Croatia travel guide

Explore Dubrovnik

Perched in a spectacular location overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is best known for its picture-perfect walled Old Town.

A city brimming with hidden gems, a number of amazing restaurants, and many standout attractions, it’s easy to fill 3 days in Dubrovnik, although you’ll want to spend more time in this city.

Game of Thrones fans delight in tracing the steps of the famous program – Dubrovnik is the setting for King’s Landing after all. Love the programme? Check out my Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Guide.

Spend Time in Split

Croatia’s second city, Split’s picturesque setting on the Dalmatian Coast is the perfect backdrop to explore its wealth of historical buildings and cool waterfront cafe culture.

It might be hard to pinpoint the best things to do in Split because there are so many. 

Home to historic sites such as the 4th-century palace of Roman Emperor Diocletian, an up-scale nightlife scene, and the best seafood around, it’s a Croatian travel experience like no other.

Go Island Hopping

If you’re vacationing in Croatia, it would be an injustice if you don’t go hopping around Croatia’s islands. 

Boasting over 1,000 islands, visiting popular options such as Brac, Hvar, Cres, or Lokrum is a must. Or head for some lesser-known ones such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo.

Party it Up in Hvar

Hvar is the place to head to if you’ve got a love for partying and you’re wondering how to visit Croatia for an unforgettable time. 

With its penchant for the party scene, and seeing as it’s one of the country’s most gorgeous towns, Hvar is an easy entry into your Croatia itinerary.

Marvel at Plitvice Lakes National Park

Situated between Zagreb and the Dalmatian Coast, venturing to Plitvice Lakes National Park is an absolute must. 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is ideal for nature lovers thanks to its 16 interconnected lakes and over 90 mesmerising waterfalls. It’s no surprise the park is so popular. 

Discover Krka National Park

Wandering around the spellbinding waterfalls of Krka National Park is non-negotiable. 

The park’s landscape consists of numerous canyons, stunning lakes, and the famous Skradinski Buk – a sequence of waterfalls above the town of Skradin.

City Break in Zagreb

I hadn’t heard that much about Zagreb before my first visit – so it took me completely by surprise that I discovered what has become one of my favourite European cities. 

If you’re travelling to Croatia and have only one day, spend those 24 hours in Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia. 

There are many reasons why Zagreb is so cool, from its Neo-Gothic cathedral to its mediaeval Old Town Gate and the many museums such as the Mimara Museum.

Road Trip around Istria

The Istria peninsula is home to some of the most tantalising wines and white truffles in Croatia, making it a foodie paradise. 

Head out on a road trip to the city of Rovinj to see its striking Old Town and visit its Heritage Museum before indulging in delicious peka. 

From sun-soaked coastlines and ancient cities, the Adriatic gem that is Croatia will have you constantly coming back for more. Here are a few ways I suggest you try to spend your time in Croatia.

Island Hopping in Croatia 

7 Days

Vis – Brač – Hvar – Korčula – Mljet Island

Explore Croatia’s gorgeous islands on a one-week itinerary. 

Croatia’s Cities 

3 Weeks

Split – Hvar – Vis/Korčula/Mljet Island – Dubrovnik – Šibenik and Krka National Park – Zadar – Plitvice Lakes – Karlovac – Istria – Zagreb 

Golden-hued cities and oodles of history on a three-week jaunt. 

The Natural Way in Croatia 

2 Weeks

Dubrovnik – Hvar – Split – Zadar – Krka National Park – Istria Peninsula – Plitvice Lakes National Park – Zagreb

See Croatia’s natural wonders on this 2-week itinerary. 

First-Timers in Croatia 

10 Days

Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes National Park – Zadar – Split – Dubrovnik

See the country’s highlights on this ten-day itinerary.

Explore Korçula

A captivating mediaeval island, the rumoured birthplace of Marco Polo, and one of the best-preserved historic centres in Europe, visiting Korçula is a must. 

Highlights include St. Mark’s Cathedral and wine tasting in the island’s little-known vineyards. 

Escape to Karlovac

Karlovac is one of those lesser-known gems you shouldn’t skip when visiting Croatia. It’s about an hour from Zagreb, and most come to visit the local brewery, Karlovacko, where you can taste one of the best beers in Croatia.

Enjoy Oysters in Mali Ston

Dating back to the 14th century, the region of Mali Ston began life as a military fortification. These days it’s far more famous for its oysters. Learn about the industry and treat your tastebuds to the best oysters around.

Listen to the Sea Organ, Zadar 

Tucked beneath a set of steps below the seaside town of Zadar, The Sea Organ is almost unbelievable. It’s surreal to hear the music, similar to whale calls, from its 35 tubes as the wind and sea come together. 

See Ancient Ruins in Pula

It can be easy to forget that Croatia was once part of the Roman empire. Dalmatia, as it was then known, was a Roman province and the birthplace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian.

Pula in Croatia serves as a living reminder of this history: with its Roman amphitheatre and smattering of other Roman ruins. These are accompanied by numerous beaches on the quiet shores of the Istrian peninsula.

Dishes to try

Lamb Peka – Slow-cooked lamb with vegetables and potatoes.

Burek – Baked pastry with either meat or cheese filling.

Štrukli – Crepe-like pancake with a sweet or savoury filling.

Dalmatian Platter – A platter of prosciutto-style ham and local cheese.

Drinks to try

Croatian Wine – Variety of red, white, and rose wines, such as Malvasia or Grasevina.

Expect to spend between £90 and £113 / $114 and $144 per day per person in Croatia on a mid-range basis. Add £90+ / $114+ if you’re travelling on a luxury basis.

Average Daily Costs 

• Hotel 
  • Mid-Range – £80 and £150 / $100 and $190
  • Luxury – £150 and £400 / $190 and $550
• Food – £28 and £80 / $35 and $100
• Public Transport – £5 and £22 / $6 and $28
• Attractions – £16 and £42 / $20 and $53
• Tour prices vary depending on tour type and length as well as inclusions.

Safety

Croatia is a safe destination, and violent crimes against tourists are almost non-existent, while you should be aware of pickpockets in busy areas in places like Zagreb.

As for going out at night, drink spiking does occur at nightclubs, so avoid drinks from strangers, and in an emergency, dial 112. 

Health

You don’t need any specific vaccinations as you travel in Croatia, but if you’re planning on heading into the country’s mountains, get your tick-borne encephalitis vaccination.

You’ll find pharmacies everywhere, and it’s easy to get refills of prescription medication if you bring along an empty pill container. Also, tap water is safe to drink.

Tipping

Tipping is not required. In restaurants and bars tip 10% of your service fee, while tour guides accept what you think is fair. 

Tips for travelling

1. If you’re staying in Dubrovnik, book your accommodation outside the Old Town, in areas like Lapad if you want to save money.
2. Speaking of Dubrovnik, if you’re going to walk the walls, do so either early mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds.
3. In Split, do the opposite of Dubrovnik and book your accommodation within its Old Town.
4. Croatia has its own currency, the Kuna. While you can use your credit card in most places, carrying cash with you is wise.
5. Do not refer to it as Yugoslavia. Croatia gained independence in 1991, so be respectful and call the country by its name.

How to see the best for free

When you’re travelling through Croatia on a budget, rest assured that there are many ways to experience its highlights without breaking the bank.

Strolling through Dubrovnik’s Old Town or visiting Diocletian’s Palace in Split are both free. You can also roam around the Roman Ruins in Pula at no cost.

Nature lovers can explore Maksimir Park in Zagreb, while you can wander the country’s beaches or go cliff diving without paying a cent.

Packing

Packing for your Croatia trip? Don’t forget… 

• Comfortable walking shoes when you’re out exploring.
• A refillable water bottle for when you head outdoors.
• Packing cubes to make keeping your belongings together easy.
• A travel backpack if you’re going to go island hopping.
• A sturdy pair of hiking trainers for heading out to Croatia’s natural attractions.

Travel insurance

A no-brainer when it comes to Croatia travel tips is to get yourself the best travel insurance possible. 

Although Croatia is one of the safest destinations in Europe, travel insurance protects you against expenses due to illness, injury, theft, or trip cancellations. AXA Travel Insurance is affordable and offers comprehensive coverage.

Suggested guidebooks

• Moon Croatia & Slovenia
• Fodor’s Essential Croatia
• Lonely Planet Croatia

Interesting facts

• Croatia features eight national parks, 11 nature parks, two nature reserves, and 14 UNESCO sites.
• The name of Croatia’s currency, the Kuna, is also the name given to rodents.
• The first of Croatia’s inhabitants date back to the Paleolithic Age.
• The world’s smallest town is in Croatia. Hum only has 23 residents.

Handy phrases

Hello – “Bok”

Yes – “da”

No – “ne”

Please – “Molim”

Thank You – “Hvala”

How Much Is – “Koliko”

Time zone

Croatia falls into the Central European Time Zone (GMT+1). During daylight savings, this changes to GMT+2.

Electricity and adapters

In Croatia, the electricity supply comes in at 220V, 50Hz, and you’ll find the standard European type C and F plugs – it’s wise to bring along a universal travel adapter.