If you want to know some really useful Croatia travel tips and tricks before visiting, this post is for you!
Croatia is a beautiful country, famous for its unbelievably blue sea, historic towns, and amazing islands. But like any popular destination, knowing a few insider tips can make your trip smoother, cheaper, and way more enjoyable. As a local who’s lived here all my life, I’ve put together this guide to help you travel smarter, avoid the usual tourist traps, and get the very best out of your Croatian adventure, so keep reading!
This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you.
CROATIA TRAVEL TIPS AND TRICKS YOU MUST KNOW:
Visit in the shoulder season
While most people dream of the famous “Euro Summer” in Croatia, with long beach days and exciting nightlife, here’s a tip for those who don’t love big crowds: visit in the shoulder season (April–June or September–October). Visiting during shoulder season is honestly one of the best ways to experience Croatia. You’ll get pleasant weather, far fewer people at popular spots like Dubrovnik and Split, and accommodation that’s much more affordable than in the peak of summer.
Read more >>> Croatia in April / Croatia in May / Croatia in September / Croatia in October
If you really want nice beach days, early autumn is perfect! The sea is still warm enough for swimming well into September, usually even in October. Spring, on the other hand, is amazing for exploring national parks, with everything blooming and fewer tourists around. Personally, I love Croatia most in April and May, when you can enjoy beautiful weather and a more authentic local vibe without the heavy summer crowds.
Croatia uses the Euro (€)
This one might seem obvious, but it’s still a common question we get. Since January 2023, Croatia has officially adopted the Euro (€). This makes things much easier for travelers coming from the EU or visiting multiple European countries, since you don’t have to worry about exchanging money or converting prices. Just keep in mind that Croatia doesn’t accept US dollars and the old local currency, the kuna, is no longer in use, so if you still have some lying around, you can’t spend them anymore.
Cash is still important
Even though Croatia is generally very card-friendly, it’s still smart to always keep some cash on you. In big tourist spots you can usually pay by card everywhere, but smaller towns can still be quite cash-focused. You’ll also need cash for local markets, family-run konobas (traditional taverns), buses, ice cream stands, bakeries, small souvenir shops, and for tipping. You don’t have to bring a lot with you, but it’s good to have some!
Know how to use ATMs
One of the biggest issues travelers run into in Croatia is withdrawing money without getting hit by crazy fees. ATMs are everywhere, so finding one isn’t a problem. The trick is knowing which ones to use. Avoid independent ATMs like Euronet, since they charge much higher fees. Instead, look for ATMs operated by local banks such as Zagrebačka Banka, PBZ, HPB, or Erste. Another tip: when the machine asks, always choose to be charged in euros, not your home currency (that’s called “Dynamic Currency Conversion” and it’s a rip-off). If you stick to bank ATMs and pay in euros, you’ll only pay your bank’s fee, which is usually no more than around €5.
Buses in Croatia are reliable – use them!
A lot of travelers seem to be unsure about using public transport in Croatia. While I wouldn’t recommend trains (they’re honestly pretty bad), buses are a whole different story. They’re reliable, affordable, and a great way to get around if you’re exploring Croatia without a car. Major cities like Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik are connected to pretty much every other part of the country, so you’ll have no problem reaching your destination by bus.
Intercity buses are comfortable, usually on time (though summer traffic can cause delays), and often the best way to reach smaller coastal towns or national parks. Some of the most popular companies are Flixbus, Arriva, and Promet Makarska. On top of that, Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik all have local city buses, so you don’t need a car to get around town.
Take a road trip
There’s really nothing like taking a road trip through Croatia, it’s hands down one of the best ways to explore the country at your own pace. The coastal roads along the Adriatic are absolutely stunning, especially the famous Jadranska Magistrala. If you’ve got the time, I’d highly recommend renting a car. It gives you the freedom to discover hidden beaches, wine regions, and national parks that buses either don’t reach or only run to occasionally. Driving here is easy, the roads are in good condition, and distances between the highlights are pretty short, so you can cover a lot in just a few days.
Ferries are a life-saver
Ferries in Croatia are fantastic and make island-hopping super easy. You’ll usually have two options: car ferries and catamarans/passenger ferries. Car ferries take longer, but having your own car on the islands is often worth it. Companies like Jadrolinija, TP Line, and Krilo run frequent connections from Split, Dubrovnik, and other coastal towns to islands such as Hvar, Brač, Mljet, Korčula, and more.
The rides themselves are comfortable and come with gorgeous Adriatic views, so getting there is part of the experience. Prices often vary depending on the route, some are really affordable, while others can be a bit pricey. If you’re traveling in peak summer, definitely book in advance, since the most popular routes sell out quickly. And if you’re taking a car ferry, make sure to reserve your spot ahead of time and get to the port at least an hour early.
Beaches aren’t sandy
If you’re looking for sandy beaches, Croatia isn’t really the place. Most beaches here are pebbly rather than sandy, but that’s exactly why the sea is so crystal-clear. You won’t get those endless sandy stretches like in some other Mediterranean countries, but the smooth stones make swimming a dream since there’s no sand to cloud the water.
Read more >>> Best Beaches in Croatia
Plus, you won’t be finding sand everywhere after a beach day, it’s much cleaner overall. If you’re not used to pebbly or rocky beaches, I’d recommend bringing water shoes. They make getting into the sea way more comfortable. Locals don’t usually bother, since they’re used to it, but I love mine even as a local. If sandy beaches are a must for you, check out Korčula or Lopud, which do have a few.
The food is excellent, but expensive
Croatian food is definitely one of the highlights of any trip. The local cuisine is all about fresh seafood, hearty meat dishes, and a touch of Italian influence with plenty of pasta and risotto. On the coast, you can’t go wrong with grilled fish, octopus salad, or black cuttlefish risotto, while inland you’ll find richer, meatier meals like lamb cooked under the peka (a traditional “under-the-bell” dish). On the coast, peka is also popular, often with octopus instead of lamb.
Read more >>> Best Restaurants in Dubrovnik
Dining out is be pricey, especially in hotspots like Split and Dubrovnik. If you’re on a budget, stop by local bakeries or family-run konobas for affordable and authentic meals. And if you’re a foodie, make sure to treat yourself to some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever have.
Tap water is safe to drink
While some countries don’t have safe tap water, Croatia is not one of them. Tap water here is clean, safe, and perfectly fine to drink almost everywhere. In fact, it’s considered some of the best in Europe, especially in coastal and mountain areas where it comes straight from natural springs. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle. You can use it in your accommodation, and there are plenty of fountains around towns where you can refill and stay hydrated throughout the day.
Coffee culture is huge
If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll feel right at home in Croatia. Coffee here isn’t just about caffeine, it’s a way of life. You’ll often see locals sitting in cafés for hours, chatting and people-watching over a single cup. This is especially noticeable in towns with more locals and fewer tourists, but if you join in, no one will bat an eye.
Don’t expect giant takeaway cups, there’s no Starbucks culture here. Instead, enjoy a strong espresso or kava s mlijekom (coffee with milk) served in a small cup. Croatians usually drink coffee in the mornings or late afternoons with friends and family, and joining them is a fantastic way to experience authentic local life. And if you’re into specialty coffee, you’ll find plenty of bars across the country serving high-quality brews.
English is widely spoken
If you don’t speak Croatian, don’t worry, getting by in Croatia is easy if you speak English. This is especially true in tourist areas, bigger cities, and along the coast. Croatia often ranks among the top five countries in the world for English proficiency, and most people working in hospitality speak it fluently. Menus and signs are usually available in English too. That said, learning a few basic Croatian words is always appreciated and can make interactions even nicer.
Internet access
If you need good internet, you won’t have any trouble in Croatia. The country has excellent coverage, with reliable 4G and 5G available in most areas. Free Wi-Fi is common in cafés, restaurants, and hotels, and many cities even have public Wi-Fi zones. Mobile data is fast and affordable if you grab a local SIM card from providers like HT or A1. For digital nomads or remote workers, coworking spaces are also available in Split, Dubrovnik, and Zagreb, so it’s easy to stay connected while enjoying all that Croatia has to offer.
Power plugs
In Croatia, the standard power plugs are Type C and Type F, the same as in most of Europe. The voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz, so travelers from the EU won’t need an adapter. If you’re coming from the UK, US, Canada, or Australia, you’ll need a plug adapter and sometimes a voltage converter for certain electronics. A universal travel adapter is your safest bet. Many newer hotels even have USB or USB-C plugs in the rooms, so you might not need an adapter at all!
Tipping isn’t mandatory
Tipping is one of the most common questions about Croatia. Here, it’s not obligatory. Unlike in the US, you don’t have to leave a tip, since waiters, cooks, and restaurant staff earn a regular salary. That said, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% in a restaurant is standard if you’re happy with the service. For taxis, it’s common to round up to the nearest euro or leave a small tip. Hotel staff, tour guides, and hairdressers also appreciate a modest tip for good service. Overall, tipping is more of a kind gesture than a requirement.
Local taxis are expensive
If you need a taxi in Croatia, think carefully about which one you book. Taxis can be surprisingly expensive, especially along the coast. Short city rides are usually reasonable (for example, 10–15 euros in Dubrovnik), but fares can jump for airport transfers, late-night trips, or longer trips. To save money, I’d recommend using Bolt or Uber, taking public buses, or just walking when possible. Bolt and Uber are usually much cheaper than local taxis, and you know the price upfront. If you do take a local taxi, make sure the meter is running or agree on a fare before starting your ride. Also, check the price on the POS terminal if you’re paying by card.
You’ll have to pay for restrooms
In Croatia, like in most of Europe, public restrooms often come with a small fee. This is common in city centers, tourist sites, and along highways, usually around €0.50–1, depending on the location. Cafés and restaurants let you use their facilities for free if you’re a customer, so no worries there. Just make sure to carry some coins with you, so you’re always prepared.
Don’t get overly drunk in public
If there’s one thing locals really dislike, it’s insanely drunk people. Croatia has a generally relaxed approach to public behavior, so small slip-ups aren’t a problem, but excessive drinking in public is frowned upon. Police can even issue fines for such behavior, especially in busy tourist areas or near historic sites. If you want to enjoy a drink, do it in cafés, bars, or organized events, then head back to your accommodation or a club. Just avoid being loud or obnoxious while wandering the streets of the old towns.
Don’t wear swimwear outside of beaches
While being respectful in Croatia, remember that swimwear is only for the beach, pool, or water-related activities. Walking around towns, restaurants, or streets in just a bikini or swim trunks is considered inappropriate. In popular spots like Dubrovnik and Hvar, you can even get fined for showing up in swimwear in the Old Town. Always carry a cover-up, t-shirt, or shorts when leaving the beach, and save your swimwear for the beach.
Don’t be loud at the beach
People in Croatia treat beaches as peaceful, relaxing spaces. Locals go there to swim, sunbathe, and recharge, so being overly loud or blasting music is considered disrespectful. To blend in and enjoy the true Croatian beach atmosphere, keep your voice low, leave the speakers at home, and enjoy the natural sounds of the waves. If you’re looking for a livelier atmosphere, head to one of Croatia’s famous beach clubs, where music and dancing are part of the experience.
Croatia is not cheap
While Croatia used to be more affordable than Western Europe, since adopting the euro it has become quite expensive. It’s generally not a budget destination, especially along the coast and in popular towns like Dubrovnik, Hvar, and Split. Accommodation, dining, and activities can be pricey during peak season, and island excursions or guided tours add up quickly. If you’re on a tighter budget, consider traveling in the shoulder season, eating at local bakeries and konobas, and getting around by public transport or on foot. These tips can help stretch your budget without missing out on Croatia’s highlights.
Learn a few Croatian words
I’ve already mentioned that English is widely spoken in Croatia, but learning a few basic Croatian words goes a long way in showing respect and connecting with locals. Simple phrases like “hvala” (thank you), “dobar dan” (good day), “oprostite” (excuse me/sorry), and “molim” (please/you’re welcome) are appreciated everywhere. Even though most people speak English, making the effort to use local words can make your interactions more meaningful and memorable. One visitor even kept a list of Croatian phrases on his phone, so he always knew what to say — a simple trick that works really well!
Croatia is not the best for vegetarians/vegans
Croatia is traditionally meat and seafood-heavy, which can make vegetarian and vegan options a bit limited. Larger cities like Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik are doing better, but in smaller towns or coastal villages it can be trickier. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, it’s a good idea to research restaurants in advance. If you can’t find a suitable spot, you can always ask the waiter if they can prepare something, though keep in mind that most kitchens focus on meat and seafood, so cross-contamination is possible.
Even if a full meal isn’t available, you can usually get a side dish or two. Farmers’ markets are another great option, offering fresh produce, cheeses, and bread if you want to put together your own meals. A little planning ahead goes a long way to make sure you won’t go hungry.
