Croatia Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Zagreb.

Geography:

Croatia stretches along the Adriatic coast, narrowing north-south, with a larger inland area (Slavonia) running west-east from Zagreb to the border with Serbia. The northern two-thirds of this border are formed by the River Drava, the east by the Danube, the southern part by the Sava. The country borders Slovenia and Hungary to the north, Serbia to the east, Montenegro to the southeast and Bosnia & Herzegovina (southeast from Zagreb; northeast from the Adriatic coastline). The coastline is highly indented, with over 1,100 islands and islets lying offshore.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

The national carrier is Croatia Airlines (www.croatiaairlines.com). Other airlines flying to Croatia from the UK include British Airways (www.ba.com) and easyJet (www.easyjet.com). Flights are at their most expensive in July, August and around Christmas – book as far in advance as possible at these times of year.

Major airports are: Dubrovnik Airport, Split Airport, Zagreb Airport and Zadar Airport.

Departure Tax

None.

Flight Times

To Zagreb: from London - 2 hours 15 minutes; New York - 10 hours 15 minutes (including stopover).

Getting There By Road

There are good, easy routes by road from all neighbouring countries. Hrvatski Autoklub (the Croatian Automobile) (www.hak.hr) can provide information.

Getting There By Water

Major ports include Rijeka (www.lukarijeka.hr), Zadar (www.port-authority-zadar.hr), Split (www.portsplit.com) and Dubrovnik (www.portdubrovnik.hr).

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

Zagreb (ZAG), Rijeka (RJK), Split (SPU), Pula (PUY) and Dubrovnik (DBV) international airports all receive domestic flights.  Domestic services also run to Zadar (www.zadar-airport.hr) and Osijek (www.osijek-airport.hr), which both handle some international traffic, and the smaller airports on the islands of Brac (www.airport-brac.hr) and Los¡inj (www.airportmalilosinj.hr).

The main domestic routes operated by Croatia Airlines (www.croatiaairlines.com) are Zagreb-Dubrovnik and Zagreb-Split.

Note: Buying domestic tickets while in Croatia can sometimes be cheaper than online.

Bike

Local tourist agencies in many main centres hire bikes, and some local tourist boards (eg Zagreb County, www.tzzz.hr) have cycle routes and maps online.

Breakdown Services

Hrvatski Autoklub (HAK) operates an emergency service (tel: +385 1 987; www.hak.hr).

Car Hire

International and local car hire firms have offices in Croatia's airports, cities, bigger towns and leading resorts.

Coach

Regular coaches operate between most towns (see Zagreb bus station website, www.akz.hr).

Documentation

National or International Driving Permit. All motorists should also carry a valid passport or national identity card as proof of identity at all times. A Green Card should be carried by visitors (except EU nationals) taking their own car into Croatia.

National registration in the country of origin is required for all foreign vehicles. Third party insurance is mandatory when hiring a car and a valid credit card is also needed.

Getting Around By Rail

HŽPP (tel: +381 1 378 2583; www.hzpp.hr/en) operates trains in Croatia. The main rail routes are Zagreb-Split, Zagreb-Rijeka and Zagreb-Osijek. There are no trains to Dubrovnik. It's generally quicker to travel by bus.

 

Regulations

The minimum driving age is 18. Speed limits are 130kph (81mph) on motorways, 110kph (62mph) on highways, 50kph (31mph) in built-up areas and 90kph (50mph) outside built-up areas. Heavy fines are imposed for speeding.

It's compulsory for front and rear passengers to wear seat belts. It is illegal to use a handheld mobile telephone while driving. Headlights should be turned on at all times. Driving is on the right.

Getting Around By Road

There is a good motorway network (though the extension to Dubrovnik isn't yet complete). In some areas the road quality decreases somewhat, and the main coastal highway gets extremely congested during peak season.

Road Classification

Motorways are designated ‘A’, highways as ‘E'. 

Road Quality

Croatia has an extensive network of highways (designated as E roads) and unclassified roads. Motorway connections are continually improving, and Croatia's 11 motorways are designated with the numbers A1 to A11.

The A1 is the main artery between Zagreb and Split. The A2 runs between Ljubljana (Slovenia) and Zagreb (Croatia), connecting Zagreb directly to the Western European highway system.

Side Of Road

r

Taxi

Registered taxis are easy to find and safe. Since fares are regulated, they're reasonably priced too.

Urban Travel

Most towns and cities have a comprehensive local bus network; trams operate in many cities (Zagreb, Split, Osijek, etc). The historic centre of some towns (Split, Dubrovnik) are pedestrianised and pleasantly car-free.

Zagreb: You can easily navigate the centre of Zagreb on foot. It also has a good network of trams and buses run by ZET (www.zet.hr), as well as a funicular and taxis.

Dubrovnik: Dubrovnik's Old City is pedestrianised. Libertas (www.libertasdubrovnik.hr) operates efficient bus services, with stops just outside the Pile and Ploče gates.

Getting Around By Water

Jadrolinija (tel: +385 51 666 111; www.jadrolinija.hr) is the main provider of car and passenger ferries and catamarans in Croatia. There are regular connections between the main ports and the offshore islands. A coastal service runs all the way from Rijeka in the north to Dubrovnik in the south, via Split, Stari Grad and Korcula.

Travel Advice

Before you travel 

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications for Croatia when this advice is updated.

Follow and contact FCDO: 

• travel advice on X
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This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of the current rules 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 the UK. 

Passport validity requirements 

Croatia follows Schengen area rules. Your passport must:

• have a 'date of issue' less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
• have an 'expiry date' at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area

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. 

Visa requirements 

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area, which includes 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

The requirements for working in Croatia are different.

If you're travelling to other Schengen countries make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day visa-free limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days. If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years.

If you're a visitor, border guards will look at your entry and exit stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area.

If your passport is missing a stamp, 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.

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

Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period 

To stay longer, you must meet the Croatian government's entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Croatian Embassy in the UK. See the Croatian Ministry of the Interior's guidance on work permits.

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

Read about passport stamping if you live in Croatia.

Croatia-Slovenia border crossings 

There are checks at Slovenia's borders with Croatia. If you are travelling from Croatia to Slovenia, check travel advice for Slovenia. 

Vaccine requirements 

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's Croatia guide.

Registering 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 form obrazac 16a (PDF). You must hand in the completed form at a 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 into Croatia 

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food and special foods or pet feed required for medical reasons.

Taking money into Croatia

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 10,000 euros or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave.

Terrorism 

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. 

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad. 

Terrorism in Croatia 

Terrorist attacks in Croatia cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. 

Crime 

Crime levels are low and violent crime is rare. 

Protecting yourself and your belongings 

Tourists have been overcharged at certain 'gentlemen's clubs', sometimes by thousands of euros, and threatened with violence if they refuse to pay. 

Pickpockets operate in tourist areas. Avoid carrying large sums of cash, do not leave valuables unattended and use hotel safes if possible. 

Attacks and sexual assaults in taxis

There have been reports of sexual assaults in taxis in Croatia. To reduce risk and help prevent potential assaults:

• take a photo of the inside, where the number of the taxi is visible, and send it to a friend or someone else
• share your ride status on the taxi app
• make a call while in the taxi telling someone which taxi it is and where you are going

Laws and cultural differences 

Personal ID 

Always carry your passport or, if you're a resident, your Croatian ID card. Keep a copy of your passport's photo page in a safe place.

Antisocial behaviour 

In some Croatian town centres, including tourist destinations like Split and Dubrovnik, you can get on-the-spot fines for behaviour seen as inappropriate, including: 

• drinking alcohol or using drugs in public spaces
• sleeping in public spaces
• urinating or vomiting in public spaces
• walking through towns shirtless or in swimwear
• wearing clothing that promotes drug use
• climbing on monuments

You can also be fined up to 4,000 euros for public order disturbances, including: 

• fighting
• verbal abuse such as shouting or arguing
• drunken behaviour
• belittling or insulting police officers or other public officials

Illegal drugs and prison sentences 

Drug offences are punished with fines and prison sentences. 

Unexploded mines  

If you travel outside the tourist resorts, beware of unexploded mines in previously war-affected areas, including: 

• Eastern Slavonia
• Brod-Posavina County
• Karlovac County
• areas around Zadar County
• more remote areas of the Plitvice Lakes National Park

For more information about mine-affected areas, visit the Civil Protection website (in Croatian) or contact the Civil Protection offices. 

If you're travelling in these areas, do not walk on uncultivated land or step off the marked paths. If in doubt, get local advice. 

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Hiking and mountaineering 

If you're hiking in the mountains, get expert advice from local guides, however tame the mountain might seem. Weather in the Croatian mountains can change quickly, even in summer. Temperatures can get very low overnight.

There is a risk of getting lost in the mountains when out hiking alone and using unmarked paths. Read the Croatian Mountain Rescue tips on mountaineering, follow their X at Hrvatska GSS and see their maps. If you get into trouble, call the emergency number 112 for help from the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service. 

Transport risks 

Road travel 

If you're planning to drive in Croatia, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in RAC's Croatia guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of, such as:

• having your headlights on and dipped when driving a car from 1 November until 31 March, even during daytime
• driving with dipped headlights year-round on scooters and motorcycles
• using winter tyres between 15 November and 15 April
• carrying a fluorescent vest in the car, not in the boot – you must wear the vest while attending to a breakdown

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Croatia for up to one year. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.

The Croatian Automobile Association lists current traffic hazards. 

Drink-driving is a serious offence in Croatia. If you're found with more than 0.05% of alcohol in your blood (in England it's 0.08%) you will get a fine, and you may lose your licence and get a prison sentence. The alcohol limit is zero for drivers under the age of 24.

Sea travel 

Do not drink alcohol if you're in charge of a yacht or boat. There are heavy penalties for being caught drunk in charge of a boat and a zero-tolerance approach. 

You must sail by the most direct route to a port of entry when entering Croatian territorial waters.

Authorities can arrest you for entering a non-designated entry port without telling them. If you cannot use the correct entry port, contact the local harbour master or the police before entering Croatia.  

If you are in Croatia, including on a boat, your presence in Croatia must be registered with the police. If you're travelling with a tour operator, they should do this for you. Otherwise, you must fill in and print form obrazac 16a (PDF) and hand it in at a police station.    

All captains must have an International Certificate of Competence. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards. 

Wildfires

Wildfires are common during Croatia's hot and dry summers. Take care when visiting or driving through woodland and forest areas. If you see a fire, call the emergency services on 112. If you're affected, follow the advice of local authorities. 

From 1 June to 31 October it is illegal to set outdoor fires and barbecues except in designated areas. Intentionally causing a fire is illegal in Croatia and you could be fined 2,000 to 20,000 euros, or even given a prison sentence. 

You could also be fined for unintentionally causing a fire. Properly extinguish cigarette ends and do not leave any rubbish behind, particularly empty bottles, as these are known to start fires. Fines in these cases have ranged from 260 to 1,200 euros. 

Earthquakes 

Earthquakes in Croatia can be strong and cause deaths and damage to infrastructure. In recent years, there have been earthquakes in Zagreb and in Petrinja, near Sisak in central Croatia. Both caused extensive damage to buildings and infrastructure and loss of life. Heavily damaged buildings, which are not always signposted, may be unstable. 

Small tremors also happen several times a month throughout the year. Most pass without consequence. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake. 

Floods  

Flash floods can happen with very little warning and lead to dangerous water flows and disruption to transport and other networks. There is the highest risk of flooding in central Croatia, between Karlovac and Slavonski Brod. Monitor Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service forecasts and follow the advice of local authorities.

Before you travel check that: 

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. 

Emergency medical number 

Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance. 

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

Vaccine recommendations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip: 

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Croatia
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you'll face in Croatia, including:

• dengue
• biting insects and ticks

Medication 

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. 

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro. 

Healthcare in Croatia 

FCDO has a list of medical facilities in Croatia, where some staff will speak English. 

Health insurance cards 

To get medically necessary state healthcare in Croatia, you need a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

The NHS's getting healthcare abroad webpage has details about:

• how to apply for a GHIC
• how to get temporary cover if you lose your card or it does not arrive in time
• who qualifies for a new EHIC instead of a GHIC
• what treatment counts as medically necessary

A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. In Croatia there is always a charge for treatment, which can be up to 530 euros. You may have other costs your GHIC or EHIC does not cover, including: 

• changes to travel and accommodation bookings
• additional standard costs for treatment
• medical repatriation to the UK
• treatment that is ruled non-urgent
• private healthcare
• private clinics

There is also guidance on healthcare if you're living in Croatia.

Travel and mental health 

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel. 

Emergency services in Croatia 

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police) 

Contact your travel provider and insurer 

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you're involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do. 

Refunds and changes to travel 

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first. 

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including: 

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO 

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including: 

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Croatia
• dealing with a death in Croatia
• being arrested or imprisoned in Croatia
• getting help if you're a victim of crime
• what to do if you're in hospital
• if you're affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO 

Help abroad

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.

Help in the UK

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad. 

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges 

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. 

Follow and contact FCDO: 

• travel advice on X
• travel advice on Facebook

Risk information for British companies 

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Croatia on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Vaccinations

Title	Special Precautions
Hepatitis A	Yes
Diphtheria	Yes
Tetanus	Yes
Rabies	Sometimes
Malaria	No
Typhoid	Sometimes
Yellow Fever	No

Overview:

For UK nationals emergency medical treatment is normally free on presentation of a UK passport. Since Croatia is now part of the EU, EU citizens can use EHIC cards to gain free medical care. Non-emergency care and prescribed medicines must be paid for. All travellers are advised to take out full medical insurance.

Food Drink:

Food is almost universally safe, and tap water is fine to drink.

Other Risks:

Vaccinations against hepatitis B and tuberculosis are sometimes advised. Precautions should be taken against tick bites. For anyone planning to spend long periods of time in forested areas, carrying a pair of tick tweezers is advised, and immunisation against tick-borne encephalitis is also a possible precaution. Rabies is present. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay.

Currency Information:

Euro (EUR; symbol €) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of €500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of €5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.

Credit Cards:

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted. ATMs are widespread.

ATMs:

ATMs are widespread.

Travellers Cheques:

To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars, Pounds Sterling or Euros.

Banking Hours:

Mon-Fri 0700-1900, Sat 0700-1300.

Currency Restrictions:

The import and export of local currency is limited to Kn15,000. The import and export of foreign currency is unlimited but it is compulsory to declare upon arrival the amounts that exceed the equivalent of €10,000.

Currency Exchange:

Foreign currency can be exchanged in banks, by authorised dealers and post offices.

Currencies

Code	Symbol
EUR	€

Exchange Rates

0.71

1.00

1.19

0.96

Language

The official language is Croatian (Hrvatski). Ethnic minorities living in Croatia also speak Serbian, Slovenian, Hungarian and Italian. People working in tourism generally speak excellent English, plus some Italian and German.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

.

List Of Public Holidays

Title	Start Date	To Be Confirmed
New Year's Day	2024-01-01 00:00:00	0
Epiphany	2024-01-06 00:00:00	0
Easter Sunday	2024-03-31 00:00:00	0
Labour Day	2024-05-01 00:00:00	0
Corpus Christi	2024-05-30 00:00:00	0
Anti-Fascist Resistance Day	2024-06-22 00:00:00	0
Statehood Day	2024-06-25 00:00:00	0
Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day	2024-08-05 00:00:00	0
Independence Day	2024-10-08 00:00:00	0
All Saint's Day	2024-11-01 00:00:00	0
Christmas Day	2024-12-25 00:00:00	0

Overview:

Croatia is within the European Union. If you are over 17 years old and travelling from outside of the EU, you are entitled to buy fragrance, skincare, cosmetics, Champagne, wine, selected spirits, fashion accessories, gifts and souvenirs - all at tax-free equivalent prices.

Croatia’s duty-free allowance for travellers from EU countries:

If you are over 17 years old, you are free to buy and take goods with you when travelling between EU countries, provided that you have paid tax on these goods and they are for your own use (not for sale). However, if you bring in more than the following, customs officials are likely to question you:

• 800 cigarettes 

• 400 cigarillos 

• 200 cigars 

• 1kg of tobacco.

• 90L of still wine of which a maximum of 60L can be sparkling wine.

• 110L of beer.

• 10L of alcoholic beverages stronger than 22%

• 20L of fortified or sparkling wine or other liqueurs up to 22%.

Beware that each EU country has different rules for travellers under 17 years old. Please check before you travel.

 

Croatia’s duty-free allowance for travellers from non-EU countries:

 

If you are arriving from a non-EU country, the following goods may be imported into Croatia by persons over 17 years of age without incurring customs duty when travelling by air:

• 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.

• 4L of wine and 16L of beer and 1L of spirits over 22% or 2L of alcoholic beverages less than 22%.

• 50 g of heated tobacco products or 10 ml of e-liquids or 50 g of new tobacco products.

 

If you are arriving from a non-EU country, the following goods may be imported into Croatia by persons over 17 years of age without incurring customs duty when travelling by land or sea:

• 40 cigarettes or 20 cigarillos or 10 cigars or 50g of tobacco.

• 4L of wine and 16L of beer and 1L of spirits over 22% or 2L of alcoholic beverages less than 22%.

• 50 g of heated tobacco products or 10 ml of e-liquids or 50 g of new tobacco products.

 

• Other goods up to the value of €430 for air and sea travellers and €300 for other travellers (reduced to €150 for children under 15).

.

Banned Imports:

Banned imports include unauthorised firearms and ammunition and article of scientific or cultural value without a permit. There are also restrictions on the import of plants, animals and food.

You cannot bring meat, fish or dairy products from outside the EU to Croatia.

There is a ban on the import of the following goods from the Russian Federation into the EU: diamonds, gold, jewelry, cigarettes, cosmetics, seafood (e.g. caviar), spirits (e.g. vodka), shoes, clothing and smartwatches.

Telephone:

Telephone booths are operated by phonecards available at post offices, news stands and in some tourist shops. There are also payphone booths in many post offices.

Mobile Telephone:

Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is good. Local SIM cards are also readily available, often bundled with credit and a phone.

Internet:

Internet cafes can be found in Zagreb and other main towns. They are easy to find (start by looking in one of the tourist agencies), though the connection speed varies.

Post

Stamps are available in post offices and from news stands. Allow around a week for letters to the UK, 10 days to the US. See Croatian Postal Services website (www.posta.hr).

Post Office Hours:

Mon-Fri 0700-1900 and Sat 0700-1300. Some may be open until 2200 in larger cities.

Media:

Croatia's media operate in a climate of relative freedom, especially compared to the restrictions of President Tudjman's era. The constitution bans censorship and guarantees press freedom. Croatian Radio-Television, HRT, is a national state-owned public broadcaster and is financed by a mixture of advertising and licence-fee revenues. Other networks include Nova and RTL. Public TV is the main source of news and information. National and regional newspapers include Jutarnji list and Večernji list; the Croatian Times (www.croatiantimes.com) is an English-language news website.

Poreč

Built on a small peninsula, the Istrian town of Poreč (www.to-porec.com) dates back to Roman times. Climb the tower of its star attraction, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Euphrasius Basilica and admire the Basilica's stunning sixth-century Byzantine mosaics.
 

Trogir

Just west of Split is the tiny medieval city of Trogir (www.tztrogir.hr), that was was founded by the Greeks in the third century BC. Discover the beautiful Romanesque cathedral and Venetian gothic stone buildings that have earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage site list.

Zagorje

Head for the undulating hills and vineyards of Zagorje (www.tz-zagorje.hr), just north of Zagreb, to explore the historic Veliki Tabor and Trakošćan castles.

Split

Travel back in time to Split (www.visitsplit.com), the capital of Central Dalmatia, which was founded in the third century AD by the Roman Emperor Diocletian. Croatia's second city is a major port, and the main jumping off point for ferries to and from some of the most popular islands, including Hvar and Brač. At its core is the truly amazing Diocletian's Palace (another UNESCO World Heritage Site), built for Diocletian and which is now a warren of houses, shops, alleys and historic architecture spanning some 1700 years.

Pula

The city of Pula on the Istrian coast has some of the finest Roman ruins in Croatia, including a magnificent and remarkably well-preserved amphitheatre which is one of the largest surviving in the world.

Brijuni National Park

Brijuni National Park (www.brijuni.hr) is an archipelago of 14 unspoilt islands located off the west coast of Istria. Stay overnight on the largest island, Veli Brijun, home to a golf course and a safari park.

Inland Istria

Driving around Inland Istria will reveal romantic hill towns like Motovun (www.tz-motovun.hr), Buje (www.tzg-buje.hr) and Grožnjan (www.tz-groznjan.hr). While here sample the local delicacy, truffles.

Zadar

Often overlooked by most tourists until comparatively recently, Zadar (www.tzzadar.hr) is one of the most important historical centres on the coast, with a beautiful old town centre and now a thriving music festival nearby (the Garden Festival). Stroll around its narrow cobbled streets, drink coffee on a ruined Roman Forum and listen to classical recitals in the ninth-century Church of St Donat.

Šibenik

Central Dalmatia's second city, Šibenik (www.sibenik-tourism.hr), is worth visiting for its 15th-century UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St James alone. The Old Town was founded by the Slavs, not the Romans or Venetians.

Krka National Park

The river in Krka National Park (www.npkrka.hr) has sculpted a picturesque canyon, famed for its spectacular Skradinski buk (Skradin Waterfalls) and the islet of Visovac, home to a Franciscan Monastery.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park (www.np-plitvicka-jezera.hr) is one of Croatia's premier tourist attractions - a UNESCO-listed tree-shrouded wonderland of 16 turquoise lakes and waterfalls. Though busy with visitors in the summer, Croatia’s most famous national park never fails to disappoint, with water gushing over ancient travertine beds and tumbling down high waterfalls.

Over thousands of years, the waters that flow through this area have passed over limestone and chalk, creating deposits which form natural barriers between the lakes. The lakes range in height from Proscansko Jezero at 636.6m (1746ft) above sea level, to the lowest, Kaludjerovac, at 505.2m (1386ft), and in surface area from 81 hectares (33 acres) to one hectare (2.5 acres).

Zagreb

The Croatian capital is unquestionably its most interesting city, despite the focus of tourism on the coast. Beautiful architecture, a huge number of museums and galleries, excellent restaurants, a lively café culture and some lovely parks and gardens all make Zagreb an essential part of any visit to Croatia.

Visit the historic monuments of Gornji Grad (Upper Town): the Cathedral, St Mark's Church (noted for its tiled roof) and the Sabor (Croatian parliament). Then check out the museums of 19th-century Donji Grad (Lower Town).

The Museum of Arts and Crafts (www.muo.hr) traces Croatian craftsmanship through the centuries, and the Mimara Museum exhibits a rich collection of painting, sculpture and ceramics from abroad. Admire Mestrovic's dramatic sculptures at the Mestrovic Atelier (www.mdc.hr/mestrovic).

Dubrovnik

Undoubtedly the most famous place in Croatia, Dubrovnik's old town constitutes one of the best-preserved medieval walled cities on the Mediterranean. Walk a complete circuit of Dubrovnik's (www.tzdubrovnik.hr) 13th-century city walls, then explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Check out the Franciscan Monastery (home to Europe's oldest pharmacy) and delightful baroque churches. Dubrovnik's turbulent history can be unearthed at the Rector's Palace, War Photo Limited (www.warphotoltd.com) and the Maritime Museum.

Art and sculpture

See fine examples of early Croatian religious art at the Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments (www.mhas-split.hr) in Split. Appreciate more of Meštrović's 20th-century sculptures in the city's Meštrović Gallery (www.mdc.hr/mestrovic).
 

Volosko

Home to some of Croatia's best seafood restaurants, the gastronomic enclave of Volosko is a pretty fishing village just outside the popular resort of Opatija (www.opatija-tourism.hr), while soaking up attractive Adriatic sea views.

Golden Cape

The fine golden shingle of Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape) makes it Croatia's most photographed beach, located just outside the tourist resort of Bol (www.bol.hr) on the island of Brac. It's also one of Croatia's top windsurfing destinations.

Cres

Escape the crowds on the Kvarner Gulf island of Cres (www.tzg-cres.hr), famous for its colony of Griffon Vultures, the historic settlement of Valun and the laid-back Cres Town.

Hiking and climbing

Velebit is Croatia's most extensive mountain range and the best area for hiking lies just inland from the coast between Senj and Starigrad-Paklenica, and contains two national parks, Sjeverni Velebit in the north and Paklenica in the south.

Kornati National Park

The Kornati National Park (www.kornati.hr) is an archipelago of some 90 scattered islands and islets. Virtually uninhabited, the islands display a harsh, rocky landscape practically devoid of vegetation. Several renovated stone cottages provide 'Robinson Crusoe'-type holiday accommodation.

Hvar

Join the jet set on the increasingly exclusive island of Hvar, renowned for its rugged coastline, excellent wines and lavender fields. Drink coffee or sip cocktails in Hvar Town (www.tzhvar.hr), a Venetian settlement, built around a picturesque harbour presided over by a hilltop fortress.

Diving

Dive in the ethereal Blue Grotto and explore the shipwrecks sunk off the island of Vis (www.tz-vis.hr), Croatia's most remote inhabited island.

Island-hopping

Croatia has over 1100 of them, in all shapes and sizes, ranging from the remote islets that make up the Kornati archipelago, to the lavender-scented, party capital of Hvar. Island hop between the largely traffic-free Elaphite Islands of Kolocep, Lopud and Sipan, near Dubrovnik (www.visitdubrovnik.hr), with their secluded and beaches and good-value restaurants.

Korčula Town

Korčula Town (www.korcula.net) is a marvel of medieval urban planning which has charmed foreign visitors since the first tourists arrived on the eponymous island in the 1920s.

Cycling

A top cycling spot is in Mljet National Park (www.np-mljet.hr), located on the green and unspoiled island of the same name. The park boasts dense forests, two interconnected saltwater lakes and, in the centre of the larger lake, the exquisite St Mary's Island and Benedictine Monastery.

Bird-watching

Slavonia's Kopački Rit Nature Park (www.kopacki-rit.com) is a vast expanse of wetland frequented by myriad migrating birds and well away from the tourist crowds.
 

Overview

Traditional handicrafts like embroidery, intricate lace from the island of Pag, small decorative ‘hearts’ from Zagreb, lavender bags from Hvar, locally made glass jewellery, woodcarvings and ceramics make good souvenirs, while Croatian wines and spirits, olive oils and truffle products also make excellent gifts to bring home. Local fashion label I-GLE (www.i-gle.com) has stores in Zagreb. Fairs and festivals can be a good place to buy souvenirs, or seasonal markets such as those in central Zagreb around Easter, and there are a number of shops (particularly in Zagreb and Dubrovnik) selling a good range of local products (try Bakina Kuća, www.bakina-kuca.hr). Tourists can reclaim VAT on expenditure of more than 500 Kn. Visitors should ensure that all receipts are retained after any purchase is made, as financial police have the power to fine visitors without relevant documents. This is to prevent VAT evasion by shopkeepers.

Opening Hours

Mon-Fri 0800-2000, Sat 0800-1400/1500. Some shops in cities may open on Sundays.

Overview

Though the Adriatic is mostly associated with the culinary titan that is Italy, Croatia's coast is also renowned for its variety of seafood dishes. Italian influence is strong in this region, while inland areas abound with steaks and hearty stews. Freshwater fish is prominent on menus in Slavonia.

You’ll find exquisite cakes and desserts all over the country, with a mix of gelato, pancakes, pastries, torta, and even baklava. Croatia produces plenty of wine, with the best reds generally coming from the Pelješac peninsula, and the best whites usually produced in eastern Slavonia and in Istria. Most towns boast a great pizzeria, too.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

5% to 10% is sufficient (and is expected in the more upmarket restaurants), otherwise just round up the bill.

Drinking Age

18.

Hotels

Ongoing investment in Croatia's hotel stock is seeing the standard in accommodation increase across the board, with good 4- and 5-star hotels available along the coast and inland, including some stunning boutique options. Village tourism is also on the increase in rural areas.

Grading: Hotels in Croatia are officially graded by the Ministry of Tourism into five categories according to the standard of accommodation: 5-star: Luxury. 4-star: Deluxe. 3-star: First class. 2-star: Moderate. 1-star: Basic and budget. For a list of classified hotels, visit the tourist board website (www.croatia.hr).

Camping Caravaning

There are numerous campsites in Croatia, including quite a few naturist camps. Contact the Croatian Camping Union or visit  the tourist board website (www.croatia.hr). Wild camping is frowned on (and will usually result in you being asked to move by the police), and is prohibited in national parks.

Other

History

Croatia has a long and eventful history. Although Greek colonies were present on its coast from around the 6th century BC, this was an Illyrian-dominated territory until Celtic tribes began to push them into modern-day Albania in the 4th century BC. The tough Illyrians managed to hold much of Croatia, however, until the Romans defeated the last Illyrian king in 168BC.

The Romans ultimately brought the whole Dalmatian coast under imperial control, going on to rule for some five centuries. They built roads, trading outposts and fortresses, including the grand palace in Split, the finest Roman ruin of its kind in Eastern Europe. Towards the end of the Roman era, there were two Dalmatian emperors, including the great Diocletian.

After the collapse of the Roman Empire, Croats alongside other Slavic tribes began to move westwards. In the 7th century they are thought to have attacked Byzantine Dalmatia with the help of the Avars. By the 8th century, powerful Croat clans in the region had emerged, and an independent Croatian state was established in the 10th century. It lasted less than 200 years. Over subsequent centuries, Croatia was alternately ruled by Hungary, Venice, Napoleon and Austria. After WWI, a new 'Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes' was created, and following WWII, Croatia became part of Tito’s Yugoslavia along with Serbia, Slovenia, Bosnia, Macedonia.

On 25 June 1991, Croatia declared itself independent from Yugoslavia, a move that resulted in an infamously drawn-out conflict. Croatia was pitted against the might of the Yugoslav army and Serb irregular forces. In any case, by December 1991 the German government had recognised Croatian independence, with the rest of the world quickly following suit.

The death of the country's first democratically elected president, Franjo Tudjman, in 1999 heralded a new era of Croatian politics; Stjepan Mesić stepped into the fold and Croatia adopted a more conciliatory approach at home and abroad. In 2009, Jadranka Kosor became Croatia's first female prime minister following the surprise resignation of former PM, Ivo Sanader. In 2013, Croatia became a member of the European Union.

Did you know?
• The English poet Lord Byron once described Dubrovnik as the “pearl of the Adriatic”.
• While the old Slavic Glagolitic alphabet was replaced by Cyrillic in the Middle Ages, the Croats kept it alive until the 20th century – mostly in liturgical writing.
• Ancient Egyptians in Croatia? The sphinx seen in the Roman ruins of Split was brought over from Egypt by Diocletian in the 3rd century.

Religion

Roman Catholic Croats (87.8% of the total population) and Eastern Orthodox Serbs (4.4%), as well as small communities of Protestants, Jews and Muslims.

Social Conventions

People normally shake hands upon meeting and leaving. Smoking is generally acceptable but there are restrictions in public buildings and on public transport.

Photography: Certain restrictions exist.

Best Time To Visit:

Croatia has a varied climate, with continental climate conditions inland and Mediterranean influence on the Adriatic coast. Peak season is July - August, with temperatures in the high 20s or in the 30s in places like Split, but you can expect plenty of sunshine from roughly May to October on the coast, and the shoulder seasons (May-June and September) are among the best times to visit Croatia. Inland is also hot in the summer but can be bitterly cold in the winter with sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall. Winter on the coast is milder but can be quite rainy.

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Required Clothing

Lightweights and beachwear (including sun protection) for summer. Mediumweights for winter with heavy, warm clothing for inland areas. It is a good idea to pack waterproofs at any time of year.

Dialing Code:

+385

Area(sq km):

56542

Population:

4089400

Population Density(per sq km):

79

Population Year:

2018

EU Member:

Yes

Main emergency number

112