Croatia Travel Guide: What to Do

What to do in Croatia? Main activities and attractions

Visitors interested in history will appreciate Diocletian’s Palace in Split, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Roman architecture. The old town of Dubrovnik, famously walled and facing the sea, offers a walk through centuries of maritime history. Zagreb’s museums and Austro-Hungarian buildings highlight Croatia’s modern cultural development. Pula’s ancient Roman amphitheatre stands as a testament to the empire’s influence, while Trogir enchants with its labyrinth of cobbled streets and Renaissance palaces. These landmarks offer insight into Croatia’s legacy as a cultural crossroads.

Nature seekers can explore Plitvice Lakes National Park, known for turquoise water cascading across limestone cliffs. Outdoor activities such as kayaking through the Zrmanja River canyon or hiking in Paklenica National Park offer moments of tranquility and adrenaline. The Dalmatian islands provide gastronomic pleasures, with local olive oils, seafood dishes, and wines found in family-run konobas. Sailing the Adriatic coast reveals hidden coves and uninhabited islets, making nature and food central to the Croatia travel experience.

Unusual and off-the-beaten-path experiences in Croatia

While Croatia’s coastline is renowned, venturing inland or seeking unique encounters enhances any travel to Croatia. In Istria, visit the hilltop town of Hum, claiming to be the smallest town in the world, with fewer than 30 inhabitants but rich in Glagolitic culture and medieval charm. Guided walks through its alleyways offer a journey into time. In the region of Lika, the Museum of Gacka in Otočac showcases traditional watermills and forgotten rural crafts. Just nearby, the Gacka River, one of Europe’s cleanest, invites travelers to try fly fishing surrounded by tranquility. Fans of dark tourism can discover Goli Otok, a former political prison island turned open-air museum. Located near Rab, it sheds light on Croatia’s 20th-century history. In the hinterlands of Dalmatia, the Blue Lake in Imotski appears and disappears seasonally, a geographical oddity framed by legends and local myths. Hikers reach it via crater-like trails offering dramatic views. Lastly, consider staying in eco-villages like Zrnovo or Komiža, where you can sleep in stone houses, learn traditional olive pressing, and dine on organically grown produce. These offbeat experiences reveal a Croatia beyond postcards—offering connection, reflection, and immersion in daily life.

When to visit Croatia? Best travel periods

Essential practical information for traveling to Croatia

📋 Formalities and visa

EU citizens, including UK citizens holding a full passport, do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. For US citizens, a passport valid for at least three months beyond the stay is required, but no visa is needed for short tourism visits.

🚗 Driving rules

Vehicles drive on the right side of the road. An international driving license is accepted and recommended for non-EU citizens. Roads are generally well maintained, with tolls applied on major highways. Winter tires are mandatory in mountainous regions during cold months.

🔌 Electricity

Croatia uses type C and F plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. Travelers from the UK or US will need an adapter to connect their devices.

📱 Mobile network and internet

Coverage is extensive across cities and islands alike. Main providers include A1, T-Mobile, and Telemach. SIM cards can be bought easily at kiosks or airports, with prepaid data packages affordable for tourists.

⚠️ Safety and areas to avoid

Croatia is generally very safe for visitors, with low crime rates. Nonetheless, standard travel precautions apply in crowded areas. Avoid unmarked former war zones (mostly inland near Serbian border). Emergency number across the country is 112.

🚫 Prohibitions and regulations

It is forbidden to take pieces of coral, rocks, or archaeological items from national parks or beaches. Drug laws are strict and well-enforced, even for small quantities.

🤝 Cultural codes and behavior

Greetings with a handshake are common. Beachwear is acceptable at the coast but should be avoided in towns. Public alcohol consumption is restricted in some municipalities, so check local signs.

🕌 Respect for religious traditions

Predominantly Roman Catholic, Croatia observes religious holidays such as Easter and Christmas. Tourists should dress modestly when entering churches and avoid loud behavior during services.

Sources: Foreign Office, Embassy in Croatia, Croatia National Tourism Office. Last updated: January 2025