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Croatia
The sparkling jewel of the Adriatic offers a unique combination of attractions. Discover its breathtaking natural beauty, an extraordinary island-speckled coastline, unspoiled beaches, preserved walled towns, and several UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Best of Croatia (self-drive)
Experience a little of everything in Croatia. Start in Dubrovnik, then head north, seeing all the Dalmatian coast, and Croatian highlands have to offer.
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Dubrovnik (3), Split (3), Plitvice Lakes (2), Zagreb (2)
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11 days/10 nights
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NOTE: Please write down the trip name before clicking on "Start Planning" because it will ask which trip you are interested in.
Discover Croatia (Self-Drive)
Experience Croatia from its energetic capital, to its stunning inland National Parks, and finally to its sunlit coast. This independent self drive itinerary gives you the perfect mix of freedom and structure, with walking tours of the most important sites, and entrance to Plitvice Lakes National Park. With good roads and drives all under 3 hours, this easy self drive itinerary makes for a relaxing adventure, with endless options to stop in quaint towns and seaside resorts along the way. The mixture of scenery, nature, and historic towns makes for a perfect Croatian exploration.
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Zagreb (2), Plitvice Lakes (1), Zadar (2), Split (3)
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9 days/8 nights
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NOTE: Please write down the trip name before clicking on "Start Planning" because it will ask which trip you are interested in.
Croatia tid bits
When I book a trip for you, we will sit down and go over where you are visiting, how to get around, how to handle the language barrier, and important things to know when traveling. Here are a few helpful things to know when visiting Croatia:
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Language: Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Croatian phrases can be appreciated by locals.
Currency: Croatia uses the Croatian Kuna (HRK). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and transportation.
Cultural Etiquette: Croatians are generally friendly and welcoming. Greet with a polite "Dobar dan" (Good day), and saying "Hvala" (Thank you) is customary.
Tipping: Tipping is expected in restaurants, and a service charge is often not included. It's common to leave a 10% to 15% tip for good service.
Dining: Croatian cuisine is diverse, with a focus on seafood along the coast and hearty meats in the interior. Be sure to try local specialties like "pljeskavica" and "cevapi."
Water Quality: Tap water is safe to drink throughout Croatia, except in some rural areas. Bottled water is widely available if you prefer.
Island Hopping: Croatia's coastline is dotted with beautiful islands. Ferries and catamarans provide transportation, but schedules can be seasonal, so plan accordingly.
Croatian Islands: When traveling to the islands, keep in mind that the pace is slower, and many businesses close during the afternoon for a siesta.
Beaches: Croatia offers stunning beaches, from sandy to pebble. Many are rocky, so water shoes can be handy for comfortable swimming and sunbathing.
Natural Parks: Croatia boasts numerous national parks, such as Plitvice Lakes and Krka, with beautiful waterfalls and pristine landscapes. Check the opening hours and admission fees.
Festivals: Croatia hosts various festivals and cultural events throughout the year, particularly in the summer. Research if there are any local festivals happening during your visit.
Currency Exchange: It's advisable to exchange currency at banks or authorized exchange offices to avoid unfavorable rates at tourist locations.
Safety: Croatia is generally a safe destination, but travelers should still take standard safety precautions.
By keeping these points in mind, you can fully enjoy Croatia's stunning coastline, historic cities, and rich cultural heritage while respecting local customs and traditions.