We Lived in Croatia for 3 Years – Here’s Our Ultimate Guide

Alright, adventure seekers and beach bums! After three years of gorging on grilled meats (hello, cevapi!), honing our tolerance for local spirits (raise your glass to rakija!), and accidentally saying “Hvala”—which means thank you in Croatian—to everyone back home, we’ve finally cracked the code to Adriatic bliss. Buckle up because we’re about to share our Croatia guide and insider tips for navigating this Mediterranean paradise without ending up lost in a lavender field on Hvar (though let’s be honest, there are worse fates!).

 

This Croatia guide is so packed with insider info, it’s practically bursting at the seams like your suitcase after a truffle-buying spree!

Getting to Croatia – Your Ticket to Coastal Nirvana

First things first—here’s how to get your sun-starved self to the land of a thousand islands. This section covers the best ways to reach Croatia from both the USA and Europe. We’ll guide you through the maze of flight options, complete with our signature blend of helpful tips and gentle mockery.

From the USA, your best option is to fly directly from Newark or New York to Dubrovnik or connect through a major European hub like London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, or Munich, and then take a short flight to Croatia.

For our European friends, check out Croatia Airlines or budget airlines are your golden ticket. Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air will get you to Zagreb, Split, or Dubrovnik faster than you can say “promaja” (you’ll learn about the dreaded draft soon enough).

✈️ Find a Cheap Flight to Croatia > Check Availability

Travel Health Insurance and Safety Tips

Our Croatia guide wouldn’t be complete without mentioning travel insurance—because nothing says “party pooper” like a surprise hospital bill in a foreign language. Before you pack your bags, here are a few safety tips that even the most seasoned traveler will appreciate:

Health Precautions

Pharmacies are as common as friendly locals—seriously, they’re like every 10 feet! So, if you forgot something at home or need a quick fix for minor ailments, don’t hesitate to pop in. They’ve got your back for everything from over-the-counter meds to filling prescriptions.

Safety Tips

Croatia is one of the safest countries in the world, so you can relax with the money belt. You typically won’t have to worry about unsavory behavior from locals—it’s often other tourists you need to watch out for.

That said, don’t let your guard down completely. You can still get hurt, so skip the “stupid tourist” moves—like reckless driving, jumping off cliffs, or leaping from boats. And beware of those notoriously slippery limestone streets in the Old Towns when it rains—they can be a real hazard!

Local Etiquette and Customs

As part of our Croatia guide’s “How Not to Be a Total Doofus” section, let’s talk local etiquette and customs. Navigating Croatia is not just about the sights—it’s also about the vibe! Here are some quick pointers to keep you in the locals’ good graces:

• Greetings: Start your day right by saying “Dobar dan” (Good day) to everyone you meet. It’s a small gesture that goes a long way!
• Dining Etiquette: Now, let’s talk about the pace of life here. It’s slow—like, sipping-a-small-espresso-for-three-hours slow. If you’re a nervous nelly who can’t handle the wait, make sure you know your order inside and out before you put it through. They might prepare your food as it comes in, so don’t be surprised if your dishes arrive at different times. It’s all part of the experience! So kick back, relax, and embrace the Croatian dining scene!
• Tipping: It’s customary to leave a tip of around 10%—unless you want the waiter to throw a spoon at you (just kidding, they’re friendly, mostly!).

How to Not Go Broke – Croatia Guide

This section of our Croatia guide is all about helping you save money without resorting to sleeping on park benches or surviving on leftover burek crumbs. Travel smart and save your euros for the important things (like another bottle of local wine). This section offers tips and tricks for experiencing Croatia without overspending. Because let’s face it, you’ll want to come back, and that requires some financial planning and discipline.

Visit During Shoulder Season

Seriously, sweating it out with a million other tourists in July and August is totally overrated. Those narrow two-lane seaside roads turn into bumper-to-bumper traffic jams, and you’ll spend more time honking than soaking up the sun.

Instead, opt for June or September when you can enjoy fantastic weather, lower prices, and a much more relaxed vibe. You’ll be able to explore without feeling like you’re part of a human stampede—plus, those stunning coastal views are way better without a million selfie sticks in the way!

Stay in Affordable Accommodations with Breakfast

Croatia is bursting with charming boutique inns and cozy hotels that won’t put a dent in your wallet. Forget those cookie-cutter chain hotels—stay somewhere with a character that reflects the unique charm of the area.

You’ll get that warm, welcoming feel of a local stay while still enjoying all the comforts you crave. We’ll recommend some stellar options below to help you find your perfect home away from home. It’s the ideal way to kick back and relax after a day of exploring!

Plus, they usually throw in breakfast! But hey, with all the amazing sights in Croatia, you won’t be spending much time in your room anyway. It’s all about being in the best spot to explore!

Don’t worry—we’ll provide plenty of options below, so you don’t have to go searching for them!

Eat at Local Bakeries

Forget about fancy dining for lunch—head straight to the nearest bakery! This is where the magic happens, with an array of pastries, including delicious burek, which is a flaky pastry filled with your choice of savory goodness like beef, creamy cheese, or even spinach.

Trust us, a warm burek is often your best bet for a quick and satisfying meal. Grab one of these tasty treats and fuel up before you dive into a proper dinner later on. It’s the perfect way to experience the local flavors without spending a fortune!

Use Public Transport

Sure, public transport is cheap and can be an adventure, but let’s be real—it’s often uncomfortable and can feel like it’s moving at a snail’s pace. If you’re on vacation, you’ll probably want to spend your time exploring, not counting the minutes as you sit on a creaky bus.

So, for the sake of your sanity, you might want to consider affordable private transfers to get from place to place. It’s a little splurge that’ll save you time and give you more opportunities to soak up those stunning Croatian views!

Where to Rest Your Weary Head

Our Croatia guide includes recommendations for where to rest your head in key destinations because let’s face it, sleeping on the beach sounds romantic until you wake up with sand in places you didn’t know existed. After a day of exploring or sunbathing, you’ll need a place to crash.

Here’s the lowdown on the best value stays in Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb. For rock-bottom prices, hit up Hostel World—known for offering basic, no-frills stays perfect for budget travelers.

We’re not just recommending the cheapest digs—we’re here to guide you to places that offer the perfect blend of comfort and affordability—because who doesn’t want a cozy bed after a long day of adventures? Whether you’re in the “I spent all my money on truffles” camp or the “I just found a long-lost Croatian uncle with a yacht” club, we’ve got you covered.

All of the accommodations listed below have parking too.

Dubrovnik

Walk the ancient city walls for breathtaking views of the Adriatic and the Old Town’s terracotta roofs. Then, hop on a cable car to Mount Srd for a sunset that’ll make you question why you ever vacation anywhere else.

• Boutique Hotel Porto: This charming hotel is located just outside the Old Town, offering modern rooms with a touch of Dalmatian flair. It’s within walking distance of both the iconic Old Town and beautiful beaches like Uvala Lapad and Bellevue Beach, making it an ideal base for exploring Dubrovnik. Enjoy the lively local atmosphere, with cafes and shops nearby, and take advantage of the hotel’s convenient access to both cultural landmarks and coastal relaxation.

🏨 Boutique Hotel Porto > Check Availability

Split

Get lost in the labyrinthine streets of Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s part ancient Roman ruins, part vibrant city center. Then, hike up Marjan Hill for panoramic views of Split and the surrounding islands.

• Hotel Villa Diana: This family-run gem is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood, just a 10-minute walk from the bustling Riva promenade. Enjoy spacious rooms, a lush garden, and a home-cooked breakfast that’ll fuel you for a day of Split exploration.

🏨 Hotel Villa Diana > Check Availability

Zagreb

Ride the world’s shortest funicular to the Upper Town, where you can marvel at St. Mark’s Church’s colorful tiled roof. Then, get your quirk on at the Museum of Broken Relationships, because nothing says “vacation” like other people’s romantic failures.

• Hotel Park 45: Located in a leafy neighborhood just a hop away from the city center, this boutique hotel has sleek, modern rooms that make you feel right at home. You’re just a short stroll from Tkalciceva Street, where cafes, bars, and restaurants line the streets, perfect for fueling up on caffeine or grabbing a bite. With a cozy vibe and easy access to all the best spots in Zagreb, this is your go-to base for exploring the city’s charming energy.

🏨 Hotel Park 45 > Check Availability

The Great Croatian Guide Road Trip

If you’re just looking to plant yourself on a sun-soaked beach and do nothing but perfect your tan, then skip the rental car altogether—Croatia’s coastal towns are well-connected and easy to navigate. However, if you’re planning to truly explore the country and want to experience Croatia beyond the popular tourist spots, a rental car is a must. Any good Croatia guide will tell you that the best way to see the country is by road.

There are countless hidden coves, historic hilltop towns, and scenic viewpoints that you simply won’t reach without your own set of wheels. Trust us, the best of Croatia is found off the main roads and beyond the tourist buses.

Here’s where we convince you to embrace the thrill of driving in Croatia! Get ready for winding coastal roads, breathtaking views, and the occasional goat-induced traffic jam (yes, it’s a thing).

Our Croatia guide road trip adventure begins now!

We Recommend Renting a Car

Yes, it might be a manual transmission that’ll have you grinding gears like a teenager learning to drive but trust us, it’s totally worth it. A car rental is your ticket to exploring those hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations at your own leisure—because who needs the limitations of guided tours when you can follow your whims instead?

Just pick up your trusty chariot at Zagreb or Dubrovnik Airport and embark on the ultimate coastal road trip. It’s like a real-life Game of Thrones journey, minus the dragons and with a car (okay, it’s nothing like GOT). And if you’re not feeling up to the stick shift challenge? No worries—a good ol’ automatic will work just fine too, although it may cost a bit more.

Budget Savvy Tip: If you can drive stick, you’ll save enough money on car rentals to buy a lifetime supply of Croatian olive oil. You’re welcome! Plus, with the freedom of your own wheels, you can stop at roadside fruit stands, charming villages, and breathtaking viewpoints whenever the mood strikes. We booked through Discover Cars and typically paid less than USD 10 per day.

🚗 Affordable Car Rental > Check Availability

Outdoor Activities and Adventure Sports

No Croatia guide would be complete without mentioning the incredible outdoor activities available. Get your adrenaline pumping with some outdoor escapades! Croatia is a playground for adventure lovers, and here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

• Kayaking: Paddle through the crystal-clear waters around Dubrovnik on one of these top 10 kayaking tours and feel like a marine hero.
• Hiking: Take on trails in national parks like Paklenica or Krka, where the views are so breathtaking you’ll need to stop for selfies.
• Biking: Explore scenic coastal paths that will make you question why you don’t bike more often.

11 Things You Have to See and Do

Because lounging on the beach all day is sooo 2019. This section of our Croatia guide covers the must-see attractions that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy. From natural wonders to historical sites, we’ve got you covered.

1. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Mother Nature showing off with waterfalls and lakes that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy. Perfect for a day of exploring and snapping pics.

2. Diocletian’s Palace, Split

Get lost in an ancient Roman emperor’s retirement home. It’s like a 1,700-year-old maze, but with better cafe bars and restaurants.

3. Zagreb’s Upper Town

Where you can admire Saint Mark’s Church, people-watch on Tkalciceva Street, and climb the Zagreb Cathedral, all while nursing a hangover from last night’s rakija tasting.

4. Dubrovnik Old Town

Stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage site on the best walking tour with its stunning walls and charming streets. It’s like walking into a medieval fairytale, but with gelato.

5. Makarska Riviera

Hit the road along this breathtaking coastline, where stunning views of the mountains meet the azure sea. Your friends will be wishing they were there with you.

6. Five Islands Speedboat Tour With Blue Cave

Zip across the sparkling Adriatic Sea and hit up five stunning islands in a day. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and those envy-inducing Instagram shots.

The Five Islands Speedboat Tour is the one tour we tell all our friends and family they have to do. If there’s only one tour you’re going to take in Croatia—make it this one. We’re particularly obsessed with this one because it actually stops in the Pakleni Islands (no lazy drive-bys here). You’ll thank us when you get there and see it for yourself. Seriously, don’t skip it!

🚤 5 Islands Speedboat Tour > Check Availability

7. Primosten

Wander through the miniature but massively picturesque island of Primosten, known for its charming streets and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect place to snap a pic or two (or a hundred) and of course, a swim!

8. Rovinj

This colorful coastal town will steal your heart with its cobbled streets and lovely sunsets. A must-visit for those postcard-perfect shots.

9. Motovun

A hilltop town straight out of a storybook, surrounded by vineyards, killer views, and dirt packed with the tastiest truffles you’ll ever sniff out. Perfect for a laid-back stroll, or even going truffle hunting with a pro, and washing it all down with a glass of local wine.

10. Pula Amphitheatre

Many first-timers will be in awe of the Colosseum’s lesser-known cousin. Step back in time at this ridiculously well-preserved Roman amphitheater—it’s basically screaming for a selfie.

11. Zadar Old Town

Explore this coastal gem, where ancient Roman ruins meet modern art installations. Don’t miss the Sea Organ – it’s music to your ears.

Taste Croatian Cuisine

Prepare your taste buds (and your waistline) for a culinary adventure. This section of our Croatia guide introduces you to the delights of Croatian cuisine, from seafood fresh from the Adriatic to hearty inland dishes that’ll have you saying “More, please!” in Croatian.

• Peka: Meat and veggies under a bell-shaped lid. It’s like a Croatian mystery box, but delicious.
• Truffles: Fancy fungus that’ll have you sniffing the ground like a trained truffle-hunting dog.
• Rakija: Fruit brandy that’ll put hair on your chest (ladies, you’ve been warned).
• Visit a Local Bakery: Indulge in strukli, a delightful cheese-filled pastry, and burek, a flaky wonder stuffed with savory goodness. Both are worth every extra kilometer you’ll have to run to work it off. Trust us, grabbing these treats from a local bakery is a must for any foodie adventure.

The “I Want It All and I Want It Now” 2-Week Itinerary

Hold onto your fanny packs, folks! We’re about to embark on a whirlwind tour of Croatia that’ll leave you breathless, camera-happy, and possibly in need of a vacation from your vacation. This section of our Croatia guide is perfect for those who want to see it all in just two weeks.

From cobblestone streets to crystal-clear waters, we’re cramming more Croatian goodness into two weeks than you can shake a bottle of rakija at. So grab your stretchiest pants and let’s get this party started. All our stays below are focused on providing the top budget-savvy value—therefore, they’re not just the cheapest. If you’re hunting for rock-bottom prices, check out accommodations at Hostel World.

Days 1-3: Zagreb – Where Caffeine Flows Like Water and Sarcasm is the Official Language

Day 1: Capital Capers

• Conquer Upper Town without breaking a sweat (JK, you’ll be drenched).
• Play “Spot the Tourist” on Tkalčićeva Street while mainlining espresso.
• Visit St. Mark’s Church and play “Count the Roof Tiles” (loser buys drinks).

🏨 Snooze Spot: Hotel Park 45

Zagreb Day 2: Culture Vulture Day

• Brave the bustling Dolac Market (pro tip: elbows out for best results).
• Contemplate your life choices at the Museum of Broken Relationships.
• Hit the town like it owes you money (spoiler: it doesn’t).

Zagreb Day 3: Samobor Sojourn

• Day trip to Samobor: Come for the kremšnita, stay because you’re in a sugar coma.
• Return to Zagreb for one last hurrah (or quiet night in, we don’t judge).

Day 4: Motovun – The Little Hill Town That Could

• Scale the walls like a less-coordinated Spider-Man.
• Go truffle hunting (it’s like Pokemon GO, but tastier).
• Pretend to be a wine connoisseur (swirl, sniff, sip, repeat).

🏨 Crash Pad: Villa Borgo B&B

Day 5: Rovinj – The Town Picasso Designed After a Wild Night Out

• Get lost in Old Town (no, seriously, you will get lost).
• Climb St. Euphemia’s tower (legs of steel not included).
• Watch the sunset and contemplate why you don’t live here.

🏨 Sweet Dreams With a View: Hotel Squero

Day 6: Pula – Where Romans Partied Hard and Left the Bill

• Gawk at the Arena (it’s like Rome’s Colosseum, but with better Wi-Fi).
• Stroll through Forum Square and marvel at the Temple of Augustus (it’s basically ancient Instagram-worthy).
• Wander around the Pula Citadel and Roman Theater for views that’ll make your friends back home jealous.
• Explore Zerostrasse, the underground tunnels that make you feel like a Roman secret agent.

🏨 Roman Rest Stop: Aurora Rooms B&B

Day 7: Plitvice Lakes – Mother Nature’s Attempt to One-Up Photoshop

• Spend the day going “Ooh” and “Aah” at waterfalls (you basic tourist, you).
• Try not to fall into any lakes (we’re looking at you, clumsy).
• Take more photos than your phone can handle (time to delete those food pics).

🏨 Nature Nook: Plitvice Inn

Day 8: Plitvice to Sibenik – From Sea Organs to Old Stone

• Morning in Zadar: Listen to the Sea Organ (nature’s auto-tune).
• Explore Sibenik’s St. James Cathedral – UNESCO-listed and Instagram-approved.
• Get lost in Sibenik’s narrow streets – it’s like a maze, but with fewer dead ends.

🏨 Seaside Snooze: Swan Adriatic Apartment & Room

Day 9: Sibenik to Split – Stone Town to Palace Party

• Morning in Primosten: Beach, please! Time to work on that lobster look.
• Afternoon in Trogir: Climb every tower (cue “The Sound of Music”).
• Late Afternoon in Split: Get lost in Diocletian’s Palace (it’s like a maze, but with fewer minotaurs).

🏨 Slumber Central: Hotel Villa Diana

Days 10-11: Split & Blue Cave Boogaloo

Day 10: Split Decision

Chill on the Riva like a local (sunglasses and judgmental looks required) or take the ferry to the island Brac and swim on the famous Golden Horn Beach.

Day 11: 5 Islands Speedboat Tour

Spend the day island hopping like a caffeinated kangaroo on the Blue Cave & 5 Islands Speedboat tour.

Explore the islands just off the Croatian coast during this full-day speedboat excursion from Split. Visit highlights like the famous Blue Cave, the fishing village of Komiža, Stiniva Cove for swimming and snorkeling, and the historic town of Hvar.

• Blue Cave: Nature’s lava lamp—seriously, you won’t believe your eyes.
• Vis: Your chance for some “Mamma Mia!” cosplay opportunities (Sophie or Donna, you decide).
• Bisevo & Pakleni Islands: Paradise, if paradise had more tourists.
• Hvar: Lavenderpalooza, where the scent is as intoxicating as the view.

Day 12: Makarska Riviera & Dubrovnik – Coastal Road Trip Extravaganza

• Drive the Makarska Riviera (try not to drive off a cliff while gawking).
• Arrive in Dubrovnik: Resist yelling “Winter is coming!” (we dare you).
• Ride the cable car for views that’ll make your vertigo say “hello.”

Dubrovnik Deep Dive – Day 13

• Day trip to Lokrum Island (watch out for peacocks, they’re after your snacks).
• Beach bum it up or stuff your face with seafood (why not both?).
• Join in on one of the top 10 Dubrovnik tours.
• Final souvenir shopping (because who doesn’t need a “Game of Thrones” bottle opener?).

Day 14: Farewell, Croatia (Try Not to Cry)

• Last-minute Old Town stroll (get those steps in).
• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast (read: stuff your face one last time).
• Depart with a heavy heart and heavier luggage.

🏨 King’s Landing Lodging: Boutique Hotel Porto

Optional Add-ons – For the Overachievers

Cetina Spring & Blue Lake

• Witness water so blue it’ll make the Caribbean jealous.
• Contemplate how many filters nature uses.

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Watch bridge divers (and resist the urge to join them).
• Get lost in the Old Town (sensing a theme yet?).

Medjugorje, Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Catch up on the history check out our journey here.
• Climb Apparition Hill (Stairmaster with a view).
• Buy enough religious souvenirs to make your grandma think you’ve found religion.

Remember, this Croatia guide itinerary is more packed than your suitcase will be. Adjust as needed, because the only thing more important than seeing everything is enjoying yourself. Now go forth and conquer Croatia like the majestic, slightly sunburnt warrior you are.

You Did It!

Congratulations! You’ve just survived the ultimate Croatia guide adventure. If you’re not planning your next trip back before you even leave, you’re doing it wrong. Now go home, sleep for a week, and start dreaming of your next Adriatic escapade. Zivjeli! (That’s “Cheers!” in Croatian since you’re practically a local now.)

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