Language: Croatian
Currency: Croatian Kuna
Time Zone: GMT+1/UTC
Tipping: In the majority of cases tips and taxes are included in the bill and so tipping is not necessary. If you are part of a large group or have received exceptional service 10-15% would be appropriate.
Croatia - an Introduction
Boasting no less than 1185 islands (47 of which are inhabited) and a coastline stretching for more than 1178km, you'll soon see why so many take Croatia escorted tours to visit this little piece of paradise in Europe. The scenery itself speaks volumes where during your coach holidays you can hike through pristine forest, explore hidden coves, sunbath along pine-fringed beaches and admire the waterfalls at Plitvice.
If you're looking for a sunny escape then this gem of Europe will meet your criteria as the weather in Croatia is generally warmer towards the south although really there isn't much difference. Those looking for holidays in Croatia where the weather is warmer, stay in resorts close to the Adriatic Sea such as Cres, Krk and Lošinj because these areas tend to feel like the Mediterranean. The summers here are cool compared to the warmer winters.
Visit Zagreb where east meets west on coach holidays to Croatia and you will not be disappointed. As the capital city, Zagreb still manages to retain its sense of old-worldliness with many Austro-Hungarian buildings filling the town centre alongside modern concert halls and vibrant nightclubs. Take a picnic in Maksimir Park, admire the amazing views from Mount Medvecnica in Medvedgrad or wander through hilly streets in historic Gradex and Kaptol.
You cannot finish your Croatia tour without sampling some of the local delicacies such as bermet (liqueur) with a slice of Kremšnite (custard pie) before you leave Samobar. If you're staying near the coast, the glittering clear waters of the Adriatic promise seafood that's out of this world and the truffles in Istria are to die for.
Tours to Croatia start from £469 per person and typically include; return coach travel or flights, transportation whilst in the resort, accommodation in good standard hotels, meals and a variety of included or optional excursions so you can explore further should you wish to.
Weather
Thinking of travelling to Croatia? Check out the average temperatures for when you plan to visit courtesy of BBC Weather
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Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
Dubrovnik |
9°C |
9.5°C |
11°C |
14°C |
17.5°C |
21.5°C |
25°C |
24.5°C |
21.5°C |
17.5°C |
13.5°C |
11°C |
Tourist offices
For more information about Croatia you can visit the Official Tourism Website at croatia.hr
There are so many fabulous places to visit and sights to see when on holidays in Croatia. Here are just a few to inspire you:
Split
Located on the Mediterranean Basin, this metropolitan area is a great place to explore when visiting Croatia. As the second largest city in the country, you will discover a mix of old buildings and stone ruins with an equal mix of new architecture and high street shops. Split is a popular stop-off point for cruise ships and as a result, its Port is extremely busy.
Opatija
An elegant resort which overlooks the Kvamer Gulf, Opatija is a popular destination for visitors year round. The 12km promenade that stretches from Lovran to Volsko, is a particular highlight and is well worth exploring – don't worry you don't have to walk the whole distance! If you feel like relaxing and watching the world go by why not visit one of the many Viennese-style coffee houses.
Rovinj Located on the west coast of the Istrian Peninsula, the seaside resort of Rovinj, is one of the last remaining true Mediterranean fishing ports. Modelled on Venice, the town is set around the stunning church of Santa Euphemia. You can visit the church, which is the largest baroque building in Istria, and climb to the top of the bell-tower for stunning views of the town. Please be aware that you must be in appropriate dress to visit the church – no swimwear etc.
Zagreb
The capital city of Croatia, Zagreb is situated in the heart of the country. When visiting there are plenty of attractions and places to explore to keep you busy.
The largest museum in Croatia – The Museum Contemporary Art was opened in 2009 and is made up on 5,000 sq metres of exhibitions. Zagreb's main market is located above the main market square, is great place to try Croatia's local cuisine.
To help you have an enjoyable holiday in Croatia, take a look at these useful tips and advice provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO):
Health and Travel Insurance
When visiting Croatia, you can apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) before leaving the UK. Please note this card is not a substitute for travel insurance or medical cover, however, you will be entitled to state provided medical treatment at a reduced cost or sometimes for free if this is required during your stay.
If you are in need of emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.
Local Laws and Customs
Always carry your passport at all times. It is the only official form of identification. Also make sure you keep a photocopy of the page in your passport with your photograph in a safe place, including the details of your next of kin.
Entry Requirements
Passport validity
If you are planning to visit Croatia, you must meet the following passport requirements.
Your passport must be:
- Issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
- Valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)
Please note: If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. These extra months do not count towards your passport validity.
Visas
You can travel to Croatia for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa.
Please note that any previous visits you have made to the Schengen countries within the last 180 days will count towards your 90-day limit.
Passport stamping
Your passport will be stamped if you enter or exit the Schengen area through Croatia as a visitor. These passport stamps are used to check you’re complying with the 90-day visa-free limit in the Schengen area.
Any other nationality looking to holiday here must contact the local embassy to check visa requirements.
British nationals do not require a visa for business and tourist trips of up to 90 days in any given 6 month period. However, a visa may be required for other types of stay or visit. For additional information about entry requirements, contact the Croatian Embassy on 020 7387 1144.
When visiting Croatia you may be asked to produce evidence of the finances necessary to cover the duration of your stay and return or onward trip.