travelling to croatia from uk 2022

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Croatia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Croatian Embassy in London .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Croatia.

Passport validity requirements

To travel to Croatia, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.

To enter Croatia (and all Schengen countries) your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive. Passports issued after 1 October 2018 are now valid for only 10 years, but for passports issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added if you renewed a passport early
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave

Contact the Croatian embassy in the UK if your passport does not meet both these requirements.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document, or try to use a passport that has been lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

Border checks have been introduced at Slovenia’s borders with Croatia and will be in place for 6 months. If travelling from Croatia, to Slovenia, consult our travel advice for Slovenia .

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

If you’re a visitor, your passport must be stamped when you enter or leave the Schengen area (which includes Croatia). Border guards will use passport stamps to check you haven’t overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for stays in the Schengen area. If your passport was not stamped, border guards will presume you have overstayed the visa-free limit.

If your passport was not stamped, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Croatia .

At Croatian border control, you may also need to:

• show proof of your accommodation, for example, a hotel booking confirmation or proof of address for a second home
• show proof of your travel insurance
• show a return or onward ticket
• prove that you have enough money for your stay – the amount varies depending on your accommodation

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area (including Croatia) for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

If you’re travelling to Croatia and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

To stay longer (to work or study, for business travel or for other reasons), you must meet the Croatian government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Croatian embassy in UK .

If you stay in Croatia with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Croatia guide .

Registration with the police

Your accommodation provider must register your arrival in Croatia with the police within 48 hours. Your hotel will normally register you. If your accommodation provider is unable to do this for you, fill in and print out the form obrazac 16a . The completed form must be handed in at the police station. Alternatively you should go to the nearest police station with the owner of the accommodation to register your address in Croatia.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Croatia . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food and drink into Croatia

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions for medical reasons, for example certain amounts of powdered infant milk, infant food, or pet food. Check the rules about taking food and drink into the EU on the European Commission website.

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Croatia travel restrictions: the rules for travelling to Croatia this year

By Sarah James

As of Friday 18 March 2022, the UK has dropped all Covid travel rules, but can we travel from the UK to Croatia and its islands? Here’s what we know.

Can I travel to Croatia?

Croatia is not on the UK's red list , which means that travel to the country is permitted. However, the rules vary depending on your vaccination status. 

What are the entry requirements for Croatia? 

On Tuesday 1 May, 2022, the Croatian National Tourist Office announced that all Covid entry requirements have been dropped, meaning travellers to the country will no longer have to show a negative Covid test result or proof of vaccination in order to enter the country. 

What do I have to do when returning from Croatia?

Since 18 March 2022, all Covid travel rules in the UK have been lifted. This means that travellers don't need to test, quarantine or fill in a passenger locator form , regardless of their vaccination status. 

Like this? Now read:

Croatia islands: the best to visit

By Jane Foster

Where can I travel without having to quarantine?

Vaccine passports for travel: everything you need to know

Accessibility Links

Can I travel to Croatia? Entry requirements explained

Find out what tests you need to take, which forms you need to fill in and whether you need to be vaccinated to go on holiday in croatia.

A s far back as 1377, Dubrovnik (then called Ragusa) had a policy of quarantine, although it was 30 days rather than the later Venetian 40 from which we get the name. This proud walled city is the leading attraction of Croatia’ s Adriatic coast, although there’s much else to talk about, sheltered behind and among the thousand or more islands that fringe this mountainous shore. Less hyped historic ports include Trogir and Sibenik, and for all the glamour of Hvar, there are dozens more islands on which to indulge castaway fantasies. Don’t neglect inland areas either: agritourism in the hills of Istria, waterfalls in the national parks of Plitvice Lakes and Krka, or the capital Zagreb, with its more central European rather than Mediterranean feel.

But how easy is it to go to Croatia right now? Here’s everything you need to know on testing, passenger locator forms and entry requirements.

Main photo: Trogir, Croatia (Getty Images)

What are Croatia’s travel requirements?

From May 1, all travellers can enter Croatia with no documentation, regardless of vaccination status. A statement from the Croatia Tourist Board says: “All travellers entering Croatia can now do so under the same conditions of entry that were in force before the Covid-19 pandemic, ie with valid travel documents.”

Can you enter if you’re unvaccinated?

Yes, travellers regardless of vaccination status can enter Croatia with no requirements.

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Do i need to wear a mask in croatia.

The mask mandate has been relaxed across the country, and it’s no longer required to wear one indoors, although advised to wear one for large gatherings.

Get inspired

• Croatia travel guide • Best places to visit in Croatia • Best villas in Croatia

Take me there

Inspired to visit Croatia but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from TUI Holidays and BA Holidays . And if you’re still unsure of where you want to go or what type of holiday to book, get in touch here and one of the Designer Travel experts will be in contact to help you arrange your perfect tailor-made break.

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

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Rules to enter Croatia in 2022 for tourists explained 

• by croatiaweek
• February 5, 2022

With so many countries imposing different rules to enter, it is a confusing time for tourists. The Croatian Tourist Board has developed a simple, easy-to-follow chart detailing what tourists require in order to visit Croatia.  

Considering the situation in the tourist industry, Croatia last year enjoyed a busy summer and out-performed other popular European destinations.  

This week the entry rules were explained which are to remain in place during the entire summer season, barring any unforeseen event.  

There are 6 entry requirement options with visitors needing to fulfil one to enter:

1. A negative PCR (taken 72 hours before arrival at the border) or Antigen test (taken 24 hours before arrival at the boarder).

2. A vaccination certificate showing final dose taken more than 14 days ago.

3. Booster dose certificate.  

4. Proof of recovery from Covid more than 11 days and less than 180 days ago.  

5. Proof of recovery from Covid and first dose of vaccine more than 11 days and less than 270 days ago.  

6. Pay for a test on arrival and remain in self-isolation until a negative result.  

All children under 12 years of age are exempt from providing test results if their parent or guardian fulfil all requirements.  

(All tests taken and used as supporting evidence must be recognised by the EU).

Those visiting from outside the EU also need to show evidence of either owning a property in Croatia or confirmation of reservation or paid accommodation in either hotel, camp site, private rental, boat or other tourism accommodation provider.  

“We cannot wait to welcome you to our beautiful country and are dedicated to keeping you, our people and visitors safe as possible, so you can explore with peace of mind,” the tourist board said in its introduction.  

The rules explained in different languages in the tweet below. 

Dear travellers, enjoy Croatia and travel safely and responsibly! More information: https://t.co/7yrpbJbAq4 pic.twitter.com/1loF2BhKpe — Croatia Full of life (@Croatia_hr) February 4, 2022

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Croatia Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from the United Kingdom to Croatia

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments.

Ready to travel?

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Can I travel to Croatia from the United Kingdom?

Most visitors from the United Kingdom, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Croatia.

Can I travel to Croatia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Croatia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Croatia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Croatia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Croatia?

Visitors from the United Kingdom are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Croatia.

Can I travel to Croatia without quarantine?

Travellers from the United Kingdom are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Croatia?

Mask usage in Croatia is not required in enclosed environments.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Croatia?

Restaurants in Croatia are open. Bars in Croatia are .

18 things you need to know before visiting Croatia

Mar 17, 2024 • 7 min read

Plan the perfect Croatia trip with these top tips © TerryPrince / Getty Images

With its glittering coastline, 1244 islands, endlessly fascinating cities and extraordinarily dramatic landscapes, Croatia has been steadily making its way up people’s must-go lists. 

Naturally, tourists are drawn to those beautiful Adriatic beaches that easily hold their own against their Mediterranean rivals. But inland Croatia is just as captivating, from the hilltop villages of Istria to the elegantly buzzing capital, Zagreb .

Don't book your flights just yet though – first, make the most of our planning tips covering everything you need to know about health, safety and etiquette before you go.

1. Don’t overstretch yourself when planning an itinerary

It might be tempting to squeeze in as many destinations as possible into one trip, but you won’t be doing yourself any favors unless you’re staying for at least two weeks. If you’re planning to visit more than one Adriatic island, think realistically about how much time you can spend in each place and how you will be getting around .

Check the schedule of the national ferry operator,  Jadrolinija , if you intend to do some island-hopping. Croatia has an extensive bus network, but factor in some long journey times if you’re traveling along the Adriatic coast.

2.  Croatia's currency is the euro

Although Croatia joined the EU in 2013, the euro was only introduced as the national currency on the January 1, 2023. The Croatian kuna is no longer in use, and if you happen to have any of the old currency, you'll need to go to the Croatian National Bank to exchange them. 

3. Expect to tip at least 10% in restaurants

Croatia’s tipping culture is more laid-back than in other countries. Having said that, it’s customary to leave at least 10% in restaurants and for beauty and spa treatments. In bars and cafes, just round up the bill. Tour guides appreciate a few euros at the end of a tour, and taxi drivers don’t expect a tip, but, again, if you want to round up a fare to the next euro, it’s appreciated. If you’re filling up your car and notice a few students cleaning car windscreens, consider giving them a couple of euros as they’re working for tips only.

4. Croatia is generally considered a safe place to travel

Croatia is a safe country with low levels of violent crime. The most prevalent issue for tourists is pickpocketing, but even that’s on a much lower scale than in other European countries. Solo women travelers should be safe on their own, although it’s wise to ask your accommodation provider if there are any areas in the vicinity that are best avoided. When using taxis, all travelers should make certain they’re using a licensed car either from an official taxi rank or ordered from your hotel. Uber operates in most major towns and cities, including Zagreb, Dubrovnik and Split .

5. Some caution is recommended for LGBTIQ+ travelers 

In this relatively conservative country, homosexuality is tolerated, but LGBTIQ+ travelers should be discreet. Public displays of affection could raise a few eyebrows, and some travelers have experienced hostile reactions. Zagreb’s gay scene is growing, however, and both Zagreb and Split hold Gay Pride festivals every June.

6. Bring some swimming shoes

Most of Croatia’s beaches are pebbly or rocky and can be hard to enjoy in bare feet. Just pick up a pair of those neoprene or plastic swimming shoes you see in all the resorts, and you’ll also be protecting your feet from sea urchins that lurk under rocks and pebbles.

7. Nudity at the beach is pretty standard

Naturist beaches are popular in Croatia, and sometimes you won’t know you’re on one until people start stripping off. Most are marked with FKK – the German phrase “Frei-Körper-Kultur,” meaning free body culture – which isn't surprising as Germans make up some of the biggest numbers of tourists in Croatia. Away from the FKK beaches, topless bathing is quite common.

8. Dodge the crowds in Dubrovnik by timing your visit carefully

There could be times when up to 8000 cruise ship passengers might descend on Dubrovnik in one day. That’s the cue to stay away from the Old Town  within the city walls until they leave in the late afternoon. Keep an eye on the Dubrovnik Port Authority’s website for cruise arrivals and the online crowd monitoring system that predicts the numbers of visitors. 

9. Wi-fi is readily available

Croatia is part of EU roaming, which is handy if you have a contract that allows you to use your data abroad. It’s easy to find wi-fi in cafes and bars – just ask the server for the password ( šifra ).

10. Swimwear is for the beach, not the town

If you’re visiting churches and other sacred sites, keep your shoulders covered and avoid bare thighs. If you’re wearing a hat, take it off when you’re in a church. Even though dress codes are relaxed on the coast, Split, Dubrovnik and Hvar have passed laws against walking around the city in swimwear or bare-chested. Croatians like to dress smartly and take great pride in their appearance, so do as they do and avoid looking scruffy.

11.  Don’t get drunk in public

Croatia has developed a reputation as a place to party, which has led to some areas being inundated with badly behaved drunken tourists. After years of enduring this, the mayor of Hvar Town had enough. In 2017, the destination started to issue fines of up to €700 for public drunkenness and things like taking a drunken nap in a public place, such as on a park bench. Split introduced fines of up to €300 in 2023, placing signs in the city center reminding people that public drinking is not allowed, and that no one should be urinating on the walls of Diocletian's Palace .

12. Get to know the Croatian character

Croatians can be quite reserved people, sometimes appearing brusque. It’s nothing personal, which you'll realize when you get to know them better, and the initial reserve melts to reveal a warm and friendly side.

13. Be tactful when talking about Croatia’s war of independence

The 1990s war that splintered the former Yugoslavia is a topic that needs careful handling. If people show a willingness to talk about it, then by all means ask sensible questions. But don’t be intrusive, and bear in mind that Croatians won’t take too kindly to being called either Yugoslav or Balkan. Similarly, in this predominantly Catholic country, be mindful of making loud statements against religion.

14. You can drink the tap water

Tap water in Croatia is perfectly safe and very drinkable, and you can refill your reusable water bottles at public drinking fountains.

15. Keep your lights on if driving during winter months

If you’re driving in Croatia from November to April, it’s compulsory to have your lights on during daylight hours as well as at night.

16. Croatia has occasional earthquakes

Croatia has a history of earthquakes going back centuries, but two recent ones in 2020 caused significant damage. The quake that shook Zagreb damaged thousands of buildings, many of which are in the old town, including the cathedral. Soon after, the city of Petrinja, about an hour’s drive south of Zagreb, was severely damaged in a quake, and aftershocks rippled throughout the region. If an earthquake happens while you're there, follow local guidance.

17. There are still some landmines

There are still parts of the country in the hinterlands of Northern Dalmatia and Lika where landmines remain from the war of independence, but these will be signposted with a skull and crossbones symbol. Don’t go anywhere near them.

18. Take out travel insurance

Dial 112 for general emergencies, 192 for police, and 194 for an ambulance. If you fall ill in Croatia and you're an EU citizen with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a UK citizen with a Global Health Insurance Card, you’re entitled to a vastly reduced price for health care . But even with this cover, you should still take out travel insurance.

This article was first published May 17, 2022 and updated Mar 17, 2024.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Can I travel to Croatia this summer and what are the entry requirements?

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With Covid restrictions across England set to be lifted on July 19 – on what’s become known as ‘Freedom Day’ – people are still wondering what this means for foreign travel this summer.

Although measures such as masks and social distancing are set to move from being law to guidance come that date, there will still be some restrictions in place around going abroad, with countries subject to a ‘traffic light’ system depending on their levels of Covid cases.

With that in mind, just what are the current rules around Croatia – which has become a popular holiday destination in recent years?

Here’s what you need to know…

Can I travel to Croatia this summer?

Like most other countries in Europe, Croatia is currently on the amber travel list – meaning that people arriving in England from there have to self-isolate at home for 10 days (unless you pay for a private Covid test on day five under the Government’s Test To Release scheme).

If this test is negative, you can end quarantine – but you have to pay for the test yourself (you can’t get it on the NHS) and have to declare you will be using Test To Release on your passenger locator form.

However, that’s set to change from Monday July 19, when Croatia moves to the ‘green watchlist’.

That means it will be subject to the rules of ‘green list’ countries, and travellers arriving in England from there will not need to self-isolate, but will need to take a test before departure and another one two days after arrival.

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However being on the ‘watchlist’ means it could move back to amber at any time – and those rules would once again apply.

It’s also worth noting however that from July 19, fully vaccinated travellerscoming to England from amber list countries will not have to self-isolate on arrival, but will be subject to the same rules as if they were coming in from green list countries – namely taking a test before departure, and another one two days after they arrive.

This also applies to children under the age of 18.

The exemption applies to passengers who have had their second dose of a Covid vaccine more than two weeks before they travel – and they will need to show proof of vaccination via the NHS Covid pass.

If you do plan a trip to Croatia, be aware that the travel list is being updated regularly and it could move back to the amber list at any time, and that if you are not fully jabbed then self-isolation rules will apply on your return to England.

You should also note with any travel that countries can also be moved to the red list at short notice.

Arrivals from red list countries need to quarantine in a government-mandated hotel for 10 days at a cost of £1,750 which travellers must pay for themselves – and there are no exemptions for fully vaccinated people.

What are the entry requirements for Croatia?

Arrivals in Croatia from the UK must present one of the following:

• Proof of a negative Covid antigen taken no longer than 48 hours before arrival, or a negative PCR test taken no longer than 72 hours before
• An official certificate of vaccination
• An official certificate of recovery from Covid-19

If you have none of the above, you can take a rapid antigen or PCR test on arrival in Croatia, but you will have to self-isolate until a negative result is received.

Children under 12 are exempt from having to test or self-isolate as long as their parent or guardian has a negative test result, a vaccination certificate or proof of recovery from a Covid infection.

If you took a rapid test and are staying in Croatia for longer than 10 days, you will need to take another test within 10 days of the first one.

Arrivals from Brazil, South Africa, India and Zanzibar currently need to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival in Croatia, as well as producing a negative test result on arrival.

All information is correct at time of writing.

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Croatia travel guide: Everything you need to know before you go

From the iconic walled city of dubrovnik to the adriatic-adjacent darling of istria, here’s where to explore on your next visit, article bookmarked.

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The allure of Croatia ’s glittering Adriatic coast and its 1,200-plus islands is irresistible. Sometimes it’s hard to take in the extraordinary beauty of the Venetian towns along the Istrian and Dalmatian coast, with a few elegant Habsburg resorts to add to the visual display. Countless beaches are squeezed into tiny coves and sweeping bays, while Croatia’s hinterland is sheer drama, its karst mountain ranges cut through with canyons, waterfalls and sparkling rivers.

Current travel restrictions and entry requirements

Croatia dropped all its entry requirements, so there is no need to show proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test. It’s no longer mandatory to wear a face mask in an indoor or outdoor setting, apart from a healthcare facility, although it’s still recommended for large gatherings.

Best time to go

Croatia kicks off its season early with February carnivals in Rijeka and Dubrovnik , before picking up speed at Easter. By spring the weather is already pleasant – an excellent time for relaxed city breaks and hiking in national parks surrounded by spring blossom. July and August bring out the major dance and cultural festivals, as well as big crowds and soaring temperatures. September is one of the loveliest times to visit, when the events calendar is still going strong and summer weather lingers. October is beautifully mellow, with astonishing leaf colours and a still-warm Adriatic Sea. Come at Christmas for Zagreb’s superb Advent market.

Top regions and cities

Dubrovnik and islands.

Dubrovnik usually tops everyone’s wish list, and with good reason. Its beauty is otherworldly, with medieval and Renaissance walls circling shiny marble streets of creamy Dalmatian stone houses and baroque palaces. But when high-season crowds make it difficult to explore the Old Town’s car-free lanes, hop on the 10-minute boat shuttle to the tiny island of Lokrum for a picnic and a swim. Or take a boat trip to the Elaphiti islands of Koločep, Lopud and Šipan, wonderfully lazy places of sleepy villages and beaches.

• Best hotels in Dubrovnik

Split and islands

It’s hard not to feel a sense of wonder when you’re sitting in a café in Split’s Old Town and realising you’re surrounded by ruins of the 2nd-century Diocletian’s Palace, colonised by shops, cafés and apartments centuries ago. After strolling along the Riva waterfront and checking out the beaches, many visitors use Split as the jumping-off point for central Dalmatia’s enticing islands: laid-back Šolta, beautiful Brač with its distinctive V-shaped Zlatni Rat beach, exquisite little Vis, far-flung Lastovo, compelling Korčula and, the most popular, Hvar, whose chic Hvar Town has become party central.

This heart-shaped peninsula dangling over the northern Adriatic is one of Croatia’s big hitters. Istria has enough variety to leave you wanting more even after a couple of weeks. You’ll instantly fall for the enchanting Venetian beauty that is Rovinj, sitting regally on its own headland. Nip north to the Lim Fjord and historic Poreč before heading south to Pula and its preserved Roman amphitheatre. Stop in the fishing village of Fažana where you can take a boat to Tito’s old hangout in the Brijuni Islands. Then enter the interior’s hilltop villages – Motovun, Buzet, Grožnjan – past truffle forests, vineyards and olive groves that produce award-winning liquid gold.

Croatia’s capital is often overlooked in the rush to reach the coast. But this city that shows Vienna a thing or two about café culture has a gorgeous medieval Upper Town, which, if you like, you can access via a dinky little 66m funicular. Check out the bars and restaurants along Tkalčića between visits to the Zagreb City Museum and the Museum of Broken Relationships. Stroll along Strossmayer Promenade before zigzagging down to the Lower Town and its shops and restaurants. Carry on to the trio of landscaped parks nicknamed the Green Horseshoe before cooling off in Lake Jarun south of the city.

• Read our Zagreb city guide

Kvarner Gulf

Istria’s neighbour to the east has Croatia’s two largest islands – Krk and Cres – to go with the 2020 European Capital of Culture, the buzzing port of Rijeka and its Habsburg architecture. Chill out on Krk’s pebbly beaches after exploring Venetian Krk Town, then take the ferry to peaceful and relatively empty Cres. Carry on to the bridge that takes you to fragrant Lošinj – a favourite Habsburg haunt – before going to compact Rab and its two dozen or so sandy beaches. For the full Habsburg experience, Opatija offers wedding-cake 19th-century townhouses and a lovely 12km Lungomare.

Best under-the-radar destinations

Neretva delta.

This wondrous watery world 90 minutes’ north of Dubrovnik is the place to unwind completely. Follow the course of the River Neretva as it flows through some of Croatia’s most fertile valleys, whose produce you’ll pass in roadside stalls. At its delta is a vast sandy beach that was made for kitesurfing. The best way to explore is by boat, usually in a kayak or on a boat safari offered by some of the waterside restaurants that are otherwise inaccessible. From late July, you’ll be able to reach it more easily when the Pelješac Bridge finally opens and allows you to bypass Bosnia’s narrow slice of coastline and its customs queues.

Zadar archipelago

Croatia’s oldest city is firmly on the tourist radar, some of its islands less so. The two closest, Ugljan and Pašman, are almost like Zadar’s suburbs: joined by a bridge, they offer relaxed days of cycling through olive groves and towards pebbly beaches. Further south, sinuous Dugi Otok lives up to its name (meaning long island) and has the marvellous collection of bays and beaches that make up Telašćica Nature Park. Take the ferry to car-free Silba, or join a boat excursion through the spellbindingly stark and mainly uninhabited islands of Kornati National Park.

• Read our Zadar city guide

Pelješac peninsula

Jutting out into the Adriatic is the long finger-like Pelješac peninsula, already known to Game of Thrones fans thanks to the defensive Ston walls that rise above the village. Neighbouring Mali Ston is also the home of the delicious Ston oysters cultivated there. Much of the peninsula is draped with vineyards producing some of Croatia’s top plavac mali and dingač red wines. When you’re not taking a leisurely tour among the wineries, you’re discovering the hidden beaches squeezed within the indented coastline.

Best things to do

Exploring plitvice lakes.

Croatia’s first national park is one of the most dazzling, its collection of 16 lakes and countless waterfalls and rivers creating one of nature’s great displays. Follow the raised wooden walkways past the waterfalls before taking the electric boat across glassy Kozjak Lake.

Hiking and climbing in the Velebit mountains

The largest mountain range in Croatia looms over the Adriatic Sea and offers superlative and, at times, challenging hiking. Velebit also covers Paklenica National Park, one of Europe’s most exciting places to go rock climbing.

Get into the festival spirit

Croatian summer nights thrum to the sound of dance music festivals all along the Dalmatian coast. Pag island, where sheep normally outnumber humans, has some of the country’s hottest dance festivals on Zrće beach at Novalja – Hideout, Selected, Sonus – plus the massive Ultra Festival in Split and SunćeBeat, Outlook Origins, Defected Croatia and Dimensions in otherwise sleepy Tisno.

Ride the rivers

Croatia’s rivers and canyons are ripe for exploring by kayak, or, if you want some white-knuckle adventure, by rafting. The Cetina River Canyon that empties into the Adriatic in Omiš is one of the most breathtaking journeys, as is the lesser-known Zrmanja Canyon in inland northern Dalmatia.

Getting around

Public transport – rail, coaches and city buses – is very affordable in Croatia. The rail network, HŽPP, has good connections between Zagreb and other main cities, but doesn’t extend south beyond Split. The bus network is much more extensive, and very cheap. The ferry service between the mainland and the islands, Jadrolinija, runs car ferries as well as fast catamarans, both at very reasonable prices. If you want to explore some of the inland regions, then a hire car is your best bet. Internal flights are frequent but not cheap.

How to get there

The quickest and cheapest way to get to Croatia is to fly to one of its seven international airports: Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Rijeka, Pula, Zadar and Osijek. If you’re travelling via Italy, you can take an overnight Jadrolinija ferry from Ancona to Zadar, Split or Hvar. Train options are lengthy but beautiful, with trains from London via Paris and Munich or Vienna to Zagreb, or via Ljubljana to Rijeka or Pula. Alternatively, take the Harwich ferry to the Hook of Holland and pick up the train in Amsterdam to get to Zagreb via Munich.

Money-saving tip

July and August are peak season, and that means peak prices. May, June and September have warm weather but prices for flights, accommodation and attractions will be considerably lower.

Bank machines (ATMs) in yellow will charge a higher commission, so try to find an ATM associated with a bank.

What’s the weather like?

Croatia has long, hot summers, especially along the coast, while the interior regions have short, cold and snowy winters. Summer temperatures are regularly in the 30Cs.

What time zone is it in?

What currency do i need.

Croatia uses the kuna, but will be joining the eurozone from 1 January 2023. From this September, both currencies will be in use, but in the meantime if you pay in euros you’ll receive change in kuna.

What language is spoken?

Croatians don’t expect you to speak their language, although a few niceties will be very appreciated. Most people in tourism speak English, and many also speak German and Italian.

Mary Novakovich’s new travelogue, My Family and Other Enemies: Life and Travels in Croatia’s Hinterland, is published by Bradt in August and can be pre-ordered now.

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Croatia travel requirements 2024: What travelers need to know

We aim to keep this post updated about Croatia travel in 2024 with official Croatia travel restrictions, requirements, and health and safety guidance. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions so you can travel confidently, safely, and responsibly in this new post-pandemic world of ours.

We lived and worked from Croatia in winter of 2019 and loved it.

As restrictions vary based on the traveler’s citizenship, we will focus primarily on rules affecting U.S. citizens.

At the end of the post, we share on-the-ground perspectives from local residents and travelers to Croatia so you can get a sense of what it’s really like.

Last update: October 2023. Originally published: November 2020.

Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

* Get our free Post-Pandemic Travel Checklist *

Table of Contents

Can US citizens travel to Croatia? Can I travel to Croatia right now? 

Can Americans travel to Croatia? Yes, travelers from the United States can enter Croatia for tourism. As of May 2022 , Croatia travel restrictions and entry requirements related to COVID-19 have been removed.

Travelers can visit Croatia without any testing, vaccination, or quarantine rules.

Visitors from over 60  visa-exempt countries , including the U.S., will soon be required to have a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) travel authorization to enter Croatia and other European countries . The start date has been delayed from 2024 to 2025. 

See details about ETIAS here

Quarantine rules in Croatia: What happens if I get Covid?

Foreign travelers are not required to quarantine upon arrival to Croatia.

Travelers who  test positive for Covid while in Croatia can get in touch with a local epidemiologist . Call 113 (from a Croatian number) for general advice about COVID-19. 

As of May 2023, there are no longer quarantine requirements for those who test positive. However, they are advised to avoid large gatherings. Self-isolation for five days, followed by ten days wearing a mask, is recommended for those who come into contact with the elderly, chronically ill, immunocompromised people, and pregnant women. 

People who were in close contact to those who tested positive are not required to quarantine. They are, however, asked to wear mask for 10 days, to self-test on the fifth day, and to avoid large gatherings especially among people who are at increased risk.

Croatia Vaccine Passport Requirements to Enter Large Gatherings

You might be wondering: Do I need a vaccine certificate or Covid test to enter restaurants, accommodations, or attractions in Croatia?

Currently, a vaccine certificate or Covid test is no longer needed to enter accommodations, businesses, attractions, or attend large gatherings in Croatia.

Can Americans travel to Croatia in May 2024? Can US citizens travel to Croatia this Summer?

Croatia travel in May is open for US citizens. Please read on for details and check back for updates.

What is it like to fly to Zagreb ZAG, Split SPU, or Dubrovnik DBV airports right now? Croatia Airlines reports that guests are no longer required to wear face masks on flights.

Disinfecting systems and health screenings have been implemented at the airports.

Do Americans have to quarantine when traveling to Croatia? As of May 2022, travelers are not required to quarantine upon entry in Croatia.

For travelers who test positive with Covid-19 while in Croatia, please see above for details.

Does Croatia check COVID-19 symptoms of incoming travelers? Basic health screening procedures may be in place at the airports in Croatia.

Does Croatia require a negative Covid-19 test for American travelers? No. A negative Covid-19 test is no longer required to enter Croatia.

Does Croatia require a proof of Coronavirus vaccine for American travelers? No. A proof of Coronavirus vaccine is no longer required to enter Croatia.

Do I still need to provide a negative Covid test or quarantine if I have been vaccinated? No. A negative Covid test, quarantine, and proof of vaccination is no longer required to enter Croatia.

Is a booster shot required for travel to Croatia? No. A booster shot is not required to enter Croatia. There is no set period of expiration for booster shots.

What Covid testing options are available for travelers in Croatia? PCR and/or antigen tests are available for travelers at COVID-19 Testing Locations in Croatia .

As of July 2022, PCR tests cost HRK 276.56 (approximately 37.55 USD) if referred by a doctor or HRK 390 (approximately $53 USD) if not referred by a doctor. Antigen or rapid tests, on the other hand, cost approximately $20 USD.

What healthcare options are available to travelers in Croatia who get the virus? Croatia hospitals and clinics are open. However, if you get sick in Croatia, medical resources may sometimes be limited and treatment will be at your own expense.

Local COVID-19 PCR tests in Croatia are not covered by Croatian Health, unless referred by a Doctor or epidemiologist.

For travel insurance that covers Covid, check out Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing >

What service businesses and restaurants are open in Croatia? Restaurants are open for indoor and outdoor dining. Museums, attractions, and other businesses are also open.

What public gatherings are allowed in Croatia? Public and private gatherings or events are allowed in Croatia. 

Are face masks required in Croatia? Face masks are not required except  in hospitals and care centers.

Are buses running in Croatia? Public transportation is available as usual throughout Croatia.

Will Croatia impose new Covid restrictions?  What’s next is difficult to predict. Historically, Croatia has imposed COVID-19 restrictions when the health care system is under strain, which means when the number of hospitalizations and patients on ventilators rise to unsustainable levels.

How has the Coronavirus impacted Croatia?

The Croatian Government declared the epidemiological situation under control in early June 2020 with almost no new cases being reported for several weeks. However, the country saw a spike in cases in Fall 2020. This prompted the government to implement additional measures to slow the spread of the virus and support its health system.

Croatia, which is highly dependent on tourism, reopened its borders in July 2020. Despite this, the economy still struggled with a substantial increase in unemployment.

Croatia’s vaccination program began slightly before the New Year 2021. Over half of the population have been fully vaccinated.

For the current situation in Croatia, including: total COVID-19 positive cases; total cases in Croatia; and COVID-19 testing in Croatia, please see the Croatia Department of Health site .

What should you pack for safely traveling in Croatia?

😷 Face Masks – Face coverings are recommended in public places and may be required in certain spaces. Find N95 masks at Bona Fide > or designer options at Vida >

💊 Medicine – Bring enough prescription and over-the-counter medication for your entire trip to avoid trips to the clinic.

💳 Vaccine Card Holder – Protect that paper CDC card when traveling abroad (if your country doesn’t offer a digital version). Get a simple plastic protector > or Vegan leather clippable > or Leather passport + card combo holder >

👃 Covid self-test – The most studied rapid antigen self-test with FDA emergency authorization.  NOT valid to enter countries. Use for your own peace of mind. Order from CVS > or Walmart >

💧 Sealed water bottle – Make sure your reusable water bottle has a lid that’s not exposed to the air. We use one of each of the following: Shop insulated water bottles with protective lid > Shop water bottles with purification filter and protective lid >

✈️ Travel insurance that covers Covid – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What do Croatia locals and recent travelers say about visiting Croatia now?

What is it like to visit Croatia right now? It’s our goal to provide regular updates here from real people on the ground, to help potential visitors know what to expect.

The following are subjective opinions only. Official travel guidance can be found above.

September 2023 – Steven Jepson of The Thorough Tripper , American traveler “We are currently in Dubrovnik Croatia for one week as part of a 6 week/6 country European trip. Dubrovnik supposedly has the most overtourism in all of Europe, and we are seeing it first hand. I thought if we came at the end of September, it wouldn’t be too bad. It’s bad. So many people…

I have yet to see the word COVID written anywhere here. There doesn’t seem to be any restrictions whatsoever.”

June 2023 – Coni from Experiencing the Globe , Croatian resident: “Short and sweet: Croatia is completely open, without any restrictions of any kind. Everything is back to pre-pandemic normal. 

All attractions and tourist infrastructure (hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, etc.) are fully working. Testing facilities are plentiful, and private clinics are readily available in case of need.

Do keep in mind that Croatia is a very popular summer destination, and with no restrictions in place, you’ll find crowds everywhere in the coast and known national parks.”

January 2023 – Gabi of Under Flowery Sky , Croatian resident:  “Croatia currently adopts the Euro [as currency in place of kuna] and this stimulates prices going up comparing to the past. The hostels are still full even in January and prices affordable.

Most of local attractions are open. Healthcare is easily accessible, specially in the cities. Masks are not requiered anymore.”

September 17, 2022 – Arianna of Extra Mile Project :  “I spent 9 days in Croatia in September 2022 and traveled to Zagreb, Hvar, Split, and Dubrovnik by train. Life seemed to be back to normal. As an EU citizen, I easily flew into Zagreb without any travel restrictions (no testing or contact tracing required).

Masks were recommended in the airport and on public transportation but very few people were wearing one. Some museums still used a time slot-based booking system to avoid overcrowding, so I’d recommend buying tickets in advance. However, September didn’t seem to be a busy month and I was always able to find available tickets on the spot. Most of the attractions had signs at the entrance asking visitors to sanitize their hands and measure their temperature, but nobody was really checking.”

August 2022 – N.h., expat: “My cousin arrived on Sunday with EasyJet from Gatwick. She said check -in and security took 50 minutes. Her flight was delayed by 1 1/2 hours. Everything in Split was quick and easy. The new terminal is great and everything runs pretty smoothly.”

May 28 2022 – Gloria from mumsinvited.com: “In May, I flew into Croatia for a 4 day work conference. It was a fantastic experience. I didn’t experience any travel restrictions coming from the UK. To my knowledge, there wasn’t any contact tracing or testing. I didn’t even have to take a Covid test before travelling or after my arrival. There weren’t any long queues or extra crowded spaces.”

April 16, 2022 – Third country national: “ A friend (US Passport) arrived in Split 1 week ago today on a direct flight from Dublin (where she is currently living). She was asked for vax/test/recovery. She doesn’t qualify for EU COVID Cert, so provided CDC card with all 3 jabs. That’s what was asked of her, but current rules do seem to indicate she shouldn’t have needed to provide anything.”

February 16, 2022 – Kathleen O., American nomad: “Split, Croatia is returning to normal life. Local restaurants are open at full capacity (although many are closed simply because it’s outside of the tourist season), buses and ferries are running, and it looks likely to be a record summer season coming. Spring is my favorite  time to visit Croatia  and with cases dropping every day, it’s a good time to plan a trip.”

January 20, 2022 – Marty, Expat in Croatia: “My wife and I are halfway through a 3 month stay in an Airbnb next to the Riva in Split, Croatia. We have felt very safe as far as any Covid concerns. Split is close enough to take side trips, in fact we just returned from a week in Kotor, Montenegro and Mostar, Bosnia [crossed Croatia land border]. We also traveled to Dubrovnik, which we recommend seeing. Here in Split, Croatia it is easy to get a Covid test if needed. They also allow non-Croatians to get a vaccine, in fact we were able to get our Pfizer booster shot. Since we are here in the off season some restaurants and shops are closed, but there is still lots to choose from. When we were here in October everything was open. They usually don’t ask to see your vaccine card to go inside to shop or eat.”

December 20, 2021 – Kathleen of My Lonesome Roads , American digital nomad:  “I am living [in Croatia] for the winter while working online. Most events are still happening, like the Christmas markets, and shops/restaurants/bars are open at full capacity here in Split. There are almost no tourists here which is typical for the winter, so prices are reasonable and you can get a taste of local life. 

There are very few restrictions in place, but testing is widely available and inexpensive. Vaccination rates are very low, but the healthcare quality is good. No test or vaccine is needed for most activities.”

October 2021 – Dana, American tourist: “As part of a Mediterranean cruise with Holland America in October, 2021, we visited Zadar and Dubrovnik for one day each. Crowds were minimal and COVID restrictions virtually non-existent. That said, I recommend having a mask at the ready should the need arise. No one asked for vaccination proof at any time.  Restaurants were plentiful and open. As noted, crowds were few and seating at bars and restaurants was easy to find.”

October 2021 – Victoria C., Scottish traveler: “We went for a family holiday to Dubrovnik, Croatia for 10 days in October 2021. Everyone we met were very welcoming and we didn’t have any bad experiences All the local attractions were open, tours were taking place. Restaurants and bars were open. Some were closed due to it coming to the end of the season. We were never asked for any proof of vaccines or tests in town. We had our temperatures taken when we rode the cable car that was it. Masks were worn by most people indoors at supermarkets, shops etc. We didn’t find it overly busy and never really had to wait in any queues.”

September 2021 – Jenn, CocktailsAway.com :  “My husband and I spent a week in Croatia, Dubrovnik and Stari Grad (on the island of Hvar) celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary. If you are vaccinated, you will find visiting Croatia fairly easy. All restaurants and bars are open. Tours, activities, and businesses are operating. There is a required form for tracing that needs to be filled out before arrival but outside of immigration and the hotels, no one checked our vaccine card. While everything is open, some businesses haven’t survived the pandemic so it’s wise to check ahead.”

September 9, 2021 – A., UK visitor: “I am currently in a quarantine hotel in Rovinj due to catching covid in Croatia, so I thought I’d share my experience with this so that anyone who wants to know the procedure is aware. I took my lateral flow in our hotel room ready to go back to the UK the next day but it came up positive. We rang [our travel agency] so that they could change our flights (package holiday included flight change for free), we rang the hotel reception on Istra who told us we could stay in the room we were in to isolate and that they would bring us up food for each meal. About an hour later when we’d ordered food and were settled, they rang us and said your boat will be here in half an hour. We were very confused as they just told us we could stay where we are we then had to eat and pack up our whole room in half an hour… We got on a private boat and there was a private car waiting for us that took us to Villas Rubin resort. The lady who greeted us here is lovely and very helpful if we need anything. The room is a decent size with two balconies and they drop us off three meals a day in a crate outside. We get a carton of juice each, bread rolls, fruit, salad and a big meal so can’t complain at all about the food. We have to pay at the end of our stay £60 per person per night, then our StaySure insurance will pay us back. I’ve seen lots of people say Dubrovnik has dealt with [this kind of situation] really badly, but we seem to have got a good hotel! We’ve been told we can’t leave or go home until we are negative. I’m testing daily so if we come back negative early we get to go home. ”

August 2021 – Malek , Egyptian Traveler: “I spent 3 weeks in Croatia with the wifey. People are super helpful. They welcome you help you and try to give you the best advice. when we had a wrong booking on a bus, the other travelers and some locals put the money for us to keep our journey till the next stop and the ATM. Everywhere you are asked for mask and covid passport.”

July 2021 – M.M, American visitor:   “I was in Dubrovnik Croatia for 3 weeks. The tourist population was about half of what we anticipated. Though the city is small and few tourists still make it feel crowded, I would definitely recommend going to Dubrovnik now, I can’t imagine how crowded it is without COVID.  All restrictions are being followed by locals and visitors. Testing was easy and quick for COVID and food service was exactly what you get in the US, clean and masked.”

June 2021 – Martina of PlacesofJuma , Austrian Digital Nomad: “ The current situation in Croatia is very relaxed. Restaurants and cafes are open, the beaches are quiet and Covid seems light miles away. Locals are happy about every visitor, the atmosphere is really good and the room prices are still really cheap! Keeping distance, hand washing and wearing a mask is followed. Life takes place mainly outdoors, which also reduces the risk of infection. Unfortunately, I don’t know whether the locals get tested and how often. However, many people, especially the elderly and those who work in tourism, have already been vaccinated. Larger hotels also have fantastic hygiene concepts, staff is wearing mask and some hotels offer free covid-tests to travelers.”

April 2021 – Kevin Macadam, British Digital Nomad:  “ We moved to Croatia for one year on the 1st March 2021. Arriving into Croatia was fine and we travelled with a dog and cat. Yes, Croatians are welcoming tourists however Covid cases are rising in Croatia so unless you have been vaccinated then I would advise against travelling here. People are wearing masks and testing is available, however, they have a low supply of vaccines at the moment. Tourist attractions are open and restaurants are open until 20:00, however this can differ from county to county.”

Planning a trip to Croatia?

Check out our other Croatia travel resources:

– What to do in Zadar Croatia on a Budget + Walking Tour Map – 7 day Croatia Road Trip Itinerary: Dalmatian Coast in Winter – One Day in Zagreb Croatia Layover Guide – Intentional Travelers – Best Day Trips from Zadar Croatia – Intentional Travelers

If you have questions or updates about travel to Croatia during the Coronavirus crisis or post-pandemic, please let us know in the comments below.

~ Pin this post for later or share with friends ~

Disclaimer: Please note, travel restrictions change frequently. Readers must take responsibility for verifying information through official sources like the State Department and CDC, in respect to their specific situations. No responsibility can be accepted by Intentional Travelers for action or inaction as a result of information provided through IntentionalTravelers.com. Any information provided here is issued as general information only.

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15 Comments

Thank you for this very helpful post!! My husband and I are hoping to visit Croatia in late March for our honeymoon. Are we allowed to enter Croatia if our connecting flight is coming from Madrid? USA to Croatia via Madrid. I’ve seen some conflicting information and don’t want to take a chance

Thanks for visiting our blog, Emily. At this time, the official Croatia website says arrivals are allowed from E.U. countries (which would include Spain) and “third country” tourists (Americans), as long as the appropriate documents are provided.

We are not tracking what additional requirements in Spain might be for passengers transiting through their airports, however, so you would have to check that separately. As I’m sure you’re aware, restrictions can always change between now and March, so I think you’ll likely be fine but unfortunately nothing is 100% guaranteed these days.

Hi, I am a UK resident currently visiting Turkey for 2 weeks, however, would like to visit Croatia on the way back to the UK and wanted to know if travellers from Turkey are not allowed to enter Croatia. I have received both covid jabs in the UK two months ago. Also, if travel is allowed, what are the requirements for my 11 and 13 year olds.

Thank you Kind regards

Thank you for visiting our blog. In our attempt to keep this free article accurately updated, we have limited our focus to specific travel scenarios. For other situations beyond what we cover here, I recommend checking official guidance on the Croatia ministry website or work with a travel agent who can ensure your trip needs are met.

I read that there is a mandatory 10-day quarantine for Eu-citizens. Can someone tell me if this quarantine must be held in a hotel or somewhere else?

Because the requirements vary based on citizenship and transit route into the country, we’ve been focusing on those that apply to U.S. travelers. We recommend checking Croatia’s official requirements here: https://mup.gov.hr/uzg-covid/english/286212 It’s a good question about the quarantine location. The information provided online is mostly about protocols to bypass the quarantine requirement, which most EU citizens should be able to do. That said, I did see the following mentioned: “Travelers may be ordered to self-isolate or spend up to 14 days in official government quarantine facilities if deemed necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Placement in quarantine is at the expense of the traveler.”

Thanks Michelle C

Hi, I am booked to visit Omis with my family in late June. I have 2 young children 8 and 2 years old. Do children have to have the negative PCR tests as well as the adults?. Thanks Tim

It’s a good question and not easy to find. But I finally found this on the official website: “Children under seven years of age traveling accompanied by a parent / guardian are exempt from the obligation to present a negative test result and to self-isolate if the parents / guardians have a negative PCR or RAT test result, i.e. if they have a certificate of vaccination against COVID-19 or proof of having recovered from COVID-19.” Enjoy Omis – it is a beautiful spot!

We have a trip planned to Croatia 4/29/22 and are wondering how safe it is for us to travel. We are in our 70’s in good shape though I am high risk.

Thank you for visiting our blog. We hope to have another on-the-ground update from a recent traveler to Croatia soon. However, assessing travel safety is quite relative and depends on your own risk tolerance. Right now, cases across Europe are high from the Omicron variant. It’s hard to predict what it will be like in April. If you have health risks, it’s probably best to asses that with a medical professional.

Thanks so much for this blog post ! I was wondering how you are getting your information, are you in Croatia now? I am currently in Egypt but want to move on to Croatia soon. I hold a NZ passport and I can’t find any clear information to tell me whether or not I am allowed entry. Can you shed any light on this?

Hi and thanks for visiting our blog. The information for this post is regularly updated by our team as the situation changes; it is based on online research and periodically checking in with locals and recent travelers to Croatia. The entry requirements are admittedly complicated. The official, detailed rules are best found here: https://mup.gov.hr/uzg-covid/english/286212 You can fill out a form on this page to verify your situation. My understanding is that you can enter as a third country national as long as you have a certificate for paid accommodation. Plus a negative test within 48 hours of arrival would be required to bypass quarantine. But of course, I recommend verifying through the official website.

My partner and I are dying to get back out and travel. We were full time traveling before Covid hit and we have since been trapped at home xD

We love the Balkans and the surrounding region so its nice to be reading about it to curb the itch to travel.

Great read 😀

Hi Maria. Thanks for your message. We hear you about wanting to get back out and travel!

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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!!

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My Lonesome Roads

Planning a Trip to Croatia: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re considering planning a trip to Croatia, you’ve made a very wise decision. This gorgeous, safe, friendly country is a must-visit! And it’s close to my heart, as I lived here for nearly two years . Here’s everything you need to know to make your Croatia travel terrific!

This post may contain affiliate links. By booking through these links I may make a small commission (which I am very grateful for!) at no additional cost to you.

Why Visit Croatia? 

A better question would be, why not? Croatia has something for everyone. 

• Mountains, hikes, and nature for the outdoors adventure lovers. 
• Miles of stunning beaches with sparkling clear blue seas for the beach bums and swimmers. 
• Great food and incredible wine for the gourmands. 
• Ancient ruins full of stories and the intersection of multiple empires for the history buffs. 
• Family friendliness and child-safe activities for families. 
• Party spots like Hvar Island for the young (and young at heart). 
• Quiet islands like Korčula where you can go to get away from it all. 

The possibilities are absolutely endless. That’s why Croatia is one of my favorite travel destinations for everyone, from solo travelers to backpackers to families and beyond. You’ll find something to love no matter what you’re interested in. 

And Croatia travel is extremely easy as well. English is widely spoken, especially in the more popular tourist destinations. It’s extremely safe so you can just relax and enjoy yourself. Locals are welcoming and full of a quiet but charming hospitality that will make your Croatia trip unforgettable. 

Solo travel in Croatia is also wonderful, especially for women traveling alone, because it’s such a safe and friendly place. 

Things to Know Before Visiting Croatia

Croatia is an EU member country, and as of January 1, 2023 it is now also a member of the Eurozone and the Schengen Zone. The euro is now the official currency of Croatia, which makes hopping through Europe easier.

Since it’s also now a member of the Schengen Zone, it’s easier to drive over the border from Hungary, Slovenia, or Italy, and there are no passport controls when you’re flying from another country in the Zone (pretty much all of the EU). But it does make life more complicated for digital nomads and long-term travelers who want to spend more than 90 days in Europe – now you gotta head to Serbia, Albania, or Montenegro instead!  

While we call it Croatia in English, the country is actually called Hrvatska in Croatian, and the language is Hrvatski. It’s a Slavic language and pretty confusing if you don’t know another one, so I stick to the basic phrases outlined in my Croatia travel tips post. 

Croatia has a fascinating history . Various areas of the country have been part of many empires: Ancient Rome, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, and the Austro-Hungarian, just to name a few. It was a part of Yugoslavia until it won independence in 1991 and took shape as its current form. 

That history means it is a melting pot of influences depending on where in the country you travel—Istria has a strong Italian influence, Zagreb has beautiful Austro-Hungarian architecture, and you can live inside a Roman emperor’s palace in Split . 

It’s a small country, with less than 4 million inhabitants, but one with much more to offer than you’d expect from such a small place. And Croatians are fiercely proud of their country, even if they also love to complain about a few aspects of living here. 

When to Travel to Croatia 

Croatia also has many different micro-climates, so the best time to visit depends on where in the country you’re going and what you want to do.

Zagreb and inland Croatia, for example, get quite cold in the winter, while the coast stays pretty temperate. Coastal Dalmatia and Dubrovnik get quite hot and crowded in the summer time, while Istria remains cooler and less crowded. 

If your Croatia trip planning includes lots of sunbathing, then May-October on the coast is perfect for you. But if you’re looking to explore more of the history and food, I’d go in the spring or fall when crowds are thinner and prices are more reasonable.

Related: the best time to travel to Croatia, month by month

The Best Way to Get to Croatia 

If you’re coming from the US or the UK, flying is definitely the best way to get to Croatia, and from most European destinations as well. Zagreb airport has lots of flights year-round. 

Dubrovnik and Split airports have lots of international flights in the summer, but much fewer in the winter—you’ll need to connect somewhere else to get to most places. 

Smaller cities including Pula, Zadar, Osijek, and Rijeka also have airports that operate mainly seasonally. 

If you’re headed to an island like Hvar, you can’t fly directly there unless you’re going to Brač or Mali Lošinj. You’ll need to fly into the closest airport and take a ferry. To go to Hvar, you can fly to Split and take a ferry from the city, or splurge for a direct ferry from the airport to the island. I book my ferries ahead of time on FerryHopper in summer as they often sell out—their app and website are both super user-friendly and they have great support if you need it.

You can also take a bus if you’re coming from a neighboring country—I always check my options on Flixbus which is cheap and reliable. 

Getting Around Croatia

To get around Croatia while you’re visiting, you have a few options. Buses are very safe, frequent, and cheap between the cities. I like Flixbus for good prices and I also check GetByBus for other time options from the smaller national bus lines. 

Trains in Croatia are safe but very, very, very slow and expensive. It costs twice as much to take the train from Split to Zagreb, for example, and takes 8 hours instead of 5, so I never take them.  

Ferries are the only way to get to most islands and they’re lovely as well – the scenic route for sure! Be sure to book at least a few days to a week in advance in summer as they definitely sell out (via FerryHopper to make your life easier), but in winter I just walk up and buy a ticket before boarding. 

I’m often asked, is driving in Croatia safe? It definitely is! The roads are great and easy to drive, and signs are simple to follow. Renting a car is the best way to travel around Croatia, as lets you see the charming smaller towns and villages. Parking can be an issue in some places however. 

Croatia Travel Cost

Since each region of the country is so different from the others, and it varies by time of year as well, there’s no one Croatia vacation cost I can give you. But here are the most and least expensive times to visit each region. 

Split and the rest of Dalmatia, like Zadar and Hvar, are expensive in the summer as well as crowded. You could pay up to 50€ for a night in a hostel bed or 300€+ for a hotel room at peak times—ouch. Restaurant prices go up then too and they’re also packed. 

The same applies in Dubrovnik , which is very pricey and crowded in summer. Hotel rooms go for at least 300€, while you can get one in the off-season for less than half of that. 

Istria is less crowded and expensive in the summer than Dalmatia, and still very beautiful. Hotels run from 50-100€ depending on when you visit (check prices on Booking.com ). 

Zagreb is also more affordable to visit. It does get more expensive in December because it’s a popular domestic destination for its beautiful and charming Christmas markets and decorations, so keep that in mind. 

Croatia Travel Itineraries

Looking for the perfect Croatia trip itinerary? I have some ideas based on my favorite trips right here: 

• Spending three days like a local in Split  
• 3 days in Dubrovnik on a budget  

And if you arrive and love it, and think, “I want to move to Croatia!”, here’s how I lived here as a digital nomad in Split . 

Croatia Travel Tips 

While you’re planning a trip to Croatia, I hope this information was helpful! Don’t miss my top Croatia travel tips so you get even more advice on what to know and see when you’re here.

Dobrodošli (that’s Croatian for welcome!). 

More Croatia Travel Blogs: 

• Why solo travel in Croatia is wonderful for women
• The best time of year to travel to Croatia
• My journey getting temporary residency in Croatia as a digital nomad

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Croatia Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Croatia

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments.

Croatia entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Croatia from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Croatia.

Can I travel to Croatia if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Croatia without restrictions.

Can I travel to Croatia without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Croatia without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Croatia?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Croatia.

Can I travel to Croatia without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Croatia?

Mask usage in Croatia is not required in enclosed environments.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Croatia?

Restaurants in Croatia are open. Bars in Croatia are .

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Travel to Croatia during Covid-19: What you need to know before you go

If you’re planning to travel to Croatia, here’s what you’ll need to know and expect if you want to visit during the Covid-19 pandemic

Croatia has had one of the highest death rates in Europe from Covid-19. While the country reopened to tourists for the 2021 summer season, it soon began see coronavirus cases rise again. The new Omicron variant, which first emerged in November 2021, has brought about yet another increase in infections, with Croatia recording its highest number of cases so far in January 2022.

What’s on offer

Its coastline and myriad islands have helped make Croatia the perfect summer escape for travelers keen on something a bit less obvious than Greece, Italy or Spain. Dubrovnik, with its historic old town and ancient walls, is a key stop off for cruise liners, but the whole coast is a joy, from Roman remains in Pula and Split to picture perfect islands such as Korčula.

The borders are now open, although travelers need either an EU Digital Covid Certificate, or proof of vaccination, recovery from Covid-19, or a negative test. Arrivals from some destinations are subject to quarantine — see below — and anyone coming from a non-European destination will need a confirmed accommodation booking.

What are the restrictions?

Passengers arriving from EU and Schengen-associated countries, whatever their nationality, are allowed into Croatia on the production of an EU Digital Covid Certificate. If you don’t have one, you must produce either a vaccination certificate (of a vaccination approved for use in the EU), with vaccine completed within the past 270 days; a certificate of recovery from Covid-19, along with proof of at least one dose of vaccine within eight months of contracting the disease; or a negative PCR test or a rapid antigen test recognized by the EU ( see here for a list) taken within 72 or 48 hours respectively.

Otherwise, you can opt to get a test on arrival and then self-isolate until you get a negative result, or for 10 days. The same rules apply for third-country nationals resident in the EU, or EU nationals resident abroad.

However, if the country or area you are arriving from is listed as “red” or “dark red” by the European Center for Disease Control, there are extra restrictions — see below.

The borders are officially closed to third-country nationals, but tourism is a valid exception. You must bring a certificate of paid accommodation (in a hotel, private rental, campsite or rented boat), in addition to the paperwork above.

There are additional measures for arrivals from the countries listed as high risk by the Croatian Institute of Public Health, regardless of vaccination status.

Travelers arriving from South Africa, Brazil, India or Zanzibar must present a negative PCR test result taken no more than 48 hours prior to arrival and undergo a mandatory 14 day self-isolation period. This can be reduced to seven days if a second PCR test also confirms a negative result.

Those arriving from the UK are now required to produce either proof of a vaccination, a negative antigen Covid-19 test result no older than 48 hours, or a negative PCR test result taken no more than 72 hours before, or a doctor’s certificate of recovery from the virus.

Countries or regions which are on the “red” or “dark red” list of the European Center for Disease Control must also abide by these same. For a full list, see here .

US CDC travel advisory

Level 4: Avoid travel to Croatia. If you must travel to Croatia, make sure you are vaccinated and up to date with your Covid-19 vaccines before travel.

Useful links

Government travel advice

Approved antigen tests

European Center for Disease Control list

Our latest coverage

Croatia is so keen to welcome back tourists that it’s even offering them the chance to go and live there full time with a new digital nomad permit . If that seems a bit extreme, this gallery of the country’s most beautiful places should amp up your wanderlust.

The-CNN-Wire ™ & © 2022 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.

Tamara Hardingham-Gill, Julia Buckley and Joe Minihane contributed to this report.

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