Croatia Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Croatia, located in the heart of Europe, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. With its stunning coastline, crystal clear waters, and charming medieval towns, this country offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling capital city of Zagreb to the picturesque islands of Hvar and Dubrovnik, Croatia has something for every type of traveler. Indulge in delicious Mediterranean cuisine, soak up the warm sun on the beaches, or hike through the majestic mountains - the possibilities are endless in this diverse and captivating country. Get ready to be mesmerized by the breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality of Croatia on your next travel adventure.

Why Croatia?

  • Croatia is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage sites.
  • The Croatian capital Zagreb has one of the oldest funiculars in Europe.
  • Croatia has one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines.
  • Did you know that Croatia is the birthplace of the necktie.
  • Croatia is home to the world's smallest town, Hum, with a population of just 23.

History

Croatia, officially known as the Republic of Croatia, is a small country located in southeastern Europe. It borders Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro, and has a long coastline along the Adriatic Sea.

The history of Croatia dates back to the 7th century when it was part of the Kingdom of the Croats. The Croats were a Slavic tribe that settled in the area and adopted Christianity in the 9th century. In the 10th century, they formed the Kingdom of Croatia, which was ruled by various dynasties until the 12th century when it became part of the Hungarian Kingdom.

During the Middle Ages, Croatia was a key player in the struggle for power between the Hungarian Kingdom and the Republic of Venice. Croatia was also affected by the Ottoman Empire’s expansion in the Balkans, and in the 16th century, a large part of the country fell under Ottoman rule.

In the 19th century, Croatia became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which brought significant economic and cultural developments to the country. However, the desire for independence and self-governance grew among the Croatian people, and in 1918, Croatia declared its independence as part of the State of Slovenes, Croats, and Serbs. This was short-lived as the country soon became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, which later became known as Yugoslavia.

During World War II, Croatia was occupied by the Axis powers, and a puppet state called the Independent State of Croatia was established. This period was marked by the brutal rule of the Ustaše regime, which committed numerous war crimes against Jews, Serbs, and Romani people. After the war, Croatia became part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia under the communist rule of Josip Broz Tito.

In the early 1990s, Croatia declared its independence from Yugoslavia, leading to a bloody war with Serbia and the break-up of Yugoslavia. The war lasted for four years and resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. In 1995, a peace agreement was signed, and Croatia became a sovereign state.

Since gaining independence, Croatia has made significant strides in rebuilding its economy and infrastructure. It joined the European Union in 2013 and has become a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, historic cities, and stunning natural landscapes.

Today, Croatia is a democratic country with a rich cultural heritage and a growing economy. Its history is marked by struggles for independence and self-determination, but the resilience and determination of its people have shaped Croatia into the vibrant and diverse country it is today.

Transportation on Croatia

Getting to Croatia and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Visa: Check Croatian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
  • Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
  • Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
  • Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
  • Arrival Form: Complete if required.
  • COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Europe for American citizens; European countries typically include departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

  • Non-EU/EEA tourists may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Ensure all occupants, including passengers in the back seat, wear seat belts.
  • Children under 12 or less than 150 cm in height must use an appropriate child safety seat.
  • Adhere to speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on open roads, 110 km/h on expressways, and 130 km/h on motorways (some sections may have lower limits).
  • Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
  • Overtake on the left, and keep to the right unless overtaking on multi-lane roads.
  • Many highways have tolls; pay attention to toll booths and consider electronic toll devices available with some rental cars.
  • Use headlights at all times, even during the day.
  • In case of an emergency, call 112 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.

Local Transportation

Local transportation in Croatia is primarily dominated by buses and trains, with a smaller presence of taxis, ferries, and rental cars. The country has a well-developed network of buses that connect major cities and towns, as well as smaller villages and tourist destinations. Train travel is also a popular option, with regular services running between major cities. Taxis are readily available in urban areas, but may be limited in rural areas. Ferries are a common mode of transportation for traveling between islands, while rental cars offer the flexibility to explore the country at one’s own pace. Overall, Croatia offers a reliable and efficient transportation system for both locals and tourists.

Know Before You Go...® - Croatia Travel Tips

Before making their way to Croatia , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Croatia even more relaxing.

Capital: Zagreb
Population: 4.19 million
Size: 22,116 square miles
Electric Current: 220/240
Official Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Croatian phrases can be helpful, especially in rural areas.
Currency:
  • The official currency of Croatia is the Croatian kuna (HRK).
  • It is advisable to exchange your currency into kuna before your trip, as it may be difficult to find places that accept foreign currency.
  • Cash is widely accepted in Croatia, especially in smaller towns and local businesses. However, major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are also accepted.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping is not mandatory: Unlike some other countries, tipping is not mandatory in Croatia. However, it is always appreciated for good service.
  • The standard tip is 10-15%: The standard tip in Croatia is between 10-15% of the total bill. This is usually left in cash, although some restaurants may allow you to include the tip on your credit card payment.
  • Tipping in hotels: It is common to tip hotel staff, such as housekeeping and bellhops, around 10-20 kuna per day. You can leave this in cash on your bedside table or give it directly to the staff.
  • Tipping in taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but you can round up the fare to the nearest whole number as a gesture of appreciation for their service.
  • Service charges: Some restaurants may include a service charge of 10%.
Dress Code: The dress code in Croatia is generally casual and relaxed, but it is important to dress modestly and cover up when visiting religious sites or attending formal events.
Topography: Croatia is a country with a diverse topography that features mountains, forests, and a long coastline along the Adriatic Sea, providing a mix of scenic landscapes and access to the Mediterranean.
Telephone: Croatia's telephone country code is +385 and its area code is 01.

Croatia Weddings and Honeymoons

In Croatia, the process of getting married is relatively simple, with a few required documents. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the local registry office (Matica gradana). Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
  • Birth certificates for both parties, with a certified translation into Croatian if not in the language.
  • Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
  • Proof of residence in Croatia (if applicable).
  • Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).

The marriage license costs around 100 to 150 HRK (approximately €13 to €20). For weddings outside of the registry office (at a venue or other location), additional fees for the officiant, ranging from 500 to 1,500 HRK (approximately €65 to €200), will apply. It’s recommended to apply for the license at least 30 days before the intended wedding date.

See our favorite Croatia villas for weddings.