Things To Do
in Croatia
Croatia, a picturesque country in Southeast Europe along the Adriatic Sea, is known for its rich history, stunning coastline, and diverse landscapes, ranging from lush green hills to sun-soaked islands. Its ancient towns and cities, like Dubrovnik and Split, boast remarkable architectural marvels and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reflecting centuries of cultural heritage.
The nation is also celebrated for its delicious cuisine, influenced by Mediterranean flavors, making it a sought-after destination for food enthusiasts and travelers alike.
- "Dobar dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please
- "Kako si?" - How are you?
- "Gdje je WC?" - Where is the restroom?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by walking the iconic city walls for breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Visit the Old Town and grab breakfast at a local café.
Take the cable car to Mount Srđ for panoramic views and a thrilling experience. Enjoy lunch in a seaside restaurant and explore the historic Fort Imperial.
Stroll through the lantern-lit streets of the Old Town. Dine at a seafood restaurant and enjoy local Dubrovnik wine.
Spend your morning lounging at one of Hvar's stunning beaches. Swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy a light breakfast at a beach bar.
Explore Hvar town, visiting the historic fortress and strolling through charming squares. Have lunch with a view of the harbor.
Experience Hvar's vibrant nightlife with a visit to a trendy bar. Savor delicious Mediterranean cuisine at one of the local restaurants.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, including beaches, national parks, and historical sites.
- Rich cultural heritage with a mix of Mediterranean, Central European, and Balkan influences.
- Delicious cuisine featuring fresh seafood, locally produced wines, and traditional dishes.
- Friendly and welcoming locals, making it easy for tourists to feel at home.
- Growing popularity as a tourist destination, offering various activities for all ages and interests.
- Tourist crowds can be overwhelming during peak season, particularly in popular areas like Dubrovnik.
- Limited public transportation options in some regions, making it challenging to navigate without a car.
- Higher cost of living in tourist-heavy cities compared to other regions.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in some Western European countries.
- Language barriers may pose a challenge in less touristy areas where English is less commonly spoken.
Best Activities in Croatia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with numerous trails that cater to all skill levels.
Experience the beautiful coastline and crystal-clear waters of Dubrovnik by kayaking around the city walls and nearby islands.
Discover the picturesque landscapes and charming villages of the Istrian peninsula on a cycling tour, with paths suitable for both casual riders and serious cyclists.
Embark on a sailing adventure in the Adriatic Sea, exploring the numerous islands and hidden coves around Split.
Dive into the vibrant underwater world surrounding Vis Island, known for its clear waters, diverse marine life, and beautiful snorkeling spots.
Challenge yourself with rock climbing in Paklenica National Park, renowned for its impressive cliffs and a variety of climbing routes for all levels.
Experience an exhilarating rafting trip down the Zrmanja River, navigating its rapids and enjoying the breathtaking scenery of the canyon.
Visit Kopački Rit Nature Park, one of Europe's most significant wetlands, to observe a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Enjoy outdoor winery tours in the Slavonia region, sampling local wines while exploring vineyards and picturesque landscapes.
Discover the beauty of Krka National Park, famous for its waterfalls, where you can walk along the wooden pathways and take refreshing dips in natural pools.
Tours
Uncover the best of Croatia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Croatia
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its cascading lakes and waterfalls, this national park offers breathtaking views and countless opportunities for stunning photographs.
Known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', this UNESCO World Heritage site features beautiful medieval architecture and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Overlooking Dubrovnik, this hill provides panoramic views of the city and the coastline, especially during sunset.
Offering one of the best views of the city's rooftops and the surrounding area, this historic tower is a must-visit for photographers.
Known for its picturesque old town and beautiful beaches, Korčula offers a variety of scenic spots perfect for photography.
Though technically in Montenegro, the stunning fjord-like bay and mountains surrounding this area make for breathtaking views from both land and sea.
With its elegant architecture, coastal promenade, and lush parks, Opatija is a picturesque location for photography, especially during the golden hour.
This well-preserved Roman amphitheater offers unique photographic opportunities with its stunning architecture set against the backdrop of the Adriatic.
Known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming fishing villages, Vis Island is a hidden gem for photographers seeking natural beauty.
The second highest peak in Croatia, offering stunning views of Biokovo National Park and the Dalmatian coastline, perfect for adventurous photographers.
Food in Croatia
Croatia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Dalmatian dish featuring slow-cooked beef stew, marinated in wine, and served with gnocchi or pasta. Recommended to try at 'Konoba Hvaranin' in Hvar.
Must-Try!
A unique seafood dish made with cuttlefish or squid, giving it a distinct dark color and rich flavor. Best enjoyed at 'Konoba Menego' in Dubrovnik.
Balkan-style minced meat sausages, often served with flatbread, onions, and a side of ajvar (red pepper relish). Try the authentic version at 'Pet Bunara' in Zagreb.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Croatia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Zagreb, it's a bustling market offering a wide range of fresh produce, local delicacies, and traditional street food like burek and fritule (small sweet fritters).
A vibrant indoor market where you can sample a variety of local street foods such as grilled squid, fresh oysters, and pastries filled with cream or cheese.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Croatia, it is common to greet people with a handshake, particularly in formal settings. When meeting someone for the first time, it is polite to use their title and last name until invited to use their first name.
When dining in Croatia, it is customary to wait for the host to say 'dobar tek' (good appetite) before starting to eat. It is also polite to keep your hands visible at the table, and it is appreciated to try a bit of everything that is served.
Croatians have deep respect for their traditions and customs. It is important to show respect for cultural landmarks, religious sites, and traditional festivals. Observing and understanding these traditions demonstrate cultural sensitivity and respect.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Croatia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Croatia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Croatia, tipping is not obligatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a tip of 10% in restaurants if the service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping in other service industries, such as hotels and taxis, is also appreciated but not mandatory.
In Croatia, the official currency is the Croatian kuna (HRK). Cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially in rural areas or when visiting local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Croatia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for warm temperatures, sunny weather, and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy swimming, beach activities, and festivals.
Milder weather, fewer crowds, and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, and wine tasting.
Quieter period with cooler temperatures. Ideal for exploring historical sites, enjoying holiday markets, and indulging in local cuisine.
Croatia at Night
Hiking in Croatia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its cascading lakes and stunning waterfalls, offering a variety of hiking trails of different lengths and difficulties.
Located in the Velebit mountain range, it features dramatic canyons and diverse flora and fauna, with trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Home to the Biokovo Nature Park, offering panoramic views of the Adriatic coast and various hiking paths, including routes to the summit of Sveti Jure.
A wetland area with numerous paths to explore the rich biodiversity of the region, including bike trails and walking paths suitable for leisurely hikes.
Located near the border with Slovenia, it offers dense forests and hiking trails leading to the summit of Veliki Risnjak for stunning views of the surrounding area.
Famous for its diverse flora and fauna, it provides a network of trails through rugged terrain and beautiful landscapes, ideal for experienced hikers.
A popular recreational area near the capital city, featuring numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking, with options for all skill levels.
Located on the island of Mljet, it features tranquil nature, saltwater lakes, and various hiking routes among lush Mediterranean forest.
An extensive long-distance hiking route offering breathtaking views and connecting several key points within the Northern Velebit National Park.
The highest mountain in Croatia, offering challenging hikes with stunning vistas, particularly rewarding for experienced hikers seeking adventure.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Croatia through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Croatia by plane.
The main international airport serving the capital city of Croatia, located in Zagreb.
An international airport situated near Split, it serves as a key gateway for tourists visiting the Dalmatian coast.
An international airport located near Dubrovnik, primarily serving international flights during the tourist season.
An airport located in Pula, offering seasonal international flights, especially popular in the summer.
An airport located on the island of Krk, near Rijeka, providing limited international services.
An airport in eastern Croatia that handles both domestic and a few international flights.
An airport located near Zadar that offers seasonal international flights and serves the surrounding tourist areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Croatia, making up approximately 90% of the population.
The largest minority ethnic group in Croatia, accounting for around 4.5% of the population.
A minority group in Croatia, primarily residing in areas near the borders with Bosnia and Herzegovina.
A small ethnic minority in Croatia, mainly found in Istria and some coastal areas.
A minority group primarily located in the northeastern region of Croatia, particularly near the Hungarian border.
A small community in Croatia, mostly located along the border with Slovenia.
An ethnic minority group in Croatia, with a presence throughout the country, often facing social challenges.
A small ethnic group primarily residing in eastern Croatia.
Includes various smaller ethnic and cultural groups such as Jews, Ukrainians, and others.
The Soul of Croatia
Discover the essence of Croatia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Croatia, with a strong national team and a vibrant domestic league. The country has produced notable players and has achieved significant success on the international stage, including a runner-up finish in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Croatia has a rich basketball tradition, being home to many talented players who have excelled in the NBA and European leagues. The national team has won several medals in European and world competitions.
Handball is highly popular in Croatia, with a strong domestic league and a successful national team. The Croatian national handball team has won multiple European championships and world titles.
Tennis has gained popularity in Croatia, especially with the successes of players like Goran Ivanišević and Marin Čilić. The country has produced numerous talented players who have performed well in international competitions.
Water polo is traditionally one of Croatia's strongest sports, with the national team consistently ranking among the best in the world. The sport enjoys significant support and has a rich history in the country.
Skiing is a popular winter sport in Croatia, with several ski resorts in the mountainous regions. The country has produced competitive athletes in various skiing disciplines.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in Croatia offer vegetarian dishes, with an increasing number providing vegan options. Coastal areas tend to have more seafood-focused options, whereas inland regions may have more plant-based choices.
Awareness of gluten-free diets is growing, and many restaurants now offer gluten-free pasta and bread. It’s advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when ordering.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Croatia with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Croatia.