Croatia
Europe · Zagreb · HR
Croatia is a country shaped by the collision of Mediterranean warmth and Central European tradition, where Roman amphitheatres sit beside pebble beaches and fortified old towns climb hilltops above the Adriatic. The Dalmatian coast is its most celebrated feature, a jagged shoreline of limestone peninsulas, olive groves, and islands so numerous the locals count them by the hundred. Dubrovnik's massive stone walls encircle terracotta rooftops and marble-paved streets that have witnessed centuries of Venetian, Ottoman, and Habsburg influence. Split offers Roman ruins woven into a living city, while Istria in the north blends Italian and Slavic flavors in truffle-studded dishes and olive oils. Inland, Plitvice Lakes National Park unfolds in a cascade of turquoise pools connected by wooden walkways, and the Slavonian plains offer a completely different landscape of vineyards and folk music. Croatia rewards travelers who venture beyond the coast to discover a country of layered history and fierce regional pride.
Overview
Croatia is a country in Europe. Its capital is Zagreb and the international dialling code is +385. Languages commonly used in everyday life here include Croatian. Local currency is the Euro (EUR). We also list 1 city in Croatia: Zagreb.
Getting around Croatia
Croatia's coastal highway (A1) links Zagreb with Split, Makarska and Dubrovnik, and the motorway is fast but tolled — carry cash or a card for the toll plazas. Intercity buses run frequently and cheaply along the coast, while the ferry operator's summer network connects the islands (Hvar, Korčula, Brač) with Split and other ports.
In summer, ferries and island services can sell out, so book a few days ahead and arrive early to line up for foot-passenger crossings. Renting a car gives the most flexibility, and a catamaran connects fast to the outer islands.
When to visit Croatia
June, September and early October are the best for the coast and islands: warm sea, sunny weather and fewer crowds than July and August, when prices and temperatures peak. Dubrovnik and Split are busy in summer, so visit early in the morning or late afternoon.
Spring and autumn are ideal for exploring the historic cities, the Plitvice and Krka national parks, and the inland regions. In winter many island ferries reduce their schedules, and some coastal restaurants close until the spring season.
Eating and drinking
Dalmatian food is Mediterranean — fresh grilled fish, octopus, lamb under the "peka" bell and olive oil from local pressers — while the Zagreb and inland regions are more central-European, with meat dishes and stews. A long coastline means excellent shellfish along the Adriatic.
Diners are complemented by strong coffee culture, and rakija or a local red wine (Plavac Mali) commonly ends a meal. "Bijelo" (white) and "crno" (black) on a café menu refer to coffee with or without milk. Tipping 5–10% is common.
Money and local customs
Croatia adopted the euro on 1 January 2023 and now uses EUR. Card payment is widely accepted in towns and tourist areas, but small island shops and market stalls still prefer cash.
Croatians are proud of their coffee culture — sitting in a café for an hour is normal. Greet people with "dobar dan" when entering a shop. During the summer the "klematis"-style evening stroll (korzo) along the waterfront is a social ritual; join in rather than expecting quick service at peak times.
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- Capital
- Zagreb
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Languages
- Croatian
- Calling code
- +385
- Internet TLD
- hr
Entry requirements
Check who can enter →See which passports travel visa-free or need a visa to enter Croatia.
Which nationalities can enter Croatia?
Current visa status for tourism for the origins we cover, with links to the detailed requirements.
Cities (1)
All cities →Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa to visit Croatia?
For the origins we track, travellers from Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina and Australia currently enter Croatia visa-free for tourism. Entry rules depend on your passport and the purpose of your trip, so check the current requirements for your own nationality with our entry requirements tool.
What is the capital of Croatia?
Zagreb is the capital of Croatia, and the country sits in Europe.
What currency is used in Croatia?
You pay with Euro (EUR) in Croatia. Exchange rates move day to day, so check the current rate before you change money or use your card abroad.
Which languages do people speak in Croatia?
The languages we list for Croatia are Croatian. A couple of greetings in the local language go a long way when you travel, even in cities where another language is widely used.
What is the international dialling code for Croatia?
The dialling code for Croatia is +385 — keep the plus sign when you save the number.
Which cities in Croatia do you cover?
Our guide lists 1 city for Croatia: Zagreb (capital).