Top 10 Croatia FAQ
Regardless of whether you already booked your Croatian holiday in 2024 or you are still planning one, here is some useful information to make sure you have a great experience.
What is the currency in Croatia and how do I exchange my money?
Croatia switched to the euro on January 1, 2023. If you have a stash of kuna, Croatia’s former currency, from your earlier travels, make sure to bring it with you. You can exchange it into euros in any bank. Using the euro will certainly make things easier for travelers who are visiting more than one country in Europe. Coins and paper bills issued in any country in Europe are valid, but if you want to familiarize yourself with Croatia-issued coins, you can find them here.
Always check your change to make sure you are getting back euros, not Croatian kuna.
What are the top tourist attractions in Croatia?
Where to start? Croatia’s diverse attractions include historic landmarks, natural wonders, and picturesque coastal towns and each of these deserves an elaborate post of its own. If you are interested in history and architecture, towns like Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, and Pula would appeal to most.
Eight national parks offer just a preview of our country’s natural beauties, but it is the off-the-beaten-path locations that are just as gorgeous. Our multiday trips are a great way to combine both the popular and the less visited spots, get you involved with the local community, and help you get the real feel of the country.
What are some traditional Croatian foods that I should try?
Croatia is diverse in terms of both climate and geography, so traditional food and recommendations on what to eat greatly differ depending on where you are. We wrote about what to eat in Croatia here. As always, a good rule to stick to is to never eat shellfish in months that do not have the letter r – unless you are on right on the source on the coast, of course.
What is the best time of year to visit Croatia?
As stated above, Croatia is diverse so this depends on where you want to go. There are things to do and see year-round, but most people prefer to travel during the warmer months. This would mean traveling to the coast between April and October and traveling in the continent between mid-May and late September.
What are the transportation options for getting around Croatia?
There are many – local boats are a great way to travel between islands. The national company is Jadrolinija. Two others include Krilo.hr and the unfortunately named TP Line. Buses are reliable and Arriva and Flix Bus have made bus tickets in Croatia easy to buy. We suggest avoiding trains in Croatia because the delays are significant.
Traveling by car will give you the most flexibility and most major car rental companies, as well as several local ones, operate in the country.
Do I need a visa to enter Croatia as a US citizen?
No, you do not need a visa to enter Croatia. You will, however, need a valid passport issued in the last ten years. Your passport needs to remain valid for three months after your planned departure from Croatia.
Citizens of certain countries do need a visa. We suggest checking here or with a Croatian embassy in your country. Note that Croatia is a Schengen area Member State, so a Schengen visa will be valid.
What is the emergency number in Croatia?
112 is the pan-European emergency telephone number that can be dialed free of charge from any fixed or mobile telephone to reach emergency services (ambulance, fire and rescue, police).
What are some cultural customs or etiquette I should be aware of when visiting Croatia?
This is another long topic, but a few that should be mentioned are:
Greetings: Croatians typically greet each other with a handshake and maintain eye contact during the greeting
Dress Code: While Croatia is generally relaxed when it comes to dress code, it’s important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or dining at upscale restaurants. Beachwear is acceptable at beaches and resorts but not in town centers or restaurants.
Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in Croatia. In restaurants, it’s customary to leave a tip of around 10% if the service was satisfactory. Tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also appreciated but not mandatory.
Religious Sites: When visiting churches or other religious sites, it’s important to dress modestly and observe any rules or customs associated with the place of worship. Silence and respect are expected in these locations.
What are some popular souvenirs or gifts to bring back from Croatia?
Great question – whether you are looking for a small memento to display in your home or something tasty you can serve, we’ve got you covered.
Are there any safety concerns or areas to avoid while traveling in Croatia?
Croatia is generally a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate compared to many other European countries. Be respectful of local people and their customs. Beware of petty theft, such as pickpocketing, in crowded areas. Do your research and beware of tourist scams such as overcharging for services, and unofficial currency exchange services. Stick to reputable businesses and use caution when sharing personal or financial information.
