Travel Alert: Bali - Indonesia - Ash Cloud Bali - Indonesia - Ash Cloud
Make a Claim Policy Login
1300 409 322
1300 409 322

Croatia Travel Guide

Travelling to Croatia from Australia? Read Fast Cover's Croatia Travel Guide to learn the travel requirements for Croatia to help prepare and plan your trip.

Croatia Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Croatia from Australia? This stunning Balkan destination offers breathtaking coastlines, historic cities, and pristine national parks that make it an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're exploring medieval Dubrovnik, wandering through Plitvice Lakes National Park, or enjoying island hopping adventures along the Dalmatian coast, thorough preparation ensures a smooth and memorable journey. Fast Cover's Croatia travel guide provides essential travel advice and requirements, safety tips, and practical information to help you plan your trip and navigate this beautiful EU country. 

Any advice is general advice only and doesn't consider your personal circumstances.

Croatia Travel Advice Level Explained

Planning a safe journey to Croatia? While Croatia consistently ranks as one of Europe's safest destinations for Australian tourists, staying up-to-date with current conditions and potential travel concerns is always wise when planning your adventure.

Travel Advisories

Before departing for your journey, check the latest travel advice for Croatia on the Australian Government's Smartraveller website for current travel advisories. 

Travel Alerts

Fast Cover also monitors travel conditions and issues timely travel alerts to keep our customers informed and updated on situations that may impact their travel to Croatia.

Learn more about how to choose a safe travel destination for your next holiday.

How to Prepare for a Trip to Croatia

Being prepared before you travel to Croatia can help you manage unexpected events more easily. These actionable tips can help you prepare for your holiday.

Check Travel Requirements

Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from Croatia and issued within the previous 10 years. Australian citizens and eligible residents can enter Croatia without a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period as Croatia is part of the Schengen area. Entry and visa requirements for Croatia may change depending on the nature and duration of your trip.

Research European Destinations

From exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Dubrovnik's Old City to visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia offers unique experiences for everyone. Whether you're planning day trips to the stunning capital city Zagreb or island hopping along the coast, research your destinations thoroughly.

Plan Your Activities

From coastal adventures to exploring Krka National Park, Croatia offers unique experiences for everyone. Check if your planned activities are covered under your travel insurance policy.

Pack Smart

Croatia's weather varies by season with a Mediterranean climate along the coast and a continental climate inland. Coastal areas experience hot, dry summers (25-30°C) and mild winters, while inland regions can have colder winters with snow and warmer summers. Pack for the season, region, and activities you will do in Croatia.

Organise Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for Croatia can provide cover for unexpected events like overseas medical emergencies, trip cancellation, or lost luggage. Fast Cover offers a wide range of policies for Australian travellers that can be customised depending on the travellers' individual needs, so you can make the most of your trip to Croatia.

Travel Documents

Organise your travel documents before you depart for your trip. Keep copies of your itinerary, flight tickets, passport, visas, accommodation details, tour and activity tickets, and any pre-arranged transport tickets. Don't forget your travel insurance policy and emergency assistance contact information.

Safety Advice for Travelling in Croatia

Travelling through Croatia can be an exciting adventure, particularly for younger Aussie travellers. Croatia remains one of the safest travel destinations in Europe, ranking #15 out of 163 countries in the 2024 Global Peace Index. Use our Croatia travel guide to stay informed of general risks and safety tips.

Crime and Travel Scams in Croatia

While tourists are generally safe, you may fall victim to petty crime, and the violent crime rate is low. Travel scams do exist, so familiarising yourself with local tourist scams and staying cautious ensures a safer and smoother experience when travelling to Croatia from Australia.

Pickpocketing
Pickpocketing

Organised groups of pickpockets often use distraction techniques and are particularly active in main cities, public transportation hubs, hotel lobbies, restaurants, patios and outdoor cafés, and tourist sites and attractions. Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying large sums of cash.

Overcharging Scams
Overcharging Scams

There are cases when owners may overcharge tourists, even for a coffee or couple of drinks. It is required by law that all customers receive a receipt, and the document is also a way to double-check you were not overcharged. Always check your receipt and change.

Taxi Scams
Taxi Scams

Look out for taxi drivers overcharging you. Use official taxis with working meters and familiarise yourself with Croatian currency to avoid making incorrect changes.

Gentlemen's Club Scams
Gentlemen's Club Scams

Tourists have been overcharged at certain 'gentlemen's clubs', sometimes by thousands of euros, and threatened with violence if they refuse to pay.

Cyber Scams
Cyber Scams

Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks and avoid sharing personal information online.

Civil Unrest and Terrorism in Croatia

While there's been no recent terrorist attacks in Croatia, they can still happen. There's been an increasing number of bomb threats against public areas, such as shopping malls, government offices and schools. There is a threat of terrorism in Europe and terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time, particularly in public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners. Monitor the media for developments and follow the advice of local authorities.

Safety for Sports and Adventure Activities

From coastal adventures to exploring Croatia's national parks, Croatia offers exciting activities for travellers. The Adriatic coast is filled with hidden coves ideal for cliff jumping, but in some areas, rocks are not visible from above, or loose gravel makes the cliffs unstable, and warning signs may not be in place. To avoid the potential for serious injury, avoid jumping off rocks and cliffs, even if you see others jumping. Ensure you have the relevant skills and safety equipment for the activities you will be participating in and follow your instructor's safety briefing. Consider taking out travel insurance to provide cover for your chosen activities in Croatia.

man surfing
Sports and Leisure Activities

Fast Cover’s list of Covered Sports and Leisure Activities provide cover for a wide range of activities.

people kayaking
Adventure Activities

Fast Cover's optional Adventure Pack provides cover for many more adventure activities for an added premium.

people walking on snow
Ski and Snow Sports

Fast Cover’s Snow Sports Plus Policy is available to provide cover for costs associated with ski and snow sports whilst overseas.

Always check the eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits that apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

Climate and Natural Disasters in Croatia

Croatia is at risk of earthquakes, flooding and fires which may impact travel plans. Researching your destinations and understanding the potential natural disasters will help you prepare for your trip to Croatia. Remember, Fast Cover's travel alerts can also provide updates during severe weather events.

Earthquakes

Croatia is located on a seismically active spot, but serious earthquakes are extremely rare. The country experiences occasional minor seismic events, but large earthquakes have been known to cause damage. 

Flooding

Croatia experiences seasonal flooding, and urban coastal areas are the most exposed to extreme weather events. Heavy rainfall can cause flash flooding, particularly in coastal and urban areas. 

Fires

Croatia experiences wildfires during the hot, dry summer months, particularly in coastal and forested areas. Follow fire warnings and instructions from local authorities.

When is the Best Time to Visit Croatia?

The best time to visit Croatia will vary for travellers as it depends on your interests, planned activities, and weather preferences. Each season offers unique opportunities to explore the diverse landscapes of Croatia. Arguably, the best time to visit Croatia is in early the summer season between May and June, characterised by fewer visitors, comfortable temperatures, and warm, swimmable waters.

Season 

Winter 

Spring 

Summer 

Autumn 

Months 

December - February 

March - May 

June - August 

September - November 

Weather Conditions 

Cool and wet coastal (10-15°C), cold inland with snow (0-5°C) 

Mild and pleasant (15-20°C), occasional rain 

Hot and dry (25-30°C), peak sunshine 

Warm and mild (20-25°C), some rain 
person snowboarding
Popular Activities in Croatia in Winter
  • Christmas Markets: Experience traditional Croatian Christmas markets in Zagreb and other cities with local crafts, food, and festive atmosphere. 
  • Skiing: If snow and skiing are of interest, the winter can be both cozy and exciting near Croatia's capital of Zagreb, at Sljeme Peak on Mount Medvednica. 
Popular Activities in Croatia in Spring
  • National Parks: March makes a good bet for mixing visits to churches and galleries with outdoor exploration. You can hike along the coast or hills, or take in the Krka and Plitvice national parks, where wooded slopes wind between lakes and waterfalls that thunder with meltwater. 
  • Easter Celebrations: Experience traditional Easter processions and festivities across the country, especially on the islands of Hvar and Korčula. 
plitvice lakes croatia
old town of krk in croatia
Popular Activities in Croatia in Summer
  • Beach Activities: Perfect weather for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports along the Dalmatian coast and islands. 
  • Festivals: Zagreb's International Folklore Festival in July celebrates traditional Croatian culture and customs through music, dance and theater, drawing visitors from across the world. 
Popular Activities in Croatia in Autumn
  • Wine Harvest: October brings the wine harvest throughout Croatia's wine regions. 
  • Truffle Season: Each autumn, the small Istrian town of Livade celebrates the local delicacy, the truffle, over 10 weekends with cooking contests, demonstrations and tastings. 
split croatia

Public Holidays in Croatia

Knowing Croatia's public holidays helps you avoid peak travel times, crowded tourist attractions, and higher travel costs, but also lets you plan to be part of festive seasonal events. It also ensures you're aware of potential closures and cultural events to help plan your itinerary. 

Date 

Official Public Holidays in Croatia 

1 January 

New Year's Day 

6 January 

Epiphany 

21 April 

Easter Monday 

1 May 

Labour Day 

30 May 

Statehood Day 

19 June 

Corpus Christi 

22 June 

Anti-Fascist Resistance Day 

15 August 

Assumption Day 

1 November 

All Saints' Day 

18 November 

Remembrance Day 

25 December 

Christmas Day 

26 December 

St Stephen's Day 
Expand All

Ready to Embark on your Croatian Adventure?  

Explore the benefits and cover options available with Fast Cover’s travel insurance for your trip to Croatia.

Health Advice for Travelling to Croatia

Here's what you need to know about travel health risks, healthcare, and medication when travelling to Croatia.

Health Risks when Travelling in Croatia

Health risks in Croatia are similar to those in Australia. However, Croatia's Mediterranean climate poses some unique health risks. There are some common health risks to be aware of before you travel to Croatia: 

Tap Water
Tap Water

Tap water is generally safe to drink throughout Croatia, but bottled water is widely available if preferred. 

Insect-Borne Illnesses
Insect-Borne Illnesses

Tick-borne diseases, including tick-borne encephalitis, can occur in forested areas. Use insect repellent and check for ticks after outdoor activities.

Sun Exposure
Sun Exposure

Strong Mediterranean sun requires proper sun protection, especially during summer months. Use sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Sea Urchins
Sea Urchins

Watch out for sea urchins, known as sea hedgehogs in Croatia. They are often found on rocks around shallow water. They don't bite and are not a deadly threat. However, their spines can cause painful swelling and can get stuck under your skin, similar to a large splinter.

Drug and Drink Spiking
Drug and Drink Spiking

Croatia hosts popular music festivals such as the Split Ultra Music Festival with festival goers at the risk of drug and alcohol spiking. Keep an eye on your drink and avoid accepting drinks from unknown festival goers. 

Healthcare in Croatia

Croatia's healthcare system is generally well-developed with good facilities in major cities and tourist areas. However, emergency medical and hospital expenses can become costly for travellers.

people waiting in a hospital
Fast Cover's Medical Benefits

Fast Cover’s international travel insurance policies include:

  • overseas 24/7 emergency medical assistance,
  • overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses,
  • overseas emergency dental, and
  • overseas emergency medical evacuation and repatriation

to help cover you if you become unexpectedly injured or sick while in Croatia.

plastic model of heart anatomy
Travel Insurance for Existing Medical Conditions

If you have an existing medical condition, Fast Cover may be able to provide some cover. You’ll need to complete a medical screening process online or call our Aussie based sales team.

To find out more about our medical screening process, and how the policy will apply in relation to an existing medical condition, please read and consider the PDS for eligibility criteria, terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits that apply.

Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

Medication in Croatia

Before heading to Croatia, confirm with the authorities that your medication is permitted. Certain medicines may need approval or special paperwork to clear customs when travelling from Australia.

Check Croatia's Medication Regulations

Contact the Croatian embassy or consulate for information about bringing specific medications into the country.

Obtain a Permit for Restricted Medications

Some controlled substances may require permits from Croatian authorities before travel.

Carry Documentation

Always carry original prescriptions, doctor's letters, and medication in original packaging with pharmacy labels.

Travel Limits

Carry only the amount needed for your trip plus a small extra supply in case of delays.

Croatian Laws and Customs for Travellers

Learning about Croatia’s laws and customs can help you steer clear of issues with locals or authorities. Keep in mind that travel insurers generally don't cover you when your claim arises for breaking the law, so it's best to familiarise yourself with Croatia’s laws before your trip.

Obeying Local Laws When Travelling Through Croatia

Respecting local laws is important for a trouble-free trip to Croatia. Below are a few common tips to follow to avoid legal trouble:

Registration and Identification
Registration and Identification

If you are in Croatia, including on a boat, your presence in Croatia must be registered with the police. Always carry proper identification.

Use and Possession of Drugs and Alcohol
Use and Possession of Drugs and Alcohol

Drink-driving is a serious offence in Croatia. The alcohol limit is zero for drivers under the age of 24. Drug possession and use carry severe penalties. 

Traffic Offences
Traffic Offences

Croatia has strict traffic rules so make sure to follow all local rules and carry your International Driving Permit along with your Australian license when driving a vehicle in Croatia.

Social Customs in Croatia

Showing respect and understanding etiquette can go a long way in Croatia. Here are some tips to help you handle social situations during your visit:

Food and Restaurant Etiquette
Food and Restaurant Etiquette

Tipping 10% is customary in restaurants if service charge isn't included. Round up taxi fares and tip tour guides. 

Religious Sites
Religious Sites

Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites, covering shoulders and knees.

LGBTQIA+
LGBTQIA+

Same-sex sexual activity is legal, but attitudes towards LGBTQIA+ travellers can vary, particularly outside tourist areas. Avoid public displays of affection.

Visa and Entry Requirements for Travelling to Croatia

Australian citizens and eligible residents can enter Croatia without a visa for tourism or business purposes for stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For longer trips or for purposes such as long term study or work, you will need to take out a national visa.

For more information visit Fast Cover’s page on entry and visa requirements for Europe and the Schengen Area. 

Passport Requirements in Croatia

Passport has to be valid for at least another three months after the planned departure from Croatia and issued within the previous 10 years. Make sure to renew your passport in advance to avoid travel disruptions. Learn how to keep your passport safe while travelling in Croatia. 

It is important to note that your travel insurance policy may not provide cover if you do not comply with Croatia's visa or other entry requirements. To help ensure you are prepared for your trip, you should research and understand the relevant entry conditions before you travel.

Advice for Tourists Travelling in Croatia

Travelling to Croatia offers incredible experiences, but it's important to be well-informed about practical details like currency, staying connected and transport. For more information, visit the official Croatia tourism website. 

Currency in Croatia
Currency in Croatia

From 1st January 2023, Croatia’s currency changed from the Kuna to the Euro. Croatia officially joined the eurozone and adopted the Euro (€) as its currency. Use a currency converter to check current EUR exchange rates. 

Common Payment Methods in Croatia
Common Payment Methods in Croatia

Cash is the main payment method in Croatia, especially in small towns and family-owned businesses. Card payments can be helpful in shops, restaurants and hotels but cash will be important for tips, markets, and smaller establishments. ATMs are widespread and accept most major cards including Visa and Mastercard. The withdrawal limits are anywhere from €100 to €800 per transaction, but they're usually around €700. 

Internet and Wi-Fi in Croatia
Internet and Wi-Fi in Croatia

Wi Fi is widely available in Croatia, particularly in hotels, restaurants, cafes, and public areas in tourist areas. Free Wi Fi is common in accommodation and many public spaces. Mobile data coverage is generally excellent throughout the country, including most islands. No special VPN or apps are required as there are no internet restrictions. 

Mobile Phones and eSIMs in Croatia
Mobile Phones and eSIMs in Croatia

Mobile networks in Croatia are reliable with good 4G/5G coverage. Australian mobile phones work well with Croatia's networks. eSIMs are widely supported and can be purchased online before travel or locally upon arrival. Major network providers include A1, T-Mobile, and Telemach. 

Travel Adaptors and Electronics
Travel Adaptors and Electronics

Croatia uses Type C and Type F electrical outlets (European standard) with 230V. Australian travellers will need a universal travel adaptor. Bring portable chargers, camera equipment, and consider a European SIM card or international roaming plan. 

What Should You Pack for a Trip to Croatia?

Planning what to pack for Croatia ahead of time will ensure you're well-prepared and have taken measures for a stress-free holiday when it comes time to go. Here's our guide on what to pack for your holiday to Croatia.

Seasonal and Regional Packing

Pack according to the season and regions you'll visit. Summer coastal travel requires light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes. Spring and autumn require layers including light jackets for cooler evenings. Winter travel, especially inland, requires warm clothing, waterproof jacket, and sturdy footwear.  

Use a TSA-approved luggage lock and set a unique pin to keep your luggage secure. Add a tracking tag to keep track of your luggage location. These small measures can reduce the risk of potential loss or theft.

luggage and personal items
Luggage and Personal Effects Insurance

Fast Cover’s luggage and personal effects benefit may provide cover for theft, loss, or damage to your luggage and personal items. If you’re travelling to Croatia with high value items, you can declare many of them as specified high-value items to help cover them for more than what they are currently covered for under the standard policy terms and conditions.

Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

Transport in Croatia: Getting Around Croatia

Croatia offers diverse transportation options for travellers, from efficient public transport to renting a car for exploring the scenic countryside and coast.

Riding a Motorcycle, Moped or Scooter in Croatia
Riding a Motorcycle, Moped or Scooter in Croatia

Motorcycles and scooters are popular for exploring Croatia's coastal roads and islands. An international driving permit is required, and helmets are mandatory for all riders and passengers.

Rental Vehicles in Croatia
Rental Vehicles in Croatia

Renting a car in Croatia provides flexibility to explore at your own pace, particularly for visiting national parks and smaller coastal towns. International driving permits are required alongside your Australian license.

Trains
Trains

Croatian Railways connects major cities including Zagreb, Split, and Rijeka. Train travel is comfortable and scenic, particularly the route from Zagreb to Split through the mountains. Book tickets in advance during peak season.

Buses
Buses

Buses provide extensive coverage throughout Croatia and are often faster than trains for many routes. Long-distance buses connect major cities and towns, while local buses serve smaller destinations and islands.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps

Official taxis are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Always use licensed taxis with working meters. Ride-sharing apps like Uber operate in major cities. Agree on fares in advance for longer journeys.

Boats and Ferries
Boats and Ferries

Ferry services connect the mainland to Croatia's many islands. Jadrolinija operates most ferry routes, with seasonal schedules offering more frequent summer services. Catamarans provide faster connections between popular islands and the coast. International ferries connect Croatia to Italy and other Adriatic countries.

Driving Permits and License Requirements

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Croatia for up to one year. To drive in Croatia, travellers need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their valid license. IDPs can be obtained in Australia before departure. Ensure you carry your IDP, Australian driver's licence, and rental vehicle insurance at all times.

man with helmet riding yellow scooter
Coverage for Riders and Passengers with Fast Cover's Motorcycle Pack

Fast Cover’s Motorcycle Pack is an optional extra available under our International policies that may provide cover to you for being the rider or passenger on a: 

  • Motorcycle,  
  • Moped, or 
  • Scooter. 
van near the beach
Fast Cover’s Rental Vehicle Excess Benefit

Fast Cover’s Rental Vehicle Excess benefit may provide cover for the rental vehicle excess component of your rental vehicle insurance with your car hire company in Croatia, up to the specified limit in your travel insurance policy. This benefit applies to a: 

  • Sedan, hatchback, or station wagon,   
  • Four-wheel drive or minibus/people mover, or  
  • A campervan or motorhome (up to 4.5 tonnes), 

rented from a licensed motor vehicle rental company (including vehicles rented from peer-to-peer carsharing platforms).

Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits apply. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which policy is right for you and your needs.

Important Contact Information in Croatia

Keeping important contact details handy can be crucial in an emergency. Make sure to note these key numbers before travelling to Croatia.

Croatia International Country Code: +385

This code is vital if someone needs to reach you on a Croatian mobile number, especially when using services like an eSIM. For example, dial +385 followed by the local number (dropping the initial 0) to make a call. 

Emergency Contacts in Croatia
  • Police: 192 
  • Fire and Rescue: 193 
  • Ambulance and Medical Emergency: 194 
  • General Emergency Number: 112 
Government Contacts

Australian Embassy in Croatia 

  • Phone Number: +385 1 4891 200 
  • Address: Centar Kaptol, Nova Ves 11, 9th Floor, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia 
Fast Cover 24/7 Emergency Assistance
  • In Australia: 02 8320 7999 
  • Overseas: +61 2 8320 7999 

FAQs

Whilst Croatia is a popular destination for Australian travellers, changing civil, political and climate conditions may change whether Croatia is considered a safe destination to travel to. It's important to stay informed about local conditions and follow safety advice from the Australian Government via Smartraveller and any travel alerts issued by your travel insurance provider.

The ideal time to visit Croatia depends on factors including interests, activities, events, and weather/season preference. Summer (June-August) offers perfect beach weather but larger crowds, while spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October) provide pleasant weather with fewer tourists.

Before you travel to Croatia from Australia, make sure to research your travel destinations and the activities you will do in Croatia, so that you can pack accordingly. Ensure your passport is valid and check visa requirements. Consider purchasing travel insurance for your trip to Croatia. Fast Cover offers travel insurance policies that can be customised with optional extras to suit many travellers travel plans to Croatia.

Croatia Travel Hub

Discover travel resources, advice and tips for your next holiday to the Croatia.

open passport with stamps
Europe and Schengen Entry and Visa Requirements

Travelling to Europe for tourism, business, work or study? We've put together a guide on European and Schengen entry and visa requirements to help you get your head around the right travel documents for your trip. Learn about visa exemptions and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).

seaside cafe in mykonos
Ultimate Euro Summer Checklist

Planning to escape the Aussie winter for a Euro summer? Check out our ultimate checklist of must-haves and must-dos before you head to Europe. Get ready for an unforgettable trip! 

dubrovnik old town
Travel Insurance for Croatia

Whether you’re island hopping from Hvar to Brač and Korčula along the Dalmatian coast, exploring the historic old town of Dubrovnik or marvelling at the waterfalls in Plitvice, Fast Cover’s Croatia travel insurance offers different levels of cover to suit many types of travel in Croatia.

 

Share now!

Need affordable travel insurance?

blank thumbs up

Related Articles

Travel Tips & Hacks

How to Save on Travel

Travel Health Guides

Everything Travel Insurance

Travel Alerts & News

Staying Safe Overseas
Things you need to know

^ Price as at 27/10/2024 compared to the price calculated today for this policy.

* See Product Disclosure Statement for full terms and conditions and exclusions and limits that apply.