Emergency Help Abroad – Croatia

Crime & Legal Awareness

A concise overview of the key laws, legal expectations and enforcement practices travellers should understand before visiting Croatia — including behaviours that may be acceptable in the UK but carry stricter penalties or different interpretations abroad.

1. STRICT DRUG, WEAPON & ALCOHOL LAWS

• Possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs can lead to heavy fines or imprisonment.

• Carrying weapons, including certain knives or sprays, without justification is illegal.

• Drinking alcohol in public areas is restricted in many cities.

• Drink-driving laws are strict, with low alcohol limits and strong enforcement.

• Bringing illegal substances into Croatia results in immediate arrest.

2. RESPECT FOR CULTURE, PUBLIC MORALS & ENVIRONMENT

• Respectful behaviour is expected at churches, monasteries and cultural sites.

• Littering in public areas, beaches or national parks can result in fines.

• Damaging natural environments, including protected islands and caves, is illegal.

• Modest attire is recommended in religious settings.

• Vandalism and graffiti are criminal offences.

3. PUBLIC BEHAVIOUR & CIVIL ORDER

• Police may ask for ID — carry your passport or a copy.

• Petty theft can occur in tourist hotspots — remain vigilant.

• Public disorder or aggressive behaviour may result in fines or arrest.

• Be cautious in nightlife areas; drink spiking can occur.

• Bribing police or officials is illegal.

4. TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ADMINISTRATIVE OFFENCES

• Speed limits, seatbelt rules and driving laws are strictly enforced.

• Public transport requires valid tickets — fines are issued on the spot.

• Parking violations or illegal camping can lead to penalties.

• Overstaying Schengen limits can result in fines or bans.

• Using mobile phones while driving without hands-free is illegal.

5. PHOTOGRAPHY, DRONE & SECURITY RESTRICTIONS

• Drone regulations apply — flying near airports, crowds or protected zones is prohibited.

• Some historical buildings and museums restrict photography.

• Avoid photographing military areas or secure facilities.

• Always respect individuals’ privacy when taking photos.

6. ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY LAWS

• Removing stones, flora or shells from protected areas and islands is illegal.

• Swimming outside designated zones or in dangerous currents is risky.

• Starting fires in forests or parks is strictly controlled, especially in summer.

• Hiking off marked trails in national parks can attract fines.

• Feeding wildlife or damaging marine habitats is prohibited.

7. RESPECT FOR NATURE, CULTURE & HERITAGE SITES

• Damaging or climbing on historic sites, ruins or UNESCO areas is illegal.

• Removing artefacts or natural materials from cultural locations is prohibited.

• Entering archaeological sites or caves without guidance or permission is not allowed.

• Buying items made from endangered species is illegal.

What You Shouldn’t Do - Behaviours Travellers Should Avoid.

These are important behaviours and actions to avoid to stay respectful, safe and aligned with local expectations. Remember that what feels comfortable or commonplace in the UK may not be interpreted the same way in Croatia.

• Don’t swim outside designated areas, especially near boat lanes.

• Don’t sit or climb on fragile city walls, particularly in Dubrovnik.

• Don’t litter at beaches or coves, as fines apply in protected areas.

• Don’t underestimate sea urchins, and consider water shoes in rocky coves.

• Don’t treat national parks like open playgrounds, and stay on marked trails.

• Don’t ignore strong winds (bura), which can disrupt ferries and make driving difficult.

• Don’t leave valuables in parked cars, especially near popular viewpoints.

• Don’t handle or remove marine life, including starfish and shells.

• Don’t walk barefoot on old town stones after rain, as they become slippery.

• Don’t drive without checking ferry schedules, especially between islands.

• Don’t dive or snorkel without checking local rules, particularly in protected waters.

• Don’t haggle excessively, as many prices are fixed.

• Don’t swim during thunderstorms, which roll in quickly.

• Don’t disrespect churches, where quiet and modest dress are expected.

• Don’t feed seagulls or stray cats, particularly in historic centres.

• Don’t assume all beaches are sandy, and plan footwear accordingly.

• Don’t rely solely on cards, particularly in smaller towns.

• Don’t ignore signage about “private” waterfronts, often attached to hotels.

• Don’t climb on rocks at sunset view spots, where falls are common.

• Don’t underestimate summer heat, especially inland.