Straddling the Adriatic and Central Europe, Croatia blends heritage, nature and a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. Its indented coastline, dotted with more than a thousand islands — including Hvar, Brač and Korčula — offers turquoise coves, elegant harbours and stone villages with pastel shutters. From Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic”, to Split and Diocletian’s Palace, via Zadar and its Sea Organ, each city has a strong identity and a long history. Inland, Zagreb charms with a human-scale centre, café culture and lively arts, while national parks such as Plitvice (terraced lakes), Krka (waterfalls) and Paklenica (superb hiking) delight outdoor lovers.
Croatia suits both authenticity-seekers and fans of chic relaxation: island-hopping, coastal hikes, ancient and medieval sites, and a simple, flavourful cuisine — grilled fish and seafood, Istrian olive oil and truffles, pršut, and Dalmatian or Slavonian wines. Pebble beaches mean exceptionally clear water, ideal for snorkelling and paddleboarding. Peak season runs July–August; May–June and September–October are perfect for warm weather without the crowds. Getting around is easy with car, buses and ferries, and itineraries are flexible — city breaks in Zagreb plus Plitvice, an Istrian loop between Rovinj and Pula, or a Dalmatian route from Split to Dubrovnik via the islands.
🗺️ Practical information about Croatia
📍 Capital: Zagreb
👥 Population: Around 3.9 million inhabitants
💶 Currency: Euro (€)
🗣️ Official language: Croatian
⏰ Time zone: UTC +1 (winter) / UTC +2 (summer)
🌡️ Climate: Mediterranean on the coast; continental inland — sunny summers, mild coastal winters
⛴️ Getting there & around: Flights to Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar; extensive ferry network to the islands; reliable roads and buses
🏛️ Highlights: Dubrovnik, Split (Diocletian’s Palace), Zadar, Šibenik, Zagreb, Istria (Rovinj, Pula), Plitvice Lakes, Krka National Park, the islands of Hvar, Korčula & Brač
🏨 Find a good hotel in Croatia
Whether you’re after historic cities, Dalmatian islands, Istria or national parks, you’ll find boutique hotels, charming guesthouses and hidden gems to suit every budget.
🌟 See the best hotels in Croatia to compare offers, reviews and prices for your travel dates.
🗺️ Articles about Croatia
Below, you’ll find our selection of articles about Croatia, followed by the latest posts, to help you plan your trip and explore the country’s most beautiful spots.