mediterranean gem, and you’ll discover warm hospitality, distinct regional cuisines, and prominent architecture from its religious influence.

Food: Croatian cuisine is a delicious blend of influences from Central Europe, Italy, and the Mediterranean. As you travel Croatia, your taste buds will be treated to an array of flavors. On the coast, you’ll find food similar to Greek, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisines, with freshly caught seafood from the pristine waters and plenty of olive oil and fresh herbs. Further inland, food is known to be a little more hearty, with warming stews and decadent pastries.

Culture: Croatia has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with red and white checkered items, known as šahovnica, the coat of arms, featuring everywhere throughout the country, highlighting how proud locals are to be Croatian.

Religion: Religion holds a significant place in the hearts of Croatians, with the majority of the population following the Catholic faith. This influence is evident in the beautiful churches and cathedrals that grace the country’s landscapes, from the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Dubrovnik, to St. Stephen’s Church in the small hilltop village of Motovun .

Why you should travel to Croatia

One of the best European vacation destinations, Croatia’s charm is endless, with sun-soaked beaches, captivating cities, pristine islands, and breathtaking natural parks. As you navigate its winding roads, you’ll encounter UNESCO-listed valleys, wander through Game of Thrones Croatia film sets, explore ancient fortress cities, visit breathtaking waterfalls, and relax on the beautiful shores.

The country’s diversity is the standout feature of the country. The Adriatic coastline, dotted with pebble and sandy beaches, offers a seaside paradise for sun-seekers. While the coastline may steal the limelight, picturesque cities like Dubrovnik and Split, with their well-preserved historical architecture, beckon history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Additionally, the numerous islands, such as Hvar and Korčula, provide an idyllic escape from the bustling mainland, offering a laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere. The national parks, including Krka and Plitvice Lakes, display cascading waterfalls, pristine lakes, and lush forests that provide a haven for nature lovers.

Croatia offers an enriching experience whether you’re a backpacking adventurer, a history enthusiast, or a sunseeker in search of the perfect vacation.

Safety and travel advice Croatia

Croatia is generally a safe travel destination, but it’s essential to stay informed about safety measures and travel tips when planning your trip to the country.

Natural Disasters: While Croatia is not prone to major natural disasters, occasional minor earthquakes and forest fires may occur. Additionally, heavy rainfall, particularly during the winter, can lead to localized flooding. To stay updated on potential emergencies during your trip, always follow the local weather and plan accordingly. Outside of the tourist areas, there may be unexploded mines from the past war, so always stick to marked paths.

Crime and Safety in Croatia: Overall, Croatia has a low crime rate. However, in crowded tourist areas, such as city centers and popular coastal destinations, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur. It’s wise to leave valuables at your accommodation and stay vigilant in crowded places. There have also been several reports of crime in taxis, so if you’re traveling alone, it’s advisable to take a photo of the number of the taxi and send it to a friend or family member.

Traffic and Driving: In the busier towns and cities, Croatia can experience traffic congestion, particularly during the high season. If you plan to drive a rental car in Croatia, always pay attention to traffic signs and adhere to local driving rules. Also, be aware that it is illegal to drive with more than 0.05% of alcohol in your system.

Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance for your vacation in Croatia, ensuring peace of mind in case of unexpected events, such as hiking accidents or lost luggage. Find the best travel insurance to best suit your needs.

© Patricia Jekki

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If your Mediterranean fantasies feature balmy days by sapphire waters in the shade of ancient walled towns, Croatia is the place to turn them into reality.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Croatia. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

City Walls & Forts

No visit to Dubrovnik is complete without a walk around the spectacular city walls that encircle its historic core. They're among the finest in the world…

Diocletian’s Palace

Taking up a prime harborside position, the extraordinary complex of Diocletian's Palace is one of the most imposing ancient Roman structures in existence…

Plitvice Lakes National Park

By far Croatia's top natural attraction and the absolute highlight of Croatia's Adriatic hinterland, the Plitvice Lakes National Park is a glorious…

Klis Fortress

Controlling the valley leading into Split, the imposing Klis Fortress spreads along a limestone bluff, reaching 1260ft (385m) at its highest point. Its…

Zlatni Rat, Croatia's most photographed beach, extends like a tongue into the sea for about a quarter of a mile (400m). Despite the hype and constant…

Cathedral of St Domnius

Split’s octagonal cathedral is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman buildings still standing. It was built as a mausoleum for Diocletian, the last…

Euphrasian Basilica

Top billing in Poreč goes to the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica, a World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s finest intact examples of Byzantine art. Built…

Roman Amphitheatre

Pula’s most famous and imposing sight is this 1st-century oval amphitheatre, overlooking the harbour northeast of the old town. It's a huge and truly…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 top things to do in croatia in 2024.

Mljet National Park

Mljet Island

Covering 5400 hectares of land and sea at the western end of the island of Mljet, this national park offers shady walking and cycling tracks, a ruggedly…

Lush Lokrum is a beautiful, forested island full of holm oaks, black ash, pines and olive trees, only a 10-minute ferry ride from Dubrovnik's Old Harbour…

Trg Bana Jelačića

Zagreb’s main orientation point and its geographic heart is Trg Bana Jelačića – it's where most people arrange to meet up. If you enjoy people-watching,…

Biokovo Nature Park

Central Dalmatia

The limestone Biokovo massif offers wonderful hiking opportunities. If you’re hiking independently, you have to enter the park at the beginning of…

Skradinski Buk

Krka National Park

The highlight of Krka National Park, an hour-long loop follows boardwalks, connects little islands in the emerald-green, fish-filled river and terminates…

Kopački Rit Nature Park

Only 12km northeast of Osijek, Kopački Rit Nature Park is one of the largest wetlands in Europe: 293 bird species have been recorded here. Formed by the…

Looming high above the town and lit with a golden glow at night, this medieval castle occupies the site of an ancient Illyrian settlement dating from…

Mother of Mercy Franciscan Monastery

Upstream of Skradinski Buk waterfall the Krka River broadens into Lake Viskovac, a habitat for marsh birds. At its centre is a tree-fringed island, the…

Zadar’s incredible Sea Organ, designed by local architect Nikola Bašić, is unique. Set within the perforated stone stairs that descend into the sea is a…

Sun Salutation

Another wacky and wonderful creation by Nikola Bašić (the local architect who designed the nearby Sea Organ), this 22m-wide circle set into the pavement…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

Walking along medieval walls, white-water rafting, and hiking through national parks – all these and more are our favorite things to do in Croatia.

Things to Know

Plan the perfect trip to Croatia with these insider tips on health, safety and etiquette.

Transportation

Croatia's public transport allows you to ditch the car and relax as a ferry gets you from A to B. Here's all you need to know about getting around Croatia.

Visa Requirements

Travel to Croatia is easy. Even if you don't need a visa, you may need to a waiver to visit. Read on for information on visiting or working in Croatia.

Money and Costs

Take the bus. Visit off season. Eat up at local bakeries. We’ve rounded up these and more tips for making your euro go further on your next Croatia trip.

Traveling with Kids

From the tiniest tots to the tallest teens, Croatia has lots of attractions that delight the whole family. Here's how to plan your trip with the kids in tow.

Best Road Trips

With its stunning Adriatic coastline that reveals one beauty spot after another, Croatia was made for road-tripping. Here are seven of the best drives.

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Croatia and beyond

Croatia Travel Guide: Things To Know Before Traveling To Croatia

Welcome to our Croatia Travel Guide where you will find all the information you need for planning a trip to Croatia.

When I think of Croatia, I associate it with small, safe, sublime, pebbles, islands, sea, and countryside. The country has over a thousand islands , 8 national parks , 11 nature parks, over 6.000 km of coastline, and ten World Heritage sites .

From Paklenica climbing sites , beautiful beaches of central Dalmatia , the great food of Istria , Croatia’s fabulous wines, partying on the islands, and sailing the Adriatic , Croatia has much to offer its visitors.

We’ve dedicated this entire website to this wonderful country. Vera was born and raised in Croatia, and I moved here in 2005. We’ve been traveling around Croatia extensively. And here at our blog, we share the best of Croatia just as we discover it.

Visitors to Croatia can find useful travel tips , in-depth destination guides, things to do , places to stay , and lots of information on Croatian food and restaurants. I also sometimes share my musings on ex-pat life in Croatia .

Table of Contents

Where is Croatia located?

Before moving forward, let’s get the basic facts sorted out. Croatia is located in Europe! It is a Central European and Mediterranean country, bordered by the Adriatic Sea to the west. Croatia shares borders with Italy, Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Montenegro. It shares The longest land border with Bosnia and the longest sea border with Italy.

Below you will find the location of Croatia on the map.

Do you need a visa?

Most foreign visitors don’t need a visa to enter Croatia, including, but not limited to, EU countries, the UK, the USA, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.

Foreign citizens of those countries can enter Croatia and stay here for 90 days within 180 days.

Citizens of EU countries can enter Croatia using only their ID cards; all others need to travel with a valid passport to enter Croatia.

If you require a visa to enter Croatia but hold a valid Schengen visa, as well as visas for Cyprus, Romania, and Bulgaria, you don’t need a separate visa for Croatia. You are free to travel to Croatia under the condition of your current visa from the above-mentioned countries.

If you require a visa for Croatia, you can print and fill out the application forms here and submit them along with the requested documents to the Croatian Embassy, Consulate, or an accredited tourist agency.

To apply for a Croatian visa, you’ll need a valid passport issued less than 10 years ago with an expiry date at least three months after the intended departure date from Croatia.

All questions regarding visa you can send via [email protected].

Weather in Croatia

Croatia has three distinct climates: the continental climate in its interior, the Mediterranean along the coast, and the mountain above 1200 m.

Along the coast, you can expect dry, hot, and sunny summers and mild, although sometimes wet, winters. Weather along the south Adriatic region of Dalmatia is generally drier and sunnier than in the northern Adriatic region of Istria. Daily temperatures can differ up to 5°C (40°F).

Although the average summer temperatures are around 22°C (72°F), in July and August, you can expect over 40 days with daily temperatures of over 30°C (86°F).  Average winter temperatures are around 10°C, with January being the coldest month with daily average temperatures of less than 10°C (50°F).  The average sea temperature varies from 12°C (54°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer.

Croatia’s interior has a moderate continental climate. Winters are cold and wet, with lots of fog, while summers get hot and dry.  Average winter temperatures are around 4°C (40°F), while the average summer temperature is around 22°C (72°F).

Money in Croatia

Croatian currency.

The Croatian currency is Euro, a common European currency, as of January 1, 2023. At the time of writing this article, for 1 $, you get almost 1 € (0,94  to be exact), for 1 £ you get 1,13 €, for 1 CAD, you get 0,70 €, and 1 AUD will get you 0,64 €.

Exchanging the money in Croatia

The majority of the exchange offices advertise a “no commission policy”. While it is true that they don’t charge the typical commission, they do set their own exchange rates. These rates can vary significantly. Beware of these discrepancies, and shop around for the best rate.

ATM machines in Croatia

When withdrawing money from an ATM, try to use official banks’ ATM machines (they should have a sign of one of the Croatian banks like Zagrebacka, Privredna OTP, Erste, or Adikko Bank). These ATM machines are usually near the bank’s branch offices.

In resorts and hotels, you’ll often find Euronet (blue and yellow), Auro Domus ATM machines (yellow and black), or any other non-bank ATM machine. While they are often located at more prominent spots in towns, hotels, and resorts and are thus more convenient to use, they are also more expensive. However, if convenience is more important to you than a few euros here and there, go ahead and use these machines as well. I personally never use them.

Credit cards in Croatia

Although credit cards are widely accepted in Croatia, they aren’t accepted everywhere. One of the first things you will notice in Croatia is the abundance of ATM machines wherever you go. Smaller businesses, as well as some restaurants and bars, prefer cash. A general rule of thumb is that if you see a credit card sticker at the door or near the cashier, you should be able to pay by credit card. But the only safe way to know is to actually ask.

Another thing regarding money that you need to be aware of is the so-called dynamic currency conversion . This basically means that the amount of your credit card transaction is converted to your home currency at the point of sale (rather than by the card issuer).

In hotels or restaurants, or just about anywhere you intend to pay by credit card, the staff will ask you if you prefer the charge in local currency (Euro) or your own currency. While theoretically, you might sometimes profit from being charged in your own currency by a merchant on the spot, it rarely happens in reality. You will just end up paying more than you otherwise would. So, always choose to pay in local currency . Or ask for the exchange rate and compare it with the one you find that day on the internet.

When is the high season in Croatia?

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

However, the busiest time is not always the best time to visit Croatia.

Best time to visit Croatia

The best time of the year to visit Croatia is in June and September . There are far fewer people around (definitely no queues, traffic jams, or crowded beaches), the weather is still warm and sunny, prices are more affordable, and the sea is warm enough to swim in. Another tip: The Sea is usually warmer in September than in June.

Also, remember that Croatia is extremely popular among Germans and Austrians, especially the northern Adriatic regions of Istria and Kvarner. So, crowds (and accommodation prices) tend to increase around German school holidays (like Corpus Christi – it’s either in mid-May to early June or late May to mid-June; it changes from year to year). Ha, but this also means that in the year when German school holidays are in May, hotels often offer special discounts for June. And vice versa.

What to bring to Croatia

We all have our own rules and tricks when it comes to packing. However, we’ll give you a few ideas on what to bring and what to wear in Croatia.

Croatia has four seasons and three distinctive climates: a Mediterranean climate along the coast, a mountain climate on its rugged mountains, and a continental climate inland.

This means that if you are visiting Croatia during the summer, most of your clothes should be light. Nevertheless, a windbreaker jacket, a pair of long pants, and leggings always come in handy. For the rest, take a couple of shorts and tops that you can mix and match or a few casual summer dresses. Don’t forget your beachwear, including swimsuits and cover-ups, water shoes, sunglasses, and a microfiber towel. A pair of sandals and a pair of walking shoes are also a must, as well as a travel money belt .

Also, with luggage restrictions and weight limits, it’s worth investing in lightweight luggage  to travel to Croatia.

As for the rest, don’t forget your photo equipment (with plenty of extra batteries), waterproof phone bag, adapters, converters, and other small things you will find indispensable in Croatia. Croatia uses 220V, 50 Hz frequency, and type C & F plugs. Both are similar plugs with two round prongs with 19 mm between them.

Here is our full post on what to bring and what to wear in Croatia. 

Getting to Croatia

Traveling to Croatia from anywhere in Europe is quite easy. From April through September, many airlines have direct flights from all over Europe to all major Croatian towns. Besides, Split and Zagreb are connected by plane with the rest of Europe throughout the year. For detailed information on flights scheduled to Croatia, consult the CheapOair website.

We’ve also recently found out about Scott’s cheap flights program . They basically search for airline mistakes or intentionally great deals and email them to you. We haven’t used it, but it seems worth a try (they have a free plan too).

You can also travel to Croatia from other European towns by bus . Bus schedules are a bit harder to search for as many bus companies run the service. However, if you want to travel by bus, we highly recommend using the GetByBus website to check and book intercity buses in Croatia and beyond.

You can also check with a local bus station once you are at your destination and can physically walk there. Getting information over the phone or email can be impractical and expensive (yes, they still use automated phone machines that make you wait forever and charge you a fortune for waiting!).

Find out more here:

• Zagreb Bus Station
• Split Bus Station
• Zadar Bus Station

Train connections to and around Croatia are quite limited, and we generally don’t recommend traveling by train to Croatia. However, if you really have to, you can find more information on the Croatian Railways website .

International ferries connect Croatia and Italy. Directferries’ website is the best place to check ferries schedules and book tickets online. Jadrolinija operates Bari to Dubrovnik, Split to Ancona, Split to Bari, and Zadar to Ancona car ferry lines, while Venezialines passenger ferry connects Porec, Rovinj, and Pula with Venice.

Our favorite way to travel around Europe, and to Croatia as well, is by car . Whether it’s your own car or a rental car , it’s the most convenient way to move around Europe.

Getting around Croatia

The best way to travel around Croatia is by car . Croatia is a small country with great roads and nice little villages , totally worth a detour. The only way to really discover the country is to travel by car. We’ve written a full post about driving in Croatia and car rental in Croatia .

Another excellent way to travel around Croatia is by bus . Buses are modern, fast, affordable, and frequent. The islands and Istria are the only places we wouldn’t recommend bus traveling . For the rest, if you can’t travel by car for whatever reason, hop on the bus and enjoy the ride. Use BookAway to check lines and schedules and to book your bus ticket online.

Ferries are still the most popular and sometimes the only way to get to the islands. The main ferry ports include Rijeka, Zadar, and Split, but ferries also depart from smaller coastal towns like Brsecine, Makarska, Drvenik, Orebic, Ploce, and Prapratno. Jadrolinija is the largest ferry operator in Croatia, and its ferries cover most of the routes. You can also book your ferry tickets for some routes online through the Bookaway website .

Public transportation in bigger towns is reliable and efficient. Split, Rijeka, Zadar, Pula, and Dubrovnik use city buses, while Zagreb has an extensive network of electric trams and city buses. Public transport costs around 2€ per ride.

Taxis are generally pricey (except in Zagreb and Rijeka), but since Uber entered the market in 2015, cab rides have become more affordable. UberX is available in most popular tourist towns like Zagreb, Split, Rovinj, Dubrovnik, Zadar, etc… Uber and Cammeo Taxi are the cheapest taxi options in Croatia. However, both companies also adjust their rates to demand dynamically, and rates generally increase during the main tourist season.

Croatia holiday destinations

One of the most common questions is  where to go in Croatia . Many visitors who travel to Croatia for the first time tend to visit the main tourist towns and attractions, like Zagreb, Split, Plitvice, Hvar, and Dubrovnik. However, Croatia has many hidden gems , charming villages , wonderful natural sites , and  beautiful beaches .

Where to go depends heavily on the type of traveler you are, the things you want to do , the time you plan to spend in Croatia, and your budget .

We have written extensive travel guides on the following holiday destinations in Croatia:

• Split Travel Guide
• Dubrovnik Travel Guide
• Zagreb Travel Guide
• Plitvice Lakes Travel Guide
• Hvar Island Travel Guide
• Rovinj Travel Guide
• Porec Travel Guide
• Rabac Travel Guide
• Pula Travel Guide
• Brac Island Travel Guide
• Peljesac Peninsula Travel Guide
• Dalmatia Region Travel Guide
• Dubrovnik Region Travel Guide
• Istria Travel Guide

National parks

Croatia is a small country with a surface of just over 56.000 m2. However, due to its geographical location, geomorphological and ecological conditions, and climate, in terms of biodiversity, Croatia is one of the richest countries in Europe.

The nature here is divine: from the Adriatic sea and high-rising mountains to the plains of Slavonia and the rolling hills of Istria and Zagorje.

The country has eight national parks, ten nature parks, and two strict reserves. Almost 10% of the country’s territory is protected. The national parks of Kornati, Brijuni, and Mljet are located on the islands and are characterized by rich marine life. The Risnjak, Northern Velebit, and Paklenica national parks cover mountainous areas. They all feature interesting limestone rocks, meadows, and vast forests.

Plitvice Lakes, Croatia’s most visited national park, and Krka national park are famed for their lakes, streams, rapids, and waterfalls.

Unesco World Heritage Sites

Croatia doesn’t lack cultural and historical sites. Even ten of them made it to the Unesco World Heritage Sites list.

These sites include The Euphrasian Basilica in Porec, St. James Cathedral in Sibenik, the old town of Trogir, Diocletian Palace in Split, Dubrovnik old town , Stari grad planes on the island of Hvar, Plitvice Lakes, the Venetian Works of Defence from the 16th and 17th centuries in Zadar and Sibenik, Stećci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards in Cista Provo and Konavle, and Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests in national parks Paklenica and Northern Velebit.

With the exception of the Plitvice Lakes, all other sights are located along the coast. Here is our list of 10 Unesco World Heritage Sites in Croatia not to be missed.

Accommodation

We often get asked about the best type of accommodation in Croatia. For this reason, we’ve written a full post on different types of accommodation in Croatia , with their pros and cons.

Croatia offers a variety of accommodations to choose from: hotels, hostels, apartments, villa rentals, and campsites. Which is right for you depends heavily on your travel style and budget.

Croatia is mostly seen as a  4-star family destination . However, some destinations are fancier than others. This is particularly true for Dubrovnik, Hvar Town, and partially Rovinj.

We’ve written extensive guides on accommodation in the following destinations in Croatia:

• Where to stay in Split
• Where to stay in Dubrovnik
• Accommodation in Zagreb
• Where to stay in Rovinj
• The Best Hotels in Rovinj
• Where to stay in Porec
• Plitvice Lakes Accommodation
• Where to stay in Pula
• The 12 Best Makarska Hotels

Hotels in Croatia

A good choice of 5-star hotels you’ll find in Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Rovinj, and Losinj Island. Although some hotels offer an all-inclusive formula, all-inclusive resorts aren’t popular in Croatia. All-inclusive Croatia mostly refers to a full board meal plan with unlimited selected drinks at mealtimes. Many hotels in Croatia offer a half-board meal plan , and dinner often comes cheap when purchased as a part of a room rate.

Booking.com is by far the most popular website for browsing and booking hotels in Croatia. They offer the most flexible booking policy and offer the most choice of properties. You can also check the hotel’s official website. Sometimes hotels offer special deals available only through their website.

Apartments in Croatia

Many Croatians rent apartments to tourists. Apartments are a good alternative to hotels. They are cheaper, offer more space, and come with a fully-equipped kitchen.

Apartment rentals, just like hotels, need to be licensed and get an official star rating. The most popular websites for apartment rentals in Croatia are Booking.com and Airbnb.

Villas in Croatia

Another popular and emerging type of accommodation is villa rentals . Mostly located off the big tourist resorts, these villas offer peace and quiet, and lots of privacy. Besides, villas come with a pool where you can chill all day long.

Croatia is also a very popular camping destination . There are lots of campsites all along the coast, and just a few of them are in continental Croatia.

Popular campsites in Croatia include Lanterna in Porec , Valkanela in Vrsar, Polari in Rovinj, Park Umag, and Zaton near Zadar. The best place to make yourself familiar with Croatian campsites is the Camping.hr website, an official website of the Croatian Camping Association.

Many of our readers reach out to us with a question about driving in Croatia, road condition, and safety on Croatian roads. Croatian roads are in very good condition. A fairly new multi-lane motorway connects Zagreb to the north and Rijeka to the northwest with Ploce in the south.

Tolls apply on all multi-lane motorways named with the letter A, as well as on some tunnels (eg. Ucka tunnel between Rijeka & Istria), etc. A one-way fee from Zagreb to Split (approx. 400 km) costs 24 € (25 $)*.

Besides motorways, you can also travel on toll-free state roads. These roads are also in good condition, but a single carriageway road, with a single lane for each direction, and some of them, particularly a coastal road D1, are winding.

*prices checked in January 2023

Renting a car

The best way to explore Croatia is by car. And if you don’t travel in your own car, don’t shy away from renting a car in Croatia. You’ll be able to take in the sights; travel off the beaten path; see more in less time, and have the freedom to stop wherever and whenever you feel.

Car rental in Croatia is very  seasonal . This simply means that you’ll need to secure your car rental well in advance if you plan on visiting Croatia in July and August. This also means that  rental prices  increase dramatically in these two summer months. We recommend using Rentalcars.com for your car rental in Croatia.

Tourist registration

All tourists staying in Croatia need to be registered at a local tourist office. And non-EU citizens will also be automatically registered with the police.

This is the reason why during the check-in process at any hotel, private accommodation, or campsite, you’ll be requested to show (and often leave until the next morning) your passport or an ID card.

We love food in Croatia. It’s varied, fresh, local, and tasty. In continental Croatia, people eat lots of meat, while a diet in coastal regions is heavily based on fish, other seafood, and green veggies.

As a traveler, you might also make some false assumptions based on food offered in touristy restaurants along the coast. These restaurants often offer what tourists ask for, and not necessarily typical Croatian dishes.

One of the most popular posts on our blog is our post on must-try Croatian dishes . Make sure to read it so you don’t miss some of the local specialties.

We also give a couple of tips on where to find local, delicious, and cheap eats in Croatia .

And don’t miss our ultimate list of the best places to eat in Croatia . Istrian restaurants rank the highest on this list.

Tap water is safe to drink in Croatia. However, if you still prefer to drink bottled water, bear in mind that bottled water is extremely expensive here. For instance, a 1.5 L bottle of natural water costs around 0.9 € in a supermarket, 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 18. Among alcoholic drinks, wines, beer, and spirits are very popular in Croatia.

Drinking usually takes place at cafe bars, serving any kind of drinks, from coffee, and tea, to wine, beer, and any alcoholic drinks. Cafes work all day, opening as early as 6 am, and closing usually around midnight. Nightclubs, pubs, and some bars work until 4 am.

Local wines are good. In the last two decades, many small, family-run wineries have set high standards in the production of quality wines made of indigenous grape varieties, like Malvazija, a dry white wine produced in Istria , or Plavac Mali, a red variety dominating vineyards of the southern Dalmatia .

Croatians also drink lots of beer , but you’ll hardly find an exciting choice of beers here in Croatia (not the case any longer, the craft beer scene in Croatia is now super exciting! ). The most popular mass-produced local beers are Karlovacko and Ozujsko, both light-lager types. In recent years many microbreweries started putting on the market a more appealing craft beer, like San Servolo , LAB, or Zmajska Pivovara .

Spirits are very popular in Croatia, and they come in a variety of flavors. Here they are called rakija . The basic one is most often produced from grapes (called Loza), but then they are flavored with different ingredients. The most popular are travarica (herb brandy), medica (honey brandy), orahovaca (walnut brandy), visnja (cherry brandy), mirta (myrtle brandy), and rogac (carob brandy).

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance covers all kinds of situations if things go wrong: from luggage loss, to trip cancellation, to medical assistance.

If you are an EU citizen then your European Medical Insurance Card covers your basic medical needs and emergency medical care. However, it doesn’t cover emergency transport to your home country.

Non-EU citizens are advised to check with their embassies for what level of medical care they are covered in Croatia, as it heavily depends on the bilateral and reciprocal agreement between the countries.

For other damages like document and baggage loss, loss of belongings, and trip cancellation, you’ll definitely need to purchase travel insurance. There are many travel insurance companies offering different insurance options and packages. You can compare all your options using a website like Travel Insurance Review .

We recommend buying travel insurance from Safety Wing . Available to people from the majority of countries (only sanctioned countries are exempt) it’s designed for all kinds of travelers. And it covers overseas medical, evacuation, baggage, and a range of travel misadventures and delays. And, one child up to 10 years of age is included in an adult’s policy free of charge. You can buy it and claim it online , even after you’ve left home.

Tours and activities

Croatia offers a lot of activities to do for all ages and all year round. The country is rich in history, natural beauty, ancient towns, wonderful architecture, pristine beaches, and rugged mountains.

Foodies will enjoy exploring restaurants in Croatia, especially in Istria, Zagreb, Dubrovnik , and Split . Croatia produces some of the world’s best extra virgin olive oils (if you wonder why you should care, read Tom Mueller’s book Extra Virginity: the sublime and scandalous world of olive oil ). There are lots of places where you can go for an  olive oil tasting , and learn how to distinguish the real stuff from the crap. A visit to a winery  is a must in Croatia, particularly in Istria.

Tisno on the island of Murter, Novalja on the island of Pag, and the town of Hvar offer 24 h partying for the young and restless.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Omis, Paklenica, and Cicarija. They all offer an endless choice of adventures  to enjoy.

We’ve written a full post on  things to do in Croatia . You can also check the Get Your Guide website for a full list of tours and activities in Croatia.

Itineraries

We are often asked to suggest or revise a proposed itinerary for Croatia. So here are a few things to bear in mind when planning your Croatian itinerary.

Although the country is relatively small, it’s long (from Umag in the northwest to Dubrovnik in the south there is over 700 km), and it’s not that quick to travel from north or west to the south.

If you plan to visit Croatia for less than a week , we highly recommend you pick up one destination and stick to it. Do day trips from there , but don’t pretend to visit the entire country in less than a week. Also, in July and August, you need to take into account possible traffic jams, and congestion on the roads, as well as queues for ferries.

If you stay a week or ten days , you can include a few highlights in your itinerary, like Zagreb, Plitvice, Split, and Dubrovnik.

Suggested week itineraries

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

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

c | Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes – Istria

Suggested two-week itineraries

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

If you prefer to join a group tour, we highly recommend checking tours proposed via Tour Radar. They have a classical coach and boat tours, but they also have a great choice of adventure, cycling, and various themed tours.

Here are a few suggested group tours found on Tour Radar:

Croatia & Adriatic Cruise

This 11-day tour gives you the best of continental Croatia and the Adriatic. The tour starts in Zagreb, and ends in Split, with a visit to 10 other destinations in between. We like that this tour takes you to the Peljesac Peninsula, one of our favorite regions in Croatia. You also get to see Korcula, Hvar, Elafiti Islands and Mljet islands. The small cruise ship can fit 30 passengers in air-conditioned cabins.

Check availability and prices!

Best of Croatia and Slovenia

This 11-day discovery coach tour starts in Zagreb and ends in Dubrovnik. However, it’s packed full of exciting destinations in Croatia, and neighboring Slovenia including Ljubljana, Bled, Rovinj, Opatija, Plitvice, Trogir, Split, and Peljesac peninsula. You will get to see many great destinations in a short period of time, while still having ample time on your own. The tour also includes one special “Be my guest” dinner where you get a chance to experience a traditional meal with a local family.

Croatia Island Hopper from Split

This 8-day island hopping tour operated by G Adventures is one of the most popular tours in Croatia on Tour Radar. The boat tour starts and ends in Dubrovnik with stops in Hvar, Mljet, Korcula, Brac, and Solta.

Cycling the Dalmatian Coast

A small group tour takes you from Split to Dubrovnik in 8 days on your bicycle. The tour provides accommodation, meals, and transportation. You’ll get a chance to test your cycling abilities in Hvar and Korcula Island, along the Peljesac peninsula and Dubrovnik. The tour is intended for all levels of cyclists. The scenery along the route is lovely.

When you think of shopping, Croatia doesn’t necessarily come to mind. However, there are a couple of awesome things to buy in Croatia.

Croatian artisan olive oils are some of the best in the world. Croatian design and concept stores are also making momentum; check the Take Me Home store in Zagreb or Prostoria in Rovinj for some original souvenirs, accessories, unique clothes, bags, and jewelry.

We’ve written a full post on the subject: Croatian souvenirs: fun, cool, and authentic . Don’t forget a high-end tie store – Kravata Croata .

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

Supermarkets are open throughout the day, Monday to Saturday. On Sunday some shops are open all day, particularly in shopping centers, while downtown shops often close at 1 pm or 3 pm. In summer, along the coast, shops are open seven days a week, and often as late as midnight.

Is Croatia a safe place?

Croatia is a very safe country with very little street crime and almost no violence. However, as everywhere, take care of your belongings, especially when using public transport.

Land mines are still present but in remote areas where tourists rarely visit anyway.

Croatia travel guide: Internet

The Internet in Croatia is widely available. WiFi coverage is pretty good, with many towns offering free wifi hot spots at prominent places in a town. Most of the private accommodations, as well as hotels, and even campsites, offer a free WiFi internet connection.

However, the broadband internet in Croatia isn’t as fast as you are perhaps used to. At least it’s not as fast everywhere in Croatia. In bigger towns, the internet is fast, easily available, and reliable. According to Speedtest.net , Croatia has the 22nd fastest download speed for mobile internet in the whole world. But, the fixed broadband is pretty slow (Croatia takes 89th place on the global scale).

The average internet download speed in Croatia in March 2023 was 71,16 Mbps for mobile, and 45,61 Mbps for fixed broadband.

Roaming charges

Since the summer of 2017, roaming surcharges within EU countries don’t exist longer. This means that, if you are with any EU mobile provider, you will pay the same prices for data, calls, and SMS as you would pay back home.

How free is free? You need to check with your provider what’s the amount of roaming data within the EU. For example, we have a flat rate for internet data in our mobile phone rate package. But, when we spent two months in Spain in the winter of 2022, we realized that we have only 10 GB of data free of charge in other EU countries.

So while the roaming data is free in the EU, the free data isn’t unlimited. Anyways, 10 GB is pretty enough, unless you are binge-watching Netflix shows for hours at times. I hope you don’t do that on vacation!

However, roaming charges for other countries are still pretty high. You can purchase some of the mobile operators’ packages either in your home country or in Croatia.

In Croatia, Telemach sells 10-days unlimited surfing for less than 11 € while T-com sells 7-days unlimited surfing for 11€ . It includes nano, micro, or SMS card. You can buy these packages at gas stations, newsstands, T-com or Telemach centers, and Croatian post offices.

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

Is Croatia part of the EU & Schengen visa regiment

As of January 1, 2023, Croatia is a member of Schengen, and thus it is a part of the Schengen visa regiment. This means that there aren’t border or customs controls between Croatia and other Schengen member countries for people crossing the borders by road, rail, or water. However, border and customs controls at the airports will stay in place until March 2023.

If you have a valid Schengen visa, you don’t need a separate visa to visit Croatia and vice versa. This also means that visiting Croatia and the days spent here will count toward 90 days maximum stay within 180 days for your Schengen visa.

When crossing into and out of the non-EU, and non-Schengen countries, you’ll still need to show your documents at the border, and vice versa. These include Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Montenegro.

The sea and sun are still two main reasons for so many people to visit Croatia. Croatia has over 6.000 km of coastline and over 1.000 islands. The two most popular coastal regions are Istria to the north and Dalmatia to the south.

The Croatian coast is mostly rocky with pebble beaches mostly formed in coves and bays. Makarska Riviera, located in central Dalmatia, offers  the most beautiful beaches in all of Croatia . Perfectly round and small pebbles that feel almost like sand but that don’t stick on you forever.

The sea is limpid and clear, you can often see the seabed from far away. My in-laws have a seafront property in Komarna , in southern Dalmatia, and I can see the fish swim in the sea from the third floor of their house.

So, if you search for that perfect sandy beach, you might get disappointed with the beaches in Croatia. Although there are some sandy beaches here too, they are simply not a Croatian thing.

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

Parking in Croatia

If you travel to and around Croatia by car, you might wonder about the parking situation in Croatia. Generally speaking the majority of hotels and private accommodations offer a parking spot free of charge.

However, bear in mind that city centers are usually car-free zones or have limited car traffic. If your accommodation is within the city center enquire about parking before booking.

There are three types of parking: garage parking, open-air parking lots, and street parking. Expect to pay around 1.1 € to 1.6 € per hour in town centers. However, some parking is more expensive, like parking at Riva in Split which cost 4 € an hour; then, in Dubrovnik, where you will pay for an hour of parking in Zone 0 as much as 10 €.

We talk more in-depth about parking in our destination guides . Don’t forget to check them once you decide on your destination .

Do people speak English in Croatia?

You don’t speak Croatian? No worries, most Croatians speak at least some English, and many speak at least another foreign language. Besides English, German and Italian are the most widely spoken languages in Croatia.

Is Croatia expensive to travel to?

Croatia isn’t a cheap place to visit. It’s more expensive than the neighboring countries, like Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, or Hungary.

Generally speaking, continental Croatia and Zagreb, in particular, keep prices moderate to, I would dare to say, even cheap.  However, the coast is mostly expensive, and the prices tend to increase year after year.

That said, if you travel on a tight budget, you can still keep it under control. Stay away from top destinations (visit them but sleep somewhere else), come in the off-season, explore places off-the-beaten-path, forget hotels, choose instead an apartment with a fully-equipped kitchen and prepare your own meals, ask locals for good value restaurants, etc.

Check our budget tips for traveling in Croatia , and also a post on the total Croatia trip cost .

Tipping in Croatia

People often ask us what’s 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, simply round up the bill. We on the other hand, out of habit, always leave around 10%, and only if we are satisfied with the service.

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 time zone Croatia is in?

Croatia belongs to the Central European Time Zone, meaning it is one hour ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time), and two hours ahead of GMT when daylight saving time is observed.

Daylight saving time makes us move our watches one hour ahead. It takes place from the last Sunday in March until the last Sunday in October.

Find here the time differences between some major towns when compared to Croatia:

• Barcelona: 0
• London: – 1 hour
• Montreal: – 6 hours
• New York City: -6 hours
• L.A.: -9 hours
• Chicago: -7 hours
• Tokyo: +7 hours
• Sydney: +8 hours

If you are traveling from overseas, you will certainly experience jet lag when visiting Croatia. You can check this no-jet lag homeopathic remedy to ease your symptoms.

How much is VAT in Croatia and is it refundable?

At the moment, VAT in Croatia is 25% for the majority of products. If you are a foreigner without permanent or temporary residence in Croatia, you can ask for a tax refund for all purchases above 100 €.

Ask the salesperson for the tax-free form at the moment of purchase. Fill it up, get it stamped right there, and then again at the airport, or at the border by a customs officer. You have six months from the purchase date to claim your VAT return by mailing it back to the shop where you originally bought the item.

Another way to achieve a VAT tax refund is to look for shops that are part of the Global Blue Tax-Free service . They all have a sign displayed in the window along with the working hours, and credit cards that they accept. The procedure is similar (fill up the tax-free form and get it stamped at the shop, and at the airport), but the refund is quicker and can be obtained already at the airport, in Global Blue’s office.

Croatia plugs, adapters, and converters

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

If the plugs of your devices are different,  you will certainly need an adapter in order to charge them. You can find one here.

While adapters will help you use your plugs in Croatia, converters will help transform voltages from higher to smaller or vice versa. If you need a converter you can easily buy one on Amazon .

Recommended travel guides

• 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

• Croatia Travel Guide: 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 useful. Is there anything else you’d like to know? Let us know in the comments below.

Frankaboutcroatia.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This post might also contain affiliate links to other sites, like accommodation or activities. And if you purchase anything using these links, we earn a little commission with no extra costs for you. Thank you for supporting our blog! Read full disclaimer here.

Home / Croatia Travel Tips / Croatia Travel Guide: Things To Know Before Traveling To Croatia

48 thoughts on “Croatia Travel Guide: Things To Know Before Traveling To Croatia”

Love your blog. A lot of useful info.

We’re thinking of coming in mid-October to November 4. Will tourist sites still be open in that first week of November?

Thanks for your input.

I am Croatian and I must say, epic post!

Hi we plan to travel to Croatia in July 2020. I am trying to convince my husband to rent a car but he is worried about driving in a foreign country. Can you give any opinion on this topic? I am more worried about the inconsistency of travelling by train and having to wait and plan with the transportation schedules, as well as carrying luggage everywhere.

Hi Marcia, this is the exact reason why we suggest that you take your charges in Kuna. Because your credit card doesn’t charge you a transaction fee. If you take it in your home country, then Croatian bank will charge the transaction fee, or rather they will use the less favorable exchange rate, so they make money. Just keep it in the local currency, even more so if your credit card doesn’t charge these fees. Hope this helps.

You stated that it is probably best to request credit charges be made in kuna, rather than US currency. If my credit card does not charge a foreign transaction fee, would that still be true?

Firstly, congratulations on your brilliant web site, so helpful to first time visitors to Croatia. We are staying on Korcula at the end of September, would you recommend booking the ferry, and if so which is the best web site to use?

It all depends. Zagreb is ok for a day or two, Split for two or three, the same goes for Dubrovnik, or Rovinj.

Thanks for all the info. We are coming from Canada for a 10 day stay beginning of July. We fly in & out of Zagreb but want to see Split & go up north for a bit too to see some family birthplaces. How much time do you recommend for each city stay & absolute must sees while we are there?

Epic post Frank! I’ve spent the last couple of summers sailing around Croatia and think it’s incredible. Favorite island is most probably Kos. Have some great memories of playing cricket with some of the locals. Cant wait to get back!

What is the best option to travel from Zagreb to Venice

This was amazing and super helpful! For first timers going to Croatia (about a week) where do you recommend going? Was planning for a July trip, but your post sort of scared me to be mentally prepared ha!

Do you ever work with readers to come up with an itinerary?

This was super helpful! Thanks!

Great info…thank you very much. My Bride and I will be in Croatia from Sep 11 to Sep 20. We will arriving in Dubrovnik and leaving from Zagreb. We are planing to stay 3 days in Dubrovnik, 3 in Split and 2 in Zagreb. Would you recommend any changes to this and what places around those three cities are a must? We will have a car. We love waterfronts, small (Mom & Pop) licensed restaurants, some beach time and sightseeing. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Mário & Fatima Sousa…….Mississauga, Canada

Hi Frank! Thank you for all of the info. I am a bit overwhelmed. My husband, 2 adult daughters and I are planning our trip to Croatia in late May/early June 2019 for a week to 10 days. We love adventures! What itinerary would you suggest?

Great info, thank you. We are planning our trip for Sept/Oct 2019, touring around Croatia and neighboring countries for 2 weeks. Planning on staying just outside of Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik. We are travelling from Canada, renting a car and booking Apartments and BnB’s. Wondering if there would be any significant differences between September and October for weather, costs, tourism, crowds, etc. Thanks in advance.

Your blog is really helpful.

We are from India and we are planning to visit croatia in the last week of february, 2019. And we are majorly looking to cover North (Alps, Gorski Kotar) and South (the beaches and other popular places).

Since we are not fully aware of the weather conditions in Feb, I wanted to ask whether it is decent enough to travel in feb? without any complications brought in by weather?

I am planning a week-long trip to Croatia in September with 8 young adult family members. Is it best to go from city to city staying in a hotel, rent a villa one place and do day trips or rent a boat and go down the coast? Amy

In Septemeber everything should still be open. No worries.

I always go with 10% when in restaurants. As for the rest, you give what you feel. Normally, you collect from the entire group and you give it at the end of trip if you were happy with the service. I am not aware that there is a tipping rule for drivers and guides as for how much should you tip. You basically tip what you feel they deserve.

There is plenty things for kids to do. If I knew where exactly you go, I could have provided more info

Porec, Rovinj, Bol, Brela

thanks for sharing, Lynn! Great clip, it shows well what to expect. However, most of the video is made in the northern part of the road, between Rijeka and Zadar.

Thanks for reading, May! Hope you had a great time in Croatia.

Haven’t been there, Kass. Sorry!

great! let us know if we can help with anything

Have fun, and drop us a line if you have a question

You can stay in Zagreb for a day, Plitvice either for a day or in transit from Zagreb to Split, Hvar for 2-3 days if you want to visit the entire island; otherwise book an island tour from Split. So if you only want to stay in two or three of these towns, make it Zagreb, SPlit and Dubrovnik, because they are best located to do day trips elsewhere.

Thanks for all the great advice. For a two week holiday, can you suggest which towns to stay in? I’d love to visit Zagreb, Plitvice, KrKra, Split, Hvar and Dubrovnik. I’d like to stay in two or three places and do the rest from there.

Great blog. Thanks for the info. We – fellow Canadians – plan to spend Jan to Mar 2019 in Croatia, basically in the Trogir area. We’d appreciate any further thoughts you’d wish to pass on.

I would like to know about tipping in Croatia for bus drivers and tour guides. Our travel club is bring a group to Croatia in May 2019.

Hi..We are planning to visit next year..Have children who will be agedelivered 11 and 13..are there things for them to do?

Hi there. Thanks for all the information. So useful! Question re timing. I would head over in the September holidays to beat the crowds but want to check most of the bars etc are still open all year round. Sometimes in countries like Japan where we lived for 8 years they are very strict on seasons and so going outside (even slightly) means u go to a great beach bar only to find it closed. Thanks

Thank you for your blog and the very valuable information you provide. My family (a total of 16 of us) are visiting Croatia at the end of this month. 3 of us are from BC Canada so it has been even more exciting to hear what you have to share.

Hello Just found your blog and its just what i,m after, so much information. I am visiting Croatia next month with my son, we are staying near Trogir. I was going to take kuna but you say most places take Euros? I have rented a car and plan to travel around a bit. Thanks Karl

I am watching the World Cup finaland cheering for the team! I decided to visit the beautiful country in 2019 with my family. Look forward to it!

We’re going in September to visit Lokve, where my husband’s people are from. Have you been there? Can you tell us anything about it? Thanks!

We are currently in Croatia and it is just beautiful. The water shades from turquoise to deep blue and the rocky hills provide a beautiful contrast in the landscape.

We stayed rather in the south and we took the E65 coastal road. If you have time to spare and you are not in a hurry, I recommend this road compared to the highway. I wish I could describe it but I will never be able to narrate the full picture, so I made a short clip on our journey that I wish to share.

It is on YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKEiQI4NOos&t=60s

Hello, very nice blog of yours! I was wondering what area you would suggest a family of four to stay in. A place that is child friendly and filled with entertainment is something I had in mind, but would like to know what places wold exactly fit my needs. Thank you!

Hi there, me and my husband have been trawling the internet looking for ideas of where to visit with our two children (2 & 9 years) and we’ve stumbled upon your AMAZING site. It’s literally a godsend!! Please could i pick your brains and ask where you would best recommend? We love the beach, history and lovely food!! Any advice would be so gratefully recived!

Hi, loving the information on your website. We are coming to Croatia for 2 weeks from the 6th of September, and are wondering if you think we need to pre-book accommodation or should we be able to book a few days in advance? Cheers, Karen

Hi Frank, just found your website and love it. My husband and I will be vacationing from US to Croatia from Sept. 5 to 19. First time. Don’t plan on seeing the entire country on this visit but would like a few highlights. We will land in Split and leave from Dubrovnik. Are there any and can you recommend a private tour guide company?

Hi – so glad I stumbled upon your wonderful post ! We are thinking of travelling to valamar island in July . I am concerned it will be very busy and hugely commercial ? X

Hi Colleen, if you would like to receive our newsletter, please sign up for it through the website. Let us know if we can help with anything regarding your upcoming trip to Croatia.

Frank, Please add me to your list. I plan to visit this wonderful country in 2019. Colleen

Hi. Will be in Croatia July 17-31. We’d love to book a 3-5 day sailing or yacht trip around the islands. Possibly start and end in Split. Do you have any recommendations?

I have been to Croatia with my mum last year and this charming country won our hearts, Frank! I still haven’t crossed Dubrovnik off my bucket list, but your post was truly inspiring. I guess now I have plenty of more reasons to explore magnificent Croatia!

Really enjoy your detailed travel guide! My gf and I (early/mid 20’s) are traveling to Dubrovnik, Croatia next week and we plan to rent a car for about 10-11 days. Our plan is do explore the coast of Croatia, spend some time in several cities and eventually make our way to Slovenia where we’ll return the car.

Do you have any advice with regard to having the “luggage” of the car, and doing trips to islands and etc.? We want the car to have the flexibility, but we may not use it EVERY day. We also don’t want to try and pack too much into the week and a half we are in Croatia. There is the potential we stay longer, but we thought it may be neat to make our way up to Slovenia, spend a few days there then make our way to Austria for a week.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Hi guys, we love your blog and passion for Croatia. We are a family run business, that runs 3 adventure bases in Croatia. We only employ local staff and follow green responsible policies. We would love to talk about working with you. Whats your best mobile number?

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Exploring the Gems of Croatia: The Ultimate Travel Guide

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Discover Destinations When to Travel How to get around Visa Food Other Tips

Discover Croatia

Croatia is a glorious crescent-shaped country that bridges the central European and Mediterranean worlds . Sat alongside neighbours like Hungary and Slovenia, you’ll find that Croatia’s borders are very different and less distinguishable compared to only 20 years ago.

Across its deep and dramatic history, the country has been occupied by the Illyrians, Romans, Slavs, Austro-Hungarians and Venetians, to mention a few. As a result, its history is now a melting pot of brilliant culture, cuisines and rich architecture.

Croatia’s distinctive orange-tiled roof cities start to tell this story as you wander through the maze of streets.

We’ve created this ultimate guide to Croatia to share with you everything that this stunning country has to offer. Decided that Croatia is somewhere you HAVE to visit? 

Check out our ten in-depth guides to learn about the best things to do and see in Mexico.

Is Croatia worth visiting?

Beyond its history, Croatia has so much to offer. There are thousands of miles of glimmering coastline , gateways to the vast number of islands scattered in the Adriatic Sea just waiting to be hopped.

Alternatively, you can head inland to one of Croatia’s 8 national parks . These parks are filled with adventure, whether it be hiking 1,528m to Risnjak Peak or exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park . Considered THE National Park of Croatia, hours can be spent admiring its 16 inter-connecting lakes, numerous waterfalls, gorgeous nature and thriving wildlife.

Is Croatia safe?

Croatia is regarded as an extremely safe country . In fact, it ranked the 12th safest out of 142 countries on the Crime Index 2023. 

As with every country, it’s always good to practise common sense and keep an eye on your belongings.

Best destinations in Croatia

Top 3 places to visit in Croatia

It’s no wonder Croatia has become such a popular destination for travellers from all over the world. This is especially true for the 3 places below that have been firmly put on the map:

Dubrovnik — famous for red rooftops, Game of Thrones and rich history

Dubrovnik is the famous destination in Croatia where Game of Thrones was filmed . Once you visit this city it will become very clear why they choose Dubrovnik as the perfect film setting.

The well-preserved Medieval city walls, churches, monasteries and palaces are just beyond stunning. A walking tour here is a must to appreciate Dubrovnik’s beauty, as well as its history.

Check out this page to find out how to travel from Split to Dubrovnik .

Hvar — Croatia’s most popular island

With an average of 7.7 hours of sunshine a day, holidaymakers flock to the island of Hvar and the surrounding islands, making it a world-famous destination for sailing boats to dock at the harbour of Hvar.

Besides the gorgeous harbour filled with luxury yachts, you’ll find delicious seafood restaurants , cocktail bars and clubs that go on until sunrise.

Taking the ferry from Split to Hvar only takes about 1 hour.

Split — a city rich with history and culture on the Adriatic Sea

Split is the most popular gateway to many of Croatia’s islands, but that’s not all the city has to offer. It’s the largest city on the Dalmatian coast and boasts the title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its history-rich Old Town.

Aside from enjoying the city itself, Split is perfect for day trips , whether it’s exploring national parks or heading to the open sea on a boat trip.

Find out how to get from Dubrovnik to Split .

When is the best time to travel to Croatia?

Instinctively you’re probably thinking the best time to travel to Croatia is when the weather is at its best. The sun shining, not a cloud in the sky, making that dip in the sea that bit more refreshing.

Well, you along with millions of other tourists have both had the same thought.

The saying ‘packed like sardines’ comes to mind when we think of Croatia in July/August. Okay, it’s not that bad, but it is busy! The streets are packed, the beaches rammed and prices are hiked up too.

Visit in the shoulder months

If you have the chance, we recommend travelling in the shoulder months instead – May (~21°C), June (~25°C), September (~23°C), October (~18°C). These months may not be as hot, but your experience of Croatia will be so much better! Also for those on a tight budget, with lower prices during these months, it should make travelling a bit easier on your wallet.

Croatia in the winter

Winter-time in Croatia offers a very different experience. For most people, Croatia is a flurry of waterfalls and dips in the glorious sea, but at temperatures between 5 and 10°C, it’s unlikely you’ll be doing either of those.

With fewer tourists, a lot of businesses decide to close up for the winter, limiting your choice of restaurants, bars and things to do. Also if you’re a solo traveller, it may make meeting new people slightly harder.

The plus side? You get to experience a Croatia that most tourists miss, a Croatia that is usually just reserved for locals.

How to get around in Croatia

Your budget, the number of people you’re travelling with, and whether you have a driver’s license or not, are all factors that will influence how you decide to travel around Croatia.

Here are the best ways to get around Croatia:

Hiring a car offers you ultimate convenience, comfort and privacy. It means you can explore wherever you like in Croatia, whenever you like.

In the low season, you can rent a car for very affordable prices. Check Skyscanner Car Rental to find the best rental prices.

The Croatian bus network is extensive and should be your go-to public transport when travelling around the country. FlixBus and Croatia Bus are two of the most popular bus companies operating in Croatia. The neon green Flixbuses are hard to miss!

Bus tickets are fairly cheap and can be bought either online via Bookaway or directly at the bus station.

If you buy a return ticket, the price can be discounted by up to 60% – a good tip to know!

If one of Croatia’s islands is on your list, then the only way to reach them is by ferry. You can find ferries running from most major coastal cities, such as Dubrovnik, Split, and Zadar which provide access to picturesque islands like Hvar, Korčula, and Brač. Jadrolinija is the main ferry company in Croatia.

The price of ferries varies depending on your destination but is guaranteed to be a lot more expensive if you’re bringing your car with you.

If you’re travelling during the high season in Croatia, we recommend booking online via Bookaway in advance.

Taxis are a pretty expensive form of transport in Croatia and most of the taxis are metered.

If you’re more of a fan of Uber, you’ll find that it operates in most of the major cities , but only between June and October in Dubrovnik.

A lot of the larger cities including Zagreb, Dubrovnik, and Split have airports. If you’re short on time and want to get from one end of the country to the other, you may consider flying.

However, flights aren’t cheap, especially during peak season. Do keep in mind that taking a short-haul flight can be up to ten times more polluting than taking a more environmentally-friendly option like the bus.

Entry requirements and visa for Croatia

All EU citizens are granted freedom of movement for tourism in Croatia. Around 95 countries are able to visit Croatia visa-free but for a maximum of 90 days.

All visa-exempt citizens need to make sure that their passport is valid for at least three months from the date of arrival in Croatia.

If you want to check whether you can enter Croatia visa-free, check out Handy Visas .

Must-try food in Croatia

The best way to truly get to know a country is through its food so here’s a list of foods you must try:

• Strukli – you’ll find strukli mainly in the northern regions of Croatia, particularly in the capital city of Zagreb. It’s a pastry filled with cottage cheese and sour cream that has been either boiled or baked.
• Black risotto – you’ll find black risotto in other countries around the world, especially those around the Mediterranean Sea, but it’s a particularly popular dish in Croatia. It’s risotto made with squid or cuttlefish ink, hence the black colour.
• Burek – goes by many names depending on the country that you’re in. You can find different variations of this dish throughout the Balkans, Middle East and Central Asia. Burek is a flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese or vegetables. A perfect snack to keep you going for the day!

Essential travel tips for Croatia

Here’s a selection of the best tips and pieces of information that may make your trip to Croatia that little bit easier:

Paying with Euros in Croatia

As of January 2023, Croatia has stopped using its old currency, Croatian Kuna, and now uses the Euro .

Most places in Croatia allow you to pay with a card, but it’s good to always have some cash on you just in case. If you’re in one of the big cities, you won’t have to walk far to find the next ATM.

ATMs in Croatia like to charge you a significant amount to withdraw money. For example, the Raiffeisen Group ATMs will charge you just under €5 in fees. Also, make sure to avoid Euronet Banks, not just in Croatia, but all over Europe. They also charge extortionate fees.

When I was in Croatia September 2021, OTP Banks offered free withdrawals. I’m unable to confirm if this is still the case now, so if you’ve used an OTP Bank recently, please let us know.

Buying a sim card in Croatia

Great news! If you already have a sim card from another European country, you should be able to use your calls and data like you would at home . We recommend double-checking with your service provider, but you should be all good. 

If you don’t have a sim card from a European country, then we suggest buying a local sim card. It’s a lot cheaper than paying roaming charges or adding bundles. Plus, the data is usually faster. 

There are a number of mobile providers in Croatia to pick from — T-Mobile (Hrvatski Telekom), A1, Telemach. We recommend buying your sim from T-Mobile. They have some great deals such as unlimited data for 10 days for €10. It’s also the fastest network in Croatia. 

Croatia’s language cheat sheet

Croatian is the official language that is spoken by around 95% of the population.

It’s always good to know a few essential words before travelling to a place, so here are a few to get you started:

• Hello – Bok
• Thank you – Hvala
• Please – Molim
• Sorry – Oprosti
• Beer – Pivo

The perfect packing list for Croatia

If you’re visiting Croatia during the summer, it’s going to be hot. Make sure to bring loose-fitting clothes and of course your swimwear. The shoulder months can start to get a bit colder during the evenings, so it’s a good shout to bring a light jacket or jumper.

Aside from the essential travel gear, here are some that have become permanent fixtures on our packing list:

• Reusable water bottle – they’re better for the environment and can save you money on water.
• A portable charger – there’s probably going to be a time when your phone’s battery is on red, at a time that you desperately need it.
• An adaptor – Croatia uses the same plugs as most of Europe (C&F). A universal travel adaptor is a great buy if you’re travelling between different continents.
• Suncream – The sun in Croatia can be extremely strong. Especially when spending a lot of time in or near the water, you won’t notice the burning sun until you arrive back at your hotel. Better take care of your skin and pack enough sun cream!

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Kate is a writer, (ex)Management Consultant and avid traveller. She recently returned from a 2-year career break exploring the world and decided corporate life wasn’t for her. She’ll soon be testing life as a digital nomad. She’s visited over 40 countries and fell in love with Latin America in particular. Her travelling has inspired a passion for yoga, salsa, hiking and Spanish.

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Tips for Croatia for First-Timers: Everything You Need to Know

Planning a Croatia vacation could be quite overwhelming. However, this small country in the Mediterranean offers some of the most stunning and pristine waters, charming towns full of history, mouth-watering cuisine, and breathtaking national parks. This detailed guide is packed with practical tips for Croatia to maximize your stay, plan your vacation stress-free, and enjoy it to the fullest. 

This post includes affiliate links to products, which earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps to fund my blog and bring more authentic articles to you 🙂   Learn more

Tips for Croatia: Know before you go

Visa requirements .

Most nationals don’t require a visa to travel to Croatia, including EU countries, the USA, Australia, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand.

The visa is valid for 90 days within 180 days period . Note that Croatia joined Schengen Area in January 2023, which means that 26 nationals of the Schengen zone don’t need to show their documents at border checks. therefore, you’ll need to show your documentation at the border. 

EU citizens can enter the country only with their ID cards. Non-EU citizens with biometric passports of countries with a Visa-free regime with the EU can enter Schengen Area for 90 days in any 180-day period. If you need a visa to travel to Croatia and have a Schengen visa from another country, you don’t need a separate one.

If you are unsure about your visa requirements, check out iVisa , and apply beforehand.

Currency in Croatia

Even though the country is part of the EU, it doesn’t use the Euro as its currency. Instead, the country has its own, called Kuna. However, the exchange rate with the Euro is much higher than with US dollars. 

Best time to visit Croatia

July and August are the peak seasons ; thus, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to the country’s most famous locations. And it might not be the best time to visit Croatia if you don’t like overcrowded places. 

Consequently, the best time to visit Croatia is in June and September . October is not that bad either; however, you won’t be able to swim in the sea. During these months of the year, the country sees far fewer tourists, and the weather is still sunny and warm; there are no ques, while prices are quite low. 

Is Croatia safe?

Croatia is a safe country to travel to with very little street crime and almost no violence. It could even be one of the safest ones in the world. However, to be on the safe side, always take care of your belongings.

Get travel insurance

No matter how long you’ll be spending in Croatia, a weekend, or three weeks, one of the tips for Croatia and elsewhere is to get travel insurance that covers either basic or complex issues. All sorts of things might happen on holiday, and travel insurance not only covers your health, but some of them can even help you with lost luggage and missed/canceled flights. I personally use SafetyWing , an international company that gives me extra security to help me sort out some issues caused during my travels. 

Internet connection

The Internet is widely available. WiFi coverage is pretty good, and many towns offer free wifi hotspots. Besides, private accommodation, hotels, hostels, and even campsites offer a free WiFi internet connection.

Bring water shoes 

Croatian beaches are gorgeous, but most of them are rocky and pebbly, with a rare one having a sandy shore. Therefore, one of the best tips for Croatia I can give you is to pack water shoes. Alternatively, you can buy one in the country. 

Tips for Croatia: How to get to Croatia

Traveling to Croatia from any European country is relatively easy. There are many direct flights to all major Croatian towns. In addition, several budget-friendly airlines have frequent flights to Croatia, such as WizzAir, Ryanair, and Eurowings, to name just a few. And if you don’t want to look at each website, try using Skyscanner. It shows flights of all airlines, including the cheap ones.

Besides flying to Croatia, you can try traveling by bus as well. European cities have a good connection with the major cities in Croatia. However, the bus schedules are quite hard to find online as there are plenty of companies offering the service. GetByBus and FlixBus are the ones I can recommend.

Tip for those in Georgia: If you’re traveling to Budapest from Kutaisi Airport, you can take the bus to Zagreb . The drive is about 5 hours.

Croatia tips for getting around the country

As in any other country, the best way to travel across the country is by car. However, if you are on a budget or don’t want to drive a car in a foreign country, there are many other possibilities. Forget traveling by train in Croatia. Unlike in European cities, Croatian trains are very slow—instead, opt-in for buses. 

Buses are fast, affordable, modern, and frequent, making traveling around Croatia by bus fairly easy and reliable. GetByBus and FlixBus will take you to all the major cities and towns of the country. But if you can’t find the ticket or schedule of a destination you want to visit, you can always try going to the bus stations and asking the cashier. 

For traveling to the islands , the best transportation is via ferries. Several companies are offering the service and connect big cities with many islands of the country. And for some islands, ferries are the only way to get there.  For schedule and prices, I would recommend looking at Jardolinija .

Major cities like Split, Rovinj, Zagreb , Dubrovnik , and Zadar have Uber, which is much cheaper than taxis. On the other hand, public transportation in big cities cost around 2 Euro per ride. 

Tips for Croatia – How to choose your destination in Croatia

Even though Croatia is considered a small country, it offers a wide choice of beautiful destinations, full of rich history and culture. Therefore, one of the major trips for Croatia I can give you is to be picky about which landmarks, islands, and cities to include in your Croatia itinerary.

Choosing your destination definitely depends on many factors, including what kind of a traveler you are, the number of days you can spend here, your budget, and when you plan a visit. 

Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Plitvice Lakes, and Hvar are the most visited places. However, the country is full of hidden gems, gorgeous coastal towns, beautiful beaches, and wonderful natural sites. 

What kind of vacation are you looking for? 

Answering this question is one of the most important aspects of choosing your destination in Croatia. Do you like wandering through cities and learning more about history? Are you an adventure junkie, or do you look for relaxing days at the beach? Or maybe you are a wine enthusiast who wants to visit local vineyards? 

Adventure and nature lovers will enjoy Croatia’s national parks; gourmands should go to the Istria region, while history buffs visit Split, Zadar, and Dubrovnik. Beach lovers can enjoy dozens of islands, including Korcula, Hvar, Mljet, Brac, or Vis. 

What’s your budget? 

One of the tips for Croatia to consider is that the more popular the destination is, the more expensive it would be. That said, Dubrovnik is the most expensive city in the country. Therefore, if you are a budget traveler, try to limit your days visiting the city as well as dining out. 

However, don’t let this ruin your trip. Other cities of the country are less cheaper, with more affordable prices in cafes, bars, restaurants, and the attractions’ fees. 

Surprisingly, the cheapest city is the capital, Zagreb , followed by Pula, Zadar , Split , and some islands. 

Weekend Getaway

If you are thinking of visiting Croatia over the weekend, you need to be very precise about where you want to go and what you want to see. Obviously, you can’t see as many places as you would for a one or two-week vacation here. 

Therefore, choose one destination which you really want to visit and get to know it well. For instance, you can fly to Split, Zadar, Dubrovnik, or Zagreb. Then, the weekend is quiet enough to explore those cities, and you might even have time to soak up the sun and dip in the sea. 

One Week Vacation

When planning a trip to Croatia for a week, you can be more flexible here by choosing 2-3 destinations. Decide on the country’s central location, so you’ll have the possibility to travel to the surrounding towns or islands.

You can decide which region you would like to visit. If you go for Istria , consider Pula, Rovinj, or Porec. 

Zadar is also a nice city to explore both continental and coastal Croatia. The city’s great location will enable you to make day trips and visit Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, Paklenica, and Velebit National Parks, and even explore the Kornati Islands. 

If you’d like to wander through the Dalmatia region , Split is a great base. From here, you can take a ferry to various islands, including Brac, Vis, and Hvar, explore Trogir, Omis, and Sibenik, and hike through the Krka National Park. 

Dubrovnik, the ‘Pearl of Adriatic,’ located in the Southern Dalmatia region, is another great place to explore the gorgeous city with its stunning old town and small villages. In addition, you can go to Komarna village and island-hop in Korcula, Mljet, or have a day-trips to Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

Two weeks and more

Having more days for exploring the country means that you can travel to more towns, islands, and national parks of your choice. Depending on where you would start your trip, you can easily create an itinerary that includes all of Croatia’s major destinations. Moreover, you can even visit its neighboring countries as well. 

Therefore, you can pack your itinerary with Dubrovnik, several islands, Split, Zagreb, Zadar, Plitvice and Krka National Parks, Sarajevo and Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kotor in Montenegro, to name a few.  

Croatia travel tips for national parks

Croatia has eight national parks, two nature reserves, and ten nature parks. Almost 10% of the country’s territory is protected. 

The most popular ones among tourists are Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park . One full day is enough to visit both. 

You can visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Plitvice on a day trip either from Zagreb or Zadar using a bus. Alternatively, you can do it from Split as well, but it would be a tiresome adventure. In that case, you can join this organized tour offered at GetYourGuide. 

Krka is closer to Split and a great option for a day trip exploring waterfalls . Moreover, you can swim in front of waterfalls here, unlike Plitvice. 

If you are after less touristy and somewhat off-the-beaten-path national parks in Croatia, check out Paklenica National Park for stunning hiking trails and rock climbing options. The park is close to Zadar. 

Other national parks to check out: 

• Mljet National Park
• Risnjak National Park
• Sjeverni Velebit National Park
• The Kornati Islands National Park
• Brijuni National Park

Croatia tips for sailing the Dalmatian Coast

Croatia has around 1,246 islands, isles, and inlets, making its archipelago the largest in the Adriatic Sea. Some of them are uninhabited, while some offer gorgeous landscapes. Therefore, sailing down the coast and visiting some of Croatia’s best islands truly is a magical experience. 

Island hopping in Croatia is absolutely doable, but it also depends on the season of your visit and how much time you have. Obviously, ferries have more regular schedules during the high seasons. So plan accordingly if you want to do it on your own. 

Fortunately for those who have only a few days to spend in Croatia, plenty of companies offer full and half-day tours from various Croatian towns to nearby islands. 

If you are visiting Split, you might want to visit five nearby islands and a blue cave . Touring Elaphiti Islands from Dubrovnik is one of the most popular attractions for visitors. And if you wish to visit Kornati Island , the densest archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea, it’s best done from Zadar . 

Tips for Croatia – Learn some basic words in local lingo

Croatia has its own language and uses the Latin alphabet. However, this is never a barrier when traveling across the country. The majority speak English , and you can find those who also speak Italian or German. However, it’s always a nice gesture when traveling to a new country to know some basic words and phrases in the local language. So, here are a few of them that might come in handy: 

• Good day – Dobar dan, the most common way of greeting people
• Hello – Bok
• Good evening – Dobra večer
• Sorry – Žao mi je
• I don’t understand – Ne razumijem
• Excuse me – Oprostite
• Please – Molim
• Thank you – Hvala (definitely learn this one!)
• Do you speak English – Govorite li engleski?

Tips for Croatia: What to eat in Croatia

Croatian cuisine is diverse, fresh, and tasty. The country’s coastal part meals are based on seafood and fish, while the continental part uses a lot of meat. Therefore, here’s the list of must-try meals and desserts in Croatia.

Crni rizot (Black Risotto) – This is one of the most common meals you’ll see in every seafood restaurant across the country. It’s basically a squid risotto, and the color is made from squid ink. 

Strukli – Originally from Slovenia, Strukli is a pastry filled with sour cream and cottage cheese. It is prepared either by boiling in water or baking in the oven. 

Punjena Paprika (Stuffed Peppers) – Peppers stuffed with a mixture of rice and meat in a tasty tomato sauce is a favorite dish for many locals. Unfortunately, you won’t see it often on the menu, and once you do, order it. It’s a great homemade dish to try here.  

Octopus Salad – Octopus salad is a perfect summer dish as it’s light and very refreshing. Seafood is widely available in the country. Thus the salad is made from fresh octopus, making it taste delicious. The salad is made from boiled octopus, onions, parsley, and olive oil dressing.  

Cevapi – Cevapi, pronounced as Chevapi, is a grilled skinless sausage dish popular across the country.  These finger-shaped sausages are made from a mixture of pork and beef meat and are served on flatbread with raw onions and ajvar (sauce made from peppers).

Pljeskavica – Just like Cevapi, Pljeskavica is a grilled dish of spiced meat patty made from pork, beef, and lamb. Even though Serbia’s national dish, the meal is popular in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The meal comes with onions, ajvar, kajmak (milk cream), and cheese salad either on the plate with a side dish or a flatbread like a hamburger. 

Prsut – Ham prosciutto, or prsut (pronounced as prshut in English), is one of the most famous appetizers you must try in Croatia. The preparation method is the key to tasty prosciutto. First, the ham is washed, salted, and flattened under the rocks. Then it’s hung to dry. 

Burek – Burek is a pastry dish filled with different fillings, like meat or cheese. It’s one of the most famous snacks in the country found in every restaurant or bakery shop. 

Croatia tips for trying local drinks & spirits

Croatia’s most popular local beer brands are Karlovacko and Ozujsko, both light lager types. If you are a wine person, you’ll love Croatian wine, which for some reason, is not widespread across the globe. Croatian wine is cheap, light, and full of aromas and flavors. Try Posip, dry white wine, or Dingac red, both from the Dalmatia region. When in Kroatia, try Grk, a local variety, and if you are in Istria, look for Malvasija.

If you are into spirits, definitely try the famous rakija, which comes in different flavors. The basic is made of grapes. And the most popular is travarica (herb brandy), orahovaca (walnut brandy), medica (honey brandy), mirta (myrtle brandy), visnja (cherry brandy), and rogac (carob brandy).

Other practical tips for Croatia

Tap water is safe to drink .

It is absolutely safe to drink tap water in Croatia. Around 87% of the population is linked to the public water supply system, which is regularly controlled, making it safe to drink. Bring your reusable water bottle and refill it anywhere you can, saving money and the planet from single-use plastic bottles. 

Money and ATMs

You can find ATMs almost everywhere in Croatia. However, some allow you to withdraw money from your credit card; however, remember that there will be an interest and withdrawal fee. 

Cards are widely accepted, but some local restaurants are cash only. So do carry some cash with you, especially when buying local ferry and bus tickets or using a taxi. However, big ferry companies do take card payments. 

Changing money is easy with similar rates in different exchange offices. The commission is already deducted from the rate shown on the table, so you’ll get the exact amount. 

Tipping in Croatia

Tipping in Croatia is nonmandatory. It is mostly only done in cafes, bars, and restaurants, but you are welcome to tip in other places too. Leave up to 10% of the total amount of your dinner in restaurants, but only if you are satisfied with the service. If you are not, you can leave nothing. And if you are leaving a tip in Croatia, do that in cash, even if you pay with a card. 

Tips for Croatia – What Croatian souvenirs to bring home

We all bring something back from our travels, be it a simple fridge magnet, a postcard, or anything else. However, it’s sometimes difficult to know what to buy in the country and their authentic souvenir. When it comes to Croatian souvenirs, here’s what you might want to come back home with: 

Traditional Cravat – did you know that Croatia invented the tie? Now, you know! Tie here is more than a decoration or an accessory and carries a historical value. The country even celebrates International Cravat Day on 18 October. Therefore, the tie is one of the most traditional Croatian souvenirs you can bring home.

Licitar Heart – this wooden red heart adorned with colorful designs is one of Croatia’s best souvenirs to gift to your sweetheart on special occasions. In the old days, Licitar was made from honey dough in Croatian handicraft families and is similar to gingerbread. The young men would give Licitar Hearts to women to show their affection. Today, Croats use small-sized Licitar Hearts as a Christmas Tree decoration. 

Olive Oil – locally made olive oil from native trees makes a perfect Croatian souvenir for anyone who loves cooking. 

Rakija – the traditional spirit of Croatia is another great alternative to bring a piece of your Croatian holiday back home. There are plenty of flavors to choose from. 

Lavender – lavender plants are popular all over the world. They are used in various self-care products. Romans used it on various occasions, be it childbirth, scented baths, liturgy, or medicine. In Croatia, the main region for growing lavender is Hvar, Grablje, Brusje. 

My favorite travel Resources

✈ Book affordable flights on WayAway , a platform that shows the best flight deals, tours, and hotels. With a WayAway Plus membership, you can earn cashback . Get 10% off with code: RFD10

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🚗 Rent a car with DiscoverCars , a trusted international car rental website.

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☀ Book in advance some of the best city walks, cultural experiences, and day tours to maximize your stay and experience here.

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Croatia Travel Guide – Everything You Need To Know About Traveling To Croatia

Planning a trip to Croatia, but not sure where to start? This Croatia travel guide is perfect for you!

Located on the Adriatic Sea, at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe, you will find the beautiful country of Croatia. In recent years Croatia has become an increasingly popular tourist destination, and it’s easy to see why.

In Croatia you will find incredibly well preserved medieval towns, pristine beaches and stunning natural landscapes. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for a varied and well-rounded holiday.

I visited Croatia three times, and always find myself going back. Whether you’re looking for your next party holiday, for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous escape, Croatia won’t disappoint you.

In this Croatia travel guide I have put together all the resources you need to plan the perfect Croatia trip. Here you will find all my blog posts about traveling to Croatia, as well as some additional useful information.

Including sample itineraries, detailed guides about every city, reviews on the best tours and hotels, packing suggestions and much more! I hope all this information will help you travel to Croatia and have the best time there.

So without further ado, let’s dive into my Croatia travel guide, and start planning your dream Croatia trip!

• 1 Croatia at a glance
• 2 My Croatia 10-day itinerary
• 3.1 Dubrovnik
• 4 Travel insurance for your Croatia trip
• 5 Where to stay in Croatia
• 6 Best time to travel to Croatia
• 7 How to travel around Croatia
• 8 Estimated cost of traveling to Croatia
• 9 What to pack for a Croatia trip
• 10 Where to book your Croatia trip
• 11 Croatia guides, books & resources to check out before you travel

The Old Town in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Croatia at a glance

Where is Croatia?  Croatia is in Europe on the Adriatic Sea.

Currency:  Croatian Kuna (HRK) – see the latest exchange rate  here .

Capital City:  Zagreb.

Electrical plugs in Croatia: Types C&F (the ones you find throughout most of Europe) – I recommend an  international adapter  so you can use it on multiple trips.

Visa requirements:  Croatia is in the EU but is not part of Schengen. Most passport holders won’t need to apply for visas before travelling to Croatia. Check the visa requirements for your nationality  here .

Enjoying Diocletian’s Palace at 6am without the crowds

Exploring the side streets of the medieval Old Town of Dubrovnik

My Croatia 10-day itinerary

If you’re looking for suggestions for how to spend 10 days in Croatia, check out my ultimate Croatia itinerary here !

Best places to visit in Croatia

Let’s start with the basics, and discover the must-see places in Croatia that you absolutely cannot miss!

KRKA NATIONAL PARK

PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK

HVAR ISLAND

ELAPHITI ISLANDS

Dubrovnik is one of my favourite places in Croatia. The Old Town of Dubrovnik is simply stunning, with its white brick walls, red rooftops and towering walls that surround it.

Walking through the streets of Dubrovnik feels like stepping back in time. There are a huge variety of Dubrovnik tours that you can do to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

From Old Town walking tours to island hopping tours, here are some of the highlights you shouldn’t miss.

GAME OF THRONES FILMING LOCATIONS TOUR

KAYAK SUNSET TOUR

OLD TOWN WALKING TOUR

ELAPHITI ISLANDS BOAT TOUR

After Dubrovnik, Split is without a doubt the next most popular Croatian destination. Split is home to Diocletian’s Palace, beautiful beaches and an old town with timeless streets at every corner.

Split is also a popular destination thanks to its proximity to other must-see Croatian sights. From Split you can go on epic day trips to the famous waterfalls of Krka or Plitvice National Parks, as well as the iconic beaches of Hvar Island.

Simply join one of the tours below to make the most of your time in Split and surroundings!

KRKA NATIONAL PARK FULL-DAY EXPERIENCE

HVAR, VIS & BLUE CAVE FULL-DAY BOAT TRIP

SPLIT CITY WALKING TOUR – DIOCLETIAN’S PALACE & MARJAN HILL

PLITVICE LAKES FULL-DAY TOUR

If you want to discover Croatia off-the-beaten track, then you have to add Omis to your bucket list. This small town is a short drive away from Split, and yet it doesn’t receive anywhere near the attention of its popular neighbour.

Omis has a gorgeous old town centre, a pristine turquoise beach on its doorstep, and a spectacular canyon right next to it. Omis sits on the mouth of the Cetina River, and is surrounded by the scenic mountains of the Cetina canyon.

If you love adventurous activities, you will love visiting Omis. From here you can go hiking, zip-lining, rafting and even canyoning! Simply check out one of the tours below to live these thrilling experiences!

ZIP-LINE OVER THE CETINA CANYON!

RAFTING ADVENTURE IN THE CETINA RIVER

VIA FERRATA HIKING TOUR

CANYONING EXPERIENCE IN THE CETINA RIVER

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia, and a must-see for many travellers. I’ll admit I haven’t been to Zagreb, as I visited Croatia in summer and wanted to discover the Croatian coast.

In Zagreb you will have the opportunity to discover its unique 18 th and 19 th -century Austro-Hungarian architecture, as well as the famous twin spires of the Gothic cathedral.

There are also lots of cute pedestrian streets, lined with cafes, shops and museums. Joining one of these popular tours will give you the opportunity to fully experience this gorgeous city.

The twin spires of the Zagreb Cathedral and Zagreb skyline at sunset – Photo by Nina Varga on Scopio

Travel insurance for your Croatia trip

After ending up hospitalised in a private clinic in Tenerife for two nights and having to pay for it out of pocket (spoiler alert; it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trips.

Since then I always get travel insurance with HeyMondo , and can highly recommend them. HeyMondo has a very comprehensive Covid-19 policy, on top of the usual trip cancellation and medical assistance.

You might not end up using it, but at least you will visit Croatia with a carefree mind, without worrying of having to pay out of pocket for any complications that might arise.

As a Greta’s Travels reader, you also get 5% off your HeyMondo insurance if you purchase it through this link !

Click here to purchase your travel insurance for your trip to Croatia!

Zip-lining in the Cetina Canyon

Where to stay in Croatia

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in each city of your Croatia trip, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Discover my top accommodation suggestions for every budget in the detailed guides below!

WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT

WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN HVAR ISLAND

WHERE TO STAY IN ZAGREB

Best time to travel to Croatia

The best time to visit Croatia ultimately depends on the experience you’re looking for. Summer is high season in Croatia. From June to September you can find warm and sunny weather, but also quite large crowds and high prices.

In spring (March to May) and autumn (September and October) you will still find fairly nice weather, with considerably less tourists. It won’t quite be beach weather, but you can explore the epic waterfalls and national parks of Croatia without the crowds.

Winter is low season in Croatia. Some travellers prefer it as the prices drop considerably and you might often be the only tourist in a location. However that also means many attractions might be closed.

Personally, I like travelling in shoulder season (late spring and early autumn). That means the crowds won’t be as huge as peak summer, so that you can enjoy the gorgeous sights with fairly good weather and a cheaper price.

Exploring the Old Town walls in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Admiring Skradinski Buk falls in Krka National Park

How to travel around Croatia

There isn’t one single best way to travel around Croatia. It ultimately depends on your itinerary and how long you plan to spend on the road.

For example, if you’re planning to base yourself in Split and just go on day trips from there, you won’t need to rent a car. You’ll easily be able to get everywhere with public transport or organised tours.

If you want to road trip across the whole country then renting a car will give you the most flexibility, both over your itinerary and timings.

Personally we only rented a car once we reached Hvar, so that we could freely drive around the island and explore all the hidden beaches. To travel from Dubrovnik to Split we took a FlixBus, which is a very fast and cheap bus service.

The car we rented in the brief afternoon we had it, with the beautiful coastline of Hvar behind

Estimated cost of traveling to Croatia

I have to admit that on my last trip to Croatia I was surprised at how much more expensive it had become compared to my first visit. The first time I visited I found it fairly cheap, whilst on my last trip it was much more expensive.

While it’s definitely not as expensive as some luxury destinations around the world, it still sits on the average price range for a European holiday.

On a trip to Croatia you can expect to spend anywhere between 30 to 150 EUR a day, depending on your travel style and interests.

Last time I was there (September 2017) we spent on average anywhere between 100 to 250 HRK for a nice sit down meal with alcohol, and between 20 and 50 HRK for a more on-the-go sandwich, wrap or pizza.

Accommodation ranges from 20 – 30 EUR per night for a bed in a hostel dorm, or between 50 and 100 EUR for an apartment, and can go over 100 EUR for a nice hotel.

When it comes to activities it will vary massively depending on what you choose to do. Some activities (eg. a city walking tour) you can do alone and save a bit of money, whilst others (eg. zipline or island hopping) are worth paying for to ensure you have a relaxing time.

Kayak sunset tour in Dubrovnik, Croatia

We went on a sunset stand up paddling tour while in Split

What to pack for a Croatia trip

Besides your usual clothes and travel essentials , here are some items you don’t want to forget for your trip to Croatia, regardless of the season!

Swimsuit & sun block – I’m putting these two together as you would only need them if you’re visiting Croatia in summer. The sun can be pretty strong in the summer months, so make sure you’re prepared.

Water bottle – I love steel water bottles because they keep your water cold, reduce plastic consumption and save you money in the long run, it’s a win-win all round!

Money belt   – I always travel with a money belt, and while I never personally felt unsafe in Croatia, petty theft is common in tourist areas all over the world. Better to be safe than sorry!

Comfortable walking shoes – Regardless of the season, make sure to pack comfortable shoes so you can walk all around the beautiful old towns of Croatia without hurting your feet!

Packing cubes – You’ll need these especially if you’re planning an on the road Croatia trip. That way you can easily pack all your things and keep them tidy every time you change destination.

View over Hear from the top of the fort

Where to book your Croatia trip

If you’re not sure what websites are best to book your Croatia trip, here are my top suggestions. These are the online platforms and travel resources I personally use for every trip I plan.  

Skyscanner   is my favourite flight search engine. They collate lots of different airlines and will show you the cheapest flight combinations. You then have the option to buy on different platforms or from the airline’s own website.

Booking.com   is the first place I check when searching for accommodation. They have a wide selection of accommodation types, so whether you’re looking for a fancy resort, a bed & breakfast, or an apartment, they have the functionality of filtering by all these choices and many more (eg. price, star rating etc) so that you can find exactly the type of property you want.

If I want to stay in a hostel, I head straight for Hostelworld . I prefer it for hostel bookings as their reviews tend to be more detailed and it has more of a community feel.

GetYourGuide is the first tour booking platform I check. They sell a huge variety of tours everywhere in the world and have a very flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours before the tour). You can compare prices between similar tours and see the reviews left by previous tour participants.

Viator   is another great place to book your tours. Similarly to GYG you can filter by ratings, prices and types of tours.

HeyMondo sell tailor made travel insurance, and they are committed to offering the best value for money and support for your specific trip.  Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services,  Heymondo  also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

Amazon   sell pretty much everything. They also offer very competitive delivery prices and windows. If you realise the day before a flight that you’re missing something, Amazon  can probably get it delivered to you on time.

Wandering the streets of the Old Town of Dubrovnik, Croatia

Exploring the Old Town of Split, Croatia

Croatia guides, books & resources to check out before you travel

Last thing before you go! Before heading off to Croatia, you might want to grab one of these interesting reads. Some are to help you learn more about the country’s history, others to help with your travel planning!

Lonely Planet Croatia (Travel Guide) – A classic guidebook for anyone who wants lots of information and details about Croatia.

A Traveller’s History of Croatia –  If you want a guide that goes beyond the classic restaurants, hotels and tourist highlights, this is a great option.

“Running Away To Home: Our Family’s Journey to Croatia in Search of Who We Are, Where We Came From, and What Really Matters” by Jennifer Wilson – If you’re like me and prefer reading stories to guidebooks, you will enjoy this book. This award winning book is a great read for anyone who is searching for a more personal and engaging story about Croatia

View over the rooftops of Dubrovnik from the Old Town walls

Final thoughts on traveling to Croatia

There you have it, the ultimate Croatia travel guide! Have you been to Croatia before? How did you find it? I hope you find my detailed travel guide to Croatia useful in planning your trip!

I tried to include answers to every possible question that you might have when planning your Croatia trip. I know these are some of the questions I had myself before first travelling there.

If you want more information on a specific city or tour, simply click through to my detailed Croatia guides! If you have any questions about traveling to Croatia just let me know in the comments below, I’m always happy to help!

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Croatia Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

Croatia is one of the most popular destinations in Europe . It’s the go-to spot for stunning beaches, rugged islands, historic architecture, and all the sailing you could ask for.

I think the country is vastly underappreciated.

The tourism focus in the country is usually Hvar, Split, Dubrovnik, Istria, or the famed Plitvice Lakes. Too much of the rest of the country is largely ignored. I saw so few tourists in Karlovac, Rastoke, or Slunj. Zagreb didn’t have a lot either, despite it being the capital city. Slavonia? Barely a soul goes there.

Once you get off the main stretch of the coast, it feels like you have the country to yourself. Croatia is a country with over a thousand islands, a long coastline dotted with sun-bleached medieval towns, a cosmopolitan capital city, an underappreciated wine region, and an untrammeled inland landscape that sees a fraction of the tourists that the Dalmatian Coast brings in.

Spend longer than you plan and get off the beaten path to really see the magic of the country.

This travel guide to Croatia can give you the tips and tricks you need so you can plan the ultimate adventure there.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Croatia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in croatia.

1. Visit Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a stunning city best known for its historic Old Town (which was a Game of Thrones filming location). Wander around its limestone streets, admire the baroque buildings, and take in the views of the Adriatic Sea. Don’t miss St. Blaise Church and Sponza Palace either. The city also makes for a great base for day trips, including jaunts into nearby Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro . There are lots of wineries nearby too.

2. See Split

Split has some of the best beaches in the country. It’s also home to Roman Emperor Diocletian’s 4th-century palace. Split also has a lively nightlife, several nearby hikes, historic ruins, cobblestone streets, and incredible seafood. It’s a more upscale (and party-focused) Dubrovnik. Be sure to spend a day in nearby Trogir, the most beautiful town you’ve probably never heard of.

3. Admire Plitvice Lakes National Park

Tucked between Zagreb and the Dalmatian Coast, Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s composed of 16 interconnected lakes and over 90 waterfalls. It’s beautiful but super popular so arrive early (it gets packed in the summer). Admission is 80-300 HRK depending on the month (prices rise in the summer).

4. Visit Rijeka

Rijeka is home to the medieval 13-century Trsat Castle as well as City Tower, a medieval defensive tower. There’s also some amazing diving nearby with lots of underwater cliffs to explore. Don’t miss the nearby historic town of Kastav. It’s an Insta-worthy walled town surrounded by parks.

5. Explore Lokrum

The island of Lokrum is a nature reserve just off the coast of Dubrovnik. It makes a nice day trip (you’re not allowed to sleep here overnight). There are no cars here and, in addition to the beach, there is a former Benedictine monastery to explore. Ferries cost 150 HRK and include admission to the island.

Other Things to See and Do in Croatia

1. visit pula.

Pula is a seaside city and home to an impressive 1st-century Roman amphitheater that overlooks the harbor that is used to hold concerts, film festivals, and even a summer festival dedicated to all things Roman. The festival, Spectacular Antiqva, is held at least once per week during the summer. Admission is 80 HRK. While you’re in Pula, be sure to visit the Archeology Museum and spend some time exploring Brijuni National Park (which is made up of a group of scenic islands). There’s also a 14th-century monastery here you can visit as well.

2. Go Island Hopping

With over 1,000 islands, it would be silly to travel to Croatia and not go island hopping. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands to step back in time and get the full Croatian experience. The most popular islands to visit are Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. Some of the islands have ferries that start at 30 HRK each way. There are many ferry companies operating in Croatia leaving from the main ports of Pula, Porec, Rovinj, Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar, Mali Losinj, Umag, and Novalja.

3. See St. James’ Cathedral

Located in Sibenik (which is on the coast between Zadar and Split), St. James is believed to be the world’s largest church built entirely of stone (there are no wooden or brick supports). It’s an architectural masterpiece that was started in 1431 and wasn’t completed until 1536. It’s massive and spacious with a rather dark and grim stone interior that feels very medieval. Some of the cathedral’s highlights are its frieze of 71 heads on the exterior walls, the tomb of Bishop Sizigori, and a 15th-century Gothic crucifix. Admission is 15 HRK.

4. Visit Krka Monastery

This Serbian Orthodox monastery is dedicated to the Archangel Michael and is one of the most important religious sites in Croatia. Founded in 1345, it’s located beside a small and peaceful lake forty-five minutes from Sibenik. Built in the Romanesque style, it boasts a unique mix of Byzantine and Mediterranean architecture. Underneath the building is a natural cave system (known locally as the ‘secret church’) where they have found Christian symbols dating back to the 1st century. The library also has books dating back to the 16th century. Admission is free.

5. Go diving

Thanks to Croatia’s seafaring history, the whole of the coastline is littered with shipwrecks. Two of the most popular are Baron Gautsch (off the coast of Rovinj), and Taranto (off the coast of Dubrovnik). Expect to pay 289 HRK for a single-tank dive in the area but the shipwrecks start at around 400 HRK. Open water certification costs around 3,100 HRK. The best diving conditions are between May and November (September and October will be warm and less busy).

6. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships

Located in Zagreb, this museum is full of mementos from failed relationships between family members, friends, and lovers. Items on display include clothing, jewelry, handwritten letters, photos, and more quirky items like belly button lint and old chocolate bars. Each item has a story attached to it, some funny, some gut-wrenching. The museum offers an honest, unpretentious look at humanity through its failed relationships. Admission is 40 HRK.

7. Explore the Vucedol Culture Museum

This riverside location is home to an archeological dig site where remains from over 8,000 years ago were found. The museum, built on top of the site, is a state-of-the-art representation of the original settlement complete with replica houses. It showcases the culture that was here, which was one of the first in Europe to create calendars and brew beer. It’s super informative. Guided tours cost 150 HRK and are available in English. Admission is 40 HRK.

8. Go hiking

From coastal walks to mountain climbing to hiking the inland canyons, hills, and forests, Croatia has a lot to offer. The most popular coastal hiking spot is Mljet National Park, on the island of Mljet. Inland, the most popular hiking spot is Medvednica Mountain near Zagreb or in Risnjak National Park. Other spots worth visiting are Brijuni National Park (which is home to 14 different islands), Krka National Park (which has beautiful waterfalls), and Paklenica (which has some rugged canyon trails).

9. Visit the Blue Cave of Bisevo

The Blue Cave (or Blue Grotto) is a natural sea cave accessible only by boat via a narrow passageway. Inside, the water almost glows and has a bright otherworldly color to it. Access to the cave is restricted to one boat at a time. The cave itself is located at Balun Cove on the eastern side of Komiza. The best time to visit is between 11am-12pm as this is when the light is at its most beautiful. Prices in the off-season are 75 HRK and while it’s 100 HRK in the high season. Expect to pay around 800-900 HRK for a full-day tour (and expect crowds).

10. Listen to the Sea Organ

The Sea Organ is tucked away beneath a set of steps that lead down to the water in the seaside town of Zadar. The organ consists of 35 tubes played by the wind and the sea. Designed by architect Nikola Basic, the music sounds similar to whale calls. Come here at sunset to soak in the picturesque views and listen to the captivating sounds of the sea.

11. Go sailing

Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. With calm winds, short distances, and a coastline dotted by islands and historical sites, it really does make for a great place to explore by sea. During the high season, prices rise dramatically, but if you time your visit right and visit during the shoulder season you can find some great deals. If you don’t want to join a tour you can charter a boat. Charters can get pricey though, as a 7-day trip starts at 13,000-15,000 HRK. If you’re in the mood for partying, Busabout has hop-on-hop-off boat tours. I did one a few years ago ( you can read about it here ). For a 7- or 8-day trip, expect to pay 8,700 HRK.

12. Tour Zagreb

Zagreb has a charming Old Town reminiscent of cities like Prague and Budapest. There is lots of green space, a couple of nearby lakes, and tons of historic architecture. Be sure to visit the massive Neo-Gothic cathedral and the medieval Old Town Gate where you can find an 18th-century painting of the Virgin Mary thought to be miraculous as it survived the city’s Great Fire of 1731. There are also tons of museums (don’t miss the Mimara Museum) as well as the Medvedgrad fortress that overlooks the city. To see the highlights on a budget, take a free walking tour with Free Tour Zagreb . Their tours last two hours and cover all the main sites so you can learn more about this underrated city.

13. Experience The Yacht Week

If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week . They host week-long parties and festivals with DJs and events throughout the summer. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin on one if you’re traveling solo. They have destinations all around the world, including routes in Croatia. “Yacht Weeks” occur from May-August. Prices start at 4,350 HRK per person. It’s one of the biggest things of the summer and it’s a wild, wild, WILD party.

14. Visit Hvar

Hvar is a picturesque island off the coast of Split that’s known for its lively nightlife. It’s popular with younger travelers looking to dance and drink the night away. However, there are also lots of scenic coves, lavender fields, vineyards, and secluded beaches you can enjoy if you visit during the day. While a lot of people come here as part of their sailing trips (or as a day trip from Split), I recommend spending a couple of nights here. It’s one of the best places in the country. It’s also the sunniest, with over 274 days of sunshine each year.

15. Explore Slavonia

Few tourists make it to Slavonia, a rural region in eastern Croatia famous for its wine production. Head to the wine-country town of Zmajevac (pronounced “zma-ye-vatz”), which is just a few miles from the border with Hungary and Serbia. Be sure to sample the local wines and try fish paprikash, a paprika-laden fish stew slow-cooked over an open flame for hours that’s a specialty of the region. Additionally, don’t miss Osijek, the main town of Slavonia. It has a large historic center filled with Gothic buildings and cobblestone streets.

16. Eat oysters in Mali Ston

If you love oysters like I do, head an hour’s drive up the coast from Dubrovnik to Mali Ston. Founded in the 14th century, the region was originally home to a defensive fortification. Today, it’s famous for the oysters that are farmed in Mali Ston Bay. Visit nearby farms to learn about the oyster industry and try some samples. Expect to pay at least 225 HRK per person for a guided oyster tour (with samples).

17. Relax in karlovac

Home to around 55,000 people, Karlovac is an off-the-radar city just one hour from Zagreb. It was originally built by the Austrians in the 16th century, though not much remains from that period. The city’s “castle” is really just a small fort that’s been rebuilt — but it’s worth a quick look as you meander around town. The main draw here is the brewery, Karlovacko. It makes one of the most popular beers in Croatia. Spend a night here and take in the local pace of life. There’s also some hiking and nearby waterfalls if you want to get out and stretch your legs.

18. Road trip around Istria

Istria is a peninsula home to delicious wines and sumptuous white truffles. It’s a foodie paradise that sees few tourists, perfect for road-tripping travelers. Rovinj is the best-preserved and most popular city on the peninsula. It has a stunning Old Town, plentiful beaches, and numerous ruins. Visit the Heritage Museum to learn about the region’s history and then enjoy the exquisite beaches (Monte, Lone Bay, and Amarin) that are perfect for swimming and lounging. Pula, mentioned above, can also be found here.

19. Go truffle hunting

Istria is a major truffle producer and you can go on a truffle tour while you’re here. Prodan Tartufi, a family-run truffle-hunting business near the medieval hill town of Buzet, runs a popular (but pricey) excursion. Tarandek Truffle Hunting organizes more affordable, small-group truffle experiences for around 375 HRK per person (they get less expensive the more people are in the group).

  For information on specific cities in Croatia, check out these city guides:

• Dubrovnik Travel Guide
• Split Travel Guide
• Zagreb Travel Guide

Croatia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels start at 70 HKR per night for a 6-8-bed dorm. For a private room, prices start at 190-450 HKR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities. Only a few hostels include free breakfast.

Budget two-star hotels start around 300 HRK per night. Most include breakfast and have standard amenities like TV, AC, and a coffee/tea maker. In the more popular destinations, expect them to start around 400 HRK per night.

Airbnb is available around the country with private rooms starting at 250-350 HRK per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 375 HRK per night though prices can double (or triple) in the summer.

For anyone traveling with a tent, there are lots of campsites in Croatia (most of which are scattered down the coast). For a complete list of campsites in Croatia check out Camping Hr . Prices vary depending on how close to the sea you are as well as what season it is. During peak season, expect to pay 220-450 HRK for a two-person plot with electricity and water. During the low season, prices drop to 140 HRK.

If you’re coming during the summer or are sticking to the Dalmatian coast, expect prices to be about 30% higher.

Food – Croatian cuisine has influences from Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Balkans. Seafood is a prominent staple along the coast. Sausage and schnitzel can be found at most traditional restaurants as well, as can a variety of pasta dishes and stews, especially goulash. In Istria, you’ll find a heavy Italian influence.

Food is relatively inexpensive except on the Dalmatian coast. Everything there costs double. For example, take-out sandwiches from the bakery chain Milner in Dubrovnik cost 30-35 HRK while they are just 15 HRK once you leave the Dalmatian Coast. Same sandwich, same place, vastly different price.

An inexpensive meal of traditional cuisine or a burger costs around 70 HRK (75-110 HRK in Dubrovnik). Fast food (think McDonald’s) is closer to 45 HRK while Thai or Chinese food costs around 85 HRK. Pizza is available pretty much everywhere with a medium pizza costing around 47 HRK.

If you want to splash out, a higher-end lunch (like a fresh fish fillet) with wine costs around 125-150 HRK. And if you really want to splurge, you can get a delicious sushi dinner with drinks and appetizers for 500-600 HRK.

Expect to pay 20 HRK for a beer and 13 HRK for a latte/cappuccino. Bottled water is 10 HRK while wine is 20-40 HRK per glass.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 210-300 HRK for staples like milk, cheese, rice, seasonal vegetables, and some chicken.

Some of my favorite places to eat were Pupitres Wine & Coffe Bar, Heritage, Curry Bowl, and La Štruk in Zagreb; Cevabdžinica Behar in Karlovac; Tunaholic Fish Bar in Rovinj; and Oyster & Sushi Bar Bota in Dubrovnik.

Backpacking Croatia Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Croatia, my suggested budget is 275 HRK per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, doing free activities like hiking and free walking tours, and using local transportation to get around. You’ll need to budget more if you’re visiting in the summer or if you plan on drinking.

On a mid-range budget of 800 HRK per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out for all your meals, have a few drinks, take some guided tours, take the occasional taxi to get around, and visit more museums and attractions

On a “luxury” budget of 1,600 HRK per day, you can stay in a hotel, rent a car to get around, do private guided tours, eat and drink as much as you’d like, and visit as many museums and attractions as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in HRK.

Croatia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Expenses in Croatia can add up quickly, especially if you take a lot of tours, boat trips, or just be on the Dalmatian coast where everything is about 30-50% more expensive than other parts of the country. Here are my tips on saving money when you visit Croatia:

• Visit during the shoulder season (or low season) – Prices in Croatia can double during July and August. If you want to make sure your money goes further here, visit during the low or shoulder seasons.
• Take a free walking tour – Both Dubrovnik and Split have free walking tours. They’re a great way to get familiar with the cities and their culture. Just be sure to tip your guide! Check out Dubrovnik Secrets for more information.
• Travel with Flixbus – Flixbus is a budget-friendly way to get around the country (and region). They have Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and decent enough seats for long-haul journeys.
• Cook your own meals – Many hostels here have kitchens. While buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, it will definitely save you money!
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing is a great way to save money and meet a knowledgeable local who can help you better understand the country and its people.
• Get the Croatia Pass – If you’re visiting between June-September and plan on seeing a lot of attractions, consider the CroatiaPass. It offers discounts on tons of attractions and will save you some money if you’re doing a lot of sightseeing. There are passes for several cities/regions including Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik (as well as passes that cover multiple regions). Prices vary per region (and for how many attractions you want to be included) but most will save you at least 250 HRK.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your reliance on single-use plastic. LifeStraw makes a portable filter that will keep your water clean and safe.
• Use points – Accommodation is expensive along the Dalmatian Coast, so use your points and miles on hotels to save money. It’s the best way to stay in nicer accommodation without breaking the bank.
• Get sandwiches at Milnar – For cheap eats, pick up sandwiches from Milnar, a chain bakery with stores around the country. You can find sandwiches for just 15 HRK (double that price in Dubrovnik, however).
• Get a city tourism card – The Zagreb Card offers free public transportation as well as admission to four museums and the zoo (as well as discounts at restaurants). If you plan on museum hopping, this card can save you over 200 HRK (it costs 98 HRK). The Dubrovnik Card has similar discounts as well as free entry to 9 attractions and free public transportation. It’s 250 HKR for the 24-hour pass. (Split has a free tourism card that offers 10% off of several activities, restaurants, and attractions).

Where to Stay in Croatia

During the high season, hostels book up fast so be sure to book in advance, especially on the coast so be sure to book in advance if you’re coming during peak season. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Croatia:

• Hostel Dubrovnik Marine (Dubrovnik)
• Hvar Centre Dorms (Hvar)
• Falling Lakes Hostel (Plitvice Lakes)
• Crazy House Hostel Pula (Pula)
• Kamena Lodge (Split)
• Boutique Hostel Forum (Zadar)
• The Dot’s Hostel (Zagreb)

How to Get Around Croatia

Public transportation – Public transportation is fairly inexpensive in Croatia, with most tickets costing between 6-20 HRK, depending on the distance you go. Both Dubrovnik and Split have day passes that cost around 30 HRK for a 24-hour pass and 75 HRK for a 72-hour pass. Buses and trams are the main ways to get around Croatia’s cities.

Bus – To get around the country, Flixbus or Arriva is the most budget-friendly option. Croatia has invested heavily in improving its roads in recent years and traveling by bus is fast, cheap, and comfortable. Most buses have free Wi-Fi, reclining seats, sockets, and AC. You can use Get By Bus for routes and pricing information.

The cross-country 4.5-hour trip from Dubrovnik to Split starts at 98 HRK on Flixbus in the low season and 165 HRK on Arriva. The 2.5-hour trip from Split to Zadar starts at 75 HRK in the low season. Split to Zagreb takes around 5 hours and costs 135-160 HRK. Rovinj to Pula takes just under an hour and costs 55 HRK, while Pula to Zagreb costs around 188 HRK and takes 4.5-5 hours.

Note that buses have a 10 HRK fee for checked bags.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – The train lines in Croatia have been neglected in favor of improving the roads. Therefore, trains are slow and infrequent. They also don’t run along the Dalmatian coast, making them more or less useless for most travelers. I wouldn’t recommend the train here.

Ferry – Ferries in Croatia are efficient and affordable. Most ferries in Croatia are owned by the national carrier Jadrolinija and are large car ferries (so you can bring a vehicle). There is also a network of catamarans that link many of the smaller islands. Most smaller ferries start at 40 HRK during the low season and 100 HRK during the high season. Use Croatia Ferries for routes and prices.

For the 4.5-hour ferry between Dubrovnik and Split, expect to pay at least 230-280 HRK.

Flying – Croatia Airlines is the domestic carrier and offers flights between Zagreb and other airports within the country, including Dubrovnik, Split, Pula, and Zadar. Prices are relatively comparable between all the destinations, with one-way tickets starting at around 1,000 HRK.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for around 90-200 HRK per day. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required before you can rent a car (it’s usually not enforced, but it’s better to be safe than sorry). For the best rental car prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Croatia

The best time to visit Croatia is during the shoulder season between May-June or September-October. During these months, you can expect great weather and fewer crowds. This is also the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and kayaking. Expect temperatures around 22°C (71°F).

During the low season (November-April), the country is a lot cheaper, making it an affordable place to visit for anyone on a tight budget. However, many places (including hotels and restaurants) close for the winter due to the lack of tourists so your options are much more limited during this time.

During the peak season (July and August), expect to pay double what you would in the low season. Dubrovnik is especially busy (and expensive) during this time. The coastal resorts are packed with families and cruisers. Temperatures hover around 30°C (86°F) though so the weather is at its best.

How to Stay Safe in Croatia

Croatia is a safe country to visit. Violent crime against tourists is rare. Pickpocketing and theft can occur in busy areas in Zagreb and Dubrovnik so be sure to keep an eye on your belongings (especially while on crowded public transportation or at a bus station).

Croatia’s bars and nightclubs are known for overcharging so be vigilant and check your bill before paying. It is also important to watch your drink and never leave it unattended. Drink spiking has been known to happen at nightclubs in Zagreb, Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik. It’s rare, but it never hurts to be extra careful.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe in Croatia. However, the standard precautions apply (never walk home alone at night intoxicated, don’t accept drinks from strangers, etc.), especially in the party towns. For more tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs about the country. They can provide specific tips.

While out hiking take care not to wander far off the beaten path as there are still some regions in Croatia with unexploded landmines. If in doubt, ask locals for advice or hire an experienced guide.

Scams here are rare butt you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency and require assistance, dial 112.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Croatia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Croatia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

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Croatia Travel Guide

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Despite spending the last decade as Europe’s fastest-rising holiday destination, Croatia and its Adriatic Coast retains an enticingly unique allure, from Dubrovnik’s medieval majesty, to its unspoiled Adriatic islands - some characterised by charming fishing villages, others impossibly glamorous. Then there’s Croatia’s thriving festival scene, and fabulous food.

Travel Facts about Croatia

Where to go in croatia - regions and areas, top attractions - what to see in croatia, best things to do in croatia, when is the best time to visit croatia.

• How to get to Croatia

How to get around Croatia

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16 days  / from 5292 USD

Gorgeous gems of Hungary, Slovenia and Croatia

From the spas of Budapest to Lake Bled with its castle and further on to Croatia - this itinerary takes you across 3 countries, with a special focus on Slovenia's lake area and the Dalmatian coast in Croatia.

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Sailing Croatia

If you want to experience the Dalmatian coast from a whole different perspective, then this trip is for you! Hop aboard a beautiful cruiser and sail along some of Croatia's most stunning islands.

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Southern Pearls

This ten-day trip will take you around three adjacent countries, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Your tour starts in Split, Croatia, moving south (hence the name "Southern Pearls") over the island of Hvar and Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina to end up in Montenegro.

The information below is from The Rough Guide to Croatia , our in-depth Croatia travel guide - check it out for your all your Croatia travel needs.

• Language: Croatian is the official language, spoken by around 95 percent of the population.
• Currency: kuna (Kn)
• Population: around four million; 1 in 4 people live in the capital, Zagreb.
• Hours of sunshine: 2175 (more than Sydney).
• Croatia is one of Europe’s most biodiverse countries, with over 100 mammals, including the grey wolf and the brown bear.
• On average, Croatians consume of 5kg of coffee a year - that’s more than double the average Brit.

For more tips about travel to Croatia, read our full facts about Croatia article .

Choosing where to visit in Croatia can be tough. This is, after all, a country that pretty much offers it all - ancient history, idyllic islands, and contemporary cool. Here’s an outline of options to consider for your visit to Croatia, with full details in our Croatia travel guide book .

Croatia’s big cities

If you’re after history and culture when you travel to Croatia, you’ll be pleased to hear the country has both in abundance. Medieval remains, Baroque grandeur and Byzantine monuments await in towns and cities, such as Dubrovnik , Zadar , and Split . Rovinj is resplendent with Venetian architecture, while Pula has a two-thousand-year-old Roman amphitheatre.

Croatia’s national parks

If you’re looking to escape to the untamed outdoors during your Croatia travel experience, you’re in luck. The country is blessed with staggeringly beautiful national parks , such as the forest-fringed lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes , and the hiking hotpot of Northern Velebit.

The Croatian islands

Croatia’s beaches and islands are perhaps country’s top draw. The Elaphite Islands of Kolcep, Lopud and Sipan are among the most unspoiled in the Adriatic, and beaches on the Dalmatian coast - such as those on Brac - are jaw-droppingly attractive.

Beautiful waterfalls Plitvice lakes, Croatia © Melinda Nagy/Shutterstock

Discover more places in Croatia

• Northern Dalmatia Travel Guide
• Split and the south Dalmatian coast Travel Guide
• Zagreb Travel Guide

Here’s a run-down of landmarks and attractions in Croatia everyone should see in a lifetime - places you’ll definitely want to consider visiting during your Croatia travel adventures.

• Dubrovnik - one of Europe’s best preserved walled medieval cities.
• Plitvice Lakes National Park - sapphire lakes, rushing waterfalls and wooden walkways weaving through wildlife-rich wooded hills.
• Hvar island - stylish bars, secluded coves, crystalline waters, exquisite food. Hvar is hard to beat for all-round visitor appeal.
• Rovinj - this Italianate jewel in Croatia’s crown has buckets of Venetian elegance.
• Split - Roman grandeur meets modern bustle in Croatia’s vibrant second city.
• Krka National Park - spellbinding waterfalls, lakes, rapids and forests.

Discover more great places to see in our ultimate list of things not to miss in Croatia .

Croatia is an excellent destination for outdoor activities . Easy rambling territory in inland Croatia is provided by wooded Mount Medvednica close to Zagreb and crisscrossed by well-used trails. On the Adriatic coast, Učka is one of the most accessible mountains, and can be safely bagged by moderately fit hikers. Farther south, the more challenging Velebit range stretches for some 100km along the eastern shore of the Kvarner Gulf. Croatia’s most exhilarating long-distance hiking route, the Premužić Trail, takes in mountain ridges, dense forests and awesome view, making it a top draw for adventurous types who travel to Croatia. You might want to hook up with a local Croatia guide with hiking expertise to make the most of this one.

View of Hvar city in Croatia © andras_csontos/Shutterstock

Cultural activities

Croatia is the perfect place to take in fascinating history through exploring cities, towns and tiny villages. Walking Dubrovnik’s walls, for example - a brief but breath-taking trot round battlements overlooking the Adriatic - serves as an inspiring introduction to this ancient city. Then there’s Pula’s amphitheatre - Imperial Rome’s greatest gift to the eastern Adriatic still serves as the venue for summer concert. In Split, the former Roman emperor’s pied-à-terre, the Diocletian’s Palace, remains at the heart of the modern city. Many of Croatia’s smaller city’s deliver big on historic allure. Varaždin, for example, is a postcard-perfect Baroque town, complete with opulent squares, crumbling palaces and a unique garden cemetery - hands down one of the best places to travel in Croatia to soak up elegant charm.

Thanks to the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic and the diversity of its marine life, Croatia has become one of the most popular scuba-diving venues in the Mediterranean over the last few years. There are a growing number of diving centres along the Adriatic coast offering lessons, guided expeditions and equipment rental. Two of the most rewarding areas for diving are the Kornati islands in mid-Dalmatia and the island of Mljet near Dubrovnik.

Where there’s diving, there’s beaches, and Croatia is blessed with some of Europe’s best. Near Zadar long, luxuriant Kraljičina plaža (Queen's Beach) features a brace of beach bars and very little else, save for mesmerising views of the Velebit mountains across the water and a stunning strip of sand. The best beach on the heavenly island of Hvar has to be silkily sandy Grebišće, while the uninhabited islet of Proizd, near Vela Luka on charismatic Korčula Island delivers a sublimely secluded, serene coastline of white sand and sloping rocks.

Entertainment

Croatia has a thriving music scene, best experienced during summer festival season, when pretty much every genre of music is catered for, with indie rock at InMusic, cutting-edge dance music at Tisno and dub-to-dubstep extravaganzas at the Punta Christo fortress, near Pula. Come late July, Pula amphitheatre also plays host to the Pula Film Festival, which premieres the year’s crop of domestic feature films.

The best destination for shopping in Croatia is Zagreb, which offers a range of retail experiences you won’t find along the Adriatic coast, including regular flea and collectors’ markets. Many of Croatia’s best gifts to bring home involve food and drink, such as Croatia’s world-class wines and herb-flavoured rakija, often featuring fragments of herb in the bottle. Soaps made from olive oil and fragranced with local herbs are also a good buy, as are bags of lavender, harvested on the island of Hvar. Intricate embroidery featuring folk motifs is still produced in many areas of inland Croatia, and the Konavle region south of Dubrovnik. Even the smallest pieces make stunning keepsakes.

Krka river waterfalls in the Krka National Park, Roski Slap, Croatia © Alena Brozova/Shutterstock

As any Croatia travel guide worth its Adriatic salt will tell you, deciding when is the best month to go to Croatia depends on what you plan to do when you get there. History and culture can be enjoyed year-round, with towns and villages looking especially atmospheric during the winter months. If you’re coming for sea, sun and sand, consider skirting around the school holidays - visit Croatia in May, June or September - avoiding both peak crowds and peak temperatures. This Croatia travel advice applies to nature-lovers too. The national parks look especially stunning in autumn, making it the best time to travel to Croatia for ramblers and hikers.

Find out more about the best time to visit Croatia .

If you plan to travel to Croatia during the summer months, you won’t be short of direct flights from European countries’ major hubs. If you’re coming from North America, however, flying direct still isn’t an option - you’ll have to take a one- or two-stop flight via a main European city, but it’ll be worth it. Travelling by train is convenient if you’re coming from the UK or elsewhere in Europe, and regular ferries run from Italy during summer.

Read on for the best ways to get to Croatia .

If you’re wondering how to how to travel around Croatia independently, it’s worth bearing in mind that its coastal and mountainous terrain can make overland travel rather time consuming. That said, Croatia’s train network is useful for travelling around the north and east of the country, while buses are best for travelling along the coast. With more a thousand islands, don’t pass up the chance to enjoy a spot of island-hopping . Ferry and catamaran services are available throughout the year, and travelling in Croatia by boat is always a highlight.

Learn more about transportation and how to get around Croatia .

View of Moored Boat and the Old City in Rovinj, Croatia © Rolf E. Staerk/Shutterstock

In part thanks to its status as Europe’s fastest growing destination of the past decade, Croatia has an increasing range of well-equipped four- and five-star hotels, but still a relative shortage of boutique hotels and B&Bs. At present, apartments and private rooms offered by local families represent the country’s best-value accommodation. The Adriatic coast is also good for beautifully situated campsites.

Discover how to find the best accommodation in Croatia .

Thanks to its geographical position, Croatia’s culinary offerings blend central European and Mediterranean influences to delicious effect. So, while every kind of seafood dominates menus along the coast, you’ll also find schnitzel, pastries, and various riffs on pasta and noodles. Regional highlights include Pag cheese from the Kvarner Gulf, and sausages (kobasice), cured ham (pršut), and gnocchi (njoki) from the Istrian Peninsula.

Read more about local food and drink in Croatia .

Croatia’s calendar is crammed with festivals, religious holidays and cultural events throughout the year. Summer is the season of DJ events, big beach parties, eclectic art gatherings and folksy fairs along the Adriatic, with cultural festivals taking place in Zagreb in spring and autumn. Classical music-lovers will adore the six-week Dubrovnik Summer Festival held annually from July, while the Varaždin Festival of Baroque Music sees the city’s many fine churches put to splendid use as concert venues.

To include a festival in your trip to Croatia, check out the month-by-month overview of festivals in Croatia .

Croatia’s capital Zagreb is one of Central Europe’s liveliest cities when it comes to DJ-driven club music and live alternative rock. Though most clubs take a break in July and August, during summer Zagreb is enlivened by an array of nightly open-air gigs, puppet shows and art happenings. Dubrovnik is better known for its charming Old Town bars and restaurants than raving nightlife, though clubbers are well served by Banje Beach Club and the cavernous Revelin club that’s held in the atmospheric, barrel-vaulted chambers of the Revelin Fortress. On the coast, Pula’s amphitheatre offers everything from opera to pop cocerts, while its Rojc cultural centre, occupying a former barracks, is home to dozens of cultural organisations and hosts a variety of gigs and theatre events.

One of the great things about Croatia travel is that the country can be enjoyed on a swift city break basis, while also having plenty to keep visitors more than satisfied for weeks (or months) at a time. Ideas for a few days in Croatia include immersing yourself in exploring Dubrovnik’s delights ( Game of Thrones fans will have fun spotting all the locations), and taking a trip to one of the nearby islands - Korčula, for example, where fine wine and rustic charm awaits.

Among the best ideas for spending a week and more in Croatia is exploring the Adriatic coastline. For example, in two weeks you could set out from Dubrovnik to Korčula, then take a swift catamaran to chic Hvar before continuing to Split. Continuing north, a stay in Zadar delivers both history and contemporary style, before Pula and Rovinj reveal their Mediterranean charisma (and Pula its Roman roots).

For more inspiration see some of the Croatia itinerarie s from our Croatia guide and local travel experts.

Split, Croatia © novak.elcic/Shutterstock

• Tips (napojnice) aren’t obligatory, but if you’ve enjoyed a round of drinks or meal, it’s polite to round up the bill by ten percent or to the nearest convenient figure.
• If invited to someone’s house, they’ll usually offer you slippers upon arrival. It’s also the norm to bring a gift for your host.
• Naturism has a long history on the Adriatic coast, with self-contained naturist holiday villages, and naturist campsites in Istria and the island of Krk. Throughout Croatia, you’ll find isolated coves or stretches of beach where it’s OK to be nude, providing it’s at discreet distance from the main family-oriented areas.

Practical travel tips for Croatia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Croatia

• Eating and drinking in Croatia
• Getting around Croatia: Transportation Tips
• National Parks in Croatia
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Croatia
• Travel Tips Croatia for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Croatia
• Croatia’s unit of currency is the kuna, which is divided into 100 lipa.
• The best place to change money is at a bank (banka), or exchange bureau (mjenjačnica). Be aware though, that in smaller towns banks normally close for lunch on weekdays, and aren’t open at all on Saturdays. You’ll find ATMs in all Croatian town centres.
• Croatian is the official language. Over half the population have at least some understanding of English, with German and French widely spoken too.
• Wall sockets in Croatia operate at 220 volts and take round, two-pin plugs - British and US travellers should purchase a continental adaptor before leaving home.

For advice about practical matters when travelling in Croatia, check the travel advice for Croatia .

If you’re wondering how much to budget for a trip to Croatia, or whether it’s expensive, it’s true to say that Croatia is by no means a bargain destination, and the cost of accommodation - on a par with Western European countries for most of the year - shoots upwards in July and August. Eating and drinking, however, remain good value, especially if you shop in markets. If you’re staying in hostels, self-catering and travelling by public transport, expect to spend at least 600Kn/£60/€80/US$85 per person per day. At the other end of the scale, staying in a good hotel, eating in nice restaurants, renting a car and not skimping on the cocktails will involve a daily outlay of 1500Kn/£150/US$220 or above.

• If travelling from outside mainland Europe, you’ll need a continental power adapter.
• Pack comfortable shoes to make the most of exploring Croatia’s cities and towns on foot, and decent walking boots if you’re planning to visit the glorious National Parks.
• Sunscreen - during the summer, Croatia’s beaches and islands can be blisteringly hot.
• Water shoes - while Croatia has plenty of soft sand beaches, some of its most scenic, turquoise-watered sun spots are pebbly.
• Clothes to layer and a waterproof jacket. Dubrovnik is windy year-round, which means you might feel the elements while walking the battlements.

Dubrovnik, Croatia © SchnepfDesign/Shutterstock

The crime rate in Croatia is low by European standards. Your main defence against petty theft is to exercise common sense and refrain from flaunting luxury items, especially in the bigger towns and cities.

For up to date information about safety and travel requirements for Croatia, check government guidelines. UK nationals should heed Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice , while travellers from the US should check governmental travel advisory guidelines for Croatia.

• Steer clear of Dubrovnik and Split when cruise ships are docked - truly a top Croatia travel tip.
• Avoid visiting Croatia in peak summer season - it’s packed, pricey and too hot to make the most of walking the National Parks. Better to visit in May or September.
• Don’t turn up at show Plitvice Lakes National Park without a pre-purchased ticket. You need to book at least 12 hours in advance.
• Don’t ever assume you can pay in Euros rather than kuna - though some places do accept Euros, be respectful and ask first.
• For more ideas about what to see and do in Croatia, plus plenty of practical guidance that will help you make the most of your trip, take a look at The Rough Guide to Croatia .
• If you’re keen to explore Croatia’s islands after reading about them in this Croatia travel guide, you could look to book an island-hopping tour around three of the stunning Elaphites islands.
• Calling all Game of Thrones fans - enjoy an immersive tour that takes in Dubrovnik’s GoT sites, and ends with a thrilling boat trip to Lokrum island (aka Quarth).
• To take the hassle out of planning, Rough Guides’ tailor-made travel platform offers a range of fully customisable Croatia itineraries , created in consultation with local experts.

The Rough Guides to Croatia and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 22.09.2021

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Helpful Tips For Travelling To Croatia

Thinking about travelling to Croatia? Do it! It’s one of my favourite countries on the planet, so rich in breath-taking nature and heritage; things to see and do and beautiful places to stay!

Croatia is a wonderful destination in summer and after years exploring the different regions, towns, villages and islands single-handedly I can tell you it pays to be prepared! Here’s a list of my best tips (that I wish I knew before arriving) to ultimately help plan your own perfect trip!

CROATIA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Croatia is seasonal.

When is the best time to visit Croatia? This is a question I’m often asked – and my answer may surprise you. Croatia is beautiful for most of the year, however, summer is far and away the best! Especially the shoulder season, late May to early June or Mid September when the days are still warm, the crowds have dispersed and all the activities are open.

If you’re holidaying here between October and April you may be disappointed with the empty streets, chilly weather and lack of things to do! The buzzing coastline pretty much shuts its doors in the wintery months including taxi boats and lush coastal restaurants, so it’s best to time your visit around what you want to see and experience!

To learn more about the unmissable summer activities from popular Dubrovnik read: 5 WONDERFUL DAY TRIPS FROM DUBROVNIK

TOURISM IN CROATIA HAS EXPLODED

Croatia may be new to you and ten years ago it was still considered as the hidden gem of Europe particularly for the 30+ crowd from Austria, Germany and Hungary.

But nowadays, thanks to social media, cruise ships and a certain Game of Thrones program, Croatia has found it’s way to people’s bucket-lists, travel agents brochures and party boats! In the last few years I’ve seen the number of tourists shoot up in popular places like Dubrovnik, Split and Hvar Town – now labelled as the new party island!

My advice is to prepare for this; book accommodation and trips EARLY in the mainstream areas, visit a few secret spots, research your mode of transport and stay in the shoulder months late May and Sept!

DON’T TRY TO SEE IT ALL

Croatia may be a small country, but it has A LOT to offer! If you don’t believe me check out my Croatia posts – it will take you at least a month to see and do everything!

For first time visitors I recommend travelling to Croatia within regions, for example South Dalmatia, North Dalmatia, Istria etc. – don’t try to see it all on one trip! This way you are lessening the hours of travel and expense while being able to see more in a shorter amount of time. During a recent visit I flew to Dubrovnik and stopped by several islands along the coastline from there.

Here’s a helpful guide if you’re interest in island hopping and exploring the popular towns .

SAILING IS A POPULAR WAY TO SEE CROATIA

In Croatia there are over 5000 islands to visit and many towns and cities have their own beautiful harbour from Dubrovnik to Split and Hvar Town. One of the most popular ways to see Croatia is via boat excursions, week-long sail trips or even short cruises, more surprisingly a group of 6 persons – plus could even save money by chartering a private yacht when you think of the cost of 4-5 star hotels per night!

You can book a wonderful private afternoon boat excursion instantly from Get Your Guide and reputable Sail Croatia organises Croatia cruises and sail holidays – discover cruises around Dubrovnik from Sail Croatia.

CROATIA IS NOT A BUDGET FRIENDLY DESTINATION

This may come as a blow as you may have assumed Croatia to be a cheap-ish holiday. But unfortunately if you’ve booked two weeks or more along the coastline you should prepare to spend a pretty penny!

Thanks to the rising popularity of the country as a whole the prices have rocketed in this not so budget friendly destination. In popular areas like Hvar Town you can expect to pay £25 upawards for a main meal, £12-£15 per gin and tonic and £4-£5 for a coffee in Dubrovnik Square.

One thing you can do is grab those accommodation deals early, avoid the July and August peak, bring your own water bottle, (on occasion) swap those lavish terraces for cobbled side streets and have the odd take-away. (There are some delicious coffee houses, pizza and ice-cream parlours and you will always be able to walk to a lovely view point to enjoy them!)

CROATIA IS VERY HILLY!

You will get plenty of workouts in Croatia! The entire coastline is jagged and hilly, which is why there are so many islands in the Adriatic in the first place!

On my most recent trip to Dubrovnik I stopped in a guest house with AMAZING VIEWS over the old town and coastline beyond, but of course I needed to climb 6 flights of steep steps to get that view!

So bear this in mind when choosing accommodation, if you’re not up for this daily hill walk, book closer to the sea! Also it’s worth knowing that the charming walled old towns are mostly inaccessible by transport and are elevated with steep inclines and cobble stoned stairs.

DON’T EXPECT WHITE SANDY BEACHES

Crystal clear turquoise water dominates the entire length of the Croatian coastline – the striking images you see are all real.

This however, is largely due to the fact that the beaches are mostly made out of rock – you will be hard pressed to find a grain of sand on the Adriatic.

White pebble beaches, dramatic rocks and luxury beach clubs in dreamy locations is where you will sunbath and each have their own charm. Just remember; when travelling to Croatia you’ll need water shoes and a thick beach towel!

FORGET ABOUT DREAMY RAIL TRAVEL

Hopping on the train and drifting between destinations feels like the thing to do in Europe – except for Croatia, where rail tracks seem very elusive!

So far, out of my last 8 visits to Croatia, I have gotten on the train once! Travelling from Zargreb to Ljubljana in Slovenia. Croatia’s rail system is neither reliable or very useful between destinations, for this reason buses are far better!

However, an even better way is to hire a car and explore the cute towns, national parks an some of the larger islands at your own pace!

IT IS ESSENTIAL TO BOOK TRANSPORT IN ADVANCE

Speaking of transport, in the summer months it pays to book longer buses and ferries in advance and know your routes!

Coaches and buses are frequent and run up and down the coast and near to the National Parks further inland. Just book on line at least one or two days before hand or at the booking office, especially in Dubrovnik and Split.

Travelling around the islands via catamaran is slightly more complex as the weather and months dictate the frequency and timing, which can see last minute schedule changes! Check Jadrolinja and getbyferry websites for routes and booking.

CASH IS KING IN CROATIA

It helps enormously if you carry some notes as well as your bank cards while travelling throughout Croatia.

Plenty of restaurants and superstores accept cards, however be prepared for smaller coffee houses, bars and local restaurants to be ‘cash only’. Sometimes you only find out when it comes to payment, which can be awkward!

THERE IS MORE TO CROATIA THAN DUBROVNIK AND SPLIT

Dubrovnik and Split are lovely places to visit and while you have the convenience of a direct flight from the UK, bear in mind it’s not the only place to stop!

Spend time on the islands, Hvar, Korcula and Vis – they have so much to offer! I would actually spend more time enjoying the islands and less time on the mainland. Each island has a different look and feel from charming old towns to vineyards and magical beach coves – you can have the best of everything!

Did I mention how gorgeous the national parks are? You would be remiss not to check out the stunning waterfalls of Krka, Plitvice and Mljet – an island oasis!

CROATIA IS NOT IN EASTERN EUROPE

Croatia is neither Eastern Europe or the Mediterranean, although parts of it feel like both! In fact it sits squarely in the middle of South East Europe, which is technically ‘The Balkans’ or you could even narrow it down to ‘The Adriatic’ since most of Croatia hugs the coastline.

Croatia is by far and away the most lush (and expensive) if you’re looking to travel around the neighbouring countries of Montenegro and Slovenia , you might be in for a surprise!

THE OFFICIAL LANGUAGE IS CROATIAN

Croatian is the official language of Croatia! If you’re travelling around independently using public transport or a car and want to visit the smaller villages, towns and gorgeous national parks for a number of weeks then it would be valuable to learn some Croatian ! Not everyone outside of Dubrovnik speaks English and you will get by much better if you can speak the basic lingo. I learned through the Ling App – just 10-20 minutes per day, its amazing and will be useful for future trips as I will continue to visit beautiful Croatia annually! Take a look at the Ling App HERE – I highly recommend it!

THE LOCAL CUISINE IS MORE THAN PIZZA AND PASTA!

Walking around Croatia, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the local cuisine is mostly pizza and pasta! While there is a lot of influence from nearby Italy along the touristic areas in particular, the main staples of Croatia is actually more like fish, seafood, truffle risotto, lamb and swiss chard!

It’s worth knowing that each region offers something different! Pag cheese from the island of Pag, wine from Korcula and truffles from Istria!

READ NEXT: WHERE TO STAY ON THE DALMATIAN COAST: BEST AREAS & BOUTIQUES

CROATIA IS SAFE FOR THE SOLO TRAVELLER:

I have travelled extensively through Croatia solo – exploring popular national parks, islands and towns via local transport and have always felt safe and found the locals helpful – English is widely spoken in popular places.

Here are my personal tips for solo female travel. 12 SOLO FEMALE TRAVEL TIPS

A FEW MORE HELPFUL TIPS

Croatian Language: The official language is Croatian. English is widely spoken in touristic areas such as Split, Dubrovnik and Hvar Island.

Currency: The currency of Croatia is KUNA, although in popular areas the Euro can be accepted.

Tipping: Most Croatians do not leave a tip – and it’s not expected. If you can’t resist, offer 10%.

Plugs: The standard two prong 230v European plug is used in Croatia. I recommend buying a universal adaptor .

Credit Cards & ATM’S: You can find ATM’s all over Croatia and most restaurants, shops and hotels accept card payments.

QUICK GUIDE TO THE BEST SPOTS

Here’s a quick guide to some of the best towns, national parks and islands that offer visitors unique experiences!

• The most beautiful island: Hvar
• The most beautiful town: Dubrovnik
• The most charming place: Rovinj
• The best off the beaten path island: Vis
• The best National Park: Plitvice
• The best National Park island: Mljet
• The most romantic island: Korcula

Check out more of my favourite islands in THIS GUIDE .

Did you find this post helpful? What is the one thing from this post that has surprised you the most? Let me know in the comments below!

READ MORE ABOUT CROATIA

• WHERE TO STAY ON THE DALMATIAN COAST
• 20 PHOTOS TO INSPIRE YOU TO VISIT CROATIA
• 8 BEST THINGS TO DO IN DUBROVNIK OLD TOWN
• HVAR TRAVEL GUIDE
• SPLIT TRAVEL GUIDE

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Home > Local’s Guide To Traveling Around Croatia: Top Tips & Methods

Local’s Guide To Traveling Around Croatia: Top Tips & Methods

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Traveling around Croatia is possible in various ways. Let’s check out the 8 best ways to explore Croatia.

Top of the list? In my opinion, car rental in Croatia. Honestly, getting around in Croatia is easy when you’ve got your own set of wheels.  I think that driving is the best way to see the country because the train network is inefficient for connecting all the dots across Croatia. You can zip across the regions of Croatia, from the stunning Dalmatian Islands to the lush landscapes of inland Croatia.

That said, Croatia’s bus routes are extensive and very cheap. And hey, if you’re looking to add a splash of adventure, consider a private boat for those coastal excursions. 

Read on to discover everything you need to know about planning your trip.

Aaah, Croatia! It is a country of Dalmatians, neckties, waterfalls and islands, traditional food, and ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

Although relatively small, this ancient nation is exceptionally varied. You can enjoy spectacular national parks , sample local seafood and wine, visit centuries-old towns, go island-hopping in the Adriatic, and so much more.

Croatia is a modern country—getting around Croatia is possible in many ways.

Some are independent and require planning, while others allow you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the gorgeous scenery. In this article, I explain all of the ways you travel around Croatia that I have learned in my last two decades of exploring Croatia.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Quick Guide To Getting Around Croatia

But before I go through my tips, there are a few things to remember. My travel choices are more luxury-based, though I explain below cheaper, less luxurious options.

• Croatia Airlines is a local carrier providing daily flights to various destinations like Dubrovnik , Rijeka, and Zadar from Zagreb
• Train travel is not popular in Croatia . The major routes, Zagreb to Rijeka and Split, though slower, offer a special summer overnight train
• The primary hub for intercity buses is Zagreb, which has plush seating, air conditioning, and free WiFi
• Minivans or private cars are best for overland transport, offering comfort and convenience
• Ferries are an efficient and safe way to connect to several Croatian islands , though schedules can be tricky to navigate due to multiple local operators
• Transportation within Croatian cities varies – on-foot exploration is common in walled cities like Split and Dubrovnik , while taxis and local buses are prevalent in cities like Zagreb
• Uber services are available along the Dalmatian coast and in tourist hotspots like Zagreb, Rijeka, and Istria
• Using public transport in Croatia in summer is much easier as more services are available
• Equally, road congestion in winter is nonexistent outside of the capital Zagreb, unless there are roadworks

9 Best Ways To Travel Around Croatia

1. road trip through croatia – easy to travel between smaller places.

Few vacation activities are more delightful than cruising along the Dalmatian coast, windows down, and the warm wind blowing through your hair , stopping wherever you please, and visiting gorgeous historic towns. Oh yeah!

A self-drive road trip is the best way to explore Croatia if freedom is what you’re after. You determine your own route and your own destinations , and it’s entirely up to you when you leave and when you arrive.

On the other hand, when driving through Croatia yourself, you won’t be able to take in the scenery as much as you would with other Croatia transport options. You’ll have to continually keep your eyes on the road, especially during summer when the traffic on Croatia roads is horrendous.

Sometimes, having someone take care of the driving in Croatia is more convenient. That said, Croatian road trips can be excellent with proper planning.

For example, a drive from Zadar to Dubrovnik is nothing short of glorious. You’ll pass quaint coastal villages and major cities such as Šibenik and Split on the way. Alternatively, exploring Istria by car is absolutely amazing as well (and a must as they lack bus/train services).

For an authentically Croatian road trip, opt for a drive around rural Slavonia from Zagreb and visit fascinating towns such as Osijek .

Tip: if you’re wondering what side of the road Croatia drives on, it’s on the right side!

Check here for a full list of road rules and Croatia driving tips.

2. cruises in croatia – lux travel option.

One of the most popular ways to explore Croatia is by boat (and my total favorite!). Croatia is a dream destination for island vacations, home to more than 1,200 mesmerizing islands, each different and unique.

Distances between islands are often really short, allowing you to visit several places quickly. On a cruise in Croatia, you’ll wake up in a different place almost daily!

One of the most comfortable and luxurious ways to travel Croatia is with a gulet expert – this way, you’ll sail around the glorious Croatian islands , leaving behind the mainland crowds and stress.

The captain and crew will pamper you the entire way, ensuring a fantastic atmosphere and offering meals and drinks. On top of that, it’s possible to personalize almost everything, from the route and activities to drinks and food options .

Some gulets are like top-rated hotels; some come with a jacuzzi, lounge chairs, and staff to keep you fed and well-boozed for your sailing experience. If you want luxury and convenience, this is probably the best way for you to travel around Croatia.

3. Bus Travel In Croatia – The Bus Network Is Extensive Between Larger Cites

Budget travelers in Croatia without a car who’d like to travel between the larger cities won’t find a better Croatia public transport option than taking the bus. The bus network in Croatia is reasonably good, with frequent connections between cities. You can zoom through Croatia on a bus from Zagreb to Split, Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park , and Rijeka to Dubrovnik. It’s exceptionally convenient and cheap.

The downside of this, however, is that traveling by bus in Croatia is super popular. As thousands of tourists and backpackers head to the Adriatic in the peak season, they get really full.

Therefore, I always tell families that buses in Croatia are a very inconvenient option for those with kids traveling with multiple suitcases. On top of that, if a few of you are in a group, it can be just as cheap (or just a little extra) to rent your own hire car or get a private transfer.

It’s impossible to get to Croatian islands by bus, which could be a major disadvantage if you plan to island-hop Croatia. However, travel between popular towns is an excellent choice for mainland Croatia.

Traveling to Croatia by bus can present some logistical planning issues. There are a dozen bus companies in Croatia, and to date, not one company can take you all over the country. To find the best bus company for your specific needs, you’ll need to look up each operator individually.

Check out Cazmatrans, Libertas, Autotrans, Croatia Bus, and Promet Split to get you started.

Tip: You also have to pay for luggage to be stored under the bus – that always irritates me, so factor that into your costs when determining Croatia bus prices.

We recommend you book your bus tickets here.

4. private transfers in croatiam easier than getting a hire car.

When it comes to pure convenience, nothing beats private transfers . You can take private transfers all over Croatia, from airport arrival halls to your hotel and between cities.

Even though people think private transfers are pretty expensive, you may be surprised at how affordable they are.

Private transfers are the way to go for quick and easy airport-to-hotel (or vice versa) transportation. Here are some other options:

• Split To Zagreb
• Zadar To Krka National
• Split To Dubrovnik
• Zagreb To Budapest
• Zagreb To Dubrovnik
• Zagreb To Ljubljana
• Zagreb To Venice
• Zadar To Pula
• Medjugorje To Split
• Zadar To Split
• Zadar To Plitvice Lakes
• Zagreb To Split
• Zagreb To Rovinj
• Split Airport Transfers
• Zadar Airport Transfers
• Split To Krka

5. Taxi Travel In Croatia

If you choose to travel by taxi, you’ll automatically notice that fares in Croatia are pretty high. However, in Rijeka and Zagreb, you’ll find lower fares.

When traveling, ensure the driver turns on his meter, and asking for a rough cost beforehand is also perfectly okay.

While it’s not the best idea to rely on taxis, a taxi is a good choice if you find yourself stuck or you only need to travel two short distances quickly.

Check out this guide to learn how to speak with a taxi driver.

6. ferries in croatia to get to surround islands.

Because of the many coastal cities and the number of visit-worthy islands , the Croatia ferry network is rather extensive, with lots of services throughout the summer. This makes it easy to pick and choose routes by creating your own Croatia ferry itinerary (if that’s what you’re going for).

The biggest ferry company in Croatia is Jadrolinija; you can also look at other smaller operators like G&V Line, Kapetan Luka, and Mia Tours.

There are so many Croatia ferry companies and options that it would be impossible for us to list them all here. Instead, we provide a comprehensive overview of how to get to and from the major destinations by ferry—places such as Pula, Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik, as well as a couple of popular islands right here .

In case you do not read the full ferry guide we listed above, please note two critical things:

• Ferries operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so line up well in advance (even if you have a ticket, you are not guaranteed a place onboard). If you don’t make it to the first ferry , you’ll have to wait for the following one.
• If you wish to take your hire car on car ferries in Croatia, you must line up VERY early. On some routes in Summer, we arrive 1.5-2 hours before and get the car in the line.

Read all about ferry travel in Croatia here.

I recommend you book your ferries with ferryhopper in advance here., 7. train travel in croatia.

Just forget this idea. Trains in Croatia are totally useless. Sorry, but we are FAR behind other European cities regarding  train travel in Croatia. That said, we have some options to take the train through Croatia, and I can say that traveling by train from Zagreb to Ljubljana (Slovenia) is better than by bus. I  know some people who enjoyed traveling by train from Zagreb to Spli t – how I will never know. 

Route options and up-to-date Croatia train timetables and prices can be found at http://www.hzpp.hr/ – you should know you can not make online bookings. That has to be done at the station, but you can do that a few days before you wish to travel if you want security. 

8. Flying In Croatia – Flight Options

If a city break in Croatia is what you’re after, flying would be a reliable option. You can travel by plane into Zagreb from various major European cities, including Paris, Munich, Amsterdam, Zurich, and London.

You’ll need to weigh up the time it takes and the costs to see which routes are better for flying . For example, Zagreb to Dubrovnik is a great option – as you do not have to worry about crossing the BiH border – which can be very time-consuming.

Note that if you’re flying into Zagreb (and perhaps taking a domestic flight in Croatia), you will still need some form of transportation to get to your accommodation. In that case, private transfers and local buses are the best options.

Croatia internal flights are expensive in summer – as we have only one domestic carrier – so book well in advance to try to get the best deals. We have several main airports (Zagreb, Pula, Rijeka, Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik) where you can plan your travels throughout the year. Then, in peak season, you can also look at a few other more seasonal airports.

9. Hitchhiking In Croatia

Hitchhiking is risky in any country, even in safe countries like Croatia . It’s not the best idea to hitchhike – it’s highly unpredictable, and you have no idea when you may end up where you need to go.

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Factors to consider when traveling around croatia.

It’s pretty easy to travel around Croatia . The roads are excellent, and public transport is cost-effective and easy to use. Aside from regular roads, you’ll also find a network of motorways that help you travel all around the country , making it faster and more cost-effective. 

Despite that, you do need to factor in these elements when choosing which transport option to go for.

Time Of Year

Croatia has a high and low season, and during the summer months, you’ll typically find more bus and ferry services, compared to the low season , between November and April.

In some cases, you cannot get a direct service, such as the case with catamaran journeys between Dubrovnik or Split to the islands of Hvar  and Korcula ; these only operate during the summer. For that reason, double-check that the route you’re looking at actually works at the time of year you’re visiting .

Summer Traffic

Dubrovnik and Split are known for terrible traffic in the summer months, which increases further on the weekends and during school holidays.

Remember, it’s not only tourists who want to enjoy the beach but locals too! You must factor this into your plans if you travel by car or bus.

Learn how to avoid the crowds in Dubrovnik here!

Ticket availability .

This is usually only a problem during the summer, but booking your bus or ferry ticket online is always best rather than waiting until the last minute.

Deciding to ‘chance’ could mean waiting for the next service, which could completely derail your day’s plans.

The summer months are pretty predictable, but the shoulder and winter months can be somewhat unpredictable in terms of weather. It can rain a lot, and it can also be very windy at times. Some areas are known for their wind, especially on high-speed motorways.

This can sometimes close sections of the motorway and add miles to your journey. Particular trouble spots include the A1 motorway Sv. Roko tunnel from Zadar to Gospic, the A6 Kikovica to Ostrovica area, and the E65 between Senj and Karlobag, particularly along the coastal road.

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Cost To Get Around Croatia

There are several options for getting around Croatia, but it will depend on the amount of time you have and your budget as to which choice you go for.

In this section, we’ll give you rough travel costs, but remember that the current climate means prices can fluctuate quickly, so always double-check to ensure up-to-date prices.

To give you an idea of prices between major cities, a one-way ticket between Zagreb and Dubrovnik will cost around 30-65 euros, between Zagreb and Split about 23-45 euros, and Split to Dubrovnik about 15-30 euros.

Rental Car Hire

The price of car hire will depend upon the provider, the package, and the type of car you opt for. However, an economical choice usually costs around 40-100 euros daily. (Please note that these prices rise yearly and may be inaccurate when reading.) The fuel prices have been steady for a year now at around 1.50 euros per liter.

Road Tolls 

You will need to pay for toll roads throughout Croatia. Motorways are a faster route, but these have tolls attached to them, which are 16.5 euros to travel between Zagreb and Zadar , 31 euros from Zagreb to Ploce (on the way to Dubrovnik), and 25 euros from Zagreb to Split. (Please note that these prices rise yearly and may be inaccurate when reading.)

Ferries 

Foot passengers will find that ferries are a very cost-effective option; for instance, Split to Brac is 6.50 euros per person but 25-40 euros for a car. You can see that car ferries are more expensive, which you need to consider. (Please note that these prices rise yearly and may be inaccurate when reading.)

You can usually find last-minute flights at reasonable prices, but again, the cost of flying is much higher at the moment. Therefore, booking as early as you can is now a better choice. For example, a flight from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is around 100 euros one way. You can reduce this by choosing to fly very early or very late at night.

Being flexible with your journey will save you money .

FAQs About Travel Within Croatia

TRAVELING CROATIA FAQs

How can I travel by air within Croatia?

Croatia Airlines is a reliable carrier providing daily flights to various destinations from Zagreb, like Dubrovnik, Rijeka, and Zadar.

What are the train travel options in Croatia?

Train travel is not widely popular in Croatia. The major routes, Zagreb to Rijeka and Split, offer a special summer overnight train, although they are generally slower compared to other modes of transportation.

How do intercity buses in Croatia function?

A: The primary hub for intercity buses is Zagreb, with buses featuring plush seating, air conditioning, and usually free WiFi. These buses connect to many Croatian destinations.

What about private road travel in Croatia?

Minivans or private cars work well for overland transport, offering comfort and convenience at a higher price than public transportation. They are best suited for trips from Zagreb to places like Rijeka, Zadar, and Pula.

How can I travel to the islands of Croatia?

Ferries! They connect to all the Croatian islands.

What modes of transportation are common within Croatian cities?

The mode of transportation varies by city. On-foot exploration is common in walled cities like Split and Dubrovnik, while cities like Zagreb commonly feature taxi, bus, and tram services.

Are there Uber services in Croatia?

A: Yes. Services are available along the Dalmatian coast and in tourist hotspots like Rijeka, Zagreb & Istria.

• What To See And Do In Croatia
• Best Things To Do With Kids In Croatia
• Car Rental Tips And Deals
• Taking The Split To Zagreb Train
• Is Croatia Safe To Travel? Helpful Safety Tips

Comments (7)

Thanks for this guide I will be visiting Croatia in 2019.

Hi, do you have any advice on the best way to get from Croatia to Montenegro (Kotor)? We are visiting both Zadar and Split while in Croatia. Travelling with the family but trying to keep costs down where possible! Thanks

Try http://www.octopustransferscroatia.com

Well if you are onto travel to Croatia, then you will surely enjoy boat trip and sea trip of the country. You will have glimpse of beautiful culture and people and beautiful heritage sites on the way, while you can also explore beautiful calm sea with wonderful island to watch out.

Amazing guidance about travel

How far in advance do we need to book a driver for a transfer?

You need to book it as soon as you know your dates if they are fixed. That said you can book a month or a week before. Happy travels.

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Croatia Awaits: Your Ultimate Travel Guide with Stay Croatia

Welcome to Stay Croatia, the top Croatian travel guide and resource for Croatia travel tips

If your Mediterranean fantasies feature balmy days by sapphire waters in the shade of ancient walled towns, Croatia is the place to turn them into reality. Plan Your Dream Trip to Croatia with Stay Croatia Travel Blogs your personal Croatian travel guide.

Start your Journey to Croatia

Ask our croatia travel blog.

Experience the ultimate convenience in crafting your Croatian adventure with AI Ask, your intelligent travel assistant. By integrating Stay Croatia AI with the Stay Croatia Travel Blog , you unlock a seamless way to plan your trip. Discover the finest sites and immerse yourself in the most exciting activities Croatia has to offer. Simply pose your questions, and let Stay Croatia AI swiftly guide you through a plethora of information. From hidden gems along the Dalmatian coast to the vibrant nightlife in ancient walled cities. Whether you’re searching for the most serene beaches, historical wonders, or the richest cultural events, use our AI as your Croatian travel guide. Stay Croatia AI enhances your Croatia travel experience, ensuring you make the most of every sun-soaked moment in this Mediterranean paradise.

Croatian travel guide

There are several reasons to explore Croatia:

• Venetian and Roman-era historical sights.  Once the heart of the Ragusan republic, the Dalmatian coast is dotted with old forts, monasteries, churches, and city walls. Well-preserved Roman ruins can be found in Dubrovnik , Split , Pula , Rovinj , Porec and almost every place you look.
• Beaches & island hopping.  Croatia is an ideal summer destination with warm Mediterranean waters, pleasant pebble beaches, and one of the best areas in Europe for island excursions.
• National parks & waterfalls.  Don’t miss Plitvice , one of Europe’s most beautiful waterfalls, Kornati – the most indented group of islands in the Mediterranean, Brijuni Islands – famous for their scenic beauty.
• Open air terraces with great music, delicious food accompanied with a glass of fine wine, night walk through the lively city streets, charming narrow climbs in the historic centers and different types of music heard everywhere – experience all this and much more in Croatia.
• Enjoy a surprise concert in the magnificent Pula Arena , also the perfect venue for gladiator fights offering a real thrilling experience. Every year in July you can enjoy watching movies on the world’s most beautiful stage under the stars. The spectacular fireworks marking the opening of the traditional Pula Film Festival. All this and more can be discovered at the many festivals, concerts and events happening throughout the year in Croatia.

StayCroatia.com

Stay Croatia gathers and provides Croatia travel and Croatia travel tips from a multitude of reliable and valued sources. First, the authors are full time residents, one of which is born and rasied in our beautiful country. Next, we’ve included many photos and summaries from our very own excursions and travel throughout Croatia. Finally, we have included additional information from credible and reliable sources. Such as Croation Tourism Board , Croatian Auto Club , Booking.com , Republic of Croatia – Ministry of Foriegn Afffairs . Keepingh the most accurate and up to date information on croatia travel and croatia travel destinations.

It’s time for fun and recharging batteries. Having a great time in good company with plenty of positive vibes – in Croatia.

Important Tips To Remember When Traveling To Croatia

• Last updated May 12, 2024
• Difficulty Advanced

• Category Travel

Croatia, a captivating country on the Adriatic Sea, has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. However, before setting off on your Croatian adventure, it's essential to keep in mind some crucial tips to ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience. From understanding the local customs and traditions to navigating the unique transportation system, this guide will provide you with important insights and practical advice for a truly remarkable trip to Croatia.

What You'll Learn

Climate and seasonal considerations in croatia, essential travel documents for croatia, safety tips and precautions for traveling in croatia, cultural etiquette and customs in croatia.

Croatia is a stunning country located in Southeast Europe, known for its beautiful coastal cities, crystal clear waters, and historic sites. When planning a trip to Croatia, it's essential to consider the climate and seasonal variations, as these factors can greatly impact your experience. Here are some important things to keep in mind when traveling to Croatia:

• Croatia experiences four distinct seasons: summer, autumn, winter, and spring. Each season offers a unique experience, so choose the time of year that aligns with your preferences and interests.
• Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Croatia, with hot and sunny weather. This is the perfect time to enjoy the stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife along the coast.
• Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds. These seasons are ideal for exploring the historic cities, national parks, and hiking trails.
• Winter (November to March) is the low tourist season, especially along the coast. However, if you're a fan of winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, head to the mountainous regions in the interior for a thrilling experience.

Mediterranean Climate:

• Croatia has a Mediterranean climate, which means hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The coastal regions enjoy a pleasant climate throughout the year, while the inland areas have more continental influences.
• During the summer months, temperatures can reach highs of 30-35°C (86-95°F) in coastal cities like Dubrovnik and Split. It's essential to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during the hottest hours of the day.
• In winter, temperatures can drop to 5-10°C (41-50°F) on the coast and even lower in the interior. Be prepared with layers of warm clothing, especially if you plan to visit the national parks or go hiking.

Rainfall and Thunderstorms:

• Croatia experiences most of its rainfall in autumn and winter, particularly in the western coastal regions. Thunderstorms are quite common during this time, so pack a lightweight raincoat or umbrella to stay dry.
• Spring and summer are generally drier, but there might still be occasional showers. It's a good idea to carry a compact rain poncho or a waterproof jacket, especially if you plan outdoor activities or island hopping.

Island Hopping:

• Croatia's coastline is dotted with over a thousand islands, offering endless opportunities for island hopping. If you want to explore multiple islands, keep in mind that ferry and boat schedules vary depending on the season.
• During the peak summer season, there are more frequent ferry connections, but the demand is high, so it's advisable to book your tickets in advance. In the off-peak seasons, there might be reduced schedules, so plan accordingly.

National Parks:

• Croatia boasts several stunning national parks, including Plitvice Lakes, Krka, and Paklenica. While these parks are open year-round, their accessibility and activities can vary with the seasons.
• In summer, the parks are bustling with visitors, and it's important to arrive early to secure a parking spot and avoid the crowds. Spring and autumn offer cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and vibrant foliage, making it a perfect time to explore the parks' hiking trails and waterfalls.
• Winter can bring snow and limited access to some parts of the national parks, but it also offers a unique experience for nature lovers who enjoy the peace and tranquility of the winter landscape.

By considering these climate and seasonal factors, you can plan your trip to Croatia to maximize your enjoyment and make lasting memories. Whether you prefer the bustling beaches of summer or the peaceful nature of autumn, Croatia has something for everyone at any time of the year.

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If you are planning a trip to Croatia, it is important to make sure you have all the necessary travel documents in order. Here are the essential documents you need to have when traveling to Croatia:

• Passport: A valid passport is a must-have when traveling to Croatia. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Croatia. It is advisable to carry a photocopy of your passport with you at all times, just in case you lose your original.
• Visa requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain a visa before traveling to Croatia. Citizens of the European Union, the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days. However, it is always a good idea to check the visa requirements for your specific nationality before traveling.
• Return ticket: When entering Croatia, you may be asked to provide proof of a return or onward ticket. This is to show that you have plans to leave the country within the allowed duration of your stay. Make sure to have a copy of your return ticket or a flight itinerary that indicates your departure date from Croatia.
• Travel insurance: Although not mandatory, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance when visiting Croatia. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events. Make sure to review the policy to ensure it covers your needs and that it is valid for the duration of your stay in Croatia.
• International Driving Permit (IDP): If you plan on driving in Croatia, you will need an IDP along with your valid driver's license from your home country. An IDP translates your driver's license into multiple languages and is recognized by Croatian authorities. This allows you to legally drive in Croatia without any issues.
• Health-related documents: While not a mandatory requirement, it is always a good idea to carry your medical records, prescriptions, and any necessary vaccinations certificates with you when traveling to Croatia. In case of a medical emergency, these documents can provide vital information to medical professionals.
• Travel itinerary and accommodation details: It is advisable to have a printed copy of your travel itinerary, including information on your accommodation, transportation arrangements, and any pre-booked tours or activities. This can be useful if you are asked to provide proof of your plans or reservations.
• COVID-19-related documents: Due to the ongoing pandemic, there may be additional requirements or restrictions in place for travelers entering Croatia. Make sure to check the latest information regarding COVID-19 testing, vaccination requirements, and any quarantine measures that may be in effect. Carry any necessary documents, such as negative test results or vaccination certificates, as proof of compliance with the current regulations.

Before you travel to Croatia, make sure to check the latest travel advisories and requirements from your country's embassy or consulate. This will ensure that you have all the necessary documents in order and can enjoy a hassle-free trip to this beautiful country.

The Essential Guide to Traveling with a Full-Sized Umbrella: Tips and Tricks for Staying Prepared on the Go

Croatia is a beautiful country with stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. As with any travel destination, it is important to prioritize your safety and well-being while exploring this wonderful country. Here are some essential safety tips and precautions to keep in mind when traveling to Croatia:

• Research and Plan: Before your trip, take the time to research and plan your itinerary. This includes understanding the local customs, laws, and traditions, as well as familiarizing yourself with the local emergency numbers. Create a detailed itinerary, including transportation and accommodation arrangements, and share it with a trusted friend or family member back home.
• Stay Aware: While exploring Croatia, it is important to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, especially in isolated or dimly lit places. If possible, stick to well-lit and crowded areas, and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded tourist spots.
• Use Reliable Transportation: When using public transportation, choose reputable and licensed taxis, buses, or trains. If you prefer to rent a car, ensure it is from a trusted and reputable company. Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and road signs. Be cautious while driving on narrow and winding coastal roads, and be aware of local drivers who may not always follow traffic rules.
• Take Care of Your Belongings: Keep a close eye on your personal belongings, particularly in crowded places and on public transportation. Carry a theft-proof bag or money belt to keep your valuables safe. Avoid flashing expensive items like jewelry and gadgets in public, as this may attract unwanted attention.
• Protect Your Documents: Keep your passport, travel documents, and extra copies of important documents like your visa, driver's license, and insurance in a secure and separate place. Consider making digital copies and storing them on a secure cloud storage service, so you can access them from anywhere in case of an emergency.
• Dress Appropriately: Croatia has a mix of cultural and religious influences, so it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Pack clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to show respect to local customs.
• Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected: Croatia experiences hot and sunny weather, especially during the summer months. It is essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and wearing sunscreen with a high SPF to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it frequently to stay hydrated, especially if you plan on hiking or exploring national parks.
• Respect Nature and Wildlife: Croatia is known for its pristine natural beauty, so it is crucial to respect the environment and wildlife. Follow marked trails in national parks, and do not disturb the flora and fauna. Be cautious of venomous snakes and take necessary precautions when hiking or exploring rural areas.
• Stay Up to Date with Local News: Keep yourself informed about the local news and any travel advisories or warnings issued by your country's embassy or consulate. Stay updated on current events and be aware of any potential political unrest or natural disasters that may affect your travel plans.
• Travel Insurance: Lastly, consider purchasing travel insurance to safeguard yourself against unforeseen circumstances like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost belongings. Read the policy thoroughly and ensure it covers any activities you plan to indulge in, such as water sports or hiking.

By following these safety tips and precautions, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Croatia. Always trust your instincts, exercise caution, and embrace the beauty of this stunning destination.

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Croatia is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage. If you're planning a trip to Croatia, it's important to familiarize yourself with its cultural etiquette and customs. By following these tips, you'll not only show respect to the locals but also have a more fulfilling and enjoyable travel experience.

Greetings and Introductions:

When meeting someone for the first time, it is customary to greet them with a firm handshake, direct eye contact, and a friendly smile. Address people using their titles (Mr./Ms.) and their last names, unless they specifically ask you to use their first name.

Dress Code:

Croatians generally dress well, especially when going out in the evening. It's a good idea to dress neatly and conservatively when visiting churches, religious sites, and government buildings. In coastal areas, beachwear is acceptable at the beach but should be covered up when leaving the beach area.

Punctuality:

Croatians value punctuality, so it's important to be on time for appointments, meetings, and social events. Arriving 5-10 minutes early is considered polite. If you're running late, it's customary to call and inform the person you're meeting.

Dining Etiquette:

When invited to someone's home for a meal, it's customary to bring a small gift such as a bottle of wine or chocolates. Wait for the host to begin eating before you start your meal. Keep your hands on the table at all times but avoid placing your elbows on the table. It's also polite to leave a small amount of food on your plate to indicate that you have had enough to eat.

In restaurants, it's common to leave a 10% tip if the service was satisfactory. However, some restaurants include a service charge in the bill, so be sure to check before leaving an additional tip. Tipping is also appreciated for other services such as taxis, tour guides, and hotel staff.

While most Croatians speak English, it's always a good idea to learn a few basic Croatian phrases. The locals will appreciate your effort in trying to communicate in their language. Saying "hello" (Dobar dan) and "thank you" (Hvala) will go a long way in establishing a friendly connection.

Social Etiquette:

Croatians are generally friendly and hospitable. When invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift for the host. Complimenting the host on their home or cooking is also appreciated. It's important to maintain eye contact when speaking with someone as it shows respect and interest in the conversation.

Religious Customs:

Croatia has a strong Catholic tradition, and it's important to respect religious customs and traditions. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly and avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior. Take off your hat and turn off your cell phone to show respect for the sacredness of the place.

By keeping these cultural etiquette and customs in mind, you'll not only show respect to the locals but also have a more immersive and fulfilling experience in Croatia. Enjoy your trip and embrace the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful country!

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Split Travel Guide – 55 Top Tips for First Time Visitors

Split is the second largest city in Croatia and a hub for exploring the beautiful Dalmatian Coast and islands. There’s plenty of amazing national parks, beaches and coves nearby, but a trip wouldn’t be complete without checking out everything the city has to offer, and our Split travel guide will help you do just that! The pretty coastal city makes a great weekend city break destination or an essential stop-off point to any Croatia road trip.

After visiting Split many times and exploring everything it has to offer, we’ve assembled a list of top Split visitors’ tips to help first timers plan the best holiday ever. We’ve included a Split travel guide, featuring eating out tips, nightlife suggestions, getting around and much more!

Things to know before you arrive in Split

1. Book an apartment over a hotel. Split city centre is compact and there are very few hotels, meaning that the hotels that do exist can be quite expensive. An apartment will be in a more central location and you’ll have a larger living space. They’re surprisingly good value!

2. Decide whether you want to stay in the old town centre, or slightly out of town along the coastline. There’s more going on in the centre, but you don’t have the relaxing beaches and tranquillity of nearby resorts. View Split old town on a map for reference to the centre.

3. We recommend staying in Split for around 3 or 4 days and combining your trip with the island of Brac, Hvar or Vis if you want a longer holiday.

4. Many nationalities don’t need a visa for visiting Croatia and you can stay up to 90 days without one. These countries include but aren’t limited to all EU countries, UK, USA, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Check your local government website before departure to see if you need a visa to enter Croatia.

5. Pre-book tours and island ferries in advance of arrival. It’s usually cheaper and you’ll save time when you’re there. Check out tours on Viator here and book ferries with Jadrolinija, the official ferry company here .

6. The best times to visit Split are in June and September. July and August are very hot but often bring crowds of tourists and higher prices. April and May are also good, however expect lower temperatures. Travelling outside of these months, temperatures can be cool, however it’s still a nice place to visit whatever the weather!

Getting to/from Split Airport

7. Split Airport is roughly 24km away from the city centre, or a half an hour drive. One of the cheapest and easiest ways to get from the airport terminal to the city is using the official airport shuttle service. Tickets cost 30 Kuna (around 4 Euros) per person for the one-way trip and it’ll drop you off at the marina bus station in the city centre. The journey takes around 35 minutes and buses leave roughly 30 minutes after a flight has landed.

8. If you’re travelling in a group or have lots of luggage, taking an Uber directly to your hotel or apartment can be both cost effective and quick. A one-way trip will cost you around 240 Kuna (30 euros).

9. Avoid the on-airport official taxi’s in favour of Uber. They’re more expensive!

Split sightseeing tips

10. Start your first day with a short walking tour of Split old town centre. It’s a great way to introduce yourself to the city and learn about its past and present.

11. Make Diocletian’s Palace a must-see on your itinerary. This ancient palace was a film set in multiple Game of Thrones scenes and is a work of art! Combine your trip to the palace with a climb to the cathedral bell-tower for some amazing views of the city.

12. Exploring the marina and coastline is best done by bike. Rent a cycle from a tourist agent by the marina or at a bike stand positioned throughout Split. Cycle all the way to the secluded Kasjuni Beach to the south-west of the old town.

13. Book tours in advance of arrival. You can compare the options that you like the most and it’s likely you’re visiting for a short time so you don’t want to miss out. We recommend trips to the Blue Caves of Vis, Krka National Park and the enchanting town of Mostar in Bosnia. View bookable in advance Split tours and excursions on Viator here .

14. Challenge yourself to hike to the top of Marjana Park viewpoint for the best views of the whole city!

15. Split old town is one of the oldest architectural gems in Europe. Wandering the narrow streets, getting lost and marvelling at buildings is an attraction it itself. Even better with an ice cream in hand!

16. The long promenade by the marina is the perfect place to wander on an evening before dinner. The sun sets on the horizon as the boats come in and it’s a beautiful sight to see. Check it out for yourself one evening.

17. If you’re interested in fine arts and the history of Split or just fancy a cool afternoon indoors out of the hot sun, there are some excellent galleries and museums. We recommend Split Archaeological Museum, Split Live Museum and Meštrović Gallery.

18. Consider renting a boat at Split marina and exploring the coastline with your friends. It was one of the most fun and adventurous things we did! For a small motor boat you don’t need a licence.

19. Split is a great city for shopping, you’ll find high street stores such as Zara and Mango, perfect for last minute holiday clothes, and market stalls throughout the old town. If you want a full afternoon shopping trip, check out “Mall of Split”, which is located just outside of the town centre.

20. One activity that many people overlook is a guided tour of the mighty Poljud Football Stadium, or even attending a football match if you’re visiting during a home game. A great day out for football fans and groups of friends.

Split Transport/getting around tips

21. If you’re staying near the old town, you can reach most attractions within a short walk, however if you want to explore nearby beaches or your apartment is located outside of Split, the local bus network is a great way to get around. We recommend using Google Maps’ Directions to determine which bus you should use. When boarding, simply tell the driver your destination and he’ll charge you appropriately.

22. Taxi’s can be a little expensive, so use the newly introduced Uber service instead. A 15-minute journey costs around 5 euros.

23. If you want freedom to get around and explore lots of nearby places, renting a car can be an affordable option. Check out our Croatia car hire guide here for tips on the best companies to use in Split.

24. If you’re looking to combine your trip to split with another Croatian city such as Zadar, Dubrovnik or Trogir, we recommend getting between cities using local coach companies. You can compare and book tickets through GetByBus here . Buses are air conditioned, comfortable and a much better way of getting around compared to the poor local train system.

25. If you have a departure flight or bus ride later on in the day, consider leaving your luggage at the bus station luggage facilities or a travel agent that offers the service. It’ll save you the hassle of carrying around bags all day!

Saving money in Split / spending tips

26. Choose a central apartment over a hotel and cook some of your own meals. The supermarkets are cheap and most apartments we’ve stayed in have always been well equipped. We recommend visiting a ‘Spar’ or ‘Tommy Maximart’ supermarket to stock up on your first day.

27. Croatia is a cash heavy country and many places don’t accept card payment, even the accommodation! Make sure you always have cash on hand and withdraw money at an ATM with a no fee card (such as Revolut or Monzo) for the best exchange rate.

28. The local currency is Croatian Kuna. Even though a lot of attractions, restaurants and bars sometimes advertise in Euros, they very rarely accept Euros and you’re best withdrawing Kuna only.

29. Always decline the conversion rate that the ATM offers you in favour of letting your bank work it out. You’ll get a much better rate this way. Simply select ‘no/decline’ when you get the option on the ATM.

30. Take advantage of free Split attractions. The city walls, marina, beach, museums and historic sites are all free (with the exception of a few).

31. Although everything is within walking distance in the city centre, Uber can be a cheap way of getting around. Journeys of 15-minutes cost as little as 5 euros.

32. Eat-out on a budget by stopping at pizza-by-the-slice corner cafes and bakeries. They’re super cheap! TripAdvisor’s ‘Cheap Eats in Split’ list is a good place to find affordable restaurants.

33. Avoid restaurants in the heart of Split old town centre (within the four walls) and marina promenade. Whilst there are some nice places, they’re generally more expensive. The streets leading to Bacvice Beach are a good place for cheaper but excellent quality meals.

Split accommodation/hotels tips

34. Are you visiting Split on a solo trip or want to stay somewhere cheap and fun? Check out Croparadise hostel group . They have various hostels in the centre of town that are affordable and have a great social atmosphere.

35. Private apartment rentals are much cheaper than hotels, plus you have a lot more space and they’re usually better-located! We recommend browsing for your apartment on Booking.com here . They have the largest collection of private rental listings for the city.

36. Want to book your holiday now but don’t have the cash just yet? Use Booking.com’s ‘Buy now pay later: Free cancellation’ feature.

37. Always check the reviews for hotels and apartments on TripAdvisor before booking. Aim for a 4+ TripAdvisor rating.

38. Stay in or around Split’s old town centre ( view on map ) to be well-located for all the major attractions, nightlife and restaurants. You’re also a short walk from Bacvice Beach.

39. If you want nice beaches and a more relaxing resort to base yourself, stay near Trstenik Beach ( view on map ). It’s a 10-minute drive from Split city centre.

Split eating out tips

40. Always check the TripAdvisor reviews of a restaurant before eating there. Either research a cool place to eat in advance or go for a walk and if you like the look of a restaurant, do a quick Google search for reviews before asking for a table. It’ll greatly increase your chances of having a great dining experience over a poor one!

41. Reservations aren’t usually needed but if you have a particular restaurant in mind that you really want to visit, we recommend reserving a table just in case.

42. Don’t forget to check out the local bakeries. They’re on almost every corner in the old town and some are open 24 hours. They’re a great place for breakfast or lunch on the go!

43. Being a coastal city, the seafood in Split is excellent and freshly prepared. Sample delicious fillets of sea bass, meaty lobster or big juicy prawns. Seafood platters to share can be quite good value.

44. There’s a distinct Italian influence in Split’s cuisine options and you’ll find authentic pasta’s, pizza’s and breads in many restaurants.

45. Stop by Split Old Town City Market ( view on map ) for cheap and fresh ingredients to cook your own meals or some tasty fruits and snacks.

46. Tap water is safe to drink in restaurants and at your apartment/hotel. Fill up your water bottle and save money.

47. Croatian wine is world renowned, tasty and cheap! Order a local variety from bars and restaurants to judge it yourself, or enjoy a full afternoon wine tasting tour in one of the local nearby vineyards. We recommend Putalj Winery .

Split nightlife tips

48. Our Split travel guide wouldn’t be complete without some nightlife recommendations! Being one of the nightlife capital of Croatia, summer nights are filled with busy bars, drinking in open-air clubs and partying by the beach. Visit Split during the months of July and August for the best nightlife.

49. Consider joining a bar crawl. They operate every night, are a great way to meet people and are good value. We recommend Tower Pub Crawl Split . The tour will take you to a few bars, include an ‘all you can drink hour’ and ends in a club.

50. Visit the old-town for relaxed wine bars, cocktail bars and trendy places to drink with an atmosphere. It’s a relaxed place to start your evening.

51. Visit the Bacvice Beach area for a loud and electric nightlife with plenty of late-night bars and a beach club called Tropic, which has great views of the ocean as you dance the night away.

52. Check out Inbox open-air club ( view on map ) for a vibrant atmosphere and the latest EDM music. Open during the summer months.

53. Fancy a more chilled evening out? Visit the cosy Kino Mediteran outdoor cinema on Bacvice Beach, which hosts movies every night throughout the summer.

54. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the old town and promenade by sitting by one of the numerous pop-up cocktail bars. They’re cheap and a fun way to spend your evening on those warm summer nights.

Visiting Ultra Europe

55. Ultra Europe is a world-famous EDM music festival that takes places in Split in July every year. Party-goers rave the event location in Mladezi Park for a full weekend, before continuing the party on the Dalmatian Islands.

Visiting Split during Ultra or like the sound of it? Check out our complete guide to Ultra Europe here .

That concludes our Split travel guide and giant list of Split travel tips for first timers to the city! Even if you’ve been to Split before, there may be some handy pointers in our list so be sure to try out our suggestions and let us know your thoughts!

If you’re also planning on visiting other parts of Croatia, browse our other travel guides and articles below to get holiday-ready with us.

Our ultimate guide to Ultra Europe – Split

Which part of Croatia should I visit?

The best family holiday resorts in Croatia

Dubrovnik – 3-day itinerary

THANKS FOR READING! IF YOU LIKED OUR ARTICLE, SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS OR PRINT IT OUT FOR YOUR TRIP. FEEL FREE TO  CONTACT US  WITH ANY QUESTIONS YOU HAVE…

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10 Tips for Successful Summer Travel with Kids

Get ready for your next vacation with these kid-friendly travel tips, perfect for traveling across country or even globetrotting around the world.

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The summer season is just around the corner, which means that memory-making adventures are on the horizon. After all, the biggest gift we can give our kids is time: time creating, time discovering, and time together. When planning a vacation, whether you’ll be traveling internationally , road-tripping across the country , or romping around in nature at a nearby forest preserve, there’s much to consider. 

As a seasoned travel writer and a mother of three, I’ve been all over the globe with my brood, exploring not only far-flung destinations like Peru, Japan, and India but also closer-to-home outdoorsy locales like our national and state parks. Let me tell you, I’ve learned some helpful tips along the way. Additionally, I’ve reached out to other parents and caregivers, including a pediatric doctor, to get their tips for successful summer travel with kids. 

Take a Deep Breath

Traveling with kiddos for the first time? Akanksha Shrivastava Hanna, MD , pediatrician in Park Ridge, Illinois, says that you should start by taking a deep breath. 

“Parents want to make sure we plan for everyone and everything to create the best trip possible,” says Hanna. “A great step to take is to acknowledge we won’t see or do everything, and that’s fine. Set reasonable goals, [have] a flexible itinerary, be as prepared as you can, and be ready to pivot since travel is not always a smooth process. Making lists is helpful and think of your child's needs for an entire day, including meals, toiletries, car travel, and safe sleep equipment.”

Find a Playground or Outdoor Space

Playing outside is a great way to burn off energy and have a healthy reset. Go on a hike , stop at a local playground, or take the dogs to a fenced-in park. Your little ones will thank you. 

Janette Thompson is currently enjoying a gap year with her family in tow as they travel across Asia. “While traveling we usually research the surrounding areas for playgrounds, parks, and other child-friendly activities,” Thompson says.

If you can swing it, pack everything you need in carry-on luggage . The last thing you want to do on vacation is constantly worry about managing and schlepping everyone’s large suitcases. Rather than checking luggage, waiting for it on the other end at the baggage carousel, or trying to figure out what to do if it gets lost or misplaced, if you carry on what you need, you can fly through the airport much faster. Plus, light luggage makes it easier when switching hotels and locales. 

“Moving large luggage multiple times on a trip is exhausting and logistically challenging,” says Thompson. 

Don’t Stuff Too Much into the Itinerary

I have a confession to make. As a curious traveler, I often operate with FOMO: fear of missing out. When I’m traveling by myself, I like a full itinerary with lots of activities and very little downtime. I want to make the most of my experience, especially if I’m visiting a country I’ve never been to before. But here’s the thing: kids need breaks. Lots of breaks. If you plan too much and don’t leave enough space for their needs or interests, you might find that moods shift and sour. 

Producer, TV host, photographer, and writer, Rachel Rudwall , travels with her family somewhere warm at least once per year. “Take, for example, our journey to Sardinia, Italy from Portland, Oregon. Not a single person would argue that this trip is logistically simple,” Rudwall says. “We would, however, argue that this journey was both doable and   worth the haul—even with our then 14-month-old in tow .”

Sardinia was where her toddler took his first steps, creating an indelible memory not soon forgotten. While the beach time and Italian food were expected highlights, the multi-hour flight itinerary from the U.S. to Sardinia was less than desirable. Rudwall thought ahead and arranged for a two-night stopover in Amsterdam, creating space to deal with jet lag. “This layover allowed us a soft spot to land between our flights, plus a beautiful couple days noshing on pastries and enjoying leisurely strolls in another wonderful European destination,” Rudwall says. “If I were to offer one piece of advice it would be this: wherever you go with your kids, build in buffers. These bonus windows of time will offer you the space to breathe, top up on snacks, and better navigate logistical challenges. Plus, they just might inspire some of your favorite moments of the journey.”

Bring a Travel Medical Kit

While we all hope that nothing goes wrong on a trip, you’ll want to be prepared and plan accordingly. Put together a travel medical kit that includes over-the-counter medicines and supplies. 

“This can include fever-reducing/pain medications, antihistamines, antibacterial ointment, band-aids, tweezers, and Vaseline,” says Hanna. “Make note of your child’s weight for dosing certain medications and make sure you have a supply of prescription medicines ahead of time. Discuss with your medical team if your child has medical conditions.”

“In warmer climates remember to pack reef-safe sunscreens (and reapply), bug sprays, and protective clothing (hats, sunglasses, UV-protected clothing),” Hanna says. “If heading outdoors, be sure to keep most skin covered and check bodies and hair for ticks daily. Before traveling internationally, consider notifying your child’s pediatrician if any additional recommended immunizations can be given. I guide parents to  CDC.GOV/travel  which breaks down pertinent information by country of travel.”

Research the Hotel and Destination Ahead of Time

While it’s advisable to leave plenty of open space on the itinerary, it’s important to research where you’re going and to know what activities and cultural experiences are available. What is the area known for and what are the highlights that everyone should know about? You’ll also want to know what the hotel amenities are so you can plan accordingly. Is there a swimming pool at the hotel? On-site laundry? Does the resort have a concierge that can arrange tours? Finding a property that is fun for both the parents and the kids is key. 

Let the Kids Be Part of the Planning 

If children are part of the planning process, they’ll be more invested in the trip. Let them decide which restaurant your family eats at or what activity everyone participates in. Teach kids how to navigate and read maps. Bring journals and encourage them to write about their daily adventures.  

“Parents can get caught up in the things they want to do on vacation since kids don't exactly plan these things out, but we've made it a priority to make sure that the kids think of it as their vacation too, so if we pass by something that interests them, we want to make those things happen as much as possible,” says Thompson. 

Keep the Ages of Kids in Mind When Planning and Packing

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, you’ll want to consider your children’s ages when structuring an itinerary or thinking about safety issues. 

“With younger children we want them to be comfortable and safe, so keep some soothing items from home such as blankets, pacifiers, a few toys, or a stuffy,” says Hanna. “Older kids can enjoy music, books, card games or using their electronic device[s]—remember, parents get to decide how much screen time their child consumes, and don't forget the chargers!”

Of course, safety should always be top of mind. Depending on your children’s ages, have discussions with them to go over the rules. “In new environments, review the safety plans regarding water play (never leave a child unattended near water) and review parent phone numbers—consider putting them inside their pockets,” says Hanna. “Trusting our older kids with more responsibility comes with varying comfort levels, but in a semi-controlled environment, this can be a good opportunity for them to demonstrate it, i.e., reading the map, guiding you through the airport, having them order their meals or pay for souvenirs. Learning how to budget on a trip with spending money is a nice exercise.”

Bring a Bag O’ Fun

For every car trip I’ve ever planned, I’ve always brought a “bag o’ fun”. This could be a deck of cards, snacks, new books, or mini-Lego sets. The idea is to bring along little surprises or fun things to do that will brighten up the moment.

Anastasia Gonzalez and her husband Gilbert take their grandchildren to South Padre Island every summer for fishing and exploring. One year they rented an RV to travel from Illinois to Texas. “It was the most beautiful experience,” Gonzalez says. “The driving, the board games, camping out, taking showers at the campsites, sleeping in the RV, and cuddling with those two boys was wonderful and cozy.”

Her advice for grandparents? “Allow your grandchildren to be themselves with you on your trip,” Gonzalez says. “Go with the idea of having fun. Break some rules. Ask what they want but have a plan. Make meals interesting and make one night a special meal night.”

Attitudes, Good or Bad, are Contagious

Most parents who travel with their kids will tell you that if one person has a bad attitude, that same mood can transfer to siblings or even adults. Staying positive is key, especially if you’re on a long vacation away from the comforts of home. 

“Kids love time with their family, but they are humans, and we all get moody sometimes,” says Hanna. “Our kids learn by our example, so parents take the lead with many deep breaths, exercise when possible, be mindful about handling stressful situations, and take lots of pictures. Parental well-being trickles down into children's well-being.”

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Memorial Day: Best and worst times for San Diegans to travel and other tips

For Southern California travelers, San Diego will be the second most popular destination, just behind Las Vegas, so expect plenty of crowds over the holiday weekend

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Southern Californians’ love of travel will be in full force over the Memorial Day holiday weekend, with forecasts predicting a record-setting number of people getting away by plane, car, train and cruise ships.

The Auto Club of Southern California’s forecast, released Monday, expects 3.5 million people to travel over the holiday period, which translates to a 4.7 percent increase over 2023 and 150,000 more travelers compared to 2019, a year before the pandemic. It marks the second year in a row that the record has been broken for Memorial Day travel.

Even as experts are predicting a coming slowdown in the pace of travel overall, the Auto Club says it’s pleased to see continued enthusiasm for domestic getaways for the holiday weekend.

“It’s remarkable,” said spokesperson Marie Montgomery. “It kind of shows how people are really prioritizing spending more time with family and friends and travel is a great way to do that. There certainly are some more economic concerns in the mix so time will tell if this pans out. But given what our partner, S&P Global Market Intelligence, is projecting, they believe it’s another positive year for travel. They’re taking into account leading economic indicators such as employment, household net worth, stock prices, and the housing market.”

More people traveling by car than ever

The majority of people traveling between Thursday, May 23, and Monday, May 27, will do so by automobile despite still high gasoline prices. The Auto Club of Southern California predicts 2.9 million people will be driving to their destinations, while 371,000 will be flying, and the remainder — 237,000 — will be taking the train, bus or boarding a ship for a cruise.

Similarly, 38.4 million of the 43.8 million expected to travel nationally will be doing so by car, according to AAA’s forecast. Both in Southern California and nationally, that’s a new record, and represents about a 4 percent increase over the same period a year earlier.

While gasoline prices have been dipping slightly in recent weeks, they still are topping out at more than $5 a gallon and are well ahead of last year’s price of $4.83 a gallon. As of Monday, a gallon of regular gasoline averaged $5.27, about five cents less than a week earlier, according to the Auto Club.

For those driving to their holiday destinations, the Auto Club recommends that motorists inspect their vehicle tires, battery, and fluid levels. Also, pack food, water, a first-aid kit, and mobile phone charger in case your car breaks down. Nationwide, AAA expects to rescue more than 378,000 stranded drivers at the roadside, including more than 95,000 in California.

Best and worst times to drive

INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, has taken the guesswork out of how to time your travel. It’s advising that if possible, you should try to avoid the afternoons and evenings of Thursday, May 23, and Friday, May 24, when freeways will be most congested.

In Southern California, the busiest stretch of freeway is expected to be Interstate 5 North from Los Angeles to Bakersfield on the afternoon and evening of May 23, when the normal travel time of 90 minutes will surge by 84 percent to nearly three hours.

More optimal times to hit the highways, INRIX says, are before 11 a.m. or after 8 p.m on Thursday and Friday; before 1 p.m. on Sunday; and after 7 p.m. on Monday.

Most popular getaway destinations

San Diego, as it often is, will be the second most popular destination for Southern Californians getting away for the holiday weekend.

Las Vegas retains its position as No. 1 but in a change from last year, when Santa Barbara, Grand Canyon and Palm Springs filled out the top three remaining spots, this year, Grand Canyon remains in the top five but Hawaii and Seattle/Alaska cruises are identified as the fourth and fifth most popular destinations.

“We had the downturn in Hawaii travel after the fires and all of Hawaii was affected by that,” Montgomery said. “Now there seems to be some pent up demand for Hawaii now that it is all reopened, so that’s a popular destination. And cruises are doing very well but the vast majority of people will be driving, and in Southern California we’re fortunate to have so many great locations 50 miles or less to choose from.”

Tips if you’re headed to the beach

A big help transportation-wise for those wanting to hang out in Pacific Beach is an on-demand shuttle called the Beach Bug . While it debuted last year, this will be the first Memorial Day that it will be available. For most riders, it costs $2.50, which covers all-day access.

Operating hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays; 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Like the popular FRED shuttle that has long operated downtown, the Beach Bug responds to requests made on a smartphone app called Ride Circuit.

Also be wary of a new regulation enacted this year that prohibits private companies from staging picnics , corporate events, large parties, bonfires or similar organized activities on any city beach.

While the city had weighed a formal permitting process, it ultimately opted for an outright ban. However, there are specific locations in the city where luxury-style picnics will be permitted — Fanuel Park, Sunset Point, Ventura Cove, Playa I and Vacation Isle West on Mission Bay, the Arbor and Botanical Lawn East and West in Balboa Park, and shoreline parks Ellen Browning South, Saratoga, South Palisades and Sunset Cliff-South Cuvier.

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A new Fantasyland? Peek inside Tokyo DisneySea’s new Fantasy Springs

We’ve come a long way from the “Tangled”-themed restrooms at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.

For years, Fantasyland’s picturesque facilities were about as close as fans could get to experiencing the film in person. That’s about to change on June 6th with the opening of Fantasy Springs , Tokyo Disney Resort’s largest expansion since Tokyo DisneySea debuted in 2001.

“ Tokyo Disney Resort is a fantastic, must-visit destination with a truly innovative approach to storytelling. And Fantasy Springs, our breathtaking new port at Tokyo DisneySea, builds on that legacy, giving guests the feeling that they have just stepped into their favorite Disney stories of Frozen, Tangled and Peter Pan,'" Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro said in a statement to USA TODAY. "We know our guests from around the world appreciate quality experiences and rich detail that only Disney can create, which is why we continue to challenge ourselves with creative storytelling techniques. Fantasy Springs absolutely delivers on that ambition.”

That’s significant for Disney World and Disneyland fans too, because as D’Amaro previously told USA TODAY , “Every time we make an advancement in the way that we bring a ride to life or the way that we bring animatronics to life, all of that gets then used to make every single place that we make even better than the last one.” 

USA TODAY got an early peek at Fantasy Springs. Here are five things fans can expect. 

Tokyo bound: Japan's capital among top destinations for Americans this summer. See what other cities made the list.

A gorgeous new Fantasyland

“Essentially, what we were trying to do was create a Fantasyland for Tokyo DisneySea,” said Daniel Jue with Walt Disney Imagineering. “Like every Fantasyland, Fantasy Springs celebrates the stories from Walt Disney Animation Studios.”

Fantasyland is one of Disney’s most popular lands across its parks worldwide. (Lands are called ports at Tokyo DisneySea.) 

In Fantasy Springs, characters from films like “Bambi,” “Sleeping Beauty” and “The Little Mermaid” are literally carved into the landscape in larger-than-life rockwork adorned by lush greenery and vibrant flowers in full bloom. Meanwhile, “Tangled, “Frozen” and “Peter Pan” are fully fleshed out in what are essentially mini lands with the larger port.

Disney’s first 'Tangled'-inspired attraction

There are four rides in Fantasy Springs unlike any elsewhere. Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival is the first “Tangled”-inspired attraction at any Disney park. 

It follows the budding romance of Rapunzel and Flynn Rider and builds up to the iconic lantern scene from the film. Scores of magnificent lanterns appear to float midair, casting a soft glow on fluid audio-animatronics of Rapunzel and Flynn as they hold hands and sing “I See the Light." They may be singing in Japanese, but “Tangled” fans from anywhere will recognize the tune while gently gliding by in boats.

“This is the most romantic attraction,” Jue said.

Peter Pan and his friends like you’ve never seen before

Peter Pan and the gang were first brought to life in 2-D, but they pop off the screen in the new 3-D attraction Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure, which Walt Disney Animation Studios illustrated for Fantasy Springs.

“This attraction is almost like a feature film,” Jue said.

Guests take on the role of Lost Kids joining Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Wendy and little Michael Darling on a mission to rescue John Darling from Captain Hook. A little Pixie Dust paired with the latest ride technology and surround sound makes guests feel like they're really flying along. The ride itself feels long in the best way, clocking in at six minutes, more than twice as long as Peter Pan’s Flight, one of the most popular rides across Disney parks.

On nearby Fairy Tinker Bell’s Busy Buggies, everything is oversized to make guests feel like they’ve shrunk down to Tinker Bell’s size for a quick buggy ride through the seasons of Pixie Hollow. Don't blink because this attraction is much shorter than the others in Fantasy Springs, but it's filled with rich details like towering flowers, painted butterflies and in one section, the fragrant aroma of honey.

An emotional roller coaster with 'Frozen'

Fantasy Springs’ "Frozen" attraction is no repeat of EPCOT and Hong Kong Disneyland’s Frozen Ever After. Instead, Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey retells key points from the first “Frozen” film, focusing on the relationship between the two sisters. 

“Our guests in Japan really respond to having an emotional connection to our attractions. It’s very, very important,” Jue said. Imagineers thought the best way to nurture that connection was with the film’s iconic music and matching ride movement. 

For instance, when young Anna asks Elsa if she wants to build a snowman and Elsa tells her to go away, the boat reverses to reflect that isolation. “That is such a sad moment and backing out of that and dropping down, I mean, your heart sinks as you physically sink out of that scene,” said Emily “Emo” O’Brien with Walt Disney Imagineering.

The attraction's high tech audio-animatronics are also moving. When true love thaws Anna’s frozen heart, she really appears to unfreeze.

A taste of the films

Fantasy Springs' three mini lands are called Frozen Kingdom, Peter Pan’s Never Land, and Rapunzel’s Forest. Each has a themed counter-service dining venue for guests who want an actual taste of the films. 

Frozen Kingdom’s eatery is set inside Arendelle Castle and called Royal Banquet of Arendelle. There’s also a walk-up venue called Oaken’s OK Foods. Lookout Cookout is a Lost Kids themed counter-service restaurant in Peter Pan’s Never Land. The restaurant in Rapunzel’s Forest is right out of “Tangled.” Fans will want to make sure to walk through each room of The Snuggly Duckling to take in the Easter eggs.

For fans who really want to stay in the stories, there’s also a new Fantasy Springs-themed hotel adjacent to the new port called Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel with its own park entrance. It's primarily a deluxe hotel, but there are more than 50 luxury rooms with balconies overlooking Fantasy Springs.

"There is no other hotel that even Disney has built that has these views, where you really feel you are immersed in the entire land," Jue said.

The reporter on this story received access to the event from Disney. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of reviews.