Croatia Tips
Everything you should know for your holiday in Croatia – sights, best time to travel, key phrases and how to get there.
Croatia is far more than just another Mediterranean country. Within a relatively small area it combines over a thousand islands, crystal-clear water, thousands of years of history, and a relaxed, warm-hearted way of life. To help your trip get off to a great start, we've put together the most important information for you.
The most important sights
From medieval city walls to turquoise waterfalls to Roman imperial palaces: Croatia packs an astonishing variety into a small space.
Dubrovnik
The “Pearl of the Adriatic”: an old town completely enclosed by medieval city walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the backdrop for countless films and series. Walking the city walls with a view of the sea is one of the most impressive experiences in all of Croatia.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
16 turquoise terraced lakes connected by countless waterfalls, surrounded by dense forest. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe's most photographed natural wonders.
Split & Diocletian's Palace
A Roman imperial palace from the 4th century where people today live, eat, and celebrate right in the middle of the lively old town – unique in Europe.
Zadar
Famous for its Sea Organ, which creates music from the movement of the waves, plus the light installation “Greeting to the Sun” – and one of the most praised sunsets in the world.
Hvar
The “lavender island” with Mediterranean flair, a lively harbor town, a historic fortress, and some of the clearest bays on the entire Adriatic.
Istria & Rovinj
Venetian flair, picturesque hilltop villages, truffles from the forests, and excellent wine – Istria is often called Croatia's Tuscany.
Krka National Park
Waterfalls straight out of a picture book, near Šibenik – a little quieter than Plitvice, with great views.
Zagreb
The capital with a charming Upper and Lower Town, cozy cafés, and an Advent program repeatedly voted “best Christmas market in Europe.”
Trogir
One of the best-preserved medieval town layouts in Europe, sitting entirely on a small island and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site – wonderful to explore on foot and just a stone's throw from Split.
Why Croatia is so different
Hardly any other holiday country packs so much variety into such a small area: over a thousand islands, incredibly clear water, plus mountains, lakes, and wide plains – often just a short drive apart. Add to that an eventful history that's visible everywhere: Illyrian roots, Roman ruins, Venetian old towns, Ottoman and Habsburg influences, and the Yugoslav era – all of it has shaped the architecture, cuisine, and mentality.
As a member of the EU, the Schengen Area, and the Eurozone, traveling here is as uncomplicated as within your own country – no border checks, no currency exchange. At the same time, Croatia is one of the safest countries to travel in Europe, and the hospitality of its people feels personal and genuine rather than staged for tourists.
Worth visiting in every season
Many people think of Croatia only in summer – but it's worth visiting all year round, with each season having its own appeal:
Spring (March–May)
Mild weather, nature in bloom, far fewer tourists – ideal for hiking, cycling, and visiting national parks in peace.
Summer (June–September)
The classic beach season: warm sea, plenty of festivals and events along the coast – also the busiest time of year.
Autumn (October–November)
The sea often stays pleasantly warm well into October, plus grape and olive harvests and truffle season in Istria – noticeably quieter and cheaper.
Winter (December–February)
Mild coast (frost is rare), festive Advent markets in Zagreb, ski resorts inland – an authentic, quiet Croatia away from the crowds.
Key facts at a glance
- Capital: Zagreb
- Official language: Croatian
- Currency: Euro (since Jan 1, 2023)
- EU member since 2013, part of the Schengen Area since 2023
- Population: approx. 3.8 million
- Time zone: CET (same as Germany/Austria/Switzerland)
- Emergency number: 112 (standard across Europe)
- Tap water is safe to drink almost everywhere
- Drives on the right
- A tip of around 10% is customary, though not obligatory
- Power outlets: type C/F, same as Germany and Austria
The most important Croatian words for tourists
Many Croatians along the coast speak good German or English – but any attempt at the local language is always warmly appreciated:
- Dobar dan – Good day
- Hvala (lijepa) – Thank you (very much)
- Molim – Please / You're welcome
- Da / Ne – Yes / No
- Oprostite – Excuse me
- Dobrodošli – Welcome
- Koliko košta? – How much does it cost?
- Račun, molim – The bill, please
- Gdje je...? – Where is...?
- Živjeli! – Cheers!
- Vidimo se / Doviđenja – See you soon / Goodbye
- Polako – Slowly, take it easy
Getting there: by car, plane, or train
By car
Croatia drives on the right, and the motorway network (including the A1 from Zagreb via Split heading south) is well developed. Toll booths accept cash or card – unlike Austria or Slovenia, there's no vignette system. A high-visibility vest, warning triangle, and first-aid kit are mandatory in the car, as are your vehicle documents and green insurance card. Speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas, usually 90–110 km/h on country roads, 130 km/h on motorways. In mountain regions, winter equipment may be required from November to March, and watch out for wildlife crossing away from the coast.
By plane
The main international airports are in Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar, Pula, and Rijeka. Especially in summer there are many direct flights from all over Europe, including budget airlines – the schedule thins out noticeably in winter. From the coastal airports, most holiday destinations are easily reached by rental car, bus, or an organized transfer.
By train
The rail network is well developed mainly inland around Zagreb, with seasonal night trains connecting cities like Vienna or Munich to Zagreb. Along the coast and in Dalmatia, however, the rail network is very sparse – here, car, long-distance bus, or plane are usually the far more practical choice.
Now you know the essentials – all that's left is finding the right place to stay for your Croatian holiday.