If you’re looking for tips for planning a trip to Croatia, you’ve obviously come to the right place.
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- As with other Schengen destinations, if you have a Canadian, US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, or EU passport, that’s all you’ll need to visit for up to 90 days. Just make sure your passport expiry date is at least three months after your intended departure date from the Schengen area.
- There are no special vaccines required but be smart and make sure you’re up to date on all of your routine vaccinations.
- The rail network in Croatia is minimal but buses are a great way to get around. Use Omio or GetByBus to research bus routes and schedules. Ferries run to Croatia’s many islands. Check routes and schedules and easily book with Ferryhopper.
- Having a rental car is ideal for visiting exploring the countryside and small towns but is not particularly helpful if you plan on staying in cities where parking is expensive and public transit is good. Expect good roads and easy driving. An International Driver’s Permit isn’t required so long as you have a license from your home country written in Latin letters.
- Buses are reliable and efficient in major cities. Taxis are expensive but can come in handy. Download the Uber app (Android / Apple) and Bolt for use in major cities as these tend to be more affordable. options.
- Pack comfortable walking shoes with excellent grip, a hat for protection from the intense sun, and make sure you have clothing that adequately covers shoulders and knees for visiting churches.
- If you plan on spending time at the beach, pack water shoes. Rocks and sea urchins are unpleasant to step on.
- Pack a travel adapter for type C and F outlets (2 round prongs) or consider getting an international travel adapter.
- Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants in larger cities, but are generally not accepted in small towns, for private accomodations, or by street vendors. ATMs are readily available to get some Euros when you need them except in rural areas so plan ahead. Some establishments may offer a discount for cash payments. Tipping is not mandatory at restaurants, but if you feel like the service was good, a 10-15% tip is appreciated. Same goes for taxi drivers and concierges. For bellhops, maids, bathroom attendants, doormen, etc, 1 Euro is a good tip.
- Most water in Croatia is safe to drink and public water fountains are available. Pack a refillable water bottle to reduce plastic waste. When in doubt, a water bottle with a built-in filter will ensure your water is always safe.
- Croatia is a country with a rich history, distinct from the Balkans or Eastern Europe. Please avoid bringing up Yugoslavia or the war, as these topics can be sensitive for Croatians.
These are the tips I found helpful in planning my trip to Croatia, but please share anything you’d like to add.
I hope you found these Croatia trip planning tips helpful. If you’re looking for more, here are all of my posts about Croatia, including essential Croatia travel experiences.
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