Croatia
is filled with surprising stories, island beauty and rich cultural
traditions that many travellers overlook. These insights reveal a
deeper and more intriguing side to the country before you explore it
for yourself.
Croatia has more than 1,200 islands, islets and reefs.
The world’s smallest town, Hum, is located in Croatia.
Dubrovnik’s city walls stretch almost 2 km and were never breached in medieval times.
The Dalmatian dog breed originated along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast.
The Sea Organ in Zadar creates music using waves and wind.
The modern necktie (cravat) originated from Croatian soldiers in the 17th century.
Croatian inventor Nikola Tesla transformed modern electricity and engineering.
Croatia pioneered advanced shipbuilding techniques, shaping global maritime design.
The world’s first torpedo was developed in Rijeka.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10% is common in restaurants.
Greetings often involve a firm handshake and warm eye contact.
Dress standards are generally modest in historic towns and religious sites.
Public behaviour is calm and respectful — loudness in quiet areas is discouraged.
Nikola Tesla, born in Smiljan, is one of history’s greatest inventors.
Luka Modrić is one of the world’s most celebrated footballers.
Roko Sikavica is Croatia’s youngest Michelin-starred chef.
Director Dušan Vukotić created the first non-US animated film to win an Oscar.
Croatia’s Adriatic Sea is among the clearest in the Mediterranean.
Plitvice Lakes National Park features 16 terraced lakes connected by waterfalls.
Istria blends Italian, Croatian and Austrian influences in food and culture.
Split is built around a Roman palace dating back to the 4th century.
Croatians value family time, long meals and relaxed coastal living.
Coffee culture is huge — locals can sit for hours over a single cup.
Traditional folk dances vary widely by region.
Many Croatians speak multiple languages, especially in tourist areas.
Klapa music, a form of acapella singing, is a UNESCO-recognised tradition.
Olive oil production is an important part of coastal culture.
Local markets offer fresh produce, seafood and regional delicacies.
Traditional crafts include lace-making and woodcarving.
Croatia’s history spans Roman, Venetian, Austro-Hungarian and Slavic influences.
Dubrovnik was a powerful maritime republic for centuries.
The Glagolitic alphabet, one of Europe’s oldest scripts, originated in the region.
Many towns still preserve medieval walls, forts and old city gates.
Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Park are world-famous for cascading lakes.
Zadar’s Sun Salutation installation lights up using solar energy.
Zlatni Rat beach changes shape with tides and wind.
Lokrum Island is known for peacocks and botanical gardens.
Croatia has over 1,200 islands.
The Dalmatian dog originates here.
Home to the world’s first torpedo prototype.
Dubrovnik walls were never breached.
Plitvice Lakes is one of Europe’s oldest national parks.
Nikola Tesla was born in Croatia.
Hum is the world’s smallest town.
Zadar has a musical sea organ.
Zlatni Rat beach changes shape naturally.
Roman emperor Diocletian built his palace in Split.
Croatia’s coastline is over 1,700 km long.
Klapa singing is UNESCO-recognised.