Croatia travel tips for first-timers: What to know

Croatia can fool you. It looks laid-back: islands, beaches, a few medieval towns, but there’s more going on than meets the eye. First-timers often fly into Dubrovnik or Split and think that’s the trip. It’s not. Croatia’s packed with contrasts: sleepy stone villages tucked into olive groves, wild national parks filled with waterfalls, and party islands that don’t slow down 'til sunrise. You’ll switch between Roman ruins and socialist relics, seafood feasts and grilled meat platters, turquoise bays and concrete bus stations. Public transport? It exists, but don’t rely on it for island-hopping. And while English is widely spoken, don’t expect much help deciphering the wine list. These Croatia travel tips will help you dodge the tourist traps, find the good stuff, and travel Croatia the way it deserves.

When is the best time to visit Croatia?

The best time to visit Croatia depends on your travel preferences. This is a country of island-hopping ferries, slow seafood lunches, and sun-soaked coastlines, but also stormy winters, packed summers, and a significant difference between the inland and coastal regions. No matter if you're here for sailboats or national parks, timing makes all the difference. Here’s what to expect.

• Summer (June to August) is the peak of everything. The beaches are busy, prices go up, and you’ll need to reserve ferries and hotels well in advance. But if you want party islands, warm water, and full-throttle nightlife in places like Split, Hvar, or Pag, this is your moment.
• Spring and autumn (May to mid-June, September to October) are the best times to visit Croatia if you want fewer crowds, better value, and still-great weather. It's warm enough to swim, national parks like Plitvice and Krka aren’t mobbed, and restaurants don’t need a week’s notice. Great for road trips, hiking, or slow travel with plenty of room to breathe.
• Winter (November to March) is the low season, and it shows. Island ferries run less often, coastal towns slow to a crawl, and beach bars are shuttered. But it’s a good time for Zagreb’s Christmas market, snowy hikes in Gorski Kotar, and empty Roman ruins in Pula or Split. Not ideal for island life, but perfect if you want to see a quieter, more local side of Croatia.

Is Croatia expensive?

Croatia isn’t cheap, not anymore, but it doesn’t have to drain your wallet either. Prices have increased since the euro was introduced, and hotspots like Dubrovnik, Hvar, and Rovinj can feel downright pricey in the summer. But step away from the tourist trail, and your money still goes a long way.

The essentials are decent value. A warm burek and coffee costs under €4, while a sit-down meal with grilled fish, potatoes, and house wine will set you back around €15-20. Buses are the go-to for getting around inland (cheap, reliable, occasionally air-conditioned). At the same time, ferries are affordable if you book early and stick to the local lines, not flashy catamarans.

Museum and site entry is generally under €10, though Dubrovnik’s city walls will hit you for €35, and they know they can charge it.

On a budget (€60-80 a day), you can stay in private rooms (look for sobe signs), eat at konobas (local taverns), and travel by bus or ferry. Avoid July and August, and you’ll save a lot.

A mid-range budget (€100-150) gets you boutique guesthouses, car rental, wine tastings, or day trips to islands like Korčula or Mljet.

Got money to burn? Croatia knows how to spend it for you, think luxury villas, yacht charters, and seafood feasts by the sea. It’s not the bargain it used to be, but outside the big-name towns, it’s still better value than much of Western Europe.

Is Croatia safe for travelers?

Yes, Croatia is generally a very safe place to travel. Violent crime is rare, locals are helpful, and solo travel (including for women) is common and usually smooth. You’ll notice it straight away: people leave keys in their doors in villages, kids run around unsupervised, and strangers genuinely want to help if you’re lost or confused.

That said, petty theft can still be an issue, mostly in tourist-heavy areas like Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Split’s Riva promenade, or on busy public beaches. Pickpockets are also aware of ferry routes and bus terminals, especially during the summer. Keep your phone and wallet secure, and don’t leave your bag unattended while swimming.

Smaller towns and islands feel even more relaxed: low crime, slower pace, and the kind of places where everyone knows everyone. Even in bigger cities like Zagreb, crime is low compared to other European capitals.

To stay safe, here are a few Croatia travel tips:

• Keep your bag zipped and close on trams, ferries, and in crowded markets.
• Don’t leave valuables on the beach; locals don’t, and neither should you.
• Be cautious at night in nightlife zones like Split’s Bacvice or Hvar Town, especially during party season.
• Use licensed taxis or apps like Bolt for safer rides and fair prices.
• Roads are decent, but mountain routes and island hairpins need focus; go easy if you’re driving.

Do you need a visa for Croatia?

For most travelers, no. Croatia is part of the Schengen Zone, which means that short-term travel is visa-free for citizens of the EU, the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries. But don’t assume you’re fine; the rules matter, and overstaying will cause trouble. Here’s what to know.

If you’re from a visa-exempt country, you can stay in Croatia and the rest of the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. That’s total, not per country. So, if you’ve already spent time in, say, Italy or Slovenia, that counts toward your 90-day requirement.

You’ll need a passport valid for at least three months beyond your departure date, as border checks can still occur, especially if you're arriving by bus or ferry from non-Schengen countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina or Montenegro.

You can’t just extend your tourist stay. Croatia doesn’t offer easy on-the-ground extensions, and border runs won’t reset the clock. If you want to stay beyond 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a long-stay national visa, and that has to happen before you arrive.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Croatia

Staying healthy in Croatia is generally straightforward: the water’s clean, the food’s fresh, and healthcare is solid. But it’s not all smooth sailing. The Adriatic sun hits hard, the coastline is full of steep climbs, and local menus don’t shy away from meat, wine, or heavy portions. A little prep (and pacing) goes a long way.

Medical care and pharmacies

Croatia has a decent healthcare system, especially in larger cities such as Zagreb, Split, and Rijeka. Pharmacies (ljekarna, marked with a green cross) are everywhere and usually your first stop. Pharmacists are well-trained and often speak English: they can help with everything from sunburn to stomach issues.

Public hospitals offer low-cost care, but wait times can be long, and not all staff members speak English. Private clinics are quicker, with better service, but expect higher prices. Bring travel insurance: it’s essential for fast care without the stress.

What to pack

• Any prescription meds, plus a copy of your prescription.
• Basic over-the-counter meds: painkillers, antihistamines, motion sickness tablets.
• High-SPF sunscreen: the sun on the Adriatic coast is stronger than it looks.
• Blister plasters or good walking shoes: old towns = endless stone steps.
• Reusable water bottle: Tap water is safe and widely available.

Vaccinations and health prep

No special vaccines are required for Croatia. Just ensure that your standard shots are up to date.

• Tetanus is worth updating if you’re hiking, biking, or engaging in any other outdoor activities.
• Hepatitis A isn’t a high-risk infection, but it's worth considering if you’re heading to rural or remote areas.

Food, water, and stomach safety

Tap water is safe to drink across the country, including on the islands. Locals drink it, and so can you; there's no need to waste money on bottled water unless you're somewhere with a desalination system (which is very rare).

Croatian food is hearty, featuring grilled meats, stews, seafood, pastries, and an abundance of cheese. It’s usually safe, even at casual konobas or bakeries, but go easy if your stomach isn’t used to heavy meals or oily dishes. Seafood is generally fresh, especially near the coast, but use your sense of smell: if it smells off, it probably is.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Croatia

Croatia is easygoing, but don’t mistake relaxed for anything-goes. Locals value good manners, respect for tradition, and a bit of effort from visitors. If you show up with some basic etiquette and a sense of place, you’ll be welcomed with open arms, and probably a shot of rakija.

• Dress with some respect: Croatians tend to dress well, clean, neat, and put-together. Even on the coast, beachwear is best reserved for the beach. Wandering into a restaurant shirtless or in swimwear isn’t just frowned upon; it’s rude. When visiting churches or monasteries, cover your shoulders and knees.
• Greetings matter: Say “Dobar dan” (good day) when entering shops or restaurants, and don’t skip the small talk; it’s part of daily life. A firm handshake is the standard greeting, and using “Gospodin” (Mr.) or “Gospođa” (Mrs.) is polite when speaking to older people or in formal settings. English is widely spoken, but tossing in a hvala (thank you) never hurts.
• Public behavior: Croatians speak directly and sometimes loudly; it’s not aggression, just a characteristic of their communication style. Drunkenness, loud tourist behavior, or treating towns like a theme park won’t go down well, especially in smaller communities. PDA is fine, but keep it PG.
• Eating and drinking: Meals are social and often slow. Don’t rush, this is a place where coffee can last an hour. Wait for everyone to be served before eating, and toast with a “živjeli!” before your first sip. Forks and knives are used even for pizza in more formal settings, and are they invited to someone’s home? Bring a small gift, such as wine, sweets, or flowers (avoid chrysanthemums, which are traditionally reserved for funerals).
• Religion and local customs: Croatia is traditionally a Catholic country, and churches are taken very seriously. Dress modestly and stay quiet inside. Sunday is still a family and church day in many places, and you’ll notice quieter mornings or closed shops in small towns. During religious festivals or processions, be an observer, not a performer.
• Tipping: Not mandatory, but always appreciated. Round up the bill or leave 5-10% at cafés and restaurants. A bit extra for taxi drivers, hotel staff, or tour guides is a nice touch if they’ve gone out of their way.

Is Croatia a good destination for families?

Absolutely. Croatia with kids is a win: safe, welcoming, and full of low-key adventures. You won’t find roller coasters or theme parks, but you will get Roman ruins to climb, island boat rides, castle walls to explore, and beaches with water so clear you can see the pebbles. Even picky eaters are usually happy with grilled meats, pasta, and daily gelato.

Locals love kids, and the relaxed pace makes it easy to travel as a family. Whether you're wandering old towns, swimming in national parks, or hopping between islands, Croatia works if you plan a little.

Where to go in Croatia with kids

• Zagreb: Easygoing capital with parks, street performers, and fun museums like the Museum of Illusions.
• Istria: Great for road trips. Roman ruins in Pula, charming towns like Rovinj, and calm beaches.
• Plitvice Lakes: Boardwalks, waterfalls, and boat rides, just avoid peak summer if you're pushing a stroller.
• Zadar: Compact, coastal, and full of kid-friendly quirks like the Sea Organ and light-up waterfront.
• Brač or Korčula: Less flashy than Hvar, with beaches, bike paths, and room to breathe.
• Dubrovnik: Busy but doable. Walk the city walls, take the cable car, or ferry out to Lokrum for a break from the crowds.

Getting around Croatia with kids

Getting around Croatia is fairly straightforward. Buses are cheap and reliable between major towns, but some routes can be long and winding. Island ferries are fun, but summer crowds mean you’ll want to book early, or opt for shorter trips with younger kids.

A rental car gives you the most flexibility, especially in Istria or inland areas where public transport thins out. Just note: old towns = narrow streets and tricky parking.

Strollers work fine in modern areas, but old towns have cobbles, steps, and zero ramps. A baby carrier is a smart backup, especially for hikes or ruins.

Croatia accommodations for families

Croatian accommodations are family-friendly across the board. Private apartments and sobe (room rentals) are everywhere and usually include kitchens, laundry, and space to spread out. In coastal towns, many rentals are within walking distance of the beach.

Hotels and guesthouses often offer cribs, high chairs, or adjoining rooms, just ask ahead. In rural areas, agrotourism stays offer home-cooked meals, animals, and space for kids to roam.

If you’re traveling in July or August, book early: family-sized places fill fast.

Food, supplies, and eating out with kids

Croatian food is naturally kid-friendly: grilled meats, pasta, pizza, bread, and fresh seafood. No kids’ menus, but portions are huge, and most places will split dishes with no fuss. Casual konobas are perfect: relaxed, no dress code, and nobody bats an eye at noisy tables.

Supermarkets and pharmacies (ljekarna) are well stocked with baby food, diapers, and formula, though in small villages it’s worth stocking up ahead of time. High chairs are common in family-oriented spots, less so in tiny locals-only joints.

What are the best places to visit in Croatia?

Croatia isn’t just beaches and Game of Thrones sets: it’s Roman ruins, island hideouts, mountain trails, and medieval towns that look straight out of a storybook. From coast to countryside, here are the best places to visit in Croatia, and why they’re worth your time.

• Dubrovnik: Touristy? Yes. Still amazing? Also yes. Walk the city walls early to dodge the cruise ship crowds, then dive into side alleys for wine bars and sea views. Skip overpriced Old Town meals; better food is found just outside the walls. Take the ferry to Lokrum or the cable car up Mount Srđ for space to breathe.
• Split: Built inside a Roman emperor’s retirement palace, Split mixes ancient stones with buzzing cafés and chaotic energy. It’s a working city, not just a tourist stop, so expect crowds and character. Climb Marjan Hill for the best views, or hop on a ferry to Brač, Hvar, or Šolta.
• Plitvice Lakes National Park: A fantasyland of waterfalls and walkways. Yes, it gets busy: go early or off-season for quieter trails. Don’t swim here (it’s banned), but nearby rivers and lakes offer cool dips in summer.
• Istria: Think Tuscany, with a Croatian twist. Hilltop towns, truffle-rich food, and a coastline full of pebbled beaches and fishing villages. Pula’s Roman amphitheater is a showstopper, but towns like Rovinj and Motovun steal the heart.
• Zagreb: Croatia’s capital is underrated. Less sun, more soul. Grab a coffee and watch life go by on a terrace, explore quirky museums, or take a day trip to Plitvice or the mountains. It’s walkable, relaxed, and refreshingly crowd-free.
• Zadar: A smaller coastal city with serious charm. Come for the Sea Organ and sunset light show, stay for island day trips and Roman ruins without the Dubrovnik crowds. It’s a great base if you want city perks without the price tag.
• Korčula: An island that gives you a bit of everything: medieval towns, pine-covered coves, and wine with a sea view. Quieter than Hvar, cooler than Brač, and small enough to explore at a slow pace. It’s also home to some of the best beaches in Croatia, from sandy Lumbarda to hidden rocky coves you’ll reach by bike or boat.
• Hvar: Not just a party island, though yes, there’s plenty of that too. Go beyond Hvar Town and you’ll find lavender fields, vineyards, and sleepy fishing villages. Ferry out to the Pakleni Islands for a proper beach day. It’s no wonder Hvar is often ranked among the best islands in Croatia, offering both nightlife and quiet escapes.
• Krka National Park: Like Plitvice, but you can swim here (in designated spots). The waterfalls are Instagram bait, but the real magic is hiking the less-visited trails and arriving by boat from Skradin.
• Mljet: One of Croatia’s greenest islands, with a national park, inland lakes, and hardly any crowds. Rent a bike or kayak, explore old monasteries, and enjoy the feeling of being somewhere that still feels wild.
• Pelješac Peninsula: Wine country meets windsurfing coast. Sample oysters in Ston, sip Dingač red in the hills, or hit the beaches around Orebić. It’s rugged, under the radar, and ideal for road trips.

How long to spend in Croatia?

Croatia might look compact, but the coastline stretches for more than 1,700km, and ferries rarely run on your schedule. Between medieval towns, national parks, and over a thousand islands, the country deserves more than a quick hit-and-run. You can sample a few highlights in a week, but the real joy comes when you slow down, think of lazy café mornings, spontaneous swims, and evenings that stretch over grilled fish and wine.

If you’re planning island hopping in Croatia or want to fit in sailing in Croatia, give yourself extra time. Distances aren’t huge, but the rhythm is slow.

Ask yourself:

• Do you want to focus on history, beaches, or adventure, or tick off the big things to do in Croatia like Dubrovnik’s walls and Plitvice Lakes?
• Are you sticking to the mainland, or making ferries part of the trip?
• Will you rent a car, or let the buses and boats set your pace?

Rough timing breakdown

• 1 week in Croatia: Choose one region. Base yourself in Dubrovnik for the Old Town, Lokrum Island, and a boat trip to Mljet. Or go central: Split for Diocletian’s Palace, plus Brač or Hvar.
• 10 days in Croatia: The sweet spot. Mix cities, islands, and a national park. Dubrovnik to Korčula, then ferry to Split and on to Brač or Vis. Or start in Zagreb, visit Plitvice, then wind your way to Istria for food, wine, and seaside towns.
• 2 to 3 weeks: Time to stretch. Do the full coast: Dubrovnik, Korčula, Hvar, Split, Zadar, Krka, Plitvice, and Istria. Add inland stops like Zagreb or Varaždin if you want variety.
• 1 month+: Settle into the rhythm. Rent an apartment on an island, join locals at a konoba, and spend days deciding between another hike or another swim. Long stays unlock the hidden side of Croatia: sleepy fishing villages, under-the-radar vineyards, and some of the best beaches in Croatia you’ll ever see.

What’s the best way to plan a Croatia itinerary?

Planning a trip to Croatia isn’t about racing from Dubrovnik to Zagreb with every island in between. It’s about finding the right mix: history, coast, food, and downtime, and not cramming in too much. The best Croatia itinerary follows ferry timetables, lazy coastal mornings, and the long rhythm of a seaside lunch. Less is more.

Start with how long you’ve got

Croatia is long and skinny, with winding coastal roads, scattered islands, and mountain interiors. You can’t “do it all,” but you can shape a trip that fits your time.

• Under a week: Stick to one region. Do Dubrovnik plus a nearby island like Korčula or Mljet. Or base in Split, explore Diocletian’s Palace, and ferry to Brač or Hvar.
• 7-10 days: Mix a city, an island or two, and a national park. Example: Dubrovnik → Korčula → Split → Krka. Or head north: Zagreb → Plitvice → Istria for hill towns and truffles.
• 2 weeks: Go deeper. Travel the coast from Dubrovnik up to Zadar or Rijeka, with stops in islands like Vis or Pag, plus inland detours to Plitvice or wine country.
• 3-4 weeks: Now you’re traveling slowly. Spend real time in Istria, linger in mountain villages, try proper island hopping, and maybe add a week for sailing. The country opens up when you stop chasing it.

Match your route to your travel style

Croatia’s not one-size-fits-all. Build your trip around what excites you most.

History + cities

• Dubrovnik: Medieval walls, baroque streets, and the Adriatic at your feet.
• Split: Ancient Roman palace blended into a buzzing city.
• Zagreb: Quirky museums, coffee culture, and Central European vibes.

Landscapes

• Plitvice Lakes: Waterfalls and wooden walkways.
• Krka: A smaller park where you can swim near cascades.
• Velebit Mountains: Hikes, caves, and rugged trails.

Islands

• Hvar: Nightlife, vineyards, lavender fields.
• Korčula: Medieval streets and some of the best beaches in Croatia.
• Vis: Remote, relaxed, and less developed.
• Brač: Easy ferries, family beaches, and the famous Zlatni Rat.

Food + wine

• Istria: Truffles, olive oil, and wine tastings.
• Pelješac Peninsula: Oysters and bold reds.
• Dalmatian coast: Fresh seafood and casual konobas.

Relaxing

• Mljet: Pine forests and saltwater lakes.
• Rovinj: Romantic lanes and sea views.
• Šolta: Sleepy coves and slow pace.

Getting around Croatia: plan this early

Getting around Croatia takes some thought. Buses connect cities well, but trips can be long. Ferries are essential for the islands; book ahead in summer, especially with a car.

A rental car gives you the most freedom, especially inland or along Istria’s backroads. Coastal drives are scenic but narrow, with plenty of hairpins. Reserve an automatic early if you need one.

Flights are limited but handy if you’re short on time (Zagreb-Dubrovnik saves hours).

Cities like Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik are walkable. Taxis and ride apps (Bolt is common) work in urban areas, but once you’re out of town, wheels are key.

How to slow travel in Croatia

Croatia was built for slow travel: ferries that don’t rush, seaside meals that last half the afternoon, and towns where the biggest event of the day is the sunset. Forget racing through a checklist. Pick a base, settle in, and let the country set the rhythm.

• On the coast: Skip the hotel strip and stay in a stone house in a fishing village. In Istria, that might be Rovinj or Motovun; further south, try Orebić on the Pelješac Peninsula. Mornings mean coffee on the harbor, afternoons mean a swim or a drive through vineyards, and evenings are grilled fish and local wine. That’s slow travel Croatia-style.
• On the islands: Island hopping in Croatia can be frantic if you’re packing too many stops. Slow it down. Stay put on one island for a week. Korčula gives you beaches, wine, and medieval streets. Vis is remote, relaxed, and perfect if you want nothing more than bikes and coves. On Mljet, days drift between pine forests, salt lakes, and seafood konobas.
• Inland: Inland Croatia is where time really stretches. Stay in a farmhouse in Zagorje or Gorski Kotar. Visit castles, thermal baths, and mountain trails at your own pace. Stop for roadside roštilj (grilled meat) instead of chasing the next “must-see.”
• In the cities: Even cities like Zagreb and Split can be slow if you avoid the checklist sightseeing. Pick a neighborhood, find a café terrace, and linger. Wander markets, chat with vendors, and swap the museums for an afternoon of people-watching.

How to handle money and payments in Croatia

Croatia keeps money matters simple, but a little planning helps avoid awkward moments, like being told “cash only” after a long seafood feast.

The currency is the euro (€), and cards are widely accepted in cities, coastal resorts, and most islands. Visa and Mastercard are the safest bets. That said, always carry some cash. Smaller bakeries, family-run konobas, village markets, and island cafés often prefer euros in hand, especially if Wi-Fi (and the card machine) cuts out.

• ATMs are everywhere, but not all are equal. Stick to Croatian bank machines like Zagrebačka Banka, PBZ, or Erste for fair rates and lower fees. Avoid Euronet and other standalone ATMs; they’ll sting you with bad conversion rates.
• Contactless payments are common, and Apple Pay or Google Pay works fine in bigger towns and tourist spots. Just don’t assume every kiosk, beach bar, or bus ticket booth is ready for tap-to-pay.
• Tipping is casual but appreciated. Round up the bill or add 5-10% in restaurants. In cafés and bars, leaving small change is enough. Taxi drivers and hotel staff don’t expect much, but guides or boat crews will appreciate a few euros if they’ve made your day.
• When paying by card, always choose to be charged in euros, not your home currency. The so-called “dynamic currency conversion” looks helpful, but it’s always a worse deal.

What are the most common scams in Croatia?

Croatia is safe and straightforward, but busy tourist spots still attract a few classic scams. Most are minor annoyances, easy to dodge if you know what to expect. One of the most useful Croatia travel tips is simply to stay alert in crowded places and know the common tricks before they happen.

• Taxi tricks: Overcharging happens, especially at airports, ferry ports, or late at night. Some drivers “forget” the meter or add fake luggage and night fees. Always insist on the meter, or better yet, use ride apps like Bolt, which are common in Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik.
• Restaurant extras: In coastal tourist zones, bread, condiments, or bottled water may land on your table unasked and appear on the bill. It’s legal, but not always explained. If you don’t want them, politely refuse right away.
• Souvenir mark-ups: Around Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Split’s Riva, or island ports, souvenirs like coral jewelry, lavender, or olive oil are often imported or of low quality, sold at “local artisan” prices. Compare before you buy, and shop in markets away from the main drag for the real deal.
• ATM fees: Avoid Euronet and other stand-alone ATMs: they charge sky-high fees and bad exchange rates. Stick to Croatian bank ATMs like PBZ, Zagrebačka, or Erste for better rates.
• Street distractions: Bracelet sellers, “charity” petitioners, or people offering tours on the spot may just be trying to keep your attention while someone else eyes your bag. Keep valuables zipped up and move on without engaging.
• Overpriced boat tours: Along the coast, especially in Split and Dubrovnik, you’ll see plenty of one-day “island hopping” tour offers. Some are great, others are overcrowded and rushed. Always check what’s included (lunch, entrance fees, actual swimming stops) and confirm the price upfront.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Croatia

Croatia’s charm isn’t just its coastline or old towns: it’s the people, traditions, and fragile environments that make the country what it is. Traveling responsibly means enjoying it all without leaving a heavy footprint. These Croatia travel tips will help you do it right.

• Dress respectfully at religious sites: In cathedrals, monasteries, or small village churches, modest clothing is expected. Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid beachwear anywhere near sacred spaces.
• Respect island life: Islands like Vis, Mljet, or Lastovo aren’t theme parks. Locals live with seasonal pressures, limited water, and delicate ecosystems. Keep noise down, conserve resources, and remember you’re stepping into someone else’s everyday life.
• Support local businesses: Eat in konobas (family-run taverns), shop in village markets, and stay in Croatian-owned guesthouses. Choosing apartments or agrotourism stays puts money directly into local hands rather than international chains.
• Festivals and traditions: From summer festa in Dalmatian villages to Zagreb’s Advent market, celebrations are for locals first. Join in respectfully: follow the lead, don’t shove for photos, and accept hospitality with gratitude (often in the form of homemade rakija).
• Don’t damage heritage: Old towns like Dubrovnik and Split are fragile, as are Roman sites like Pula’s amphitheater. Stick to marked paths, don’t climb on walls or ruins, and never carve initials into stone.
• Mind your impact on nature: National parks like Plitvice and Krka see heavy foot traffic: stay on wooden walkways and trails to protect the environment. Don’t litter, don’t light fires, and respect swimming rules. At the coast, avoid anchoring on seagrass beds if you’re sailing, and never disturb marine life.
• Be polite with photography: In rural villages or markets, ask before photographing people or private homes. Some may say no, others might happily pose or even invite you for a drink.
• Tipping: In Croatia, tipping is modest. Round up the bill or leave 5-10% in restaurants. Over-tipping skews expectations, especially in smaller towns where tourism is just one part of life.

Don’t just do Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is spectacular, but it’s also where Croatia feels most like a theme park. Crowds, cruise ships, and sky-high prices can overwhelm. Give the city a day or two, then move on. Just an hour up the Pelješac Peninsula, you’ll find oyster farms, vineyards, and sleepy towns where you can eat fresh seafood without queuing. Or take the ferry to Lokrum or Mljet for nature and space. Croatia’s magic isn’t just in one walled city; it’s in the contrast between hotspots and the quieter places around them.

Use ferries like a local

Island hopping in Croatia isn’t just for tourists; locals rely on Jadrolinija ferries every day. Forget glossy catamarans with inflated prices. The slower car ferries are cheaper, more reliable, and often more fun. Pack a sandwich, grab a deck spot, and watch the Adriatic slide by. Tickets sell out in July and August, so book early. Outside peak season? Just turn up and walk on. It’s one of the simplest pleasures of traveling here.

Eat inland, not just on the coast

Seafood gets all the attention, but inland Croatia serves some of the country’s best meals. In Zagorje, order štrukli (baked cheese pastry). Around Slavonia, it’s all about kulen (paprika-spiced sausage) and hearty stews. Stop at roadside roštilj grills for skewers and burgers that taste better than they look. Coastal menus can get repetitive: fish, risotto, pizza, but head inland and you’ll discover the flavors Croatians actually grow up with. It’s cheaper too, so your wallet gets a break from seaside mark-ups.