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The 5 reasons to go to Croatia

What with its paradisaical islands, surprising food, vibrant capital and breath taking coast line, you won't know what to do next during your trip to Croatia.
  1. 1
    Its coast is one of the most beautiful in the world.
  2. 2
    Its islands are little pieces of paradise
  3. 3
    For it's amazingly varied and fresh cuisine
  4. 4
    To learn more about the last war which tore Europe apart
  5. 5
    To explore its vibrant and often under estimated capital
1. Its coast is one of the most beautiful in the world.

Going to Croatia without visiting the coast is a bit like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower...What can I say about its thousand kilometre long rugged coast, with hundreds of little coves, bays, beaches, and exceptional towns and villages! The countryside is breathtaking: steep mountains that plunge directly into the blue waters, perfect for picturesque photos. Another advantage is that you can visit historic sites and Venetian influenced towns (like Dubrovnik and Split) and still be only a few minutes away from the sea!

2. Its islands are little pieces of paradise

Although the coast is one of the favourite destinations for holiday makers in Croatia, mostly because of its magnificent towns like Split and Dubrovnik, in summer the crowded beaches and streets full of people can sometimes be a bit exhausting, so why not try the idyllic scenery of one of the country's 700 islands: steep coasts that plunge into the sea, deserted beaches, turquoise blue water and wonderful sea beds. We particularly recommend the islands of Vis and Lastovo, which still have few visitors.

3. For it's amazingly varied and fresh cuisine

A trip to central and eastern Europe is often synonymous with a diet of potatoes and cabbage! However, despite its small size, Croatia has a surprising variety of gastronomic specialties in the different regions of the country. Istria, where you can feel the Italian influence, is probably the richest, and has a cuisine based on delicious olive oil and lcoal truffles. Slovenia is strongly influenced by Hungary, with paprika and breadcrumb batters, and the coast has delicious freshly caught fish and seafood. And when you know that there is a lot of good quality wine, what more do you need to be convinced!

4. To learn more about the last war which tore Europe apart

Perhaps one of the darkest points in the country's contemporary history, the war is still on everyone's mind. Although Croatians often don't like the constant questions that visitors have about this part of their history, they aren't mean with their words when it comes to talking about conflict. Most towns have a museum that commemorates the victims of the conflict, and the physical signs are still visible in the towns that were on the front line. Dubrovnik, which was besieged by the forces of Serbia Montenegro for several months, is a case in point, even if Slavonia and its martyred town, Vukovar, in the east of the country, is the place where the country felt the war most.

5. To explore its vibrant and often under estimated capital

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is often ignored by tourists, who prefer (perhaps logically!) the coast and the pleasures of the seaside. But Zagreb merits more than that. Its centre is a small jewel of Austro-Hungarian architecture which really livens up at night. Zagreb is the most progressive, tolerant and youngest town in the country, and it has an exceptional night life: whether you want concerts, night clubs, bars or restaurants you can find them there. Whereas those who prefer culture will love the city's many museums.

Discover the destination

Why go to Croatia?

Travelling to Croatia is definitely an amazing experience if your budget fits and you avoid the overly beaten paths.
We advise you if...
  • You'll notice the welcoming and generous spirit of the inhabitants. In Croatia, the local people are polite and helpful, and will do all that they can to be nice to you without ever bothering you.
  • If, for you, holiday means tanning and swimming in the sea; or if you like long afternoons tanning on the sand, or on big rocks, you'll have plenty to keep you busy along the coast.
  • Going by bus in Croatia is possible but constrains you to only visit the more touristy places. The buses are also not very cheap! It's better to travel around freely in your own rental vehicle.
  • If you want to combine walking and clubbing. Then Croatia has everything inside it that you need. Beautiful walks in the national parks and wild evening in the clubs on the Dalmatian islands.
You shouldn't go if
  • Do you have a backpacker's budget? Then it's better to forget Croatia because you'll be extremely frustrated. Entrance to the parks and boat journeys are extremely expensive - much like accommodation, restaurants and public transport. Those with smaller budgets should consider other Balkan countries.
  • If you can’t imagine a trip without its fair share of difficulties or you’re looking for adventure and challenge, Croatia risks disappointing you. The tourist welcome is professional and the lifestyle is very similar to other Mediterranean countries.
  • Croatia is full of Sunshine, islands and beautiful beaches - lovers of cold weather should avoid it!
  • You can't really find little places to snack in like in Greece or Crete, but rather tourist restaurants on the coast with pizza and pasta.

When to go in Croatia?

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Croatia has two different climates. On the coast, the climate is Mediterranean: winters are pleasant and summers are hot. Further inland, winters are very cold and summers are hot and stormy. The best time to visit Croatia is between May and September: the weather is glorious and the sea is warm enough for swimming. For those who don't like crowds, avoid the touristic coast during July and August. And beware of the wind throughout the year!
See when to go

What to see in Croatia?

Top places to discover.

See all places
Prepare your departure to Croatia
Croatia has become a very popular tourist destination for the whole world. So here is some advice to prepare for your journey.

What documents do you need to travel to Croatia?

For a stay in Croatia of less than 3 months, a valid passport is needed. Croatia is not part of the Schengen Area.

For Canadians, for a stay of less than 3 months, the formalities are the same as those for Europeans, that is to say you need a valid passport for the length of your stay. 

Health advise

Get your European Health Insurance Card (E111) to avoid paying medical expenses.

There are no obligatory vaccinations needed for travelling in Croatia. However, it is advisable to get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.

For further information consult the NHS website.

Language

The official language is Croatian but English, German and Italian are also spoken in Croatia.

Time difference

There is a one hour time difference between Croatia and the UK. Clocks move to summer time between the end of March and September.

Phone and internet connection

The telephone country code for Croatia is +385. You can phone from post offices, cyber cafes or telephone boxes, which are becoming increasingly rare! Avoid phoning from your hotel as it will cost a lot more!

In large towns most cafes and hotels have an Internet Wifi connection but it is not always free of charge!

Electricity

You will need an adaptor plug to use in Croatian power sockets.

British Embassy in Croatia

Ivana Lučića 4

Zagreb

Embassy of the Republic of Croatia

21 Conway St, Kings Cross, London W1T 6BN

Police: 192

Fire Brigade: 193

Medical Emergencies: 194