Croatia is a beautiful country located in southeastern Europe along the Adriatic Sea. With it’s picturesque medieval cities, stunning national parks, charming coastal towns and over 1000 islands, it has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years. If you’re considering a trip to Croatia, here are some tips to help you plan out your vacation:
Top Destinations in Croatia
Dubrovnik
Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination in Croatia. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for it’s stunning Old Town, encircled by ancient city walls. Take a walk along the walls for breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the city’s terracotta rooftops. Explore the historic landmarks, such as the Rector’s Palace and the Franciscan Monastery and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Stradun, the city’s main street lined with cafes, shops and restaurants.
Split
Split, the second-largest city in Croatia, is a perfect blend of ancient history and modern charm. The city’s main attraction is Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved Roman palaces in the world. Wander through the maze-like streets of the palace, discover hidden courtyards and visit the impressive Cathedral of Saint Domnius. Split also serves as a gateway to the stunning islands of Hvar, Brač and Šolta, making it an ideal base for island-hopping adventures.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
A true natural wonder, Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to 16 interconnected lakes, cascading waterfalls and lush forests. Take a hike along the wooden boardwalks and trails to discover the park’s stunning beauty. The crystal-clear turquoise waters and the breathtaking waterfalls create a truly magical atmosphere. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of this natural paradise.
Zagreb
Croatia’s capital and largest city, Zagreb, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern energy. Explore the city’s Upper Town, home to the iconic St. Mark’s Church with it’s colorful tiled roof and the Zagreb Cathedral. Stroll through the vibrant Dolac Market, sample local delicacies and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Tkalčićeva Street, lined with cafes, bars and shops. Zagreb also boasts a thriving art and music scene, with numerous museums, galleries and festivals throughout the year.
Istria
Istria, Croatia’s largest peninsula, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Known for it’s picturesque hilltop towns, stunning coastline and delicious cuisine, Istria offers a more laid-back and authentic experience compared to the bustling Dalmatian coast. Visit the charming town of Rovinj, with it’s colorful houses and cobblestone streets and explore the historic city of Pula, home to a well-preserved Roman amphitheater. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample Istria’s famous truffles, olive oil and wine.
Look into Transportation Options
Croatia has a number of transportation options to get around the country. Buses connect most major cities and towns, which can be a budget-friendly option. Major tourist destinations are also well-connected by the train network. Renting a car is another convenient way to travel between places at your own pace. Ferries and catamarans run frequent routes from the mainland to the islands and up and down the Adriatic coast. Consider mixing up different modes of transportation to optimize convenience and cost.
Book Accommodations in Advance
During the peak tourist season in summer, accommodation in Croatia books up quickly, especially in popular destinations like Dubrovnik. Reserve hotel rooms and vacation rentals several months in advance for the best selection and prices. For more flexibility, limit advance reservations to the first couple nights in each new city, then book subsequent nights once you have arrived. This allows you to switch lodgings if you want to extend a stay somewhere you particularly enjoy. Read reviews and consider location, amenities and rates when choosing accommodations.
Things to Do in Croatia
Island-Hopping
With over 1,000 islands dotting the Adriatic coast, Croatia is a paradise for island-hopping. Take a ferry or hire a boat to explore the stunning islands of Hvar, Brač, Korčula and Mljet. Each island offers it’s own unique charm, from the glamorous nightlife of Hvar to the serene beauty of Mljet National Park. Discover hidden beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle.
Game of Thrones Tours
For fans of the hit TV series “Game of Thrones,” Croatia offers a unique opportunity to visit some of the show’s most iconic filming locations. Dubrovnik served as the main setting for King’s Landing, while other locations in Split and Šibenik were also featured. Join a guided tour to explore the real-life locations and learn behind-the-scenes stories from the show.
Sailing and Water Sports
With it’s stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters, Croatia is a paradise for sailing and water sports enthusiasts. Rent a sailboat or join a guided tour to explore the Adriatic Sea, discover hidden coves and enjoy the freedom of life on the water. Croatia also offers excellent opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling and scuba diving, with numerous dive sites showcasing the rich marine life and underwater landscapes.
Wine Tasting
Croatia has a long tradition of winemaking, with a diverse range of wine regions and indigenous grape varieties. Istria and Dalmatia are particularly famous for their wine production. Visit local wineries, sample delicious wines and learn about the country’s winemaking history and techniques. Some notable wine regions include Pelješac Peninsula, Kutjevo and Ilok.
Festivals and Events
Here is the list of popular festivals and events in Croatia with descriptions:
- Dubrovnik Summer Festival
- A celebration of classical music, theater and dance
- Held annually in Dubrovnik
- Takes place during the summer months
- Features performances by renowned local and international artists
- Split Summer Festival
- Showcases opera, ballet and concerts
- Held annually in Split
- Takes place during the summer months
- Presents a diverse range of cultural events and performances
- Outlook Festival in Pula
- One of Europe’s largest bass music festivals
- Held annually in Pula
- Features a lineup of international DJs and live acts
- Attracts music lovers from around the world
- Motovun Film Festival
- An international film festival
- Held annually in the hilltop town of Motovun
- Showcases independent and avant-garde films
- Attracts filmmakers and film enthusiasts from around the world
- Zagreb International Folklore Festival
- A celebration of traditional music, dance and costumes
- Held annually in Zagreb
- Features performances by folklore groups from Croatia and around the world
- Promotes cultural exchange and preserves traditional art forms
- Rijeka Carnival
- One of the largest carnival celebrations in Europe
- Held annually in the city of Rijeka
- Features colorful parades, costumes and festivities
- Attracts visitors from Croatia and neighboring countries
Top Places To Visit In Croatia
- Dubrovnik – A medieval walled city on the Adriatic Sea coast, renowned for it’s historic old town and scenic location. Walk the city walls, visit churches and palaces and stroll the marble-paved Stradun pedestrian street.
- Split – Croatia’s second largest city, featuring the vast Diocletian’s Palace complex with Roman ruins, buzzing waterfront promenade and lively Old Town area filled with bars and restaurants.
- Plitvice Lakes National Park – Famous park with 16 terraced lakes joined by waterfalls and set amidst forested mountains. Hike the boardwalks and trails to see the stunning blue-green waters.
- Hvar – Chic island off the Dalmatian Coast with intricate harbor, 13th century walls, hilltop fortress and vibrant nightlife drawing the yacht-set.
- Korcula – Historic fortified island town reputed to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, known for pretty medieval churches and squares.
- Zadar – Coastal city rich in Roman and Venetian ruins like the 9th century St. Donatus Church plus unique attractions like the Sea Organ and Sun Salutation.
- Rovinj – Charming seaside town on Istria Peninsula, noted for winding cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, hilltop church and picturesque harbor.
- Mljet National Park – Forested island National Park home to lakes, bays and vineyards, with walking and biking trails.
- Pula – Istrian Peninsula city featuring one of the largest Roman amphitheaters outside Italy along with Roman Forum and Temple of Augustus.
- Zagreb – Croatia’s vibrant capital with a medieval Upper Town boasting the Gothic Zagreb Cathedral and St. Mark’s Church.
Consider Getting a Croatia Pass
For maximum convenience and savings on top attractions, consider purchasing a Croatia tourist pass like the Croatia Pass by nationally owned Croatia Heritage Site Ltd. These passes bundle entrance fees to premier sites like Plitvice Lakes National Park, Diocletian’s Palace and Mljet National Park along with access to hop-on, hop-off buses linking major coastal cities. Passes can pay for themselves if you plan to see many highlights and simplify planning.
Pack Appropriately
What to pack will depend on the time of year you visit Croatia. In summer, temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C), so you’ll want lightweight clothing, swimwear, sun protection and beach gear. Spring and fall tend to be cooler and rainier, so pack layers and an umbrella or light jacket. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended for exploring cobblestone old towns. Croatia is generally casual, though it’s polite to dress nicely at churches. And don’t forget your camera to capture beautiful vistas along the coast!
Look Into Health and Safety
Croatia is a safe country to visit but it’s smart to check current health and safety advisories before your trip. The CDC recommends being up-to-date on routine vaccinations and taking steps to prevent insect bites to reduce disease risks. Travel medical insurance can provide coverage in case you get injured or sick abroad. Be aware of basic safety in cities and avoid unmarked landmines if venturing into abandoned buildings or overgrown wilderness areas from past conflicts. With reasonable precautions, you can focus on having fun.
Budget Your Trip
Croatia uses the kuna (HRK) currency, with current exchange around 7 kuna to 1 US dollar. While affordable by European standards, costs like dining and lodging can add up, so build a budget to understand how much you’ll need. Allow about 60-100 USD per day for accommodations and meals if you stick to budget options. Transportation and activities will be extra. Have a mix of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, cash and traveler’s checks. Croatia is largely cash-based so keep enough kuna on hand, getting more as needed from ATMs.
Learn Some Croatian Basics
Croatian uses the Latin alphabet, though the language is Slavic. Learning a few key phrases like formal greetings, “please”, “thank you”, “excuse me”, etc. can help in interactions, as English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas. Useful restaurant words include voda for water, pivo for beer and račun for the check. A phrasebook or translation app can assist but Croatians appreciate any efforts to speak their language.
Get Proper Documentation
U.S. citizens need a valid passport to enter Croatia but no visa for tourist stays under 90 days. Non-EU nationals should confirm visa requirements based on their nationality. Make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity remaining. Also print out or screenshot your lodging confirmations and return travel reservations. Purchasing travel insurance with medical/evacuation coverage can add peace of mind in case of emergencies.
Best Time to Visit
Peak season is July and August when the weather is ideal but popular areas get crowded. For smaller crowds and lower prices, target late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October). Destinations like Dubrovnik stay fairly busy year-round. Winters offer cultural events in cities and skiing in mountain areas but many coastal towns shut down. Avoid the rainy off-season from November to April if possible. Whenever you decide to go, advance planning will ensure an unforgettable Croatian getaway tailored to your interests.
With it’s natural beauty, historic charm and Mediterranean vibe, Croatia is an enticing place to escape to. By researching destinations, securing places to stay, booking select tours in advance, packing properly and learning key phrases, you can craft the perfect Croatian itinerary. Follow these tips to maximize your time exploring this gem of a country. From the bustling capital to the sparkling Adriatic islands, Croatia offers endless magic and wonder waiting to be discovered on your next overseas vacation.
FAQs
Croatia is known for it’s stunning natural beauty including the Adriatic coastline and islands as well as inland national parks. It also boasts historic medieval towns and cities with Roman, Venetian and Austro-Hungarian influences seen in architecture, food and culture.
Pack lightweight summer clothes for hot weather, swimwear, good walking shoes, sun protection/hats and dressy outfit or two for evenings out. In spring and fall bring layers, jacket and umbrella. Croatia is casual but wear nice clothes when visiting churches.
Croatia is very safe but take normal precautions for travel. Avoid abandoned buildings and unmarked wilderness areas due to landmines from past conflicts. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist sites so secure valuables.
Citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada and Australia can visit Croatia visa-free for up to 90 days. Other nationalities should check Croatia visa requirements based on their country of citizenship.
The main language is Croatian. Many people also speak English in tourist areas, German in the north near Austria and Italian along the coast and near Italy. Learning a few basic Croatian phrases is appreciated.
Buses connect most cities and towns very well. Trains also connect major destinations. Renting a car allows maximum flexibility. Ferries and hydrofoils run between coastal cities and islands frequently.
Yes, it’s highly recommended to get travel insurance with medical coverage in case you become ill or injured abroad. This provides peace of mind and coverage for emergencies that could be very costly in Croatia.
