Croatia

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CURRENCY

LANGUAGE

CAPITAL

Known for its cozy cities with orange rooftops, its cobblestone streets filled with the smell of truffle and lavender, Game of Thrones video locations and some of the most beautiful green / turquoise nature parks in the world, Croatia provides room for the ultimate European getaway.

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

GENERALLY SAFE? YES

Croatia is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. It is known for its low crime rate and is a popular tourist destination. However, safety can vary depending on the specific location and the activities you engage in. Here are some safety tips and considerations for traveling in Croatia:

Crime: Petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft can occur in crowded tourist areas, so it's essential to take common-sense precautions, like keeping your belongings secure.
Natural Hazards: Croatia is prone to natural hazards like earthquakes and occasional forest fires, so it's a good idea to be aware of local safety guidelines and follow any instructions from authorities.
Traffic Safety: Be cautious when driving in Croatia, as road conditions can vary, and traffic accidents are not uncommon. Follow local traffic laws and drive defensively.
Water Safety: Croatia is a popular destination for beachgoers, but be aware of potential sea hazards like strong currents

CROATIAN

The official language of Croatia is Croatian. Croatian is a South Slavic language and is the most widely spoken language in the country. It uses the Latin script, and its vocabulary and grammar are similar to other Slavic languages like Serbian and Bosnian.

In addition to Croatian, many Croatians, especially in urban areas and in the tourism industry, also speak English, often as a second language. English is commonly used in hotels, restaurants, and for tourist-related services.

German and Italian are also spoken by some Croatians, particularly in areas where there are significant populations of people with roots in those countries. In Istria, for example, Italian is widely spoken alongside Croatian.

TRANSPORTATION

Croatia offers various transportation options, each with its advantages:

Car Rental: Renting a car is a popular choice for travelers who want to explore different regions of Croatia at their own pace. It provides flexibility and access to more remote or less touristy areas. Croatia has a well-maintained road network. However, during the peak tourist season, traffic can be heavy in coastal areas, and parking can be challenging in popular destinations.
Public Transportation: Croatia has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and ferries. Buses are the primary means of long-distance travel and are a cost-effective option for getting around. They connect major cities and towns. Additionally, trams are available in some cities, such as Zagreb. Ferries are essential for traveling between the many islands along the Adriatic coast.
Trains: Croatia's train network is not as extensive as its bus system, but it can be a convenient and scenic way to travel between major cities and some towns. The train journey along the coast is particularly beautiful.
Boats and Ferries: If you plan to visit Croatia's islands, especially along the Dalmatian coast, taking boats and ferries is essential. These routes connect the mainland to the islands and offer a unique travel experience.
Domestic Flights: While most travelers don't need to take domestic flights within Croatia, there are airports in major cities like Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik that offer connections to international destinations. Flights can save time for those with tight schedules.
Cycling: Croatia has a growing network of cycling routes, making it a great option for active travelers who want to explore the countryside and coastal areas at a more leisurely pace.

Solo travel in Croatia can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Croatia is a beautiful and safe destination with a lot to offer for solo travelers.

Ease of Travel: Getting around Croatia is relatively easy and affordable. While trains are not common for coastal travel, you can use buses like Flixbus, which offer affordable fares, making it convenient for solo travelers who may not drive.
Safety: Croatia is considered a safe country, which can provide peace of mind for solo travelers exploring new destinations.
English Proficiency: In tourist areas, English is widely spoken, making it easier to communicate. Learning a few basic Croatian phrases, like 'hvala' (thank you), can be a nice gesture and enhance your travel experience.
Affordability: Croatia can be relatively affordable, especially if you avoid the peak summer season. Hostels, local buses, and dining in less touristy areas can help you save money.
Hostel Culture: Croatia has a variety of hostels that not only save you money but also offer social and fun experiences, providing opportunities to make friends and enjoy the local nightlife.

DAY BUDGET

A rough estimate of daily expenses for different types of travelers:

Budget Traveler: For budget-conscious travelers staying in hostels, eating at local restaurants or street food stalls, and using public transportation, you can expect to spend around 40-70 Euros per day.
Mid-Range Traveler: If you prefer mid-range hotels or guesthouses, dining in sit-down restaurants, and occasionally participating in guided tours or activities, you might spend around 70-150 Euros per day.
Luxury Traveler: For those seeking luxury accommodations, fine dining experiences, private tours, and more upscale activities, your daily budget could exceed 150 Euros and go well into the hundreds of Euros.

ACCOMMODATION

An elaborate list of cheap, mid-range, and luxury hotels throughout all of Croatia can be found

Here

NATIONAL DISH

The national dish of Croatia is "Peka." Peka is a traditional Croatian cooking method that involves baking meat (typically lamb, veal, or octopus) and vegetables in a covered pot or metal bell-like dome. The dish is slow-cooked to perfection, often over an open flame or in an outdoor oven, which gives it a distinct and delicious flavor.

Next to Peka, Ćevapi is sold everywhere around the country: these are small, grilled sausages made from minced meat, usually a mixture of beef and pork, seasoned with spices. They are typically served with flatbread (somun), chopped onions, and ajvar (a red pepper-based condiment).

Other dishes that are widely enjoyed and considered quintessentially Croatian include:

Pasticada: This is a traditional Dalmatian dish made with marinated beef, often served with gnocchi or pasta. It's slow-cooked in a rich, sweet and sour sauce made with wine, vinegar, and spices.
Istrian Truffle Dishes: The Istrian region of Croatia is known for its truffle-based dishes, such as truffle pasta and truffle-infused sauces.
Soparnik: A traditional dish from the Dalmatian region, soparnik is a savory pie made with layers of thin dough filled with Swiss chard, garlic, and olive oil.
Risotto (Rižot): Seafood risotto is especially popular in coastal regions of Croatia, with ingredients like fresh seafood, rice, white wine, and various seasonings.

DRINKS

The choice of beverages in Croatia often varies by region and personal preference. Some of the notable and traditional Croatian drinks include:

Rakija: Rakija is a strong fruit brandy that holds a special place in Croatian culture. It is commonly made from fruits like grapes (loza), plums (šljivovica), cherries (višnjevača), or herbs (travarica). Rakija is often consumed as an aperitif or digestive, and it's an integral part of many social gatherings and celebrations.
Wine: Croatia has a long history of winemaking, and its wine regions produce a wide variety of high-quality wines. Some famous Croatian wine regions include Istria, Dalmatia, and Slavonia. Croatian wines, both red and white, have gained recognition on the international stage.
Ožujsko Beer: Ožujsko is one of Croatia's most popular beer brands. It's a lager-style beer that is widely consumed throughout the country. Croatia has a growing craft beer scene, and you can find a variety of locally brewed beers as well.
Pelinkovac: Pelinkovac is a herbal liqueur known for its strong, bitter taste. It's often consumed as a digestive after a meal. The unique flavor comes from a blend of herbs, including wormwood.
Medica: Medica is a honey liqueur or brandy made from honey and often flavored with various herbs. It's a sweet and warming drink that is sometimes enjoyed as a shot or used in cocktails.
Grappa: Grappa, also known as lozovača in Croatia, is a grape-based brandy. It is similar to rakija but made specifically from grape pomace, the leftover skins, seeds, and stems from winemaking.
Herbal Teas: Croatia is known for its rich tradition of herbal teas, often made from locally sourced herbs. These teas are enjoyed for their soothing and medicinal properties.

TAP WATER

Tap water in Croatia is generally safe to drink. The country has a well-regulated and safe public water supply system, and the tap water is of good quality in most places. This includes major cities, towns, and tourist destinations.

However, if you are in a particularly remote or rural area, it's a good idea to check with locals or your accommodation regarding the quality of the tap water. In some very rural or isolated locations, the tap water may not meet the same standards as in more urban areas.

VACCINATIONS

Croatia does not require any specific vaccinations for travelers entering the country. However, vaccination requirements and recommendations can change over time. Here are some recommendations as of 2023:

COVID-19 Vaccination: at this moment, there are no requirements anymore regarding the pandemic
Tick-Borne Encephalitis: If you plan to spend a significant amount of time in rural or forested areas in Croatia, you may want to inquire about tick-borne encephalitis vaccination. This is more relevant for individuals engaging in outdoor activities like hiking or camping.

EPISCOPAL COMPLEX OF THE EUPHRASIAN BASILICA IN THE HISTORIC CENTRE OF POREČ

A beautifully preserved early Christian basilica with stunning mosaics and an adjacent sacristy, baptistery, and episcopal palace, showcasing the architectural and artistic heritage of the region.

HISTORIC CENTRE OF TROGIR

A well-preserved gem of Venetian architecture, featuring a maze of narrow medieval streets, stunning Romanesque and Renaissance buildings, and a magnificent cathedral and castle, all set on a charming island in the Adriatic Sea.

HISTORICAL COMPLEX OF SPLIT WITH THE PALACE OF DIOCLETIAN

Split, Croatia is a remarkable historical complex centered around the Palace of Diocletian. This ancient palace, built for a Roman emperor, is now surrounded by a vibrant city and holds centuries of history within its walls.

OLD CITY OF DUBROVNIK

Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic", this city situated on the Dalmatian coast has been put on the map by the series Game of Thrones, but has stayed there because of its beautiful history, its preserved Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque churches and its amazing city walls.

STARI GRAD PLAIN

The Stari Grad Plain on Hvar is a special place in Croatia that has been used to grow crops for over 2,400 years. People have carefully organized the land into small fields, called plots, to grow things like grapes and olives, showing how ancient farming traditions can still be seen today.

STEĆCI MEDIEVAL TOMBSTONE GRAVEYARDS

The medieval tombstone graveyards known as Stećci can be found in various countries and hold a lot of history. These unique tombstones are like art and tell stories about the people who lived long ago, giving us a glimpse into the past.

THE CATHEDRAL OF ST JAMES IN ŠIBENIK

Renowned for its stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, showcasing intricate stonework and a remarkable dome, representing a masterpiece of architectural innovation and artistry.

WESTERN STATO DA MAR

A historical region in the Republic of Venice's overseas empire, encompassing various territories and islands along the eastern Adriatic coast, notable for its significant role in Venetian maritime and trade dominance during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

ANCIENT AND PRIMEVAL BEECH FORESTS OF THE CARPATHIANS AND OTHER REGIONS OF EUROPE

A special group of forests in 18 countries that show how beech trees have grown and adapted in different places. These forests are like time capsules, showing how beech trees survived ice ages and then spread across Europe, creating different types of forests with lots of different plants and animals. Scientists have studied these forests to learn about the past and how these trees and other species depend on them.

PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK

The largest National Park of Croatia lies in a beautiful karst landscape and a mix of forests, meadows, interconnected throughout by waterfalls and rivers. A true natural phenomenon, the tufa barriers and naturally saturated water have together with centuries of ongoing processes formed the Plitvice pools or "Dinarides".

DO I NEED A VISA?

You don't need a Visa coming from most countries in Europe, from the United States, Canada, several South American countries and Asian countries. A full overview given by the Guatemalan government can be found here. If you have a layover in the USA, do look into ESTA requirements.

HOW LONG CAN I STAY?

The stamp you get on entry into Guatemala tells you you can stay 90 days. You can apply for an extension of 30 days, which costs around 190 QTZ. On top of that, you can exit the country to Belize, Mexico or Costa Rica and then enter again to get another 90 days. The countries El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua fall under the 90 days and do not count as exits.

Croatia shares a border with Slovenia to the northwest. There are multiple border crossings between the two countries, including those on major highways and at smaller crossings in rural areas. Border crossings between Croatia and Slovenia are typically efficient and well-organized, making travel relatively easy.

Croatia has a long border with Bosnia and Herzegovina, with many border crossings along the way. The border crossings are typically open and well-maintained, but it's important to have your passport and travel documents in order, especially since you're crossing into a non-European Union (EU) country.

When you travel from central or Northern Croatia to Dubrovnik or the other way around by road, you pass an area of land along the coast that is not Croatian territory. You will have to get out at the border crossing twice, but this all goes very smoothly.

NATIONAL HOLIDAYS AND FESTIVALS
(dates 2023)

1 Jan

6 Jan

April (var.)

1 May

30 May

22 Jun

5 Aug

1 Nov

18 Nov

25 Dec

26 Dec

New Year's Day

Epiphany

Easter

Labour day

Statehood day

Anti-Fascist Struggle day

Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day

Assumption of Mary

All Saints Day

The Day of Remembering the Victims of the Croatia War of Independence & the Day of Remembering the Victims of Vukovar and Škabrnja

Christmas

Saint Stephen's day

Hvar

Streets of Hvar, Croatia

Hvar Croatia

Hvar streets ancient

Streets of Hvar, Croatia

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Nestled on the sun-kissed island of Hvar in the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea, the town of Hvar exudes an atmosphere that is equally vibrant, relaxing, and steeped in colorful history. Its cobblestone streets wind their way through a charming maze of centuries-old buildings, their facades painted in a spectrum of vibrant hues that evoke the Mediterranean spirit.

At the heart of this picturesque town lies the central square, framed by a pristine white church that stands as a symbol of Hvar's rich heritage. It's the perfect place to sip on a refreshing cocktail, people-watch, and immerse yourself in the rhythm of life on the island.Climb to the top of Fortica Španjola for panoramic views of the town and the surrounding islands, a testament to Hvar's strategic significance throughout the ages.

From the shores of Hvar, where the crystal-clear waters meet the rocky coastline, you can venture out on a boat tour to discover secluded coves, secret beaches, and charming fishing villages that dot the island's perimeter. Explore sea caves, swim in bays, and witness the beauty of the Pakleni Islands, an archipelago off the coast of Hvar that seems plucked from a postcard.

GETTING THERE

Ferries go multiple times a day from the cities of Split or Dubrovnik, but also from the neighbouring islands along the Dalmatian coast.

GETTING AROUND

On Hvar you will need a car or a taxi to get around, if you want to see other parts of the island. Many tourists rent scooters but the locals think this is very unsafe as cars drive very fast and these roads are not meant for scooters.

CATHOLICISM

All churches on Hvar ar Catholic and the majority of the people on this island follow this religion.

EASTER TRADITION

Za Križen: a UNESCO-protected Easter tradition for almost 500 years, involves a night-long procession by six villages carrying a veiled wooden cross. Led by barefoot or sock-clad cross-bearers, the journey covers twenty-five kilometers, with the cross never touching the ground, except in churches. The spiritually charged participants return to their home church in the morning, welcomed by locals in a celebration marked by fervent singing.

HVAR CATHEDRAL

This 16th-century cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hvar Town. It features a beautiful Renaissance façade and an interior adorned with artwork and religious relics.

THE HVAR FORTRESS

The Hvar Fortress, also known as Fortica or Španjola Fortress, is a historic fortress located above Hvar Town. It offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding Adriatic Sea. The fortress dates back to the 16th century and provides a glimpse into the island's history. It's a popular spot to watch the sunset and take in breathtaking views of the coast.

Dubrovnik

OLD TOWN

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Dubrovnik's Old Town is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical and cultural significance. This status underscores its importance as a unique and well-preserved destination.

CITY WALLS

The city walls are perhaps the most iconic feature of Dubrovnik. Walking along these ancient walls provides breathtaking views of the city, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding landscapes. The walls extend for about 1.2 miles and offer a unique perspective of the Old Town.

Dubrovnik is a captivating destination for travelers who appreciate history, culture, and food.

Historical Marvel: Dubrovnik boasts a rich and storied history that dates back to the 7th century. Encircled by well-preserved medieval walls, the Old Town of Dubrovnik is a living museum, with narrow cobblestone streets, historic churches, and ancient buildings that have witnessed centuries of events. The city's defensive walls, which you can walk along, offer a unique perspective on its history and provide breathtaking panoramic views. Explore cultural landmarks like the Rector's Palace, the Franciscan Monastery, and the Sponza Palace, each a testament to the city's past.

Mouthwatering Cuisine: Croatian cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Eastern European flavors, and Dubrovnik is no exception. Savor fresh seafood dishes, such as grilled fish and octopus salad, or try traditional Croatian dishes like pasticada, peka, and various seafood risottos.

Game of Thrones Connection: If you're a fan of the popular TV series "Game of Thrones," Dubrovnik may feel familiar. The city served as the backdrop for King's Landing, making it a must-visit destination for fans of the show. You can take guided tours to visit key filming locations and relive scenes from the series.

Dubrovnik from above

iglesia Merced, Antigua, Guatemala

City walls of Dubrovnik

Mount Fuego seen from Antigua, Guatemala

City walls of Dubrovnik

Iglesia Merced, Antigua Guatemala

Dubrovnik from above

iglesia Merced, Antigua, Guatemala

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Split

Split, Croatia's second-largest city, offers a distinctive charm and a plethora of attractions that make it a compelling destination for travelers. If you're into history, culture, and beautiful coastal settings, Split is a must visit.

The heart of Split is dominated by the awe-inspiring Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century AD, this well-preserved palace complex is a masterpiece of ancient architecture. You can wander through its labyrinthine streets, admire its intricate details, and explore various historical sites within its walls, including the Peristyle, Diocletian's Mausoleum (now a cathedral), and the Temple of Jupiter.

The historic centre feels like strolling through a living museum. You'll encounter historic landmarks like the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, the Bell Tower, and the Golden Gate. The Riva Promenade is a popular gathering place for locals and you'll find the atmosphere here very warm and welcoming, with elders singing together and the youth enjoying the terraces overlooking the Adriatic sea and harbor.

Split serves as a gateway to some of Croatia's most stunning destinations. You can take day trips to explore nearby islands like Hvar, Brac, and Vis, each offering its own unique charm, beautiful beaches, and cultural attractions.

The Diocletians Palace in Split, Croatia

Semuc Champey in Lanquin, Guatemala

The Bell tower in Split

Semuc Champey turquoise pools

Busy streets of Split

Semuc Champey

The Diocletians Palace in Split, Croatia

Semuc Champey in Lanquin, Guatemala

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CROATIA

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CURRENCY

Euros

LANGUAGE

Croatian

CAPITAL

Zagreb

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW

GENERALLY SAFE? YES

NATIONAL HOLIDAYS AND FESTIVALS (dates 2023)

Hvar

GETTING THERE

GETTING AROUND

Dubrovnik

Split

NATIONAL HOLIDAYS AND FESTIVALS
(dates 2023)