ISO: HR
Croatia, located in Southeastern Europe, is a country of stunning coastlines, historic cities, and a rich cultural heritage. The capital, Zagreb, is a blend of Austro-Hungarian architecture and modernity. Explore the historic Upper Town, visit the Museum of Broken Relationships, and experience the vibrant Dolac Market.
Croatia’s coastal towns are postcard-perfect, with Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its medieval city walls and marble streets. The Dalmatian Coast offers beautiful beaches, while Plitvice Lakes National Park showcases cascading waterfalls and emerald lakes. Croatian cuisine features dishes like pasticada (braised beef) and fresh seafood. The warmth and hospitality of the Croatian people, along with their love for music and festivals, make it a captivating destination for travelers.
Travel Risk Levels Croatia
Overall Risk Croatia:
Low
Croatia is famed for its beautiful coastline, historic towns, and vibrant culture. It's a major European tourist destination, and while generally safe, travelers should exercise standard precautions. For instance, while Split and Dubrovnik are generally safe cities, one should be wary during peak tourist seasons when minor crimes might spike.
Transport and Taxi Risk Croatia:
Low
Public transportation, including buses and trams, is reliable. For taxis, use reputable companies. In Dubrovnik, for example, it's not uncommon for unofficial taxis to overcharge unaware tourists. Always check for official taxi signs.
Pickpocket Risk Croatia:
Medium
Tourist-heavy spots, such as the walls of Dubrovnik or the Riva in Split, can attract pickpockets. There have been reports of tourists having their wallets or cameras snatched in busy streets during summer.
Physical Crime Risk Croatia:
Low
Croatia, a major European tourist hotspot, generally has a low rate of violent crimes. The major concerns for tourists are petty crimes like pickpocketing, especially in crowded places. Visitors should take standard precautions, particularly in busy tourist areas.
Natural Disaster Risk Croatia:
Low
Croatia is prone to earthquakes. For instance, the 2020 Zagreb earthquake caused considerable damage and disruption. While not frequent, it's something travelers should be aware of.
Terrorism Risk Croatia:
Low
Terrorism risk remains low in Croatia. The country hasn't seen any major terror-related incidents in recent years.
Scams Risk Croatia:
Low
Some tourists have reported scams involving overpriced drinks in bars. For example, being lured into bars in Split's Old Town with the promise of special offers, only to be presented with a hefty bill.
Women Travelers Risk Croatia:
Low
Croatia is generally female-friendly. However, solo female travelers, especially in cities like Zadar or Rijeka, might encounter occasional catcalling. It's recommended to avoid isolated areas after dark.
Tap Water Risk Croatia:
Low
Tap water is drinkable throughout Croatia. Visitors to Plitvice Lakes, for instance, can often fill their bottles directly from streams.
Public Behavior Risk Croatia:
Low
Public behavior in Croatia is consistent with European norms. For instance, while it's common for friends to greet with a kiss on the cheek, public drunkenness, especially in places like Hvar, might be frowned upon.
LGBTQ Acceptance Risk Croatia:
Medium
Major cities have annual LGBTQ+ events, indicating acceptance. However, in 2013, a referendum backed by conservative groups led to a constitutional definition of marriage as a union of a man and woman, reflecting some underlying traditional views.
Police and Officials Corruption Risk Croatia:
Low
While the situation has improved, minor corruption instances occur. For example, travelers on the Bosnia-Croatia border might face officials looking for 'fines' for dubious reasons. Always insist on official documentation.
Business Risk Croatia:
Low
The Croatian business landscape is open to foreign investors, especially along the Adriatic coast. Still, understanding local business etiquette is vital. For instance, while punctuality is appreciated, business meetings often start with casual conversations before diving into the main agenda.
An example of something bad that can happen travelling to Croatia
Lost in Dubrovnik's Ancient Alleys
Samantha, a history enthusiast, always dreamt of walking through the ancient walls of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As she wandered through the limestone-paved streets of the Old Town, she was mesmerized by the blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The city's vibrant history echoed in every corner, with children playing next to centuries-old fountains and locals sipping coffee under the shadow of fortresses.
With each turn she took, Samantha delved deeper into the maze of narrow alleyways, losing track of time. The once inviting streets began to look identical, and she soon realized she had lost her way. Her phone's GPS struggled to catch a signal amidst the high walls, and the map she carried seemed more like a relic than a reliable guide.
As dusk approached, her unease grew. The crowd started thinning, and the alleys became quieter. It was then that an elderly local, noticing her distress, approached and offered help. In a mix of Croatian and broken English, he guided her back to the bustling Stradun, the main pedestrian street, sharing snippets from his life and the city's past along the way.
Grateful for the unexpected guide and newfound friend, Samantha realized that sometimes, getting lost offers the richest travel experiences. But she also made a mental note: next time, a guided tour might not be such a bad idea in a city as maze-like as Dubrovnik.
Safe Places
Be advised this list does not advise the cities/towns are safe for all tourists, safety is still relative to the country itself.
What are the safest places to visit in Croatia?
- Zagreb: The capital with its historic Upper Town, Museum of Broken Relationships, and lively Tkalciceva Street.
- Dubrovnik: Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic", it offers ancient city walls, the historic Old Town, and Lokrum Island.
- Split: Home to the Diocletian's Palace, Riva promenade, and nearby beaches.
- Plitvice Lakes: A UNESCO site featuring cascading lakes and waterfalls in a national park setting.
- Hvar: An island known for its fortress, lavender fields, and vibrant nightlife.
Travel Tips
Traveling to Croatia: Tips for Tourists
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Visa and Entry Requirements:
Croatia is a member of the EU, but not part of the Schengen area. Many nationalities can enter for short stays without a visa. If you're traveling from outside the EU, always check visa requirements before your trip.
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Local Culture and Customs:
Croatians are known for their hospitality. A handshake is a common greeting, and it's customary to bring a gift when invited to someone's home. Respect religious and local traditions, especially in smaller communities.
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Language:
Croatian is the official language. English, German, and Italian are widely spoken in tourist areas, but knowing basic Croatian phrases can be appreciated, especially in less touristy areas.
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Currency and Tipping:
The official currency is the Croatian Kuna (HRK). While tipping is not obligatory, it's appreciated in restaurants and for services, with 10% being customary for good service.
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Health and Vaccinations:
No specific vaccinations are required for Croatia. Tap water is safe to drink in most areas. Ensure you have health insurance as medical care can be expensive for non-EU residents.
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Accommodation Options:
From luxury hotels along the Adriatic coast to family-run guesthouses and apartments, there's a wide range of accommodation. Consider "sobe" (private rooms) for a local experience.
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Attractions and Activities:
Visit the ancient walls of Dubrovnik, the Plitvice Lakes National Park, and the historic sites of Split. The Adriatic coast offers beautiful beaches, and sailing is a popular activity.
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Food and Dining:
Croatian cuisine is diverse, with coastal regions favoring Mediterranean flavors and the interior having more hearty Central European dishes. Try dishes like "ćevapi", "pasticada", and fresh seafood along the coast.
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Shopping and Souvenirs:
Look for traditional products like lavender, olive oil, truffles, and Croatian wines. Handcrafted items like "licitar" hearts are also popular souvenirs.
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Safety and Security:
Croatia is generally safe for tourists. Common precautions apply: be aware of pickpockets in crowded places, and avoid poorly lit areas at night.
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Emergency Contacts:
Emergency number: 112 (for police, ambulance, and fire services).
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Local Events and Festivals:
Consider attending events like the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, Pula Film Festival, and Sinjska Alka, a traditional equestrian competition. Each region has its own unique festivals and traditions.
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Time Zone and Local Time:
Central European Time (CET), UTC +1. Daylight saving time is observed.
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Internet and Communication:
Wi-Fi is widely available in cities and tourist spots. SIM cards can be easily purchased for local calls and data. International calling codes can vary, so check in advance.
Weather
Annual weather in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Croatia has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool winters. The average temperature in Croatia ranges from -5°C (23°F) in January to 25°C (77°F) in July. The wettest months are May and June, when rainfall can average over 100mm (4 inches) per month. The weather in Croatia can feel warm and sunny during the summer months and cool and crisp during the winter months. It is important to pack for all types of weather when visiting Croatia, as the weather can change quickly.
| Month |
Avg Temp (°C) |
Avg Temp (°F) |
Avg Rain (mm) |
| January |
8.5 |
47.3 |
95 |
| February |
8.8 |
47.8 |
81 |
| March |
10.5 |
50.9 |
85 |
| April |
13.5 |
56.3 |
104 |
| May |
18.0 |
64.4 |
|
| June |
21.5 |
70.7 |
62 |
| July |
24.5 |
76.1 |
38 |
| August |
24.4 |
75.9 |
|
| September |
20.8 |
69.4 |
|
| October |
16.3 |
61.3 |
|
| November |
12.2 |
54.0 |
|
| December |
9.7 |
49.5 |
|
