Spring
Spring brings mild weather and blooming landscapes, making it a great time for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
Croatia
Croatia, known for its stunning coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers a diverse range of experiences beyond its capital, Zagreb. From the picturesque towns of Dubrovnik and Split to the natural wonders of Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia is a treasure trove for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Wolfgang Steinkläubl · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best MonthsApril to June, September to October
- AirportsZagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Pula
- TransitBuses and ferries are the main modes of transpor
- Power230V, 50Hz
- Tipping10% is customary.
- LanguageCroatian is the official language.
01
When to go
The best time to visit Croatia is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Summer
Summer is hot and bustling, perfect for beachgoers and festival lovers.
Autumn
Autumn offers cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors, ideal for sightseeing.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Historic charm
Dubrovnik Old Town
Explore the historic walls and vibrant streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Can be crowded in summer.
Cultural hub
Split City Center
Enjoy the blend of ancient Roman architecture and modern life around Diocletian's Palace.
Busy during peak tourist season.
Cultural experience
Zagreb Upper Town
Experience the city's rich history and vibrant arts scene in this charming district.
Best explored on foot.
Historical site
Pula
Visit the well-preserved Roman amphitheater and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
Less touristy than other coastal cities.
Scenic beauty
Rovinj
Stroll through the cobblestone streets of this picturesque fishing town.
Ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Unique attractions
Zadar
Discover the unique Sea Organ and the rich history of this coastal city.
Great sunset views.
Natural wonder
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Marvel at the stunning waterfalls and lakes in this UNESCO-listed national park.
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking.
Cultural exploration
Osijek
Explore the Baroque architecture and vibrant cultural scene in this eastern city.
Less known, but rewarding.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Peka
A traditional dish of meat and vegetables slow-cooked under a bell-like lid, found in many konobas (taverns) across Dalmatia.
→ Best enjoyed with local wine.
Sarma
Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, a staple in many homes, especially in Slavonia.
→ Try homemade versions for authenticity.
Black Risotto
A seafood dish made with cuttlefish ink, popular along the Adriatic coast.
→ Look for it in coastal restaurants.
Strukli
A pastry filled with cheese, often served baked or boiled, originating from the Zagorje region.
→ Perfect as a snack or dessert.
Truffle Dishes
Istria is famous for its truffles; try them in pasta or as a topping on various dishes.
→ Seek out local truffle festivals.
Grilled Fish
Freshly caught fish grilled to perfection, available at many seaside restaurants.
→ Pair with local olive oil.
Rakija
A strong fruit brandy, often homemade, served as an aperitif.
→ Enjoy responsibly.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Famous for its cascading lakes and lush greenery, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Dubrovnik City Walls
Walk along the ancient walls for stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Diocletian's Palace in Split
An ancient Roman palace that forms the heart of Split's old town.
The Sea Organ in Zadar
An architectural marvel that creates music from the waves.
The Arena in Pula
One of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world.
Krka National Park
Known for its beautiful waterfalls and swimming areas.
Rovinj Old Town
A charming coastal town with colorful buildings and a rich history.
Trogir
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
St. Mark's Church in Zagreb
Famous for its colorful tiled roof and historical significance.
Mljet National Park
A tranquil island park known for its saltwater lakes and lush forests.
Sibenik Cathedral
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture.
The Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb
A unique museum dedicated to failed relationships, showcasing personal stories.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Major Airports
Croatia is served by several major airports including Zagreb (ZAG), Split (SPU), and Dubrovnik (DBV).
ZAGZagreb
SPUSplit
DBVDubrovnik
Public Transport
Buses connect major cities, while ferries link the mainland with islands, providing scenic travel options.
Car Rentals
Renting a car is a popular option for exploring the countryside and coastal regions at your own pace.
Cycling
Many cities have bike rental services, making it easy to explore urban areas and coastal paths.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Type C and F plugs are used; the standard voltage is 230V.
Cash
The currency is the Croatian Kuna (HRK); credit cards are widely accepted.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is common.
Language
The official language is Croatian; English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A week is ideal to explore the main highlights of Croatia.