Croatia Travel Guide

Traveling through Croatia, Dalmatia or Dubrovnik Region offers immense and rich experiences to every visitor. You can start with Dubrovnik, the crown jewel of Croatia.

From the coastal to the continental parts, Croatia's rich cultural heritage, combined with its magnificent natural beauties, make it the perfect place to spend your vacation at.

The story of Croatia is not quantified by its size, but in the beauty and diversity of nature, heritage, culture and gastronomy. Croatia boasts over a thousand islands, eight national parks, eleven nature parks, more than 6,000 kilometers of coastline, and ten World Heritage sites.

Croatia has a multitude of experiences for its visitors, ranging from the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes waterfalls to the beautiful beaches of central and south Dalmatia, the incredible cuisine of Istria, Croatia's outstanding wines, the lively island nightlife, and sailing adventures on the Adriatic.

Plan your perfect trip with Dubrovnik Online Travel Guide !

Zadar archipelago, Source: Croatian National Tourist Board, Author: Ivo Pervan

Travelling to Croatia

Croatia is one of the easiest countries in the region to visit and get around. It is part of the European Union and the Schengen Area, uses the euro as its currency, and has reliable transport connections by air, road and sea. Most visitors combine several regions in one trip, often including a stay in Dubrovnik, the country’s most famous coastal city.

Croatia basics for first-time visitors

For a first trip, it helps to have a few key facts in mind:

Croatia is in Central and Southeast Europe, with a long Adriatic coastline and hundreds of islands.
It is a member of the European Union and part of the Schengen Area, so border rules follow general Schengen regulations.
The official currency is the euro (EUR, €), and both cash and cards are widely accepted.
Croatia is generally a safe country with good tourist infrastructure, especially in coastal areas and larger cities.
English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, along with German and Italian in many coastal regions.

Once you know the basics, you can start planning which regions to visit, how long to stay and how to combine coastal areas, islands and inland cities in one itinerary.

Entry requirements, visas and documents

Entry rules for Croatia depend on your nationality and where you are travelling from. Croatia follows Schengen Area regulations for short stays, which generally allow visa-free visitors and those with a Schengen visa to stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Always check the latest information with your nearest Croatian embassy or consulate, or with the official Ministry of Foreign Affairs, before you travel.

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens usually only need a valid national ID card or passport to enter Croatia and can move freely within the Schengen Area.
Non-EU visitors normally need a valid passport and, depending on nationality, may also need a Schengen visa. Passport validity rules can change, so verify requirements well before your trip.
Children generally need their own travel documents. Some countries require additional consent documents when children travel with one parent or another adult, so check your home country’s rules as well.

At many external Schengen borders, non-EU travellers now pass through digital border checks and biometric kiosks. Allow extra time when entering or leaving Croatia during busy periods and keep all travel documents easily accessible.

Health, safety and travel insurance basics

Croatia is considered a safe destination with relatively low crime rates, especially in smaller towns and coastal areas. Standard common-sense precautions are usually enough: keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, use hotel safes where available, and be careful with valuables on beaches and in busy old towns.

Medical care in larger Croatian cities and tourist centers is generally good. If you do need a doctor or hospital while travelling, having travel insurance that covers medical treatment and emergency transport is strongly recommended for all visitors.

EU/EEA visitors should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or GHIC equivalent and still consider additional travel insurance for extra cover and private clinics.
Non-EU visitors should make sure they have travel insurance that includes medical treatment, hospital stays and emergency evacuation.
For more details on local healthcare, pharmacies and what to do in case of illness or injury in Dubrovnik and Croatia, see Health information and medical services in Dubrovnik.

In an emergency, dial 112 for the unified European emergency number. You can also keep a list of key contacts from important and useful phone numbers in Croatia and Dubrovnik so you have them handy while travelling. For a wider overview of vaccinations, pharmacies and staying well while travelling around the country, see how to stay healthy in Croatia.

Money in Croatia (euro, cards, ATMs and payments)

Croatia uses the euro (EUR, €) as its official currency. You can pay by card in most hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and petrol stations, while smaller shops, local markets and some private rentals may prefer cash. ATMs are easy to find in cities, resorts and along the coast, but fees and exchange rates vary between providers.

For the best value, it is usually cheaper to withdraw euros from bank-operated ATMs than to exchange large amounts of cash in tourist-area exchange offices. Always check any offered dynamic currency conversion on card terminals and choose to be charged in euros rather than in your home currency whenever possible.

For a deeper look at using cash, cards and ATMs, exchange options and practical money-saving tips, read the dedicated guide Money and Currency in Croatia.

Best time to visit Croatia

Croatia is a year-round destination, but the experience changes a lot with the seasons. Summer brings warm seas and long days on the coast, spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing and national parks, while winter is quieter, with local life and Advent markets in major cities such as Zagreb.

Weather and seasons along the coast and inland

Along the Adriatic coast and on the islands, summers are typically hot and dry, with plenty of sunshine from June to September. Sea temperatures are usually warm enough for swimming from late May or early June until late September. Inland regions, including Zagreb and the central parts of the country, have more pronounced seasons, with colder winters and warmer summers than the coast.

Spring (April to early June) - milder temperatures, fewer crowds and fresh greenery. Good for city breaks, hiking and national parks.
Summer (mid June to late August) - hot weather on the coast and islands, peak beach season and the busiest period of the year.
Autumn (September to October) - sea is often still warm in September, with more comfortable temperatures and gradually quieter resorts.
Winter (November to March) - cooler and wetter on the coast, cold inland with a chance of snow, especially around Zagreb.

For a closer look at local patterns on the southern coast, see the dedicated page on weather in Dubrovnik, which is similar to much of the Dalmatian coast.

When to visit for beaches, cities and national parks

If your priority is beach time and swimming, late June, July and August have the warmest sea and the most reliable sunny days, especially along the Dalmatian coast and islands. For a mix of cities, islands and national parks with more comfortable temperatures, late May, June, September and early October often work best. City destinations such as Zagreb are pleasant in spring and autumn.

Beach and island focus - plan for late June to early September for the warmest sea, longer ferry timetables and a full choice of tours and activities.
City breaks and road trips - April to early June and late September to October are often more pleasant for walking, sightseeing and driving.
National parks - Plitvice Lakes, Krka and other parks are usually at their most enjoyable in spring and autumn, when trails are less crowded and temperatures are not too high.

Keep in mind that some seasonal boat lines, beach bars and smaller accommodations only operate in late spring, summer and early autumn, especially on smaller islands.

Crowds, prices and public holidays to keep in mind

July and August are peak season on the coast and islands, with the highest visitor numbers and prices for accommodation, flights and many services. Reservations are strongly advised during this period, especially in popular destinations such as Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, Korčula and destinations across Istria.

High season (July and August) - busiest and most expensive, but with the widest choice of ferries, tours and events.
Shoulder seasons (May, June, September, early October) - often a good balance of pleasant weather, lower prices and fewer crowds.
Low season (late autumn and winter) - quiet and cheaper, but with reduced ferry schedules, fewer tours and some hotels or restaurants closed in smaller resorts.

Croatia has several public holidays when local travel can be heavier and some services may operate on reduced hours. You can find an overview of dates and their impact on travel in the guide to Croatian public holidays. If you are considering a trip outside peak season, including Christmas markets and the quieter coastal months, this overview of visiting Croatia in winter explains what to expect in different regions.

Where to go in Croatia

Croatia is compact enough to explore several regions in one trip, but varied enough that it helps to understand the basic layout. Most travelers combine at least one coastal area with an inland stop, often including the Dalmatian coast, a national park such as Plitvice Lakes, and a city such as Zagreb.

Main regions and coastal vs inland areas

The Adriatic coast runs from Istria in the north, through Kvarner and Dalmatia, down to the southern tip around Dubrovnik. These coastal regions include historic towns, beaches, islands and cycling or wine routes. Inland areas such as Central Croatia and Slavonia offer quieter landscapes, rivers, forests and traditional villages, along with easier access to major national parks.

Visitors to the southern coast often start with Dubrovnik and nearby places like Cavtat. In northern Dalmatia, cities such as Zadar and Split connect well with islands and inland attractions. Istria combines coastal towns with inland hilltop villages and excellent food and wine.

Top coastal cities and islands

The most well-known coastal cities include Dubrovnik in the far south, Split and Zadar in central Dalmatia, and towns such as Rovinj, Poreč and Opatija in Istria and Kvarner.

Dubrovnik and the Dubrovnik region - walled Old Town, beaches and easy day trips to Lokrum Island, Mljet and the Elaphiti Islands. A large part of Mljet is protected as Mljet National Park.
Central Dalmatia - Split and Trogir as hubs for ferries to islands such as Hvar, Brač, Vis and Šolta.
Istria and Kvarner - coastal towns like Rovinj, Poreč, Pula and Opatija, with islands such as Krk, Cres, Lošinj and Rab nearby.

For quieter islands, consider Lopud or Šipan near Dubrovnik, or explore guides to larger islands like Hvar and Korčula.

National parks and nature highlights

Croatia has eight national parks, ranging from famous waterfall landscapes to mountain ranges and protected archipelagos. The most visited are Plitvice Lakes and Krka, while coastal and island parks such as Mljet National Park, Kornati and Brijuni are popular for boat trips and walking.

Plitvice Lakes National Park - cascading turquoise lakes and wooden walkways, often combined with inland stays or travel between Zagreb and the coast.
Krka National Park - river landscapes and waterfalls close to Šibenik and central Dalmatia.
Mljet National Park - quiet saltwater lakes and forest trails on Mljet Island.
Kornati and Brijuni - island archipelagos best visited by boat.

For inland planning, regional context is available in guides to Central Croatia and Slavonia, which both work well as bases before or after visiting major national parks.

Ideas for first-time itineraries

How much of Croatia you can cover depends on your interests and the time you have, but these simple outlines work well for many first-time visitors:

7 days - Dubrovnik and nearby islands - stay in Dubrovnik and add day trips to Lokrum, the Elaphiti Islands, Mljet or Cavtat. More ideas at day trips from Dubrovnik.
10 days - Central Dalmatia and islands - base yourself in Split or Trogir, visiting Hvar, Brač or Vis, plus a day at Krka National Park.
10 to 14 days - coast, inland and Zagreb - combine Dalmatia with an inland stop at Plitvice Lakes and finish with a few days in Zagreb or Istria.

These itineraries are flexible starting points and can be expanded with more islands, national parks or inland regions depending on your pace and interests.

Getting to Croatia

Croatia is well connected to the rest of Europe by air, road and sea. Most visitors arrive by plane, but driving, buses and ferries are also common, especially for travelers combining Croatia with neighboring countries. Major entry points include Zagreb, Split, Zadar and Dubrovnik, with seasonal routes increasing during late spring, summer and early autumn.

Arriving by plane

International flights connect Croatia with many European cities, especially between April and October. The busiest airports are Zagreb Airport for year-round connections, Split Airport for central Dalmatia, Zadar Airport for northern Dalmatia and Dubrovnik Airport for southern Dalmatia. Seasonal routes expand significantly in summer, including direct flights from many UK, Scandinavian and central European airports.

Airport buses and shuttles operate between the airports and nearby cities, and taxis or private transfers are available at all major airports. If you plan to rent a car at the airport, booking in advance during high season is strongly recommended.

Arriving by car, bus or train

Croatia has a modern motorway network that connects it with Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. If you are driving into Croatia, it is useful to review the overview of Croatian motorways, including toll information and main routes. Border wait times can increase during summer weekends.

International buses offer reliable and frequent connections from nearby countries and major European cities such as Ljubljana, Trieste, Budapest, Vienna, Sarajevo and Belgrade. Buses are also the most common way to travel between inland areas like Zagreb or Central Croatia and the coast, especially to Split, Zadar and Dubrovnik.

Train travel in Croatia is improving but still limited compared to buses. Trains link Zagreb with cities such as Split, Rijeka and Osijek, although journey times can be longer than by road.

Arriving by ferry or cruise

Ferries are an important part of travel in Croatia, especially for reaching islands. International ferry services normally operate between Italy and Croatian ports such as Split, Zadar and Dubrovnik during the warmer months. Domestic ferries connect the mainland with major islands year-round, with more frequent schedules in summer.

Local departures to nearby islands are available from several coastal cities. For example, from Dubrovnik you can reach Mljet, the Elaphiti Islands via several routes, and the Pelješac Peninsula on regular lines. Schedules vary throughout the year, so always check the latest timetables when planning your route.

Cruise ships visit several Croatian ports, including Dubrovnik, Split and Zadar. During peak season, days with high cruise arrivals can increase crowds in historic centers, especially in Dubrovnik's Old Town.

Getting around Croatia

Croatia is relatively easy to navigate, with a mix of domestic flights, long-distance buses, ferries and well-developed motorways. Many travelers combine public transport with short car rentals, especially when exploring islands or inland national parks.

Domestic flights, buses and trains

Domestic flights operate mainly between Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik, with more options in summer. They can save time on long routes, especially if you are combining several regions in a short trip.

Long-distance buses are the most common way to travel between inland regions and the coast. Routes link Zagreb with major coastal cities such as Split, Zadar and Dubrovnik. Buses also connect many island ferry ports with nearby towns and airports.

Trains are more limited and slower but can be useful for travel between Zagreb and inland destinations such as Osijek or Varaždin. Some seasonal trains run toward the coast, although journey times are usually longer than by bus.

Driving and renting a car

Driving is one of the most flexible ways to explore Croatia, especially for national parks, rural areas and smaller coastal towns. The motorway network is extensive and connects well with neighboring countries. Before setting off, it is worth reviewing the guide to Croatian motorways, which covers toll systems, main routes and useful tips for longer drives.

Car rental is available in all major cities and airports. Booking early for July and August is recommended, especially in Split and Dubrovnik, where demand is highest. Roads are generally in good condition, but old-town centers may have restricted parking zones, especially in historic coastal towns.

Ferries and island hopping

Ferries are essential for reaching Croatia's many islands, and services vary by season. Summer brings longer schedules and more direct connections between popular islands and mainland ports such as Split, Zadar and Dubrovnik. In winter, some routes operate less frequently or only on certain days.

From Dubrovnik you can reach the Elaphiti Islands on regular services, including several options covered in the overview of the Elaphiti Islands. Catamarans also run to Mljet and, in summer, to Korčula, Hvar and other central Dalmatian islands via seasonal routes from Split or the Zadar area.

Island hopping works best between late May and early October, when services are most frequent. If you are planning to visit several islands, check whether routes run directly between them or require a transfer through a mainland port.

Costs and trip planning

Croatia is usually mid-range by European standards. Prices are higher in the most popular coastal destinations in July and August, and lower if you travel in May, June, September or outside the main season. Your overall budget will depend on how much you move around, the type of accommodation you choose and how often you eat out or book tours.

Typical daily budgets and price levels

Daily costs in Croatia vary a lot between inland regions and busy coastal hotspots such as Dubrovnik, Split or Zadar. Inland cities and smaller towns are generally cheaper for food and accommodation than the most famous coastal resorts and islands.

Budget travellers - usually combine buses, simple rooms or hostels, self-catering and occasional restaurant meals.
Mid-range travellers - stay in apartments or small hotels, eat out once or twice a day and add several paid activities or day trips.
Higher budgets - often choose central hotels or villas, private transfers and more organised excursions or boat trips.

Peak season (July and August) brings the highest accommodation prices on the coast and islands. Booking early and being flexible with dates can help keep costs down, especially in smaller destinations where availability is limited.

Accommodation types and booking tips

Accommodation options in Croatia range from hotels and family-run guesthouses to private apartments and campsites. On the coast, many visitors choose private apartments close to the sea, while city breaks in Zagreb or Dubrovnik often focus on staying within walking distance of the old town or main sights.

In popular places like Dubrovnik or the central Dalmatian islands, reserve well ahead for July and August.
Check whether parking, air conditioning and tourist tax are included in the price, especially in coastal areas.
Look at cancellation rules carefully if you are booking several months in advance.

If you are visiting multiple regions, it can be useful to combine city hotels for shorter stays with apartments or guesthouses for longer periods at the coast or on islands.

Tours, activities and passes

Organised tours are widely available in major destinations and can be useful when time is limited or when visiting national parks and islands without a car. Popular options include boat trips, wine and food experiences, walking tours and day trips to nearby towns or islands.

In and around Dubrovnik, many visitors combine individual sightseeing with boat excursions and regional outings. For ideas, see the overview of day trips from Dubrovnik, which covers nearby coastal towns, islands and cross-border trips.

Some cities and regions offer local tourist cards or passes that bundle museum entries and public transport. Before buying, compare the pass price with what you realistically plan to visit in the time available.

As with flights and accommodation, tours and private excursions are often more expensive in July and August than in the shoulder seasons. Booking popular boat trips and national park excursions in advance is recommended in peak season, while outside the busiest months you usually have more flexibility.

Practical tips for travelling in Croatia

A few simple habits make travel in Croatia easier, especially if you are visiting for the first time. The notes below cover language, everyday etiquette, staying connected, power sockets and basic safety.

Language, etiquette and local customs

The official language is Croatian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, along the coast and in larger cities. In Istria and parts of Dalmatia you will also hear Italian and German, especially in shops and restaurants. Learning a few basic Croatian words is appreciated and can make everyday encounters smoother.

In shops and on public transport, a simple greeting before you ask a question is considered polite.
Service in restaurants may feel more relaxed than in some other countries, with less frequent table checks.
Modest dress is recommended in churches and when visiting smaller inland villages.

If you want to look up useful words and phrases while planning your trip, the short Croatian travel dictionary can be a helpful reference.

Connectivity, SIM cards and roaming

Mobile coverage in Croatia is generally good in cities, along main roads and in most coastal areas, with 4G and growing 5G coverage. Remote inland areas and some smaller islands may have slower speeds or occasional gaps, but you will still find coverage in most places where visitors stay.

EU visitors usually roam under their home tariff, but it is always worth checking with your operator before travel.
Prepaid local SIM cards are sold at airports, kiosks and mobile operator shops and can be useful if you plan to use mobile data heavily.
Most hotels, guesthouses and many cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi, although speeds can vary, especially in peak season.

For navigation, download offline maps for areas with weaker coverage, and keep important booking confirmations saved on your phone in case you cannot access email.

Electricity, plugs and what to pack

Croatia uses standard European 230V electricity with type C and F plugs (two round pins). Travelers from most of mainland Europe can usually use their devices without an adapter, while visitors from the UK, Ireland, North America and some other regions will need a suitable travel adapter and check device voltage compatibility.

Pack a light jacket or extra layer even in summer months, especially for evenings by the sea or in inland regions.
Good walking shoes or sandals are useful for cobbled old towns and national park trails.
In summer, bring sun protection and a refillable water bottle. Tap water is generally safe to drink in most of Croatia.

If you are visiting outside July and August, check local weather and packing advice for your main destinations so you can prepare for cooler evenings or possible rain, especially in spring and autumn.

Safety, common scams and how to avoid issues

Croatia is considered a safe country for travelers, including solo visitors and families. Most issues are minor and relate to pick-pocketing in crowded areas, parking rules or misunderstandings about prices. Simple precautions go a long way.

Keep wallets, phones and documents secure in busy old towns, markets and on crowded public transport.
Check restaurant menus and price lists before ordering, especially in very touristy locations.
Follow local parking signs carefully and use official parking areas to avoid fines.

In an emergency, call 112, the unified European emergency number. For police only, the number is 192, while medical emergencies can be reached on 194. You can find these and other key contacts listed on the page with important phone numbers in Dubrovnik and Croatia, which is worth saving before you travel.

Traveling to Croatia with children

Croatia is a family-friendly destination with safe towns, clean swimming areas and plenty of outdoor activities suitable for all ages. Families usually split their time between the coast, islands and at least one inland stop such as a national park or a city with museums and green spaces.

Family-friendly destinations and stays

Coastal towns and islands offer a wide range of accommodation for families, including hotels with pools, private apartments with kitchen facilities and campsites with direct beach access. Places such as Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar and the islands around them are popular choices, along with quieter beaches in Istria and on larger islands like Krk, Brač and Lošinj.

Families often appreciate accommodation close to beaches, playgrounds and supermarkets. Booking ahead is especially important in July and August when family rooms and apartments near the sea sell out quickly.

Getting around Croatia with kids

Public transport is generally manageable with children, especially buses linking major cities and ferry ports. Ferries to nearby islands are comfortable and easy to use, and shorter crossings are ideal for families traveling with younger children. Renting a car can make it easier to reach beaches and smaller towns at your own pace.

If you plan to use public transport frequently, try to avoid the hottest hours of the day in July and August. Always check ferry schedules in advance, as some routes run less frequently outside the main season.

Food, beaches and activities for families

Croatian food is family-friendly, with easy options like grilled fish, pasta, pizza, risotto and simple vegetarian dishes in most coastal restaurants. Supermarkets and bakeries are widely available and useful for snacks, fruit and drinks during day trips.

Many beaches have shallow water and gentle slopes, which suit younger children.
Boat trips to nearby islands can be a fun day out, especially shorter routes around Dubrovnik or Split.
National parks such as Plitvice Lakes offer clear paths and viewpoints that are enjoyable for families, although strollers are difficult to use on many wooden walkways.
Museums, aquariums and interactive exhibits in cities like Zagreb can be good options on cooler or rainy days.

For younger children, plan regular breaks during sightseeing and bring sun protection, water and snacks when visiting beaches or outdoor attractions during warmer months.

Short facts about Croatia

Croatia is a Central European and Mediterranean country known for its coastline, islands, national parks and historic towns. The country is divided into several regions, including Dalmatia, Istria, Kvarner, Central Croatia and Slavonia, each offering different landscapes and travel experiences.

Location, population and language

Location - Croatia sits between Central Europe and the Adriatic Sea, bordered by Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro.
Population - around 3.8 million people live in Croatia, with the largest city being Zagreb.
Language - the official language is Croatian. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, along with German and Italian in parts of Istria and Dalmatia.

Currency, time zone and public holidays

Currency - Croatia uses the euro (EUR, €). Cash and cards are both widely accepted.
Time zone - Central European Time (CET) in winter and Central European Summer Time (CEST) in summer.
Public holidays - Croatia has several national holidays that may affect opening hours and transport. For full dates and travel advice, see the overview of Croatian public holidays.

The political system in Croatia

Croatia is a parliamentary democracy with a political structure similar to many other European Union member states. The government is divided into executive, legislative and judicial branches, each with its own responsibilities.

Basic structure of government

President - the head of state, elected by popular vote. The role is largely representative, with some responsibilities in foreign affairs and defense.
Parliament - known as the Croatian Parliament (Sabor), it is the main legislative body that passes laws, approves the budget and oversees the work of the government.
Government - led by the Prime Minister, the government handles day-to-day administration, policy implementation and public services.

Croatia is divided into counties (županije), which manage regional administrative tasks such as schools, local infrastructure and emergency services.

EU and Schengen membership and what it means for travelers

Croatia joined the European Union in 2013 and became part of the Schengen Area in 2023. For travelers, this means simpler border procedures when arriving from other Schengen countries and common entry rules for non-EU visitors.

Schengen rules - allow passport-free travel between Croatia and other Schengen countries for eligible travelers.
Eurozone - Croatia adopted the euro in 2023, making travel easier for visitors from other euro-using countries and reducing the need for currency exchange.
Driving and transport - EU driving licences are generally recognized, and public transport connections with neighboring EU countries are straightforward.

For visitors from outside the EU or Schengen Area, entry requirements follow standard Schengen rules. It is important to check the latest information before travel, especially regarding visa requirements or passport validity.

Frequently asked questions about travelling to Croatia

Do I need a visa to visit Croatia?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Croatia follows Schengen rules, which allow many visitors to enter without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180 day period. Travelers who normally require a Schengen visa must obtain one in advance. Always check the latest entry requirements before travel.

Is Croatia safe for solo travelers and families?

Croatia is considered a safe destination with low rates of violent crime and generally calm public spaces. Pick-pocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas, so keep valuables secure. Families and solo travelers usually find coastal towns, islands and inland cities easy to explore.

How many days do I need for a first trip to Croatia?

A typical first visit lasts between 7 and 14 days depending on how many regions you want to include. Seven days works well for one coastal area and nearby islands, while 10 to 14 days allows you to combine the coast, a national park and a city such as Zagreb.

What is the best way to get around Croatia?

Long distance buses, ferries and major roads make it easy to travel between regions. Buses are the most common option between inland cities and the coast, while ferries link the mainland with the islands. Renting a car gives you more flexibility in national parks and rural areas.

When is the best time to visit Croatia?

The best time depends on your plans. July and August offer the warmest weather and the busiest atmosphere. May, June, September and early October provide comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds and good conditions for sightseeing. Winter is quieter with limited seasonal services but pleasant for city visits.

Can I drink tap water in Croatia?

Tap water is safe to drink in most of Croatia, including major cities, coastal towns and islands. In some very remote areas you may find occasional notices advising against drinking tap water, but this is uncommon.

Are ferries easy to use for island hopping?

Yes. Ferries run year round on main routes and expand significantly in summer with more departures and additional seasonal lines. For multi island trips, it is important to check if routes operate directly between islands or require a mainland transfer.

Is English widely spoken in Croatia?

English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants and transport hubs. German and Italian are also widely understood in many parts of Istria and Dalmatia. In rural inland areas, English may be less common but basic communication is usually easy.

How expensive is Croatia compared with other European destinations?

Croatia is mid range in price, with costs similar to or slightly below many western European destinations. The highest prices are in coastal hotspots in July and August, while inland areas and shoulder season months offer better value.

Is the euro accepted everywhere?

Yes. Croatia uses the euro as its official currency. Cards are accepted in most places, but small shops, local markets and some private rentals may prefer cash.

Destinations in Croatia

Details: Written by: Orsat Munitic; Last Updated: 07 December 2025