Useful information before travelling to Croatia

Before leaving for Croatia, it is important to find out a few basic things that will make your stay more pleasant and organised: this country, with its breathtaking coastline, numerous islands and rich historical heritage, deserves careful preparation.

First, check the necessary documents: EU citizens can simply travel with a valid identity card, while those from other countries will have to bring their passport. The official currency is the euro from 1 January 2023, so those arriving from the eurozone will not have to worry about currency exchange. The ideal season for discovering Croatia is from May to September, although July and August coincide with the peak tourist season, which is characterised by higher costs and large crowds, especially in the coastal resorts and islands.

For travel, the country offers an efficient bus network for getting around on the mainland and numerous ferry connections to the various islands, with the recommendation to book in good time during the summer months. If you want more autonomy to visit the main islands, the coast or inland areas, consider renting a car. Those leaving from Italy can also opt for a car journey via Slovenia or via Trieste.

Croatian gastronomy deserves a separate chapter. In the seaside resorts, freshly caught fish and shellfish dishes prevail, while the mainland areas offer tasty meat dishes such as čevapčići and peka. Don’t miss Dalmatian prosciutto, cheeses produced on the island of Pag and the prized truffles of Istria. Local wines are of excellent quality, with prestigious appellations such as Plavac Mali and Malvasia, while rakija remains the traditional spirit par excellence.

Croatian is the language of the country, but English and Italian are widely spoken in tourist destinations, the latter particularly in Istria and along the Dalmatian coast. It will be appreciated, however, if you learn a few basic expressions in Croatian. Respect local traditions: the Croats are a welcoming people who cherish their customs. When visiting churches and holy places, remember to wear sober clothes.

On the health front, those with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can access essential medical care, but supplementarytravel insurance is strongly recommended. Remember that in the hot months the sun can be particularly intense, especially on the islands, so don’t forget a good protective cream.