Croatia

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Wherever you plan a romantic city break for two or family holidays on a budget -Croatia is a country located in Southeastern Europe, on the eastern side of the Adriatic Sea. It shares borders with Slovenia to the northwest, Hungary to the northeast, Serbia to the east, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the southeast, and Montenegro to the southeast.

f you want to see paradise on Earth, come to Dubrovnik.” – George Bernard Shaw

Top destinations:

Do you want a travel guide from Croatia to help you figure out what to do in Croatia? Croatia is a country with a wealth of beautiful destinations to explore. Whether you’re interested in historical sites, natural beauty, or coastal charm, here are some of the top destinations to visit in Croatia:

Dubrovnik

Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik is a historic coastal city with well-preserved medieval walls, charming Old Town, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular filming location for TV series and movies, including “Game of Thrones.”

Split

Split is home to the impressive Diocletian’s Palace, a Roman emperor’s palace complex that now houses shops, restaurants, and museums. It’s a lively city with a beautiful waterfront promenade and easy access to nearby islands.

Plitvice Lakes National Park:

This national park is renowned for its cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.

Hvar

Hvar Island is famous for its sunny weather, lavender fields, and charming towns. The town of Hvar is known for its vibrant nightlife, while Stari Grad and Jelsa offer a more relaxed atmosphere.

Pula

Pula, located in Istria, is known for its well-preserved Roman amphitheater, the Pula Arena. It’s a city with a rich history and beautiful beaches.

Where to stay

If you are looking for a high-end, ultra luxury hotel, you are not going to get that in Croatia. However there are multiple 5-star hotels, private apartments and airbnbs which are very affordable.

Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, Dubrovnik

This 5-star hotel in Dubrovnik is perched on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic Sea and offers breathtaking views. The hotel features modern and stylish rooms, a private beach, several restaurants, a spa, and an infinity pool. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a high-end coastal experience in Dubrovnik.

Hotel Park, Split

Hotel Park is a stylish 4-star hotel located in the historic city of Split. It offers a central location near the waterfront promenade, Diocletian’s Palace, and other major attractions. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace with beautiful views of the city, an excellent restaurant, a spa, and fitness facilities. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for a blend of modern comfort and proximity to Split’s historic sites.

Hotel Adriatic, Dubrovnik

Hotel Adriatic is a charming 3-star hotel located in the historic Old Town of Dubrovnik. This boutique hotel offers cozy and well-appointed rooms with traditional decor. It’s an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to stay within the city walls and explore Dubrovnik’s historic attractions, restaurants, and culture.

Where to eat

Local Restaurants

Look for local restaurants and konobas, which are traditional Croatian taverns. These places often serve authentic regional dishes, like seafood along the coast and hearty meat-based meals in the interior.

Traditional

Located in the historic part of Split, this konoba is known for its fresh seafood, including grilled fish and squid. It has a relaxed, traditional atmosphere and is a favourite among locals and tourists.

Ice Cream

Millennium is a renowned ice cream parlor in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. It offers a wide range of flavors, including traditional and unique options. The shop is often crowded, which is a testament to the quality of their ice cream.

Craft Beer

The Garden Brewery is one of Croatia’s most well-known craft breweries. They offer a wide range of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and lagers. The brewery often hosts events, live music, and festivals in their garden space.

Top Tips

If you're a couple

Exploring the old town: Wander hand in hand through the historic Old Towns of cities like Dubrovnik, Split, and Rovinj. Discover charming streets, historic architecture, and local shops and cafes.

If You’re A Group Of Friends

Beach Parties: Enjoy beach parties and beach clubs in coastal towns like Hvar and Novalja on Pag Island. These destinations are famous for their vibrant nightlife.

If you're a family

Island Hopping: Explore Croatia’s stunning islands by taking ferry rides or private boat tours. Islands like Hvar, Brac, and Korčula offer a mix of beautiful beaches, nightlife, and cultural attractions.

Need to know

Currency
Euro

Language
-Croatian,English is widely spoken

Best Time To Travel
– Hottest months from June to August

Tips
– Tipping 10% is expected, 15% for excellent service

Time Difference
– GMT+01:00

Flights
– Directs from Manchester and London – around 2h 30 minutes

Public Transport
– Excellent infrastructure (buses, trams and trains), including night time

Local Laws

Drinking in public places is strictly prohibited.

Speed limits are enforced rigorously, and radar controls are common. Be aware of and adhere to speed limits, which are generally 50 km/h in towns and 90-130 km/h on highways.

Croatia has strict anti-smoking laws. Smoking is not allowed in enclosed public spaces, including bars and restaurants. Look for designated smoking areas.

Etiquette

When meeting someone in Croatia, a firm handshake is a common form of greeting. A typical way to say “hello” is “Dobar dan” (Good day) or “Bok” (Hi). “Molim” means “please,” and “Hvala” is “thank you.”

Croatians value punctuality, so it’s considered polite to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings.

In tourist areas, casual attire is generally accepted. However, when visiting churches, monasteries, and formal restaurants, it’s appropriate to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.

When dining in Croatia, wait for the host to start the meal. It’s common for the host to offer the first toast. Keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows. Saying “Bon appétit” (Dobar tek) before a meal is appreciated.