Croatia – Destination Guide

Perched along the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is a country where medieval towns, crystal-clear waters, and stunning national parks come together in a picture-perfect setting. With over 1,200 islands, a rich history dating back to Roman times, and a cuisine influenced by Mediterranean and Balkan flavors, Croatia offers a diverse travel experience. Whether you’re sailing through the Dalmatian Coast, exploring the cobblestone streets of Dubrovnik, or hiking the cascading waterfalls of Plitvice, Croatia delivers breathtaking scenery and cultural wonders at every turn.

Key Regions to Explore

Dubrovnik & Southern Dalmatia
Dubbed the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most famous city, with UNESCO-listed city walls, Baroque architecture, and breathtaking sea views. Wander through the Old Town, ride the cable car to Mount Srđ, and take a boat to Lokrum Island. Further south, the Pelješac Peninsula is a haven for wine lovers, while Korčula Island, often called “Little Dubrovnik,” boasts a charming historic center and stunning beaches.
Split & Central Dalmatia
The vibrant coastal city of Split is home to Diocletian’s Palace, a sprawling Roman-era fortress that now serves as the city’s buzzing hub. From here, embark on island-hopping adventures to Hvar, Brač, and Vis—each with its own unique charm. Hvar is known for its lively nightlife and lavender fields, Brač for its famous Zlatni Rat Beach, and Vis for its secluded coves and the mystical Blue Cave.
Istria
A paradise for foodies and wine lovers, Istria is often compared to Tuscany for its rolling hills, medieval hilltop towns, and olive groves. Rovinj is one of Croatia’s most picturesque coastal towns, with colorful houses lining the waterfront. Pula is home to a remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater, while Motovun and Grožnjan offer truffle hunting experiences and stunning panoramic views.
Zadar & Northern Dalmatia
Less touristy than Split and Dubrovnik, Zadar blends ancient history with modern art. Walk through its Roman ruins, listen to the haunting sounds of the Sea Organ, and watch the mesmerizing Sun Salutation light installation. Nearby, the Kornati Islands provide a perfect sailing getaway, while Šibenik is home to the stunning Cathedral of St. James and access to the Krka National Park, famous for its waterfall swimming spots.
Zagreb & Inland Croatia
Croatia’s capital, Zagreb, is a vibrant city filled with Austro-Hungarian architecture, quirky museums, and a lively café culture. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships, stroll through Dolac Market, and explore the historic Upper Town (Gornji Grad). Inland, the region of Slavonia offers off-the-beaten-path experiences, known for its wine production, baroque towns, and wild landscapes.
Plitvice Lakes & National Parks
Nature lovers can’t miss Plitvice Lakes National Park, where 16 interconnected lakes cascade into one another through stunning waterfalls. For a less crowded alternative, Krka National Park offers equally stunning waterfalls and the chance to swim beneath them. The Paklenica National Park in northern Dalmatia is a paradise for hikers and rock climbers.

Key Highlights

Dubrovnik’s Old Town & City Walls
Diocletian’s Palace in Split
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Krka National Park & Waterfalls
Island hopping to Hvar, Brač, and Vis
Zlatni Rat Beach on Brač Island
Sea Organ & Sun Salutation in Zadar
Istrian wine & truffle experiences
Pula’s Roman Amphitheater
Sailing the Kornati Islands

Major Towns & Cities

Zagreb – Croatia’s capital and cultural hub, known for its museums, architecture, and vibrant street life.
Dubrovnik – A historic coastal city with UNESCO-listed city walls and breathtaking Adriatic views.
Split – The country’s second-largest city, home to Diocletian’s Palace and the gateway to Dalmatian islands.
Zadar – A charming seaside city with Roman ruins and modern art installations.
Rovinj – A picturesque town in Istria, known for its colorful waterfront and Venetian architecture.
Pula – A coastal town famous for its well-preserved Roman amphitheater.

Arrival Airports & Transportation

Zagreb Airport (ZAG) – The largest airport, with international flights from Europe and beyond.
Split Airport (SPU) – The main gateway to the Dalmatian Coast and island hopping.
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) – Best for those visiting southern Croatia, particularly Dubrovnik and its islands.
Zadar Airport (ZAD) – A great access point for Northern Dalmatia and the Kornati Islands.
Pula Airport (PUY) – Serves Istria, with flights from European cities.
Ferries & Catamarans – Jadrolinija and Krilo operate ferries connecting the mainland to Croatia’s islands.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April – June): Ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and exploring national parks without the summer crowds.
Summer (July – August): Peak season for beaches, island hopping, and sailing, but expect higher prices and crowds in hotspots like Dubrovnik and Hvar.
Fall (September – October): A perfect balance of warm weather, fewer tourists, and harvest season for wine and truffles in Istria.
Winter (November – March): A quiet period, great for visiting Zagreb, Istria, and Dubrovnik without crowds, though many coastal businesses close for the season.

Practical Information

Currency

Currency: Euro (€)
Credit Cards: Widely accepted in major cities, hotels, and restaurants, but cash is recommended for smaller towns and island markets.
ATMs: Easily found across the country, but always select “without conversion” for better exchange rates.

Languages Spoken

Croatian is the official language.
English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Italian is common in Istria, while German is understood in some regions.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Visa-Free: EU, US, UK, Canadian, and Australian travelers can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
Schengen Zone: As of 2023, Croatia is part of the Schengen Area, so travelers can move freely between EU countries.

Food & Dining

Dalmatian cuisine features fresh seafood, olive oil, and herbs.
Istrian cuisine is known for truffle dishes, pasta, and wine.
Meat lovers should try Ćevapi (grilled sausages) and Peka (slow-cooked meat and vegetables).

Tipping Culture

Tipping isn’t mandatory, but 10% is appreciated in restaurants.
Rounding up taxi fares and leaving small tips for hotel staff is customary.

eSIM & Connectivity

Croatia has great 4G/5G coverage.
eSIMs and local SIM cards are available at airports and convenience stores. Using an eSIM is our recommended choice while travelling anywhere in the world, and our recommended provider is Holafly. For more information on eSIMs, check out this blog.

Why Visit Croatia?

Croatia blends stunning nature, historic cities, and island adventures in one spectacular destination. Whether you’re sailing the Adriatic, wandering Dubrovnik’s medieval streets, or exploring national parks, Croatia is a dream for travelers seeking a mix of history, adventure, and relaxation.