Croatia Travel Information

Croatia is a country known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the ancient city of Dubrovnik to the picturesque islands of the Adriatic Sea, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Croatia. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing on the beach, Croatia has something for everyone. Here are the top 10 things to do in Croatia:

1. Visit Dubrovnik Old Town

Dubrovnik Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is considered one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Visitors can explore the ancient city walls, the Rector's Palace and the Gothic Sponza Palace.

2. Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most beautiful and popular national parks in Croatia, known for its cascading lakes and waterfalls. The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, and visitors can explore the park by foot or by boat.

3. Visit the Diocletian's Palace

The Diocletian's Palace is an ancient palace located in Split and it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace was built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century AD, and it is now a well-preserved example of Roman architecture.

4. Take a boat trip to the Elafiti islands

The Elafiti islands are a group of small islands located just off the coast of Dubrovnik. The islands are known for their picturesque beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages.

5. Visit the city of Zagreb

The capital city of Zagreb is a vibrant and lively city with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the historic Upper Town, the medieval fortified Kaptol and the bustling open-air market of Dolac.

6. Take a day trip to the island of Hvar

The island of Hvar is known for its picturesque beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages. Visitors can explore the island by foot, by bike, or by boat.

7. Visit the city of Pula

The city of Pula is located on the Istrian Peninsula, and it's known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, including the ancient Roman Amphitheater.

8. Take a hike in the Risnjak National Park

Risnjak National Park is located in the mountains of Croatia, and it's a great place for hiking and outdoor activities. The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the rare and endangered brown bear.

9. Visit the city of Rovinj

Rovinj is a picturesque coastal town located on the Istrian Peninsula. The town is known for its charming old town, the impressive St. Euphemia's Church and its beautiful beaches.

10. Take a boat trip to the Kornati Islands

The Kornati Islands are a group of small islands located in the Adriatic Sea. The islands are known for their rugged landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful beaches.

Climate in Croatia

Croatia has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and hot summers. The country can be broadly divided into three climate regions: the coast, the islands, and the interior. The coastal region, which includes cities such as Dubrovnik and Split, has mild winters and hot summers with a high level of humidity. The island region, which includes islands such as Hvar and Brač, has a similar climate to the coast, but with slightly cooler summers and milder winters. The interior region, which includes cities such as Zagreb, has colder winters and hot summers with lower humidity.

Best time to visit Croatia

The best time to visit Croatia depends on the region and what you want to do during your trip.

• If you want to visit the beaches and enjoy the sun, the best time to visit Croatia is from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny.
• If you want to visit the major cities such as Dubrovnik, Split and Zagreb, spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) are the best times to go as the weather is milder and the crowds are smaller.
• If you want to experience Croatia's famous festivals, such as Dubrovnik Summer Festival, the best time to visit is during the summer.
• If you want to see the Christmas markets, the best time to visit is December. Keep in mind that the best time to visit also depends on your personal preferences, as some people may enjoy the crowds and the heat of the summer, while others may prefer milder weather and fewer tourists. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Croatia offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts. The country's major cities, such as Dubrovnik, Split and Zagreb, have a large selection of hotels to choose from. You can find everything from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to high-end resorts and boutique hotels.

Vacation rentals

Another popular option for accommodation in Croatia is vacation rentals. These can include apartments, houses, and even villas. Vacation rentals are a great option for groups or families traveling together, as they often offer more space and privacy than hotels. Websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com have a wide variety of vacation rentals to choose from in Croatia.

Campsites

Croatia is home to thousands of campsites, ranging from small, family-run campsites to large, modern holiday parks. Many campsites offer a variety of amenities, including showers, toilets, and electric hook-ups. Some sites also offer rental accommodations such as RVs, tents, or cabins. Camping can be a great way to experience the beautiful nature in Croatia, particularly for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

Hostels

Croatia has a large number of hostels, which are perfect for budget travelers, backpackers and students. Hostels are usually cheaper than hotels, and they offer a great way to meet other travelers.

Private accommodation

Another popular accommodation option in Croatia is private accommodation, which can include apartments, rooms, or even a private house. This type of accommodation is popular among tourists who prefer a more authentic and local experience.

Public Transportation

Croatia has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, which includes buses, trains, and ferries. The country's bus network is particularly extensive, with connections to cities and towns across the country. The bus companies that operate in Croatia include Autotrans, Croatia Bus and Promet. The train network is limited but it connects major cities like Zagreb, Split and Rijeka. The main train company is Croatian Railways (Hrvatske željeznice).

Cars

If you prefer to have more flexibility and freedom, renting a car is a great option. Croatia has an extensive network of highways and roads, which makes it easy to travel between cities and towns. You can rent a car from major car rental companies such as Avis, Europcar, or Hertz. Keep in mind that driving in Croatia requires a valid driver's license and a good understanding of the road rules.

Bikes

Croatia is a great country for cycling, with well-maintained bike lanes and bike paths throughout the country. Bike rental is widely available in most cities, and many hotels and hostels offer bikes for rent. Bikes can be a great way to get around cities and towns, and they're also a great way to explore the country's beautiful countryside.

Taxis and ride-sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber are widely available in Croatia, and they can be a convenient way to get around. However, prices can vary depending on the city, and in some cases, it can be more expensive than public transportation. Keep in mind that some cities have specific regulations, so it's always good to check before you ride.

Ferries

Ferries are an important means of transportation in Croatia, connecting the mainland with the numerous islands along the Adriatic coast. Ferries are operated by several companies and they run frequently in the summer months.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.