Plan
your trip with this essential Croatia travel guide. Discover key
facts, visa details, transport options, safety tips, and cultural
insights to make exploring this Adriatic gem effortless and
unforgettable.
Country: Croatia
Continent / Region: Europe / Southeast Europe / Adriatic Coast
Capital City: Zagreb
Government Type: Parliamentary Republic
Population: Approx. 3.9 million
Official Language(s): Croatian
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~60% (very high in tourist areas)
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+1 / GMT+2 (summer)
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/F – 230V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 112 (all services)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 2–2.5 hours (direct flights)
Best Time/Months to Travel: May–September
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Part of the Schengen Area
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: Up to 90 days in 180-day period
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines recommended
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Croatia):
Average Daily Costs: £40 / £80 / £150+
Tipping Culture: 10% appreciated in restaurants
Public Transport Options: Buses, ferries, trams (Zagreb), taxis
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: €1–€2 (local buses/trams)
Internet / SIM Availability: Excellent 4G/5G; Hrvatski Telekom, A1, Telemach
Main Climate Type: Mediterranean (coast), continental inland
Average Temperature: Winter 5–12°C; Summer 25–35°C
Major Cities: Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar, Rijeka
Natural Attractions: Islands, national parks, waterfalls, mountains
Popular Destinations: Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, Plitvice Lakes, Zadar, Rovinj
Main Religions: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Fresh seafood, risotto, grilled meats, black risotto, truffles, olive oil, Pag cheese
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Dubrovnik Old Town, Diocletian’s Palace, Plitvice Lakes, Ston Walls, Krka National Park
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Common Scams: Overpriced taxis in tourist zones, restaurant upselling
Health Risks: Strong sun and heat in summer
Recommended Clinics: Excellent private clinics in major cities
Insurance Recommendation: Standard travel insurance advised
Internet Speed: Very good 4G/5G nationwide
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Dubrovnik walls, Plitvice Lakes, Split Old Town, Hvar beaches, Krka waterfalls, Zlatni Rat Beach
Unique Experiences: Island-hopping, wine tasting in Istria, sailing the Adriatic, exploring Game of Thrones filming sites, sunset in Zadar
Hidden Gems: Vis Island, Ston saltworks, Korčula Old Town, Mljet National Park, Šibenik Old Town
Popular Areas to Stay: Dubrovnik Old Town, Split Riva, Hvar Town, Zadar waterfront, Zagreb centre
Average Hotel Prices: £40 / £80 / £150+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Hvar Town, Split Riva, Dubrovnik waterfront, Pag Island (Zrće Beach)
Local Drinks: Rakija, local wines, craft beers
Entertainment: Beach bars, sailing parties, old-town cafés, music festivals
Car Rental: Recommended for exploring islands/inland
Domestic Flights: Limited but available
Ferries: Extensive network connecting islands and coast
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Uber available in main cities; taxis moderate
Best Markets: Zagreb Dolac Market, Split Green Market, Dubrovnik Old Town shops
Popular Souvenirs: Olive oil, lavender, lacework, truffles, wine, coral jewellery
Local SIM Card Providers: Hrvatski Telekom, A1, Telemach
Typical Business Hours: 8 a.m.–8 p.m. (Mon–Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Very safe to drink
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Croatia has over 1,200 islands, but only around 50 are inhabited.