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Croatia: A Completely Honest Travel Guide

Home » Blog » Europe » Croatia » Croatia: A Completely Honest Travel Guide

Whether you are backpacking through or are wanting to splurge on Yacht Week, this Croatia travel guide has everything you need to help you plan your next adventure throughout this beautiful country in the Balkans.

With piercing turquoise seas and fairytale-like architecture, there is no denying Croatia is breathtakingly beautiful.

Spanning most of the Adriatic Sea, you’re never too far away from the coast when traveling in Croatia. And even if it’s not pretty beaches you seek, stone castles and magnificent waterfalls await travelers of all kinds.

Whether you are backpacking through Croatia or are wanting to splurge on Yacht Week, this Croatia travel guide will help you plan your next adventure to the Land of a Thousand Islands .

What we really thought about Croatia

We do our best to give our honest opinions about all the destinations we travel to and the products we recommend through Two Wandering Soles. That is why we are going to be honest about our thoughts on traveling in Croatia.

So brace yourself because ours is an unpopular opinion. What we’re about to say may come as a surprise, but it has to be said: We didn’t love Croatia.

That doesn’t mean we didn’t like Croatia. We just didn’t fall in love like we so often do with places we visit.

There’s no denying Croatia’s beauty. The aquamarine waters and craggy beaches are what dreams are made of. And Plitvice Lakes National Park is out-of-this-world gorgeous!

But frankly, it takes more than beautiful landscapes to make us fall in love. Just like with people: a pretty face is nice, but we crave more. 

The thing is, we made some big mistakes when traveling to Croatia. So make sure to read until the end of this article so you don’t make the same mistakes. If you follow our advice we think you will enjoy your time in Croatia much more than we did.

Croatia Travel Guide

• Important info

Best time to visit Croatia

Top places to visit in croatia, top things to do in croatia.

• Typical costs

Transportation in Croatia

• Practical tips for visiting
• Mistakes to avoid in Croatia
• Our advice for visiting Croatia
• How to book your trip
• What to pack 

Important info about Croatia

Croatia at a glance: Croatia is a popular travel destination due to its breathtaking beauty, historic seaside villages and stunning national parks. 

• Location: The Balkans region of Eastern Europe on the Adriatic Sea ( view on Google Maps )
• Capital city: Zagreb
• Language: Croatian 
• Currency: Euro (EUR / €)*
• Plugs/outlet types: Plug types C and F / 230 V and 50Hz

*A note about the currency: As of January 1, 2023, Croatia joined the Eurozone and adopted the Euro as their currency. Kuna (kn or HRK), the former currency of Croatia, will no longer be accepted as a form of payment. However, Kuna banknotes and coins can be exchanged until December 31, 2023. 

Visa Requirements

As of January 1, 2023, Croatia joined the Eurozone and officially became part of the Schengen Area for passport control and visa purposes. If you are a citizen of a Schengen Area country, you can enter Croatia easily without the need for a visa. 

If you are a U.S. citizen, you can enter the Schengen Area countries with a visa on arrival (just a stamp in your passport) and stay for up to 90 days in a rolling 180 period. (Meaning you cannot exceed 90 days in the previous 180 days.) If you are from a non-Schengen country, and not a U.S. citizen, you may need a visa to enter Croatia. However, this is dependent on your nationality and purpose of visiting.  We suggest double-checking with your home state department for updates on visa requirements. 

Language and helpful phrases

The official language of Croatia is Croatian (shocking!), but most people in the tourism industry will speak at least a bit of English. 

With that being said, it is always nice to learn a few local phrases to show you’ve done your homework and respect the local culture. 

• Hello = Bok
• Please = Molim
• Thank you = Hvala 
• Beer = Pivo
• Bathroom = Kupaonica 
• How much? = Koliko Kosta? 

Tipping in Croatia

While it isn’t necessarily expected to tip in Croatia, it is fairly common to round your bill up to the nearest whole number after a meal. You might consider adding a bit extra if you were especially pleased with your service.

For cafes, bars or drivers, you can simply round up your bill.

Since Croatia is a popular tourist destination, you can assume getting tips is becoming more and more common for service-industry workers and tour guides. Offering a few extra Euro is a great way to show someone they did an excellent job.

In short, you’ll have the most favorable weather and avoid peak season crowds during the late spring and early fall. 

Although Croatia’s busiest season is during the summer, the sheer number of crowds and scorching heat are no joke. So while it is the most popular time to visit, those factors may heed you to reconsider.

However, each season and month has its own draws and drawbacks, so there’s really no correct answer as it depends on what you’re doing and where you’re going.

Psst! You’ll find our guide to the best time to visit Croatia helpful to get the full breakdown on what makes each season distinct and unique to help cater to your trip.

Croatia boasts of beauty and unique places to visit. Choosing where to go is the hardest part! 

• Dubrovnik : For those who have a love for history (or happen to be a Game of Thrones super-fan), definitely plan a visit to this Croatian walled city to see its medieval architecture. 
• Split : This central coastal city has it all from gorgeous beaches to historic landmarks and a fantastic nightlife scene. Due to its central location, it is a great ‘home-base’ when traveling to many of the islands. 
• Plitvice Lakes National Park : Nature enthusiasts flock to the stunning waterfalls, lush forests and array of wildlife in this national park. This is an absolutely perfect place for anyone looking to get swept away in the beauty of nature. 
• Zagreb: As the capital of Croatia, you can expect this city to always be bustling with activity. Whether you’re visiting a museum, a cute boutique or trying out a new dish at a local restaurant, you will not run out of things to do.
• Croatian Islands: Home to over 1,000 islands, Croatia is a beach-lovers paradise. Hvar, Brac, Vis and Korcula are some of the most popular island destinations. Connected by a network of ferries, it’s easy to hop around.
• Istria Peninsula: Roman ruins and delicious cuisine make up this part of Croatia that shares a lot of similarities to neighboring Italy. 

Want more info? We have an entire article with a round up of the best places to visit in Croatia , including the top things to do and where to stay in each place. 

Croatia truly offers a variety of activities for every type of traveler. We’ve pooled together a few of the highlights (though there are many, many more!) in this Croatia travel guide. To find out more, check out our round up of absolute best things to do in Croatia .

• Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park. With its network of waterfalls, stunning canyons and array of wildlife, you’ll adore Plitvice Lakes. This is one of the oldest national parks in the country and part of the World Heritage Foundation. 
• Go truffle hunting. Croatia happens to be the best (and one of the only!) place to find truffles in the world. If you are visiting during the months of April – November, Karlic Tartufi , a local family business of 3 generations, offers a truffle hunting experience that we highly recommend. 
• Walk Dubrovnik’s Old Town walls. Throw on your walking shoes and weave through these ancient city walls to explore the stunning Medieval architecture.
• Explore Krka National Park . Throughout Krka National Park, there are dozens of waterfalls, picnic spots and numerous winding nature trails waiting to amaze you. 
• Discover Diocletian’s Palace. Experience a (mega) slice of ancient history by visiting a real-life palace built for the Roman emperor, Diocletian, over 1,500 years ago. If you’re in Split, you really cannot miss this. 
• Go sailing. One of the best ways to explore Croatia’s gorgeous coastline is from the water. As a popular sailing spot, there are numerous companies that offer sailing tours, lessons or charters.  

Budgeting for Croatia

Compared to its neighbors, Croatia is a pretty expensive place to visit. There are areas to cut costs so it doesn’t have to break the bank, but it’s definitely pricier than we expected.

You can expect to see the highest prices in popular places like Dubrovnik and Split. Many prices countrywide may double or even triple during summer. 

Typical daily budget for Croatia

• Budget traveler: If you are on a tight budget and watch your spending closely, €45 – €55 could be a sufficient budget. 
• Mid-range traveler: If you want to have a few splurges and stay in nicer accommodation, plan to budget €100 – €150 per person, per day in Croatia.
• Luxury traveler: You can easily spend as much as you want traveling around Croatia without any budget concerns. However, if you hope to have a luxury vacation, you should expect a minimum daily budget of €210+. 

Typical costs for Croatia

Prices in Croatia fluctuate depending on the area you’re traveling and the season, with summer being the most expensive time to travel. 

Accommodation

• Dorm bed: €10 – €20 
• Private room: €20 – €30 
• Mid-range hotel: €50 – €80 
• Luxury hotel: €150+ 
• Street food: €5 – €10
• Mid-range restaurant meal: €10 – €25
• Local beer: €3 – €5
• Coffee: €2 – €4
• Taxis: €2 – €4
• Local bus: €1 – €3 
• Cross-country bus: €13 – €24
• Ferry: €5 – €13 (small ferries) and €30 –  €40 (large ferries)
• Plitvice Lakes entrance: €10 – €40 (depending on the season)
• Dubrovnik City Walls:  €35 
• Truffle hunting tour:  €35 – €200
• Krka National Park entrance: €20 – €40 

There are a few convenient ways to get around Croatia, but if you stay near the city center, you’ll find that most cities are convenient and walkable. 

For longer distances, buses and ferries are quite popular. Or, if you really crave freedom, you may opt to rent your own vehicle.

Renting a car in Croatia is shockingly affordable (around €13 – €26 per day) and allows you the freedom to explore the natural wonders of Croatia without having to adhere to a schedule or timetable. 

Overall, the roads in Croatia are safe and easy to navigate making this an ideal spot for a road trip. However, because some of the roads can be twisty and locals tend to drive with a lead foot, be sure you’re a comfortable driver. For the best deals on car rentals and to compare prices, we recommend using Discover Cars . 

You’ll easily be able to snag an Uber in popular areas like Zagreb, Dubrovnik and Split which can be a convenient way to get around. Ubers might not be available on the islands, but taxis are around.  Whenever traveling with Uber, always be mindful of your journey home. Sometimes Ubers are happy to take you to a remote location, but finding a ride back can be tricky. 

Traveling by ferry within Croatia is really convenient, affordable and makes island hopping a dream. There are two major ferry ports in Dubrovnik and Split and it takes about 4.5 hours to travel between the two. This will cost you around €30 –  €40. There are also smaller ferries that almost work like a public bus system connecting the smaller islands to the mainland. Prices for these ferries can range from €5 – €13. 

In recent years, Croatia has committed to improving their roadways, which has resulted in a fantastic public transport system. Although buses are usually a cheaper option, they aren’t always the quickest option—except in Croatia. 

You’ll be pleasantly surprised that the public buses in Croatia are both quick and inexpensive. With AC, WIFI  and comfy seats, you’ll be riding in style—er—as stylish as a public bus can get. 

There are a few major routes connecting the big cities and smaller ones that run between villages and towns. Therefore, prices can range anywhere from €1 to €25.

Ues Bookaway to search routes and purchase bus tickets in Croatia. 

Enjoy the freedom of waking up to some of the most scenic landscapes in Croatia by renting a campervan . This is becoming an increasingly popular way to explore some of the most magical spots in Croatia—ones that might not be accessible by public transport or within the constraints of a tour’s timetable. 

We are big fans of campervan travel and highly recommend this mode of transportation if you love adventure and straying from the beaten path a bit. 

Practical tips for traveling in Croatia

Whether it’s your first time traveling in Croatia or you’re a regular, it’s always helpful to keep in mind some helpful tips that can come in handy when you’re traveling. 

• Download a local eSIM. We recommend using Airalo . 
• Use public transportation. Not only is it an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint, the public transportation in Croatia (Ubers, buses, ferries) is accessible and cheap. 
• Check visa rules. If you’re from a non-Schengen area, you’ll be granted 90 days to visit. However, you must keep in mind this accumulates for time spent in all other countries in the Schengen Area in a rolling 180-day period.  
• Book ahead. This is especially important if you’re traveling during peak travel season because things will book out months in advance.
• Drive carefully. If you’re renting a car or a campervan, be sure you’re a comfortable driver and map out your routes ahead of time to avoid any added stress. 

Don’t make these mistakes when traveling to Croatia

We’re not writing this to discourage anyone from visiting this Mediterranean beauty. We tend to shy away from sharing when we don’t like a place. But I think we’ve pinpointed what it was that turned us off to Croatia at the top.

We hope by sharing our disappointment, it may help others come with more realistic expectations and avoid the mistakes that we made while traveling in Croatia.

There are a few things that affected our feelings about Croatia, and we made some big mistakes when we traveled there. Once you understand the mistakes we made, you will enjoy Croatia so much more!

1. Our expectations were high

For one thing, we had super high expectations. Back in 2009, Ben and I studied abroad in Italy . That was the first time I remember hearing about Croatia. 

A friend of mine went there and raved about the beaches, the lack of other tourists compared to neighboring Italy. She said it was cheap, “off the beaten path”, and beautiful. I’ve been dreaming about visiting Croatia ever since. You can probably guess where I’m going with this…

Have you ever visited a place that was so hyped up that even though you had a good time, you left feeling underwhelmed? 

That’s how we felt about Croatia. We had allotted 2 and a half weeks to visit Croatia, but ended up leaving early – something we rarely do when traveling (in fact, it’s almost always the opposite!).

2. It was PEAK tourist season

When we visited Croatia in July, it was packed with tourists everywhere you looked. Places that were described online as “hidden gems” had lines around the block.

The famed Plitvice Lakes that grace your Instagram feed are magical, yes, but some of that magic is diminished when you have to walk the wooden boardwalks behind long lines of people carrying selfie sticks.

And in Dubrovnik, you couldn’t walk a few minutes in the Old City without seeing one of the many corny “Game of Thrones” tours (complete with a guide dressed in chainmail and holding an iPad that was playing a scene from the show). 

Historic buildings had been turned into overpriced pirate-themed candy shops. It felt a bit like Disney World. And not in a good way.

I think a few years ago, these crowds didn’t exist to the extent that we experienced. But with photos of Croatia being an Instagram staple (I’m guilty of posting these too !) and with the exploding popularity of Croatia as a filming location for Game of Thrones, people are flocking to this Mediterranean country in hordes. Especially during the summer months. 

3. We didn’t budget correctly

Prices were much higher than any of the neighboring countries we visited (and with all the tourists there, I totally understand why). 

This is more on us than anything else, but we just didn’t have the right budget expectations to fully appreciate Croatia. If we raised our budget, we probably would have been able to enjoy ourselves a little more.

4. The people weren’t as friendly as the neighbors

On top of everything else, we’d just come from Bosnia & Herzegovina where the people were incredibly friendly, funny and excited to talk with us. Many of the people we met in Croatia were lacking in this department.

This isn’t to say we didn’t meet friendly Croatians – just the opposite. We had a few lovely guesthouse owners that were very kind, but the overall vibe just wasn’t as friendly as many of the countries we visited during our round-the-world trip – especially the neighboring countries.

5. Our feelings are relative

Our travels were bookended with visits in two countries that seriously surprised us: Bosnia and Slovenia . And it just so happened that Croatia fell in between.

Think of it this way: You go to a dinner party and speak with 3 people. The first (Bosnia) and the last (Slovenia) are humble and surprisingly interesting. You laugh, you cry. You listen to their stories and they listen to yours.

That person you speak with in between is perfectly nice. A little cocky, maybe. They are beautiful, but they know they are. Everyone in the party wants to talk to them, so you kind of just feel like you scratch the surface of really getting to know who they are. 

And when it comes time to leave the party, you reflect on the two fantastic conversations you just had. The one in the middle kind of fades away. Maybe if you hadn’t spoken with the other two party-goers, you would have really appreciated that middle convo a bit more. 

For better or worse, our opinions of people or places are heavily impacted by where we’ve just come from or where we’re going (literally and metaphorically). We just weren’t in a place to fully and wholeheartedly appreciate what Croatia had to offer.

6. We may have gone to the wrong places

This is a lesson we learn over and over again. 

The most popular destinations almost always leave us a bit disappointed. I’m sure anyone who has ever gone to the Leaning Tower of Pisa can relate. Cool tower, but that’s about it for Pisa. 

Maybe it was our route: Dubrovnik – Korčula – Split – Plitvice Lakes – Zagreb. We started off with a city that we really didn’t enjoy, and that sour taste lasted in our mouths for the rest of the country. 

We probably should have done some more research and found more off-the-beaten-path areas, but we were traveling so fast that we just defaulted to the easiest route. 

Would we go back to Croatia?

Yes, without a doubt. We would return in a heartbeat. 

There are a few places we already have in mind that we’d like to visit the second time around. These include some that our Director of Content, Amanda, has visited and wrote about in some of our other Croatia guides. 

We won’t deny that Croatia is absolutely breathtaking. Dubrovnik is as touristy as it is beautiful and Plitvice Lakes are a natural treasure.

Our advice to others visiting Croatia

Avoid peak tourist season. Period. Go somewhere else.

Budget quite a bit more money than you would for the rest of Eastern Europe. We knew Croatia would be one of the more expensive countries on our trip. But we didn’t think we would be seeing the same prices as Western Europe. 

Don’t make the mistake we did. You’ll enjoy yourself more if your budget has some wiggle room.

Have realistic expectations about crowds. Unless you visit during a totally off-peak time, Plitvice Lakes will be crowded. Dubrovnik may feel a bit like Disney World. If you go in knowing that there will be long lines and selfie sticks, you won’t be as disappointed as we were.

I’m sure there will be a few people who read this and think we’re crazy because they had a fantastic time in Croatia. And I know we rave about places that others may not like. Travel is personal. 

We try not to highly publicize when we don’t like a place because we truly believe that there are so many factors that can affect how much you like a particular city or country. But we also believe in honesty, and think that it’s okay not to fall in love with every place we visit. 

Our intention is not to discourage anyone from visiting Croatia, but instead to help set expectations and give you advice so you avoid some of our mistakes. We would definitely go back to Croatia; and knowing what we know now, we would most likely enjoy it much more.

How to book your trip to Croatia

Planning a trip to Croatia, whether long or short, can seem overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be! Take the stress out of planning by following these simple steps that’ll ensure you don’t forget anything. 

1. Decide where you want to go

Okay, this is definitely the hardest part of traveling, right? The looming feeling of trying to pack in every magical hike, every historical site, every restaurant … how!? We feel you, seriously. In our opinion, less is usually more. Choose a few of the best places to visit in Croatia and work backward from there. 

Once you’ve narrowed down the places you actually want to go, the rest becomes easy (and fun!). While we know this will differ based on your budget, time and interests, Croatia truly offers something for every type of traveler. 

2. Book your flights

As we all know, airfare is one of the priciest parts of traveling, so definitely check out our guide on how to find cheap flights before you book your trip to Croatia. Skyscanner is a great way to gauge prices and easily compare between airlines, days and flight times. We really love the ‘whole month’ feature, too, especially if you can be a little flexible with your dates. 

3. Book your accommodation

There are loads of options in terms of accommodation in Croatia suitable for a variety of budgets. Whether you’re looking to stay at a swanky beach-side villa, a quaint home-stay or a hostel, sites like Booking or Airbnb are your best bet in finding exactly what you’re looking for. 

4. Get travel insurance

Travel insurance is a key component when planning a trip and we NEVER leave home without travel insurance. Honestly, it’s never a fun thing to pay for, but it is definitely worth it if something goes wrong and can put your mind at ease while you explore a new place. 

For a trip like this, we’d recommend Safety Wing insurance .

For more information on how to pick a policy and what we look for in travel insurance, check out our detailed travel insurance comparison article .

5. Start packing!

Now that you’ve got all the boring logistical stuff out of the way … it’s time to get packing for your trip. Whether you’re rolling, folding or using packing cubes, we’ve got a quick guide on what you don’t want to forget on your trip to Croatia. 

What to pack for visiting Croatia

Croatia experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, so be mindful of the time you travel when packing. Aside from clothes, here are some essential things you don’t want to leave at home. 

• Outlet adapter
• Back up credit cards 
• Comfortable walking shoes (your feet will thank you)
• Reusable straw & reusable bag (always!) 
• Reef safe sunscreen
• Swimwear (with over 3,000 miles of coastline, you’ll want to take a dip!)
• Light breathable clothing and plenty of layers 
• Camera and tripod ( this one is our favorite for travel)
• Insulated water bottle 
• Insect repellent (we prefer the natural stuff )

Are you planning a trip to Croatia?

We have lots of resources on travel in Croatia and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Croatia Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or start by reading some of our favorite Croatia articles here:

• Fun Things to Do in Dubrovnik + Advice for Traveling
• Plitvice National Park Guide: Ultimate Guide
• Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Split, Croatia + Travel Guide
• Krka National Park Croatia: Ultimate Visitor’s Guide

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We want to hear from you!

Are you planning a trip to Croatia and still have questions? Let us know if anything in this Croatia travel guide surprised you, or what you’re most excited about in the comments below!

Comments (42) on “ Croatia: A Completely Honest Travel Guide ”

Thanks for your honest review.. Glad that I came across your blog. It must be difficult writing your honest opinion knowing it might face some backlash. (lol) I’m heading to Croatia next month and was thinking if I had planned too short for my trip. But your blog is reassuring.. I will be heading to Bosnia and Slovenia as well like you did.. hopefully I will have a good experience with all 3 at the dinner party 😉

Well why did you come during “peak months” and stayed at the most popular destinations, and also expect there will be no crowd and prices would be lower…??? This makes no sense.

Point of advice from a local Croatian living in Rijeka: stay in not-as-popular places and visit very popular places for a day, then go back to the not-as-popular place. Recommendations: Umag Motovun Labin old town Fuzine lake Ucka nature park Brijuni national park Cres Island (Lubenice beach) Island of Rab, with many beaches Risnjak National park City of Varazdin Last but not least, the City of RIJEKA!

hi and thank you for the great info on the blog. We are fellow Minnesotans traveling with small group next year. Any recommendations on where to fly in and out of in Croatia?

Thank you for all your advice and the honesty you share with us. It’s still a country I want to go to.

I want all the travel guides that you got,because I was thinking about travel throughout the globe sometime this year. So will you send me your travel guides to me,please.

I went in March, and it was sunny, warm enough to swim even, and none of the tourist hoards that swarm there in the high season.

I thought this blog post was hilarious. 20 percent of Croatia’s GDP comes from tourism so yeah there are going to be tourists there in July. Also Dubrovnik will probably be fine without the GoT fans… It’s great with honest reviews but they’re meaningless if the writer hasn’t bothered to find out basic facts about the country beforehand.

I think this article sealed the deal for me to not go. The only time I can go this year is in July and given the pandemic I’m not sure I want to be in crowds. The pandemic could translate into less tourists but I don’t think I want my first big overseas trip in 2 years to be a let down.

I truly hope you didn’t let this article dissuade you from visiting Croatia. I read this article before my trip and I was very disheartened but I found the exact opposite of this article to be true. We loved Croatia and it exceeded every expectation we had for it. We are almost 50 years old and our trip to Croatia was the best in our lives. My husband and I agree and we don’t always agree on everything. Honestly I think the people who wrote this article really just did everything wrong when visiting Croatia.

Hi Katie & Ben,

Thx so much for your comprehensive review! I found your blog while looking around for some ideas on doing a coastal Croatian trip for our 40th anniversary. I especially appreciated your 3 different budget types of lodging…so helpful. We’ve been to Croatia many times before, Dubrovnik, Split, etc. etc. but this time I wanted to do strictly coastal and end up exactly where you went – the northern region almost to Italy – the Istrian Peninsula. I heard it’s less crowded and you did confirm that. Now, about the people lol. My husband was born here so he’s a local, well sort of. I never speak English while we’re there and let him speak his native tongue and we get along just fine. We get that they just don’t have the best attitude in the world, but as some others have said, they probably hate all of the tourism. Thanks again for all the info…you really helped me out a lot!

Croatia is a small country full of negative, arrogant, and lazy people. I know because I lived there. Many people think that Croatians are hospitable and good people but the truth is most of that is fake and you have no idea what they are saying behind your back – if you don’t understand the language. Croates look down upon tourists, they feel that everyone is inferior to them and this stems frim a deep seeded jealousy they have for the rest of the world- especially those countries with normal economies where people travel. So they will have no problem to cheat you. They will smile to you but curse and make fun of you behind your back. I know because I understand the language but often spoke English when there. Yes, the nature is stunning but people are miserable. Keep that in mind.

Hi Alex, thanks for sharing your opinion. However, in our experience, we had lovely interactions with Croatians. As with any society, there will be people who are not as nice, but from our travels, we have nothing but good things to say about the people of Croatia.

I could not agree more with your review of Croatia. As a Croatian, living in Canada over 20 years now, I stopped visiting the country as often as I used to. You summed up pretty much everything I have been thinking for years now and although preparation and expectations go a long way, some destinations need less of those in order for one to enjoy the destination. I will preface my comment by saying that I have been vacationing in Croatia for pretty much every two years and there have been some major changes that will prevent me from going back soon. The main one are the prices. I get expensive, since I live in Toronto, one of the most expensive cities in North America. The problem is the value. For example, we rented a yacht last summer and visited tons of little islands. The prices were exorbitant and before anyone says that is normal for island pricing, I have been to plenty of other places, where this wasn’t the case. In Lisbon or Barcelona, you can get a cup of fresh fruit for 1 or 2 Euros (berries and cherries), while Croatia would sell the same type of fruit cup (cheaper selection like watermelon and honeydew and grapes mix) for 5 or 6 euros. Rudeness was at an all time high in places of official business, the public transit and connection between cities is abysmal and overpriced, plus finding information in places that are frequented by tourists can be a challenge and I do not even want to get into what happens when you travel to smaller places. Most restaurants serve the same fare or a slight variation of it. We ate in some fine dining places and also in some regular joints, and overall the experience has been underwhelming. Way too expensive for what it is and also the quality of food declined drastically over the years. I am assuming lot of places have a high turnover and might not care about the returning customers, and yet lot of dishes were particularly bland and just too expensive. Renting anything, you will pay through an arm and a nose. Bike fees are obscenely expensive, as are cab fares. Due to the high increase in tourist numbers, it seems that every Joe is trying to capitalize on the opportunity and rents rooms and apartments. Again, price – value ratio is disappointing. Some of the accommodation prices we had to laugh at, since they thought they were renting at the Four Seasons, but instead you were getting the most recent Ikea dress-up. Public smoking seems to be ubiquitous, and it is really hard to avoid smoke everywhere you go. On one of the ferries we took, the crew was smoking on the dock, despite prohibition signs and then tossed the cigarette butts into the sea. Pollution and garbage everywhere, including the sea, made me question how clean some of the beaches are. I am comparing it to previous years and some garbage piles have net been cleaned in years.

Having said all of that, I can share few tips from travelling abroad over the years.

• Avoid places like Split or Dubrovnik in high season
• Smaller Dalmatian islands like Vis or Hvar are great, and less crowded. Stay away from the main ports and pick other parts of the island for a more relaxing stay
• Rent a car if you can
• Rely on several sources for official information. It is very common to give incorrect info and this can vary from one representative to another.
• Eat where locals eat. This usually means moderately priced places and places that are rarely located by the marina
• Bring reusable water bottle. The amount of plastic wasted is sad, and never buy bottled water in Croatia. Croatia ranks as one of the highest countries when it comes to water drinking quality.
• Money exchange rates are similar in the tourist spots and post offices have one of the best exchange rates, even better than banks.
• Lot of bus stations don’t have anyone announcing anything, so it is very common to ask the driver if the bus is the right bus, since sometimes the labels on the buses can be incorrect.
• Bakeries are very often the best option for a fast and cheap meal on the go.
• Lot of places don’t accept debit or credit cards, so always have cash on you.

This turned out to be a longer post than I originally anticipated. In conclusion, Croatia is an amazing place to visit, the nature is truly breathtakingly beautiful, but please be wary that it is not cheap or undiscovered. This was maybe true 20 years ago, but not anymore.

Croatian expat here. I have to go every summer for holidays in Croatia to spend some time with the family and I’m even more annoyed about the prices, the crowds and rude locals. But I also know where to go and how to avoid it. The biggest mistake travellers like you make is thinking Croatia is eastern Europe or "balkans". It’s not. It’s always been (well besides the dark era or communist occupation) a Central European and Mediterranean society. So you should compare it as such. Rapid increase of tourists drives certain behaviours everywhere. But then again towns like Dubrovnik, Hvar and others are unique. their historical, cultural value plus the beauty justifies the price you need to pay to see them. Tourists shouldn’t expect some 3rd world shithole where their 100 bucks or euros will make them Kings. I don’t want our country to be overrun by cheap backpackers and cruisers . It spoils it for everyone.

Croatia is not the Balkans?? That’s a story Croates maybe tell themselves because they hate the fact, but Croatia is as Balkan as it gets.

The reason why people in Croatia, or more specifically Split and Dubrovnik, are not as friendly as the "neighbours" lies in the fact that locals are just absolutely inundated and fed up with mass tourism and the type of tourists their cities get. The old town of Split has in the past years lost hundreds of its inhabitants cos people have lost access to basic necessities in the centre and are abused night and day by groups of drunken tourists pissing at their doorsteps, vomiting under their windows, screaming and in general, acting like complete morons. Every shack downtown has turned into a shitty and overpriced pizza and burger place or an almost Michelin-star restaurant, neither of which the locals can afford. If that wasn’t enough, from April until October there’s at least 2 cruise ships daily docked in the harbour, each with thousands of passengers that just clog the already overwhelmed city, and who bring absolutely no value to the economy. People are bursting at the seams, they can’t function normally in their daily life and they are also being priced out of their homes, as everybody decided to squeeze whatever little buck out of tourism they can. And so on, and so on.

Well said, my friend. I can’t even imagine what the streets look like when passengers from the ships go on land. And that’s in addition to other tourists. And yes, I like it what you said about people wanna be kings for $100. That kind of money won’t buy you much anywhere else, why would anyone expect a lot in such touristy country. And people complaining about Dubrovnik and GoT. Lol. Go anywhere else and every town in the world promotes best what they can. I can’t even imagine what it is like for locals to be overrun by tourists who pee everywhere and vomit yet don’t leave a dime. A little respect goes long way, in my humble opinion. You get what you give. On the other side, just fir fun I Google Croatia sometimes and I always get the same towns in search engines. It’s like Croatia is nothing more but Dubrovnik and Split, how annoying. There’s so much more to see if you know where to go, and probably fir a lot less money.

Hi! Thanks so much for all the information. We’re planning a small wedding in Split and are debating restaurants for our reception (small is very small, ie 6 people including us). Our planner recommended Bokeria which looks like it has great food but seating looks a little communal and not private. Were there any more private seating options there or would you recommend we look elsewhere. Sorry for the random message but appreciate your input!!

Thanks for sharing all your information! I’m sorry the people aren’t friendly in Croatia. I have a friend that’s from there and she’s darling! She says it deoends where you go and what you do ..I don’t know never been.bit it looks beautiful! Great pictures as well ! Happy travels to you! Oh didn’t you get any massages while travelling? I always do so I can stay relaxed and enjoy my trip ! ?

Thanks for the tips – they are great! Can I ask how many days you spent in Croatia with this itinerary?

I would like to say that Croatia is cheaper than Slovenia!

An interesting article and sensible tips. I am going to visit Croatia in the near future, and your article helped me figure out some points. Great photos. Thank. Good luck.

I totally agree with you guys, having just coming back from Croatia. I didn’t have that high of an expectation but I didn’t really think it was that amazing either (also wanted to starting heading back). It was the same price as many other western european cities but without the infrastructure.. I loved the island (Hvar) but that was about it. It’s definitely not one of my favorite countries in Europe.

What a guide, being a best tours providers in Croatia we completely agreed what you are trying to state here…

Appreciate the review. I am hoping to go in September a little off the busy season, I was wondering if you think one day is enough for Plitvice Lakes?

Honest review is much appreciated. I must say, as a local, I agree with most of your thoughts.

Thank you so much for your comment. It’s always good to get a local’s opinion!

I have travelled to Croatia many times over the last ten years from Australia as it became one of my favourite places in the world after my first visit. The towns of Split and Dubrovnik are busy in July and August however in my opinion people overstate this as all the beautiful places in the world are busy, ie French Riviera, Amalfi Coast, Dalmatian Coast and places like Mykonos and Santorini. I for one don’t mind the Crowds other than when Cruise ships are around which you may have encountered in Dubrovnik. They are normally gone by 6pm. There are places that are off the beaten track in Croatia that are stunning and if you want smaller crowds go in June or September. But places like Vis island and Island of Murter are beautiful and not overcrowded during peak season. There is still a good vibe and not too sleepy. Also small cities of Sibenik and Zadar are stunning as is Rovinj and places like Opatilja. Croatia is also a lot cheaper in shoulder season. I’m an avid traveller and blog reader and surprisingly the only time I’ve read a blogger write a negative review is when they are a budget traveller, backpacker or nomadic traveller and the first place they visit in Croatia is Dubrovnik. It’s as if they expect these cheap third world prices not realising they are coming to some of the most stunning and classy old towns in the entire world.

Hey Dan, thanks for your detailed comment. Love hearing about more cities to explore in Croatia, especially ones that are not as crowded. During our trip to Croatia, we were on a year-long trip so we were traveling on a budget, and were slightly surprised but the prices in Croatia compared to neighboring countries. Just want to set expectations straight for other travelers and share our experience so they are prepared.

Hi! I stumbled upon your site while researching for our 2019 trip to Croatia and Slovenia. I appreciate the candid feedback and helps solidify my decision to skip a few of the "must see" towns. It’s hard to skip when you don’t know when/if you’ll make it back, but I know it’s not what we like to do when we travel. It will give us more time to explore wine country.

Glad we could help, Mandy. It is tricky choosing cities sometimes, but you have travel according to your travel style and not just because places are marked as “must see” spots. Have a great trip!

Katie and Ben, Just finished reading about your Croatia trip. First time to see your site. Feedback: You did a good job! Don’t be overly concerned about offering candid opinions based upon your experiences. Even when they may be negative. Travel is like beauty – "In the eyes of the beholder". It is refreshing to read a site that avoid hype and focuses on being honest, even if you sounded somewhat apologetic for not loving Croatia. What is most important is truth in travel. Keep at it.- Costas Christ, Editor at Large, National Geographic Traveler

Wow, we are honored at such a compliment from you, Costas. We always aim to be honest, even if it’s not the easiest way to write. We appreciate honesty when we read other blogs, and we hope others feel the same when they read our writing. Thank you for taking the time to comment.

Thank you for your advice! We are planning a trip to Croatia and plan to use a few tidbits learned from what you’ve mentioned here.

You are very welcome Emily! Let us know if you have any more questions about traveling to Croatia.

I definitely appreciate your honesty! Great tips and advice and words of caution. 😉

Great article, thanks for the tips!

Indeed, Croatia is indeed home to many amazing sights and sounds, but in this beautiful land also lie some tourist-targeting scammers. Do be wary of the hostess bar scam, beach thieves, overcharging restaurants, pickpocketing, flat tire scam, overcharging taxi drivers, holiday apartment scam, car rental scam, border scam and many more!

It’s always good to travel with common sense, David, so thanks for that reminder. We didn’t experience any of these scams while in Croatia (even during busy season). It’s good to be aware, but not to worry about traveling in Croatia.

You’ve numbered the main problems regarding your trip to Croatia: thinking it is still an "undiscovered gem", that you’ve mostly stayed within the most touristy locations and that you had way too high expectations. Croatia is having a huge influx of tourists for the last several years and many people think that it’s still not that discovered, which isn’t true. This year it will be visited by around if not more than 20 million people. Have in mind that the country itself has only a bit over 4 million inhabitants. Also, people read blogs like this that rave about the country and have unrealistic expectations that sometimes can be hard to meet. Especially when you travel in the middle of the summer when the number of visitors can be off-putting. That being said, one needs to do some homework before the trip to know what more or less to expect and not to get unpleasantly surprised and enjoy their visit to Croatia.

Thank you Mario for basically summarizing what we stated in the article. We acknowledged that our expectations were off and wrote this article to inform others so they don’t have the same experience as us. We really liked traveling in Croatia and encourage others to go there as well. We would love to go back during an shoulder or off season.

Hello Ben and Katie,

fantastic and honest article. I agree with everything you write about Croatia. I had to smile about your "high expectations". 😉

My family and I used to travel to Istria in Croatia every summer for, well, at least 5 years? I think the last time we spent our holiday there was maybe in 2011? I remember it to be always crowded, even though we stayed in a small fishermen’s village, not really a big player in the touristic landscape of Croatia. Still, the beach was packed with tourists, families,… but beautiful though. The reason could be, that many Germans and Austrians go there in summer, because it’s nearby, easy to reach and (still) cheaper than Spain or Italy. Sooo july & august, or summer in general isn’t really a great time to explore Croatia.

Though, I have beautiful memories of that country as well. We used to drive around the countryside – and one time, by chance, we came by an old, very small village. It was in the middle of nowhere. Located on a hill and surrounded by the remains of a medieval fortress. The houses and streets were made of stone – and there was absolutely nobody far and wide. So calm. By the time the landscape darkened, it was a cloudy day, and this gave the whole scenery the final touch 😉 I don’t remember the name of that place, but it was somewhere in the middle of Istria.

Hope you’ll go back someday (not in summer!) and have a great time, maybe you can still find some hidden treasures. <3

all the best for your future-journeys,

Kathi from nomadenleben.tumblr.com

Hi Kathi, that sounds like a lovely memory of Croatia, so peaceful and charming. And don’t get us wrong, we would love to travel back to Croatia, but you’re right, we probably won’t go in the summer again. Thanks for your comment.

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Croatia blog — the fullest croatia travel guide & suggested 4d3n itinerary for first-timers.

Instead of setting foot in familiar destinations like France or Italy, I chose to travel to Croatia – a country whose name many people don’t even know where on the world map. It seems that among the countless famous tourist destinations in Europe, Croatia is still a raw gem that many visitor don’t know. But after trip I realized Croatia is a true tourist paradise. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Croatia for the first-time? Let’s check out our Croatia blog (Croatia travel blog) with the fullest Croatia travel guide (Croatia guide, Croatia tourist guide, Croatia visitor guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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Located along the Adriatic coast, the small and beautiful country of Croatia, famous for its yachting industry, is gradually becoming a popular tourist destination because of its majestic scenery and long-standing culture. Coming here, you will be able to visit places such as the ancient and charming tourist city of Dubrovnik with the splendor of the fortresses built in the 8th century or Mljet one of the beautiful large islands off the Southern coast.

Croatia blog: Overview of Croatia

Croatia is bordered by Hungary to the northeast, Slovenia to the morthwest, Serbia to the east, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro to the south covering an area of 56,594 km² and a population of over 4 millions of people (2021). It is the home of the intersection of Eastern and Western Europe, this diversity expressed through its architecture, cuisine, art and literature. The Mediterranean influences from Greece and Italy are most noticeable in the coastal areas.

The Adriatic Coast is undoubtedly the most popular tourist destination in Croatia and a mecca for those looking for a holiday at Croatia’s paradise beaches and islands. It has the most concave coastline in Europe and boasts 1,185 islands and islets, of which only 66 are inhabited!

Croatia once rated as the 18th most popular tourist destination in the world – This vibrant, thriving country ranks highly among Central European countries for education, healthcare, quality of life and a dynamic economy.

Croatia is not a part of the Schengen area, but if you have a valid Schengen Multi Entry Visa (Visa type C) you can enter Croatia. Note that there is only Multi Entry visa, not Single Entry.

* If you have any doubts, you can email directly to the embassy and they will reply very quickly and enthusiastically (this is something I tried before I went).

Croatia blog: When to go?

When is the best time to visit Croatia? Croatia has mixed climate zones, with the north having a temperate climate while the central and mountainous regions have chilly air. Spring and autumn have gentle winds blowing along the coast. And winter in Croatia is very cold and snowy, especially in the central and northern regions.

The weather in Croatia is very diverse, when the North is characterized by a temperate zone, the midland and mountainous areas have a cold air. In particular, in the winter in this country is very cold and snowy, very suitable for those who love skiing, fishing on glaciers, …

The period from February to May or from mid-July to the end of September is considered the best time to visit Croatia.

Croatia blog: Getting there and around

There are many ways to get to Croatia such as by ferry from Bari, Italy, by train from neighboring countries, by plane… We chose to take the train from Salzburg, Austria to Zagreb, Croatia (when the train stops at the border of Slovenia and Croatia, there will be customs to check passports.) The train takes 6 hours, you can choose the night train to sleep overnight to save money and have more time to exploring. Because we went to Plitvice the next day, we had to take the day train, in general, it was quite tiring, and there was no shops to buy foods on the train.

Although it is a direct train, but it will separate carriages in Villach, the upper half goes to Klagenfurt, Austria, the lower half goes to Zagreb, so please note that you should sit in the correct train car. Train fare for Salzburg – Zagreb route is €39/person.

Getting around the capital of Zagreb

We only stayed in Zagreb for a while, so we mostly walking. The only way to go to Zagreb airport is by bus. The airport bus running from 4:30am to 9pm, every 30 minutes with a trip. One-way fare is 30 Kuna, but you can’t buy it online, you have to buy it at the ticket counters.

You can check ticket prices and timetables at the following link .

Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes National Park

You can go to Zagreb Main Bus Station to buy tickets at the counter or buy online. But I saw that there was a bus trip every 30 minutes, so you don’t have to buy it in advance.

It is recommended to buy a cheap 2-way ticket (cheaper 50 kuna) but the playing time is a bit short of 5 hours (due to the traveling time from Zagreb to Plitvice takes more than 2 hours already). This depends, but we saw 5 hours is enough to visit key attractions.

You can check ticket prices and running times at the following link .

Zagreb – Dubrovnik

According to Google, you can get to Dubrovnik from Zagreb in two ways:

• Bus : also buy tickets at Zagreb main bus station, take 12 hours, cost 355 Kuna.
• Plane : Croatia Airlines, flight time 55 minutes, fare depends on time of flight.

At first, me and my sister planned to take the bus for cheap, but fortunately, we discovered that Croatia Airlines has a ticket price for people under 25 years old, only 80% of the regular fare. It also offered both night and early morning flights, the price is only about 405 Kuna, which is not very expensive, so we decided to fly.

Getting around Dubrovnik

In the Old Town in Dubrovnik, all types of motor vehicles are prohibited and the roads here are full of steps, so you can only walk.

Before I went, I was also a bit nervous because If fly to Dubrovnik at midnight, afraid lack of vehicle to get to city center. So I just emailed to ask my hotel owner, and he said there is a bus operates 24/24 every time a flight lands. You just need to come out of the restricted area to see a ticket counter of Atlas company.

One-way ticket is 40 Kuna, if you buy a round trip ticket, you will only pay 70 Kuna, so I recommend buying a round-trip ticket combo for convenience. Information about this bus route can be found on the following page.

You can also enjoy the beauty of Croatia by cruise. Croatia has many islands, so choosing to travel by cruise or ferry is both comfortable and exploring many points. Every day the cruise will dock for you to visit the city or other destinations on the shore in Croatia.

Self-driving

If you have an international driver’s license, you can rent a private car. This helps you not have to depend on the timetable of the bus and go faster and more convenient. Car rental is about 35-40 euros/day, of course you must know how to drive and show your international driver’s license and a deposit.

Croatia blog: Where to go?

Zagreb has all the essentials of a capital city: Pedestrian streets, museums, galleries, open-air cafes and a quaint downtown in the center city. However, do not miss the Dolac Market, the colorful St Mark’s Church or the Museum of Broken Relationships.

Gornji Grad (Upper Town)

Gorniji will be introduced first by guides when traveling to Croatia because it is located in the heart of Zagreb. This district has a large square, surrounded by St Mark’s Church – the parish church, the spiritual place of the Croatian people. Tourists often gather here quite a lot, because they want to learn about the culture, beliefs and lifestyle of the local people.

This is not a very famous Croatian destination (compared to Split or Dubrovnik) but I really like this beautiful little city. Also because it is quite small, it only takes about 1 day or even half a day to explore Zadar. Just hang around in Zadar’s Old Town and walk along the beach leading to the Sea Organ, sit and watch the sunset in special music created by waves crashing against specially built rocks to create sound, then walk out to Greetings to the Sun to enjoy an interesting light party when it is completely dark, it is enough to fully feel Zadar.

Personally, I find the sunset in Zadar even more beautiful than in Santorini I watched last summer. Maybe I was lucky to come on the day the sun set was so beautiful, but anyway, I highly recommend that you try this extremely interesting experience once.

Split is the second largest city in Croatia, also a popular destination for beach lovers. Like Zadar, Split has a very lovely old town with Let Me Pass street known as the narrowest street in the world. After visiting the old town, you can walk out to Riva – a coastal road with 2 soaring rows of coconut trees and stalls selling colorful handmade items. I still remember the feeling of walking along this road in the smell of the salty sea, the gentle breeze and gazing at the Mediterranean landscape with the blue sea in golden sunlight and the mountains looming in the distance. In addition, you can also climb up to Vidilica cafe on Marjan hill for a panoramic view of the city.

But Split isn’t just that. Another reason make Split is famous is because it is surrounded by many lovely islands like Hvar or Brac. In particular, the Zlatni Rat beach near Bol on the island of Brac is the place that often appears on Croatian postcards. There are daily ferrie from Split to these islands, so it is very convenient to travel, even in the peak summer season you can combine to visiting 2 islands in the same day because the ferry runs continuously.

The historic town of Trogir and the harbor located in the south of Croatia next to the city of Split is an attractive destination. It was recognized as a UNESCO world cultural heritage site in 1997 and it has many valuable historic buildings. Trogir is very special thanks to the architecture. The old city surrounded by walls is filled with churches, castles, houses and palaces from different periods including everything from Roman to Baroque style.

A coastal town with a rich Roman architectural system, typically the Pula Arena. Built between 27 BC and 68 AD, this arena was also used to host concerts or large events. If you are not a history buff, rest assured that the poetic scenes here are enough to please anyone.

Euphrasian Basilica

Euphrasian Basilica bearing bold with the ancient Byzantine architecture of the Mediterranean. It can be said that the government and people have extremely preserved this sacred place to keep its original shape, even though it has undergone many events such as fires and earthquakes. Stepping into the cathedral, visitors will be really surprised by the unique design and shape. The pillars of the Basilica were built solidly and firmly to support the whole cathedral. Finely carved details, harmoniously coordinated colors create a masterpiece of art.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with turquoise lakes, limestone canyons and hundreds of waterfalls. Plitvice is the largest national park in Croatia with a special topography of mountain lakes. It is also because of this special terrain that the natural scenery here is majestic and enchanting. It is not suprise that people call this Paradise on Earth for nature lovers.

To get to Plitvice, the closest and fastest way is from Zadar. That’s why I chose to fly to Zadar first. However, from the capital Zagreb or Split, there are also direct buses to Plitvice, so you can rest assured that it is very convenient to getting here.

Hvar Island

This is one of the most famous islands of Croatia. Hvar is home to many sunny beaches, lavender fields and lush vineyards. In addition, the site also has a poetic city center with Gothic palaces or marble streets. A potential Croatian tourist destination.

Croatia’s most famous tourist city, which was chosen as the setting for the movie Games of Thrones. Although not as famous as Venice or Amalfi, Dubrovnik is a destination not to be missed when coming to the Mediterranean. If you has been to Santorini and loves the unique architecture with two colors of white and blue. Then in Dubrovnik you also can find a brilliant beauty of white walls and orange-red tile roofs of ancient houses lying close together. Dubrovnik is super easy to visit as its most famous and most beautiful places are the Old Town and the city walls.

This is a very charming destination, like a miniature version of Dubrovnik. An island owns dense forests. The name given to the island was originally Korkyra Melaina (Black Korcula) with its coves and rolling hills. Korcula is definitely a highlight of any trip to Croatia giving you the opportunity to indulge yourself in the sea and sunbathe on the beaches. It is also home to some of Croatia’s best wines and local olive oils.

Mljet Island

As an island off the coast of South Croatia, most of the island area is green forest, creating a fresh atmosphere. The rest of the island is fields, vineyards and small villages scattered like a poetic, peaceful picture. Renting a bike to explore the pine forest, boating on one of the tranquil lakes and shopping in the small but well-stocked supermarket will keep you busy and excited during your trip to Mljet.

This cosmopolitan seaside town offers tourists the best: Enjoy sunny beaches and cool seawater, with bustling streets, exciting tourist attractions vibrant nightlife just a few kilometers away. Makarska also has a very special Malacological museum in the basement where you will see a large collection of fossils, snails, seashells and other interesting historical objects!

This is a Croatia tourist spot you should set foot in and soak up the vibe atmosphere with a glass of Shiraz in hand. If you want to explore more, renting a bike is an easy and fun way to see the stunning island.

Sipan is a popular day trip destination, especially as you’re likely to encounter companions during your stay. A trip around the island will allow you to see the Gothic Rector’s palace, palace ruins and the iconic 16th-century castle that surrounds the peaceful village of Suđurađ…

A very small town located on the Pelješac peninsula. Trstenik is a great place to soaking up in the sunlight and enjoy the clear blue beach. If you prefer to stay on the go, you can visit the town’s winery or enjoy some delicious food at one of the roadside restaurants. With a population of just 116, this town is remote and quaint, and it’s great for a night away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Pakleni Islands

Near Hvar island, the Pakleni islands attracts many tourists to its beautiful coastline. In contrast to the bustling town of Hvar, you’ll find quiet, secluded beaches and natural wonders on the many islands that make up the Pakleni archipelago. From an island of Jerolim you can visit the diving paradise off the island of Stambedar, which will give you exciting underwater adventures.

Brač owns one of the most famous beaches on the Dalmatian coast. Brač offers great relaxation on white pebble beaches. It’s also a great place to hike for breathtaking views at the highest peak on the Adriatic Islands, Vidova Gora peak, stands the tallest in this tiny town.

In addition above attractions, you can buy tours to neighboring countries to play such as Montenego, Bosnia & Herzegovina. Prices range from €40 – €50 for a full-day tour. We didn’t have much time, so we have to miss these points.

Croatia blog: What to eat?

Croatian cuisine is a blend of long-standing traditions with Italian, Turkish, and Hungarian flavors. Thanks to its long coastline, Croatian cuisine is famous and diverse with seafood dishes. The culinary characteristics of this Mediterranean country is delicious grilled dishes and hot stews.

Personally for me, I found the food in Croatia is very fresh, not industrialized like food in European countries. In addition, the dishes are processed and well-seasoned, not bland like Hungarian food or Austrian food.

Salata od Hobotnice (Octopus Salad)

This dish made from fresh octopus, served with potatoes, chopped parsley, minced garlic, lime juice and a little black risotto made from cuttlefish and cook with cuttlefish broth. This is a traditional dish in restaurants in Croatia.

This dish made by a method uses a bell-shaped terracotta swing that is heated by burning charcoal at the bottom. When it is hot, the food will be put into cooking in a round tray, turn the hot pot over and then cover the embers on the bell-shaped pot. Peka is made from a variety of ingredients such as meats, seafood with seasonal vegetables, in which always has potatoes.

Brodet (stewed seafood with vegetables): This is a dish widely sold in restaurants and eateries in Croatia. The ingredients as well as the way to prepare this dish are very simple. Chefs use 3 types of fish and a few types of shellfish such as clams, mussles, oysters, crabs… stewed with vegetables, seasoned with traditional spices for 50-60 minutes to mix the ingredients together, creating a rich broth. It is served with bread to reduce the greasy taste of the dish.

Bakalar (salted cod and mashed potatoes)

if you go to Croatia on Christmas and New Year days, you will find Balakar appearing in almost every meal from restaurants to local homes. The main ingredient for this dish is cod. Fish before being processed will be soaked in cold water for about 3 days to melt the ice and reduce its salinity. Potatoes are mashed. In the cooking process, add a little olive oil, chopped parsley, minced garlic. This is one of the delicious dishes in Croatia you should try.

Pašticada (stewed beef)

Stewed beef with special sauce is a famous dish in Dalmatia, it requires a long and meticulous processing process. Premium beef marinated with lots of spices and a variety of vegetables then left overnight to infuse then cooked with grilled bacon, coriander root, onion, nutmeg, tomato paste, prunes and stewed up to 5 hours, depending on the type of meat. The dish is often served on important occasions such as weddings, it is served with gnocchi or pasta.

Other must-try dishes include:

• Soparnik – vegetarian pancake
• Risotto – mixed rice with stewed meat
• Black risotto
• Gulaš – stewed beef soup
• Zagrebački odrezak – veal steak stuffed with ham
• Malvazija & Teran – 2 favorite Croatian wines

The country is also a major wine producer, with the Peljesac peninsula famous for its red wines, and eastern Slavonia and Istria known for its white wines.

In terms of drinks, you can enjoy Italian-style kava (also known as milk coffee). In addition, pivo and white wine, red wine are also great drinks you should not miss when visiting this country.

In addition, I would also like to suggest some good restaurants in Croatia:

• Zagreb: Batak Grill Cvjetni , Boban , Vinodol, Rougemarin City, Mundoaka Street Food.
• Dubrovnik: Nautika , Above 5 Rooftop, Trattoria Capriccio, Panorama, Revelin

Croatia travel blog: Where to stay?

Zagreb: Because we only stayed for one night, we booked the one near the train station and central bus station. HI Hostel Zagreb ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) has a private room for 2 people, but the price is cheap 15 € / room, with deposit luggage service after check out. However, the rooms here looks a bit old and the facilities are quite rundown.

Dubrovnik: We rent a room on Airbnb, 5 minutes walk from Old Town but good, cheap, the owner is super nice and even lets us send our belongings for 8 hours after checking out.

If you have good financial conditions, you should stay in Old Town to feel lifestlye and local life here, although the roads are steep with many stairs and most importantly, the price is super expensive.

Although we visited Dubrovnik in not the tourist season, the average price for an apartment here is already $60. There is a good hostel called Angelina Old Town ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) but the price is also similar.

Checkout more top rated and best hotels in Croatia on Agoda.com , Booking.com .

Croatia travel blog: Shopping

You can buy items such as traditional handicrafts, jewelry, glassware, wood carvings, lavender bags or local specialties, wines, and olive oil as gifts for your loved ones, friends after the trip to Croatia. Most of the above items are sold in shops in Zagreb. But you should buy souvenirs at traditional fairs or festivals to save a lot of money.

Croatia blog: Travel costs

Most transactions in Croatia in Kuna, EUR 1 ~ 7.5 Kuna. In some tourist destinations like Dubrovnik, there are still some places that accept € . We exchanged money at home, so we didn’t exchange it here.

In general, travel costs in Croatia are cheaper than in some other European countries. Only in Dubrovnik, the cost is a little more expensive. You can refer to the total cost of traveling to Croatia for 4D3N as follows (price will be for 1 person and Kuna currency):

Accommodations

• Zagreb (1 night): 100 Kuna
• Dubrovnik (2 nights): 428 Kuna
• Salzburg – Zagreb train(1 way): 289 Kuna
• Zagreb – Plitvice bus (2 ways): 158 Kuna
• Zagreb – Zagreb Aiport Bus (1 way): 30 Kuna
• Dubrovnik Airport – Dubrovnik Old Town Bus (2 ways): 70 Kuna
• Zagreb – Dubrovnik flight (1 way): 395 Kuna
• Dubrovnik – London flight (1 way): 352 Kuna
• Plitvice Lakes National Park: 80 Kuna
• Dubrovnik Walls: 150 Kuna
• Mt.Srđ cable car: 130 Kuna
• Dubrovnik boat tour: 75 Kuna

Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose the food and restaurant suitable for your budget. My one meal ranges from 75 – 175 Kuna.

Croatia travel blog: My Croatia travel itinerary 4 days 3 nights

– 14:12 – 20:53: Take the train from Salzburg to Zagreb – 21:15: Check in hostel – 21:40: Visit the city center and have dinner at Mundoaka Street Food restaurant – 23:00: Return to the hostel to resting

– 07:30: Check-out and send luggage off at the hostel – 08:30 – 11:07: Take the bus to Plitvice – 11:15: Lunch – 11:45 – 16:15: Visit Plitvice Lakes – 16:45 – 19:00: Take the bus back to Zagreb – 19:30: Go back to the hostel to take luggage + buy snacks – 20:00: Take the bus to Zagreb Airport – 22:05 – 23:00: Fly to Dubrovnik – 23:30: Take the bus to Dubrovnik Old Town – 23:55: Check in the apartment

– 09:00 – 12:00: Strolling around Dubrovnik Old Town – 13:30: Lunch + return to the apartment to rest – 15:30 – 18:00: Visit Dubrovnik Walls – 18:45 – 21:00: Night walking in Dubrovnik Old Town – 21:30: Dinner

– 08:30: Check out and send luggage at the apartment – 09:30 – 11:00: Visit Lovrijenac fortress – 11:30: Lunch – 12:00 – 14:00: Walk around Dubrovnik Old Town – 14:30: Take a boat tour – 15:30: Visit Hotel Belvedere – 16:00: Swimming in Sveti Jakov sea – 17:00: Return to Dubrovnik Old Town – 17:45: Dinner – 19:00: Go back to the hostel to take luggage – 20:00: Take the bus to the airport – 22:30 – 00:05: Fly back to UK

Croatia blog: Before you go

• Currency: Croatia uses the Kuna, abbreviated as KN, 1 euro for 7.5 kuna. Withdrawal rates from Croatian ATMs are very high, sometimes a fee of 10-13% is deducted. Therefore, you should use cash in euros and then exchange to kuna or use a card when make payments. When staying in a hotel or eating in a restaurant, if the staff asks if you want to swipe a card to charge in Kuna or Euro, it is more beneficial to charge in kuna.
• Language: Croatians can speak many languages, such as Croatian, Italian, and English as their mother tongues. Many people speak multiple languages ​​fluently.
• Shopping: When buying at the flea market, you should bargain. If shopping in shopping malls, you should ask the seller for an invoice and should check cash back or card balance.
• Safety: Croatia is a safe country for travelers. However, the friendliness of the people on the street cannot be called perfect. During my travels to many cities in Croatia, I have noticed that the more touristy a place is, the less friendly it is, the bus driver is sometimes very rude.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Dubrovnik you can refer to

• Sunset Kayaking Experience in Dubrovnik with Snack
• Game of Thrones Filming Locations Tour in Dubrovnik
• Elaphiti Islands Day Tour from Dubrovnik
• Ancient Town of Ston and Korčula Island Day Tour with Wine Tasting from Dubrovnik
• Dubrovnik Guided Walking Tour
• Mostar Day Tour from Dubrovnik
• Montenegro Day Tour from Dubrovnik
• Bay of Kotor Whole Day Tour in Montenegro from Dubrovnik
• Game of Thrones Walking Tour in Dubrovnik
• Game of Thrones Tour in Dubrovnik

Are you looking for more top things to do in Dubrovnik: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Croatia 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!

Enjoyed reading my Croatia travel guide? Pin it!

The ultimate Croatia travel guide for first-timers

I’ve created this complete Croatia travel guide with all the information you need to plan your visit to Croatia for the first time.

In the last few years, Croatia has pulled in tourists from around the world for its Game of Thrones filming locations . The city of Dubrovnik was used as the set for King’s Landing, and the city of Split , as well as the Fortress of Klis, were used to film Meereen. But beyond that, Croatia is a jaw-droppingly beautiful nation, with something for every kind of traveler.

From sandy beaches and blue seas to snow-capped mountains and lush forests, Croatia has it all. Its cuisine is inspired by Italian and other Mediterranean style and its medieval fortresses are a sight to behold.

With this Croatia travel guide, you can see how to get the very best out of your trip to the golden land of Croatia.

This post contains referral links for products I love. Adventurous Miriam earns a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through my links. I appreciate your support ♡ Learn more

What to pack for traveling Croatia

When it comes to the Balkans, you can expect more-or-less the same climate across every country. They’re blistering hot and humid at the peak of summer, and perfectly warm in the spring and autumn months. So packing is going to consist of a lot of light, breezy clothes, and sturdy shoes ideal for lots and lots of walking.

I’ve made an in-depth and detailed Ultimate Packing List for the Balkans for you to look at and follow closely. But the main things to consider are a decent pair of flexible sneakers that can be used for every occasion – from city walks down cobbled streets to light hikes over the grassy hills.

When you’re relaxing and not pushing yourself on a big walk, make sure to pack some flip-flops. There are a lot of wonderful beaches in Croatia, so remember your flip-flops and sandals! And be sensible: pack plenty of sunscreen and a pair of sunglasses.

Cities in Croatia

Zagreb – a thousand years of culture.

Although it’s the capital of Croatia, Zagreb is often overlooked.

Don’t make that mistake! The city’s Upper Town district dates back a thousand years and has some of the country’s best museums, galleries, and architecture. The parliament buildings are a sight to behold!

Zadar – The Sun Salutation

Zadar has the strongest links to Italy, with Venetian architecture and ancient Roman ruins to be explored and photographed.

The town also has some of the most delicious traditional Croatian cuisine in the whole country.

Split – Where Ancient Meets Modern

Split has a name that’s easy to remember, and is easily one of the most gorgeous towns in all of the Balkans.

There’s a reason it’s the filming location for Meereen , after all. Its palace dates back 1,700 years and its promenades are lined with awesome bars.

Dubrovnik – The real-life King’s Landing

Dubrovnik is the most famous town in all of Croatia, and with good reason!

It’s the setting for King’s Landing – one of the most famous areas in Game of Thrones . And it’s one of the most well-preserved medieval towns in the whole world. A jaw-droppingly beautiful port city.

Pula – Home of a Roman Amphitheatre

Defined by its massive Roman amphitheatre – as large and impressive, and even better-maintained than the Colosseum of Rome itself.

Pula has been visited by writers, artists, and musicians for centuries. Festivals are still a regular thing, and the streets are alive with music.

Rovinj – The most beautiful town in Istria

This amazing little town of Rovinj is itself a peninsula, with the ocean on three sides. In this small space it crams in cafes, restaurants, and bars.

It’s lively, enthusiastic, and full of entertainment. Its cathedral also stands like a stunning beacon above the town.

Rijeka – An Ancient Beach Town

Croatia’s third-largest city is lined with white sandy beaches and overflowing with stunning medieval buildings.

Trasat Castle, St. Vitus’ Cathedral, and the City Tower are all examples of amazing architecture. And the city also boasts an annual Science Festival!

Sibenik – A UNESCO Fortress City

This amazing little town is crowned by what might be the two most amazing buildings in all of Croatia: the Cathedral of St James and the Fortress St Nicholas.

These amazing stone marvels are the reason for the UNESCO stamp on the city, and are a must-see during your travels.

Motovun – A magical hilltop town

Most famous for its annual film festival, the stunning little medieval town of Motovun is a little more idyllic the rest of the year.

It’s an Istria hilltop town that has been perfectly preserved for centuries and is an absolute hidden treasure of Croatia. Explore the surrounding forests!

Porec – The Grand Basilica

Home to the Episcopal Complex of the Basilica – another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Roman town of Porec has a history which dates back to the 4 th Century, and is packed with great bars and cafes to enjoy a drink at, and old, cobbled Roman streets to explore.

Croatia Travel Information

Electricity socket.

Croatia uses the same two-pronged plug as the rest of Europe. They’re two rounded pegs (not the same as in the US).

So, if you’re coming over from Europe, you can bring your own electronics, but travellers from the UK, US, Canada etc will need to bring an adapter. It also works at 230V, the same as the rest of Europe.

Useful Croatian Phrases  

Compared to some of the other languages in the Balkans, Croatian uses shorter words and is a little easier to pronounce.

So it’s a pretty stress-free task to learn a handful of words and phrases that are guaranteed to come in handy and make your whole experience far easier. Read my quick guide to Croatian phrases here.

• Dobar dan – Good day
• Molim – Please
• Hvala – Thank you
• Oprosti – Excuse me
• Govorite li engleski? – Do you speak English? (When in doubt, crack this one out)

As an EU state, Croatia follows the same rules as all other EU nations when it comes to visas. That means coming from elsewhere in the EU requires no visa, only your passport. For US citizens, the same rules apply.

You can fly to Croatia without a visa and stay for up to 90 days, stress-free. This also goes for you if you’re coming from Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Is Croatia Safe?

Yes, very! Violent, and even petty, crime is very rare in Croatia. In terms of violence, you’re in no more danger than you are in your home country.

Of course, violence and rowdiness still occur, especially outside bars and clubs, and especially at night. So you must still be sensible.

Think about where you go at night and still know the way to the nearest hospital, as a precaution. Pickpocketing is a different story, though.

Keep an eye on your belongings at all times – keep your purse close to you and your wallet in your front pocket. Any tourist hub has its issues with pickpocketing, so just be sensible.

Tours around Croatia

Croatia is an old, old country. It has Greek and Roman routes, and so much of the architecture from its Roman and medieval times are still standing today.

There is honestly so much to see – churches, towers, fortresses, castles, cathedrals. You need a tour to see it all. The best people for that are at Get Your Guide .

These guys have city tours for Dubrovnik, Split, Trogir,  Zadar, Zagreb and Sibenik. They also have a special Croatia tour of Westeros – thirteen different tours of all the sets and filming locations for Game of Thrones.

This one is an absolute must-do for any fan of the show and the books it’s based on.

Transportation in Croatia

Renting a car .

As many of you will surely agree, if you’ve been there, driving in Greece, Albania , and a few other Balkan countries can be a little scary. They’re not the most cautious and sensible drivers. But Croatia is far more sensible and easy to drive around.

If you’re eager to see the country on your own, using your own initiative and driving skills (it’s the best way to feel totally independent on holiday, after all) then renting a car is pretty easy.

For more info, read my post about renting a car in Croatia .

Buses and minibuses

Taking the bus is easily the most popular way to get around in Croatia. Inner-city and inter-city buses are everywhere. They’re frequent, they’re cheap to use, and they’re easy to navigate.

You can spend your entire holiday just travelling by bus. Your average ticket only costs $2, and you can trust the buses to get you almost anywhere in the country.

If you don’t want to rent a car, and the trains seem a little pricey, go with the bus. In fact, it’s best to avoid the trains in general because the rail network is far more limited than the bus network.

What to eat in Croatia

With its proximity to both Greece and Italy, and an ancient history of being occupied by both, you can see where its culinary influences lie.

However, there is plenty of original Croatian food that’s very unique to the country – a lot of it coming from the sea – that’s unmissable when you take a trip to this colourful ancient land.

Here, you can find the best food in Istria  and the best overall Croatian food . Here are a few amazing dishes you’ve got to try when you visit:

Krostule – A cheap and delicious sweet pastry. It’s made in a traditional, local style and fried in oil before being doused in sugar. A simple, crunchy, delicious desert treat!

Soparnik – A pie similar to those found in Macedonia and Albania. The pie is filled with chard (a leafy vegetable that kind of resembles spinach). It’s such a popular food that there’s even an annual festival dedicated to the cooking and eating of it!

Istarski fuzi (pasta) – Here you can really see the Italian influence. This dish, made with fuzi – a local pasta – is a popular home-cooked meal in Croatia. Cooked and served in a dish with mushrooms, chicken, or beef, this is a lovely and wholesome meal to try when you visit.

Seafood – If you’re visiting Croatia for the food, remember that its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea means a lot of shellfish. For this dish, prawns are cooked with wine, garlic, and parsley before being eaten by hand. A cheap and fun local food!

Pasticada – The queen of the home-cooked meal in Croatia. Essentially a big plate of brazed beef fillet with a generous side of gnocchi, it makes for a simple, delicious, and cheap meal that you’ll find all over the country – especially in Dalmatia, where it originated from.

The best things to do in Croatia

Head to the beach.

Croatia is all about those sandy, white beaches, so it’s hard no know which ones to go after. The best one is definitely on Susak, a tiny desert island paradise that is almost entirely beach.

There’s also Queen’s Beach, which is found close to Zadar and is made of miles of sand which stretches on forever. Finally, there’s Bacvice in Split , a beach that’s packed with cafes and bars but is still great for families.

Go island hopping

Beyond the mainland of Croatia is also an archipelago of amazing little islands to discover. Hvar, the most famous of the bunch, is a luxury island of celebrity homes.

Then there’s Vis, a former army base with an amazing hidden cave waiting to be explored. There’s also Brač, an idyllic island that feels like a lost little piece of ancient Croatian culture that’s nothing less than paradise.

Visit the vineyards and taste the wine

Istria is certainly the food and wine capital of Croatia. And here you can find several amazing vineyards to explore and taste their amazing wine.

Trapan (in Sisan, near Pula) is a winery that must be visited when you take a trip to Istria. Bruno, the owner, makes wine on delicious Malvazija and Teran. Get on it and try it here!

Enjoy the best local food

As I said, the best food is absolutely found in Istria. Here you can have your fill of fresh seafood that’s better than anywhere else in Europe, as well as truffles (yep, real truffles), and prsut (a local cured ham).

There’s so much flavour to experience here. If you want to learn more, I’ve covered it all in even more detail right here .

Visit the ancient villages in Istria

Istria has managed to maintain so much of its medieval culture and architecture. And most of that can be found in Istria.

There are so many towns and villages to discuss and I could go on talking about them for days (as I already have here and here ). If you’re looking to get to the beating heart of Croatia, these quiet towns and villages are the best bits to see.

Explore the UNESCO sites

Because Croatia has so many beautiful landmarks and perfectly preserved ancient buildings, UNESCO have put their stamp all over the shop, protecting the nation’s best-loved places.

Several of these include the Old City of Dubrovnik , Plitvice Lakes National Park , and the Palace of Diocletian in Split . All of these sites must be seen to be believed for their beauty.

See the Game of Thrones filming locations

This is one of the biggest draws to Croatia, and rightly so. I’ve talked in detail about where to find all of these filming locations in Split and in Dubrovnik .

If you want to walk the streets of King’s Landing, head to Dubrovnik, and if you want to live like a Khaleesi, take a trip to real-world Meereen in Split.

Go sailing off the coast

Croatia has miles upon miles of gorgeous, spellbinding coastline, and the amazing islands I’ve mentioned can all be found off the coast.

The best way to get to them, and to explore the waters, is by boat. You can go sailing from every port town in Croatia, and it’s a wonderful experience.

Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park

This magical place is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and rightly so. This magical, untouched land is all hills, valleys, waterfalls, and lakes.

Crystal clear blue waters and cascades of white foam tumbling down from every angle. Lush green vegetation and islands inside the lakes – it’s all almost too much for the eyes to take in!

Take a look in my post about Plitvice Lakes to see how to plan the perfect trip to this utterly beautiful national park.

Go truffle hunting in Istria

Truffles are a traditional part of the cuisine in Croatia, and they’re well renowned for their flavour and how expensive they can be. In Istria you can actually go and hunt for them yourself.

If you take a trip to Buzet in Istria , you can organise a day’s truffle hunting through Karlic Tartufi in the nearby forests. The family is so nice, and it’s one of the more unique experiences Croatia has to offer.

Best time to visit Croatia

Much like the rest of the Balkans, the peak of summer is stifling. It’s far too hot to be perfectly enjoyed. So, if you don’t have children to worry about and you don’t have to adhere to the school holidays, definitely avoid July and August.

The best time to go is the early summer months of May and June, and the early autumn months of September and October. If you go during these months, you’ll find that the flights are cheaper, the tourists are fewer, and the temperature is perfect.

You can swim in the sea and the lakes, wander the beaches, and hike the hills with enough sun on you to keep you warm but not so much that you’ll feel uncomfortable and dehydrated. Given just how beautiful this country is, and how much time you’ll spend walking outside, it’s best to avoid the colder months and the peak of summer.

Places to stay in Croatia

Being an old Roman nation with a lot of gorgeous architecture and miles upon miles of stunning beaches, it’s not hard to believe that Croatia also has some of the best hotels and villas in Eastern Europe.

If you’re looking to turn your trip to Croatia into the holiday of a lifetime, here are some incredible 5-Star places you can stay.

The Pucic Palace (Dubrovnik) – Found at the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, this gorgeous hotel is made from ancient Roman stone and has its own beautiful restaurant and wine bar.

You’ve got views of some of the most beautiful architecture in the city right outside your window, and the décor inside – both in the rooms and the restaurant – is vintage, with an emphasis on wood and stone. Book here.

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel (Zagreb) – Looking eerily similar to the Grand Budapest Hotel (from the film), this huge palatial building is the height of luxury.

The rooms are spacious and decorated with stunning, classy furniture. The dining hall looks like sci-fi meets Harry Potter. There’s also a fitness centre and a sauna for you to enjoy at your leisure during your stay. Book Here.

Books to read on your holiday to Croatia

When you decide to travel to Croatia, you’re taking a trip to a country of amazing foods, history, architecture, and landscape.

To get the best out of your trip, take with you a few books that will expand your knowledge of Croatia even further. Books that will get you falling even deeper in love with this mesmerising country. Here are a few to get you started:

Lonely Planet Croatia – This complete guide to seeing everything the country has to offer will ensure you’re totally covered. Anything you want – or need – to know about Croatia is in here, written with excitement and fun. Keep it on you, tucked into your bag or your pocket, for every day that you’re in Croatia.

A Traveller’s History of Croatia – This book is part travel guide, part history book, infusing politics, economics, arts, and culture into a fascinating examination of how Croatia has evolved over time. It’s the best way to become intimate with this vibrant and exciting nation.

Zagreb Noir – A fun collection of noir detective stories by several of Croatia’s best authors, all translated into English. Every story is set in Zagreb and gives us a fun, fictional insight into the city and its people.

Café Europa – This is an awesome exploration of life in modern-day Croatia after its separation from communist Yugoslavia in 1991. It looks at what World War 2 and forty years of communism did to Croatia, and how the country has changed and is flourishing since then.

Miriam Risager is the founder of Adventurous Miriam. She has traveled to 62 countries in the past 18 years and has done most of it solo. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their travel adventures across the world.

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Hi – I’m Olivia! I’m an American with Croatian heritage that moved to Croatia in 2014. Since then I’ve extensively traveled through every single region of this beautiful country.

I started this Croatia travel blog to provide you with everything you need to plan the Croatia trip of your dreams. I’m here to help you discover the best of Croatia by sharing exclusive local insights, destination guides, and travel tips you can’t find anywhere else. Consider me your Croatia BFF!

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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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Welcome to Croatia Traveller! I'm Jeanne Oliver and my online travel guide to Croatia is here to make planning a trip to Croatia easy and fun. I've been travelling to and writing about Croatia since 1996, first as a guidebook writer and now as the force behind Croatia Traveller.

I'm obsessive about updating this site with all the latest information too. From ferries and flights to the latest hotels and hottest destinations, I've got you covered. So plunge in and get everything you need to have the holiday of your dreams.

You could start with whatever pops into your head and type it into this searchbox...:

. . .or get started with this overview:

When to go?

Late spring and early fall are the best times to avoid the crowds and take advantage of fine weather on the coast. While Zagreb empties out in the summer, the coast and islands are jam-packed. Winters are too cold for swimming but great for Christmas festivals. More .

And the climate?

Croatia has a continental climate inland and a Mediterranean climate on the coast. Summers are hot throughout Croatia. Winters are cold inland and chilly on the coast. Rain and storms are common late fall through early spring. More .

What about money?

The unit of currency is the euro. Costs are somewhat lower than in Western Europe especially for accommodation. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. More .

How to Get There?

Low-cost flights link Croatia internationally spring through fall. Ferries link Croatia to Italy throughout the year with more routes during the summer. International trains run mainly to Zagreb but international buses connect coastal cities as well. More .

How to Get Around?

Trains are limited but frequent buses connect major destinations. Car ferries to the islands run all year but many passenger services stop off-season. A car is handy to visit small villages and hidden beaches. More .

Top Places to See?

Major destinations are Dubrovnik , Plitvice Lakes National Park , Hvar , Korcula and Mljet islands, Rovinj and Split . Dare to be different and take a look at Zadar , Zagreb , Brac and Vis islands, Krka Waterfalls National Park, Sibenik and Istria . More .

How to Plan a Trip?

I offer a customised trip-planning service to sort you out in a hurry. Or, follow one of my detailed itineraries . From the Best of Croatia in 2 weeks to 7 days in Dalmatia , get the itinerary that's right for you. More .

Where to Stay?

The comfort level of accommodation in Croatia is high while costs are within bounds. Hotels typically include breakfast and free WiFi is standard everywhere. There are ample apartments to rent on the coast (perfect for families) and a bevy of new hostels offer design on a budget. More .

Best Experiences?

Sample Croatia's delightful food and wine . Active travellers can kayak, bike, hike or climb. Soak up the sun on a beach or charter a gulet. Delve into Croatian history at a world heritage site or commune with nature in one of Croatia's national parks .

How about visas?

Croatia is part of the EU and part of Schengen. Visa-free travel up to 90 days is available for EU citizens, the USA, Canada, Australia and several dozen other countries. EU citizens can enter with a national ID card. Otherwise, present a passport. More .

I don't speak Croatian!

No matter. English is spoken widely and well. It helps to learn a few words of Croatian of course if only for haggling in the markets. Movies and TV shows are always presented in the original version with subtitles. More .

Is it Safe?

Croatia is a safe country for travellers. Violent crime is extremely rare. Exercise the usual precautions against street crime particularly in large cities. Mishaps happen which is why a good travel insurance policy is indispensable. More .

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Croatia Travel Blogs

These are all of my croatia travel blogs.

From exploring the city of Dubrovnik, to sailing around the islands near Split, to discovering delicious Croatian cuisine, find out the best places to travel to in Croatia here.

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Amazing things to do in split, croatia (travel guide).

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Day trips from split – island hopping, boat trips and more, from the incredible waterfalls at krka national park and plitvice lakes, to exploring dubrovnik, hvar or swimming in the blue hole, these are the best day trips from split, croatia. .

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Comments (32).

Thank, SJ you have built the most amazing Croatian travel blog. I was born in Dracevac, Zadar . So i was very keen to read your site l grew up in Ballarat and Brisbane, Australia. Celebrating oz day this weekend & watching au tennis open. Will be visiting Zadar from July to Sept 2016. I got as close to Nin thanks bruno Perović

Thanks so much!! Give us a shout if you are back in Nin this year, we live 2 mins away.

Hvala !!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks heaps for this amazing site. I love the recipes and actually, all the information. I live in Melbourne and have referred the site to a number of people interested in visiting Croatia (my country of birth) and seeing the sights and wonders of the most beautiful country in the world. Seriously contemplating making the move over and making it home again. Once again, thanks

Great tips, i like your Croatia travel blog. This is sure of the best travelling news.

Hey guys! Great website! I’m planning to travel with a friend mid July for 4 days and extremely confused about how to optimize time and visit a few places in Croatia. I do want to visit the Plitvice national park.Hvar and Dubrovnik but would it be possible?How do i go about planning my travel and stay? Would love to hear your thoughts and advise!

Sure, we can help, reach us here:

We will be travelling to Croatia in June and would like to know which local restaurants in Dubrovnik, Hvar, Korcula and Split can you suggest? Our accommodation is booked but we would like to go to interesting hubs to eat.

Cool! We made a few guide for those places which include some food options:

Happy travels

What is the best way to get from Dubrovnik to Vis? We are staying in Dubrovnik for 5 nights and Vis for 5 nights, but now it looks like it will be tricky to get to Vis from Dubrovnik. Do we need to take the bus to Split? Can we catch a ferry midday, or will it be too late?

There are no ferries from Dubrovnik to Vis thatI know of. You have to take the bus to Split and go via ferry to Vis from there. Happy travels.

Hello! Your website is a treasure for a traveler! I just started to explore it, but it already feels like a one-stop shop :) We already booked our flight to Croatia in October for 2 weeks. The purpose in two words is hiking and nature. On what e-mail may I connect you for more specific details ? Thanks, Anna

Glad you found it useful! You can reach us here:

Great website!! I was wondering if anyone knows a beach in Pula that has a cafe…

Hello Sarah Jane ! We are thinking of moving to Croatia, the whole bamboozle of us family wise, we are used to expat life having lived in Spain from UK for the last 7 years and you have become my little “bible” to our new adventure! Great website and have a hundred questions which I hope you will cover sometime in your blogs :) and am looking forward to keeping up to date with them all. It is a brave pathway you are on, but loving watching it all come together and wish you loads of luck. Do you recommend any good websites or books ? … we have plenty of time we are not rushing but would be good to have as much info as possible. Keep up all the hard work and love the site !!!

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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.

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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.

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Croatia Travel Blog: Your Guide for Croatia!

Croatia is definitely one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Europe ! The breathtaking coastline, the sheer countless islands and the hospitality of the Croatians have always attracted visitors from all over the world. Of course, the absolutely picturesque beaches of the Croatian Adriatic and the many enchanting historic coastal towns , many of which are also on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, deserve a special mention. But also the national parks with spectacular waterfalls and breathtaking natural landscapes are an absolute highlight of this popular travel destination.

To start your next Croatia vacation well-prepared, you will get the best information in this Croatia travel blog. Here you will learn more about the highlights, the best things to do , stunning beaches and the most beautiful places in the country. Ingenious insider tips and our many years of experience with traveling in Croatia, as well as great pictures, will definitely help you to plan your perfect trip to Croatia.

Best Travel Tips & Information!

• Best Things to Do in Croatia
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Destinations in Croatia

Istria is a fantastic tip for traveling to Croatia because here you can expect some of the most impressive attractions of the Adriatic. The peninsula is famous for its many historic coastal towns, beautiful beaches, green hilly landscapes with romantic mountain villages and the culinary highlights of Istrian cuisine.

Dalmatia is often referred to as the “Heart of the Adriatic”. This region begins north of Zadar and extends down to Montenegro. A special feature are the impressive coastal towns, which are often even on the list of UNESCO cultural heritage sites. Breathtakingly beautiful are in Dalmatia but also the beaches and the island world, which you can find so paradisaical only in this part of Croatia.

Kvarner Bay

Kvarner Bay is one of the most popular vacation regions in Croatia. For over 100 years, tourists from all over the world have been traveling here to spend their well-deserved vacations. Along the picturesque coastline there are countless seaside resorts, most of which date back to imperial times, and delight with beautiful beaches and unique vacation flair.

• Novi Vinodolski
• Moscenicka Draga

Islands in Croatia

The islands in Croatia are a real magnet for visitors. Croatia certainly lives up to the nickname “Land of a Thousand Islands” because more than 1,244 islands and islets stretch along the coast and offer great opportunities for an unforgettable vacation. No two islands are alike, so every visitor is sure to get their money’s worth!

• Hvar Island
• Korcula Island
• Brac Island
• Murter Island
• Solta Island
• Ugljan Island

Beaches in Croatia

The beaches in Croatia are truly beautiful and ideal for a beach vacation! With 1,778 kilometers of coastline and more than a thousand islands, this popular destination offers an almost endless selection of dream beaches. Among them are many of the typical Croatian pebble beaches, idyllic stone beaches, fine sandy beaches , and secluded nudist beaches.

• Split Beaches
• Dubrovnik Beaches
• Zadar Beaches
• Pula Beaches
• Rovinj Beaches
• Brac Beaches
• Hvar Beaches
• Krk Beaches
• Istria Beaches
• Makarska Beaches

Where to Stay in Croatia

There is a wide range of places to stay in Croatia , including hotels, apartments, villas, cheap hostels and guest houses, as well as campsites and mobile homes. Especially in the resorts along the Adriatic coast, the choice is particularly good. The most popular regions for a stay are Istria, the Kvarner Bay, Dalmatia and the beautiful Croatian islands.

• Where to Stay in Zagreb
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• Where to Stay in Dubrovnik
• Where to Stay in Zadar
• Where to Stay in Pula
• Where to Stay in Rovinj
• Where to Stay in Hvar
• Where to Stay in Korcula

-> More amazing places and infos about Croatia

Faq – frequently asked questions, where is the most beautiful place in croatia.

Croatia is especially beautiful along the coast and on the picturesque islands. An absolute highlight of the country are the famous regions of Dalmatia , Istria and the Kvarner Bay . But also the hinterland of Croatia, with the beautiful national parks like the Plitvice Lakes and the Krka Waterfalls, is breathtaking.

What is special about Croatia?

What makes Croatia so special is its picturesque coastline with enchanting coastal towns, which are often on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the unique island world with more than 1,000 islands, and the delicious rustic Croatian cuisine. Of course, one should not forget the hospitality of the Croatians!

What are the nicest regions of Croatia to visit?

In Croatia, there are basically 3 regions that are very suitable for a vacation. These include the following tourist areas: The Istrian peninsula, the Kvarner Bay and the Dalmatia region, which is divided into North, Central and South Dalmatia.

Are there any sand beaches in Croatia?

Yes, in Croatia there are wonderful sandy beaches! Many of them are located in the middle of beautiful landscapes and most of them are really idyllic natural bays. However, there are also some that were created especially for vacationers. Especially many natural sandy beaches are located on Rab Island and Vir Island . But also on the mainland you can find really great sand beaches in Croatia .

What is the main food of Croatia?

Barbecue dishes are the most popular foods in Croatia. Ćevapčići (rolls of minced meat), pleskavica (minced meat burgers) and ražnjići (skewers) are on every menu. Of course, there are also many fish dishes with fresh fish, straight from the Adriatic Sea. A great choice are fish platters or meat platters, where you get a good selection of the most popular dishes served on a big plate.

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Complete Guide to Brač Island, Croatia (Things to Do, Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 15, 2023

Thinking of visiting Brač Island in Croatia and not sure what to expect? Or maybe you are looking for some inspiration on what to do on Brač island, are researching practical information for your visit, or wondering if it’s worth to visit Brač as a day trip from Split? This article is for you!

I hope that our guide to the best of Brač island will not only inspire you to visit Brač, but will also answer all your questions. 

We spent just a bit more than one day on Brač island during our recent 2-week road trip in Croatia . Despite the short visit, we saw a lot and Brač is the island that we liked the most in Croatia. So in this post, I want to share our experience and tell you why Brač Island is absolutely not to be missed. Find out!

In my opinion, Brač island deserves a place on any Croatia itinerary! Brač has a very special local feel and an excellent mix of nature, culture, beaches, and local life. It felt much more authentic and truly Croatian to us than any other place we visited on this trip. 

At the beginning of this article, you can find our suggestions for the best things to do on Brač island . Further below, I share our itinerary for one day on Brač island , a map indicating all the places mentioned in the article, as well as some practical information for visiting Brač . Read on!

Things to do on Bra č Island

You are probably wondering what there is to see and do in Brač, in order to determine if it’s worth a visit, and how long you should stay. Based on my research for our own trip and our personal experience, I made a list of places to see and things to do that I think are worth your time the most on Brač Island. Take a look!

Here are some of the best things to do in Brac:

Drive around the island

It might sound strange to list driving as one of the first things to do on Brač island… But exploring the island by car is – in my opinion – the best way to see Brač and some of its peculiar landscapes. 

We arrived on the island by ferry from Makarska to Sumartin and were immediately greeted by a very different landscape than anywhere else in Croatia. There were stones and all kinds of stone constructions everywhere around us. If anything, it reminded us of stone walls you see all over Scotland or Ireland… We didn’t see any sheep though…

During the day, we drove almost around the entire island and couldn’t believe how varied the landscapes were. I mean, it’s not such a huge island, after all.

Hilly landscapes with far views around Škrip, azure blue waters along the coastal road north of Supetar, and narrow winding roads with picturesque little towns on the road to Milna…

Brač Island is a place that deserves to be explored, beyond the most popular beach towns…

Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) is a very famous and extremely popular beach near the town of Bol on Brac Island. You will see pictures of the Golden Horn in most Croatia travel guides and of course on the postcards all over the island.

The Golden Horn gets its name from its golden color of the sand and the shape of the beach. The shape is really special and is constantly changing, depending on the wind and on the current.

I have to admit that the beach looks much more impressive in the pictures, photographed from above, than it looks from close by. When you are standing on it, it looks just like a regular beach… It’s tucked in between a pine tree forest on one side and crystal clear blue waters on the other and is quite picturesque. However, despite its distinctive golden sand color, there is no actual sand on Zlatni Rat; only small stones.

Croatia has a very long coastline, but there aren’t that many actual beaches. For the most part, it’s all rocks that are incredibly scenic, but not really appealing to beach-goers.

Zlatni Rat is by far the biggest beach we saw in Croatia. So I guess its insane popularity has a lot to do with the fact that there aren’t many other beaches nearby, as well as with its distinctive shape, rather than with its quality as a beach.

It should be noted that we visited Zlatni Rat in April, which is the low season on Brac island. Apart from us, there were two other tourists on the beach and a couple of local workers who were preparing facilities for the summer opening.

If you come here in the summer, you will find a lively beach with lots to do. So if you are looking to spend a relaxing day at the beach or a true beach holiday in Croatia, Zlatni Rat is as good as it gets.

Bol is one of the most popular towns on Brač Island. Its popularity has everything to do with Zlatni Rat Beach, which is just a short ride from town.

Apart from the beach, you may want to visit an old Dominican monastery . However, you can only see a small part of it; the other side has been turned into a hotel.

Our travel guide said to not attempt driving into the old town by car, due to the risk of literally getting stuck in the narrow streets of Bol. So we just visited the monastery and the beaches near it (they’re much smaller than Zlatni Rat, but also nice).

We didn’t explore much of Bol town, but from the parts we saw, it looked like a typical vacation town that comes to life in summer and is very quiet the rest of the year…

Somehow it looked like the least authentic of all the towns we visited on Brač Island. But that might be just our impression…

Vidova Gora

The highest point of Brač island, Vidova Gora (778m) offers incredible views of Zlatni Rat and Bol below, as well as the nearby islands of Hvar and Vis. 

There are two ways to reach Vidova Gora – on foot or by car. The first option is hiking up the mountain from Bol. You should note that the hike is very steep and offers no shade. It takes about 2 hours each way. 

Alternatively, you can drive to the top of Vidova Gora. Needless to say, this is a much easier and faster way to get there, especially if you are short on time and only have a day or two on Brač.

A narrow but good road leads you to a parking lot, from where you can walk the fast few minutes on foot – the last part is on a paved road as well, but it’s closed for traffic. But even from the parking lot, the views are incredible.

At the top of the mountain, there are some antennas and technical installations, as well as the remains of an old restaurant. Our guidebook said that you could have a drink there with a nice view, but the place was completely abandoned. We didn’t meet anyone there and so couldn’t ask if that restaurant is still operational in summer. But judging from the way it looked, it has been closed for at least a few years…

Luckily, we had packed a picnic with us and so we had lunch with an amazing view. We loved this place – it felt like we were completely alone on the whole island and the scenery was truly beautiful. Don’t miss Vidova Gora when visiting Brač Island!

Practical information: You can get to Vidova Gora by car from the main road between Bol and Supetar. It’s about 6 km/ 10 min drive off the main road. You can see the exact location of the car parking at the top of the mountain in the map that I created below.

Pustinja Blaca

Pustinja Blaca (Blaca Monastery) was the highlight of our visit to Brač island. It’s one of those places that are so special that you know you’ll remember it for a very long time. 

The 16th-century Blaca Monastery is located in the middle of nowhere and the only way to get there is on foot. This is one of those monasteries that you see in the movies or read in the books about: scenic but completely isolated location, barren ground that requires lots of effort to grow anything on it, and impressive buildings that are built to withstand the harsh climate and enemy attacks…

The last monk who lived there died over 50 years ago, and the monastery now serves as a museum. For a small fee, you get a personalized tour of the place. It’s an extremely interesting and eye-opening visit.

If you visit just one place on Brac Island, make it Blaca Monastery. It’s well worth the hike. 

Practical information: Blaca monastery is open daily, except on Mondays. Opening times vary depending on the season. A bumpy gravel road of 4,4km leads to a small parking lot, from where you can walk the last 2,5 km to the monastery. Coming that way, you’ll be walking downhill the whole time. It takes about half an hour one way.

Remember to wear sturdy walking shoes, because the path is covered with stones and is not an easy walk by any means. There is little shade and it can get very warm on this walk, so remember to bring plenty of drinking water with you. 

Coming back to the car parking, you’ll be climbing up, so it might take a bit longer than half an hour.

We were told that in summer, you can also visit the Blaca monastery by taking a boat from Bol. It drops you off at the coast, from where you can also reach the monastery via a hiking path. The walking distance is about the same as from the car parking on the mountain – 2,5 km. The only difference is that you’ll first go up, and then walk back down to the sea after your visit.

TIP: I didn’t find much information about the boat tour online, but we heard that in the high season there are organized tours to Vidova Gora and Blaca monastery from Bol. So if you have no car or don’t feel like driving on narrow bumpy roads, you can still visit this amazing place – just inquire about the tour possibilities in town.

Škrip

Škrip is a tiny village with picturesque stone houses, the remains of an old castle, and a couple of other interesting buildings.

An old lady who lives inside the castle (or what’s left of it), invited us inside. She spoke no English and we didn’t understand a word of Croatian, but she showed us around and then ended the visit with all kinds of local produce we could buy there. The wine and the olive oil looked absolutely delicious, but we already bought some oil olive at the Blaca monastery, and there is only so much space in the suitcase, so we had to pass….

There are also two museums in the village. The first one, the Museum of Oil (Muzej Uja) , has very good reviews on Google, but it wasn’t open when we visited. If I understood it correctly, it’s a family-run museum where they showcase the process of the making of oil olive. You can also taste some local snacks and olive oil at the end of your visit.

From everything we read, this is a great place to visit on Brač island, especially if you like to meet the locals and learn more about local traditions and their way of living.

Since the olive oil museum was closed, we visited the Island of Brač Museum (Muzej otoka Brača) , instead. It came highly recommended by our guidebook, as well as based on reviews on Google.

It’s said that the place dates back to Roman times and you can see quite some artifacts from that period. There is also a mausoleum where, supposedly, emperor Diocletian’s wife and daughter are buried.

Apparently, it’s one of the most visited museums in Croatia. But to us, it wasn’t worth the entrance fee of almost 10 Eur per person. The lady working there reluctantly opened the door for us and didn’t speak a word in English.

If there is a guide available, then you may find the visit more interesting. But without the guide or any information, we felt that this museum wasn’t worth the time. Not even to mention the ridiculous price for what you get.

Supetar is the biggest and busiest town on Brač Island. It’s a place where a car ferry from Split docks. It also has the biggest number of shops, restaurants, and hotels on the island. 

If you have an hour to spare in Supetar, take a walk along the harbor to the western part of town. You’ll pass the luna park and there is also a nice little beach with water slides.

If you walk further, you’ll find an old seamen cemetery with a mausoleum . We don’t normally visit cemeteries when we travel, but this one is really interesting to see. Surrounded by sea on three sides, this is one of the most scenic and idyllic located cemeteries we’ve ever seen.

It is filled with lots of big and really special tombstones, each more impressive than the other. Don’t miss the grave of Croatian sculptor Ivan Rendic – you’ll recognize it by a hat and a pair of shoes. Very simple compared to the other gravestones, some of which were actually made by him.

Milna is a small town with a very picturesque harbor. You don’t need much time to visit and there isn’t that much to do there. However, the road to Milna is really scenic and so is the town itself. There are many nice restaurants in Milna as well, so it’s a great place to come for lunch or dinner. 

Locals recommended the restaurant Konoba Gajeta and it was an excellent choice. We had one of the best meals of our 2-week Croatia trip here.

Milna is the town where we chose to stay to visit Brač Island, and we were very glad we did. It has much more character and is not as touristy as Supetar or Bol.

The only drawback is that there aren’t many hotels in Milna. However, there are lots of privately rented accommodations ( check the best Milna accommodation options here ). We rented a beautiful apartment with a big sea-view terrace. Such a pity the weather in April was too cold to actually use it…

Dragon Cave (Zmajeva Spilja)

One of the most special and unique things to do in Brač is visiting Zmajeva Spilja ( Dragon Cave ). It’s famous for its rock art showing dragons and other strange creatures. Historians aren’t sure about the origins of this place, but this makes it just more mysterious and intriguing.

Together with Blaca monastery, the Dragon Cave is one of the most interesting places to see on Brač island.

Practical information: Count 4 hours for a visit and wear sturdy walking/hiking shoes. There is just one way to visit the Dragon Cave and just one person who holds the keys to it. His name is Zoran and he speaks English. If you want to see this cave, you have to schedule a tour with him in advance (at the moment, he can be reached at this number: +385-91-5149787).

How to see the best of Brač Island in one day

Most people visit Brač island for a longer holiday and have plenty of time to explore all the must-see places, in combination with plenty of beach time. However, if you are like us and have allocated just one or two days for Brač in your Croatia itinerary , you should know that it’s quite possible to see all the main highlights of Brač in one day.

Below you can find our suggested 1-day Brač itinerary . 

• Start your day with a short visit to Bol and the nearby Zlatni Rat beach. You can stay a few hours here or just make it a short visit – it really depends on how much time you have. We only spent a bit over an hour for both, the town and the beach.
• You then have two options – EITHER visit Blaca monastery OR the Dragon Cave . Each of these visits will take you at least 3-4 hours, so if you only have one day, you’ll have to choose just one. Since visiting the Dragon Cave requires an advance reservation, we went for the Blaca Monastery. 
• Afterwards, drive up to Vidova Gora for the best views of the island.
• Continue to Škrip , walk around the town, and visit one of the museums.
• Then drive to Milna , passing the picturesque village of Ložišća.
• End your day with a short cemetery visit and dinner in Supetar . 

Good to know: We arrived on Brač island via the car ferry from Makarska to Sumartin and left by ferry from Supetar to Split. But you can also do this the other way around. Alternatively, you can also start and end your visit to Brač island in any of these harbors – the distances on the island aren’t big and the main roads are good. This itinerary is just meant to give you an idea of all the places that you can see in Brač in a day. It’s up to you to decide how you plan your time.

Map of things to do on Brač Island

In order to help you plan your time on Brač Island, I created a map indicating all the places mentioned above. Take a look!

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Practical information for visiting Brač Island

Best time to visit.

Just as with all the Croatian islands, the best time to visit Brač island is from May through September. We visited Croatia in April and Brac Island was just slowly waking up. We saw just very few tourists and many places were still closed. 

Getting to and around Brač Island

You will need a car if you want to explore Brač Island. I’m not sure if there are buses on Brač and where or when they go. Renting a bike is also an option, but I would only suggest it for short day tours near the town where you are staying and not as a means of transportation to get around the hilly island. 

There are two big harbors on Brač island that can be reached by a passenger and car ferry from the mainland. Sumartin is a 1-hour boat ride from Makarska, with – usually – 3 ferries a day. Supetar is about 50 minutes by ferry from Split and there are multiple ferries running throughout the day.

You can find the ferry schedule here . It’s possible to buy ferry tickets online, but it’s not possible to reserve a spot on the specific ferry in advance. So we just went to the harbor, bought a ticket there, and boarded the next available ferry.

Normally, it’s not really a problem to find a spot for your car, as the ferries are big enough. But if you are traveling in high season and really want to be sure that you can take the ferry that you want, it’s best to arrive at the harbor 30-60 minutes in advance. For Supetar, I would say an hour is about the minimum time you need.

Even in April, it was extremely busy. For a moment, we thought we’d never get on the ferry from Supetar to Split… But luckily it has several decks for cars and can fit an unbelievable number of vehicles. 

How much time do you need on Brač Island

One day is enough time to see the main highlights of Brač Island. Since there are so many ferries, you can easily visit Brač as a day trip from Split (see below).

If you have the time, however, I suggest that you stay on Brač Island for at least 2-3 days, especially if you are coming in summer. Two full days would give you time to see all the places mentioned in this article. Three days would also give you a bit more time for the beach.

Many people come to Brač for a longer vacation and judging from a big variety of things to see and do in Brač, you could easily spend a week here and never get bored.

Day trip to Brač from Split

It’s possible to visit Brač as a day trip from Split . If you are coming by car, take one of the first ferries in the morning and leave with one of the last ones in the evening.

TIP: If you have no car, consider this private speedboat day trip from Split to Brac . It’s a more relaxing trip focusing on the beaches and quite expensive unless you’re with a big family or friends who can split the costs..

TIP: If you rather explore some of the landmarks of Brač Island, take a look at this Brac Island 4×4 tour . This tour visits most of the locations mentioned in this article and can pick you up from the harbor in Supetar, which you can easily reach by ferry from Split.

Where to stay on Brač Island

Driving distances on Brač aren’t that big, so you can stay in one hotel the whole time and explore the island from just one location. So if you are mainly interested in sightseeing, it doesn’t matter that much which town you choose.

However, if you like being in the center of the action or want the proximity to the beach, then Bol and Supetar are the best towns to stay on Brač Island . 

In Bol , you have several long beaches, you can hike to the Dragon Cave or take a boat to the Blaca Monastery. You can even hike up Vidova Gora mountain if you feel fit. In summer, there are also boat trips and other activities available. In summer, you could stay in Bol for a week and never get bored. Here you can find an overview of Bol hotels .

If you are looking for a bigger town with all kinds of amenities, a big choice of hotels, or do not plan to rent a car, then Supetar is probably the best option. This town has the biggest number of hotels and is the liveliest place on the island. Here you can find Supetar accommodation .

TIP: Using the map below, you can find the best deals for hotels & accommodations on Brac Island. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s available for your stay.

Where we stayed: We really loved staying in Milna for one night. I could see myself staying there for a few days, but I’m not sure if it’s the best place if you are staying in Brač for a longer time.

I am sure it’s much livelier and has more activities on offer in summer (it was really quiet in April). So if you are looking for a more authentic and low-key place to stay on Brač Island, then it might be a good choice for you. Here you can find Milna accommodation .

So, this is our guide to things to do in Brač and the best way to see the island. I hope that it inspires you to visit this beautiful Croatian island and explore beyond the most popular beaches. It will be worth it!

READ ALSO: Blue Cave Tour from Split

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Sunday 4th of June 2023

Thank you for posting this amazing itinerary for Brac Island. We are planning a trip to Bosnia and Croatia in August. We arrive in Saravejo on August 12th. Our plan is to do sightseeing/hiking in that region, take the train to Mostar for two nights and depart Mostar on August 19th for Dubrovnik. We are planning to spend 3 nights in Dubrovnik which takes us to August 22. After that we would like to cover Split, Plitvice and Brac but I am wondering if this is doable. We would like to stay in one place and use it as a base to explore everything.

Do you have any suggestions ? We want to enjoy beaches, nature, good food, coffee and hiking. I was thinking of going to Bol but not sure if we can cover everything from August 22-26.

Our return flight is from Saravejo on August 26th to DC.

Any suggestions would be welcome.

Thank you :)

Wednesday 7th of June 2023

Hi Shaz, if you want to visit Split, Plitvice, and Brac from one location, then it's best to stay in Split and take day trips from there: * Brac from Split. * Plitvice from Split. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Croatian Leading Travel Guide & Blog

Top destination guides.

Dubrovnik is a gorgeous historic city. Perched on the rugged coast of Croatia, it explodes to life every summer as cruisers, backpackers, and beachgoers flock to the city. With medieval charm, a UNESCO Old Town, and the glimmering azure backdrop of the Adriatic Sea, it’s no surprise that this is the most popular city in Croatia .

While the city struggles with overtourism, it’s easy to escape the crowds and soak up the local pace of life if you know where to go (and where to stay).

I’ve visited Dubrovnik a bunch over the years. These days, there are a lot more hotels than when I first arrived. Some are great, some are not so great. To help you plan your visit, here’s my list of the best hotels in Dubrovnik:

1. Art Hotel

The staff is amazing and the complimentary continental breakfast each morning is delicious, with a varied spread of local homemade food (like burek , a type of pastry) that changes daily. The main draw here is the location though. You can’t beat it if you want something near the beach!

2. Hotel Adria

There’s also a varied (and included) buffet breakfast each morning with lots of options (including fresh fruit, pastries, juice, cereals). If you have a car, use of the hotel’s parking garage is complimentary.

3. Royal Palm Hotel

The complimentary breakfast buffet offers lots of variety, including an egg station, mimosas, and fresh pastries. There’s a relaxing spa here as well, in addition to a pool and gym. The beach is nearby too, but I especially like that the on-site terrace restaurant offers sweeping panoramic views of the Adriatic.

4. Hotel Lero

The bathrooms are simple but the water pressure in the showers is great, plush bathrobes are included, and some rooms have both a bathtub and a shower. There are several fantastic restaurants here too, including a poolside bar, an award-winning Bosnian restaurant, and a Mediterranean restaurant offering a complimentary daily breakfast buffet with plenty of options for all diets.

5. Hotel More

The rooms here are massive, with super comfy beds, lots of natural light, and calming tones. They are furnished simply but elegantly, with wooden desks and a separate seating area with a sofa or easy chairs. In-room amenities include a desk, flatscreen TV, coffee/tea maker, minibar, and safe. The bathrooms are also spacious and include slippers, cozy bathrobes, luxe toiletries, and great water pressure. A complimentary breakfast buffet is available each morning, with fresh fruit, cereal, eggs, and pastries.

If you want to splash out on luxury, this is the hotel for you.

6. St. Joseph’s Hotel

The bathrooms feature beautiful tile or marble, rain showers (some also have massive bathtubs), slippers, and plush bathrobes. I especially like that the complimentary a la carte breakfast is cooked by a chef and served in your room each morning. It’s a nice personal touch that really elevates the whole experience here.

A booming tourist destination, Dubrovnik is absolutely stunning. Sure, you’ll likely want to skip a visit in the middle of summer, but as long as you pick one of the hotels from the list above you’ll have an amazing stay in the Peal of the Adriatic.

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2024 Cruises from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

It's no secret that Rome is home to some of the most historically significant and beautiful sights in Europe. What you may not know is that you can visit Rome and many of the exciting destinations surrounding it when you book a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line out of our Rome (Civitavecchia) port of call . We have several itineraries to choose from, each with perks such as unique excursions and breathtaking views.

You have plenty to consider when booking a cruise, such as destinations or ports, itineraries, cabins, and excursions. To give you an idea of which cruise is best for you, here are some details about what you can explore on a Norwegian cruise from Rome in 2024 .

Ready to start planning? Explore all Rome cruises .

Step Into Scenes from History

If a cruise vacation that allows you to delve into human history interests you, Norwegian has plenty of options. Many of our cruises leave from the port of Rome (Civitavecchia) , one of the richest areas in terms of historical artifacts and buildings in Italy. Experience walking streets in the footsteps of ancient Romans. Explore legendary museum relics and visit globally famous historical monuments.

Another Italian port that's filled with historical significance is Florence/Pisa (Livorno) , a stop for many Norwegian cruises. Here, you can visit Michelangelo's renowned statue of David and explore the Piazza del Duomo and Santa Croce.

At the port of Cannes (France) , you'll arrive at the home of the Cannes Film Festival. This annual event attracts many fashionable celebrities and movie personalities. Take a walking tour through historic Monaco, treat yourself to luxury in Monte Carlo, and shop some of the most iconic fashion outlets on the French Riviera.

Revel in the Beauty of Nature

With a history reaching back to 295 A.D. and a breathtaking skyline where the mountains kiss the Adriatic sea, Split (Croatia) is the perfect destination to experience some of nature's most incredible sights. Split sits right on the Adriatic Sea, and its many harbors and coastline hubs offer chances to grab a bite to eat or just relax and breathe in the fresh sea air. As you look up, you'll view impressive mountains towering over the city, covered with forests and hidden waterfalls.

For some of the best seafood you'll ever taste, visit the restaurants or cafes in Split. Smoked ham and local cheese also await you in this coastal town.

A vision of crystal blue waters and soft, sandy beaches, the port of Corfu, Greece , is a favorite among Norwegian cruisers. In this idyllic island town, you'll have tranquil views of greenery and mountains, peppered along the coast with beaches where you can suntan, swim, and pursue other watersports. You'll rarely feel closer to nature than while you're exploring one of Corfu's tucked-away coves, brimming with plants and wildlife that you certainly won't see back home.

RELATED CRUISES: 10-Day Greek Isles Round-trip Rome: Santorini, Athens & Florence 10-Day Europe From Rome to Lisbon: Italy, France, Spain & Gibraltar 10-Day Mediterranean from Rome to Venice: Italy, Greece & Croatia

Feast on Delectable Local Cuisine

Once awarded the title of the European Capital of Street Food, Messina (Sicily), Italy , is the ideal port of call for foodies cruising the Mediterranean. Packed with restaurants and cafes, this city offers countless chances to enjoy a gourmet meal or grab a quick bite on the go from a local street vendor. You might also try the local Marsala wine and unwind while you reminisce on your travels.

Apart from its iconic canals and expansive St. Mark's Square, the port of Venice (Trieste), Italy , is the perfect place to sample Italian cuisine and desserts. Discover authentic pizza shops, picturesque cafes, and colorful markets where you'll find local favorite street food. Don't forget to stop by one of the city's gelato windows for a scoop of delicious ice cream.

Dance and Shop Until You Drop

If vibrant nightlife and luxury shopping are on your list of must-dos while cruising, you'll love the ports of call we visit in Spain on our cruises leaving from Rome. When you're not taking in all the beautiful wildlife and coastal views of Ibiza , you can enjoy some of the city's colorful nightlife culture. Dance the night away with friends at one of the city's many clubs, but don't miss your call time at the port the next day.

There are also plenty of places to party in the port of Palma (Majorca) , with options for nightlife, wine tasting, and more. If you enjoy art, you can visit galleries and perhaps purchase an original piece from a local artist. At the city's many boutiques, you can browse souvenirs that capture the Spanish flair of Palma you'll be sure to love.

These are just some of the ways you can enjoy yourself when you book a cruise vacation from Rome with Norwegian. When you cruise with us, you'll have a vacation to remember, with exclusive access to memorable excursions, private tours, and delectable meals. If you're cruising to Europe in 2024, book with Norwegian and treat yourself to all the luxuries that await on our ships and itineraries.

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