Croatia Vacation Packages and Tours

A culture dating back to the sixth century, Croatia was part of the Austria-Hungarian Empire until it fell at the conclusion of the first world war. Social conventions such as a strong family life focused around the traditions of the Catholic Church is central to the Croatian way of life with close to 90% of people following Roman Catholicism. Formalities such as wearing long sleeves for women inside religious buildings and showing respect when entering the many beautifully designed churches throughout the country, is appreciated, and welcomed. Other religions present include Eastern Orthodox Serbians, Protestants, Jews, and Muslims.

Croatian holidays tell a story of the complex history of the country, such as Anti-Fascist Resistance Day in June which marks the formation of the first partisan unit in Croatia in 1941 and Statehood Day, also in June, celebrating Croatia’s declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. Pride displayed by a sea of flags flying the red, white, and blue of the Croatian flag, the national coat of arms in the center, fill the streets as a testament to the country’s pride as a nation on Independence Day in October.

What is the visiting etiquette in Croatia?

Greeting people with a handshake, smile, and eye contact will go a long way, as will a smattering of Croatian such as dobro jutro (good morning), or dobro veèer (good evening). Addressing new acquaintances using their surname first is best. Reserve using first names only for friends. Close friends and family may greet one another with a hug or give a kiss on each cheek.

If you have been invited to someone's home for a visit, it's appropriate to arrive on time, or slightly late within 15 minutes. Croatians are a little more relaxed toward life and punctuality. Presenting the host with a small gift, such as cookies or flowers is welcome, odd numbers only and no chrysanthemums! You’ll likely be offered guest slippers to wear in someone’s home, take them up on it, as removing your outdoor shoes is the norm. Hosts will probably offer up food, coffee or rakia, a popular homemade liquor. Politely take a sip or taste, just don’t reject it, as that would be considered rude.

What is Croatia best known for?

Croatia’s coast along the Adriatic Sea is renowned for its excellent swim quality, warmth, and beautiful blue hued waters. Travellers enjoy day trips to secluded beaches, hidden coves, and historic coastal towns. Urban destinations including Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik attract travellers year round. The charming capital of Zagreb sits where Central Europe and the Mediterranean Sea meet. It is known for a unique combination of Austro-Hungarian architecture, cobblestone streets and gas-lit street lamps. It is particularly known for its festive Christmas markets. In Split, the expansive basement halls of Diocletian's Palace are featured in pop culture television hits. Meanwhile the historic fortifications of Dubrovnik’s walls offer a glimpse into the city’s past, along with a view of the old town and Adriatic sea.

Venture inland to the wonderland of sixteen emerald green lakes connected by cascading waterfalls at the famed Plitvice Lakes National Park. Elevated wooden walkways along the lake shores allow visitors to wander the cavernous limestone cliffs. Other national parks worthy of a visit Paklenica National Park, Krka National Park, and North Velebit National Park

Whether cheering on a national sport team or waving their flag, the šahovnica, chessboard red and white design is ubiquitous with Croatian pride. It is the national symbol of Croatia and can be found everywhere, even worn by the Croatian national football (soccer) team.

What are some Croatia traditions?

Spending time in kafići, or coffee shops, is an important long held tradition of Croatian life. It is as much about the coffee as it is visiting with friends and spending a couple of hours to sit, sip and socialize. The act of relaxing, taking a pause to enjoy your company and refresh is embraced nationally. Just don’t be surprised if there is an argument over who will pay the bill. The song and dance of whoever grabs the receipt quickest is a part of the experience!

One of the biggest events in Croatia, the Neretva Boat Lađa (marathon) is held annually in August. It attracts over 50,000 spectators watching amatuer rowers travel 22.5 km (14 mi) along the Neretva river. The event honours the tradition of the ladjas boats, which are narrow wood vessels historically vital for river transportation. Teams pack 10 rowers, plus a coxswain and drummer in the little boats to go row their hearts out! Towns along the route host parades, concerts and cheer loudly with excitement as the teams make their way from Metković. Don’t miss the biggest party at the end in Ploče.

What are Croatian people like socially?

Croatian people are known to be warm and overall welcoming. Friendships in Croatia are built slowly over time, and trust is gained not implicitly, but as you get to know someone more. Do know that Crotatians can be more honest in their interactions than expected. It is not to be taken personally. Their conversation style can come across as somewhat abrupt and assertive, but speaking up and clearly making a point is admired.

Family relations and spending time with one another, especially on weekends, is of great importance. This can include celebrations, birthdays, and family meals. It's common for extended families to live together, such as children living with their parents until marriage, or parents living with their children in older age.

What language do Croatian people speak?

Croatian is a Slavic language and although it is the official language of the country, Serbian, Slovenian, Hungarian and Italian are also spoken throughout. You will find English is commonly spoken as a second language, making it easier to communicate with locals especially in tourist spots. Learning a few polite words in Croatian such as bok (hello) and hvala (thank you) will be perceived as a kind gesture.

All seasons bring worthwhile conditions to explore Croatia, with quirky to inspiring museums and galleries to shelter you when the rain falls in the winter and endless beaches to wander and seaside explorations in the summer, the country can be divided by two climate regions: continental and Mediterranean. The Croatian interior is separated from the coast by the Dinaric Mountains with cooler temperatures in the summer and often excellent skiing conditions in the winter. Coastal Croatia experiences pleasant summers and mild winters.

If you're interested in the snow and skiing, the winter can be a good time to visit. It's cozy inside and exciting outside just above Croatia's capital city, Zagreb, at Sljeme peak on Mt. Medvednica. A hot Croatian brandy or rakjia warms the belly while the view of the mountains can heat the soul.

When is the ideal time to visit Croatia?

Early summer between May and June, when there are fewer visitors, the temperatures are most comfortable, and the waters are swimmable, is an ideal time to visit Croatia. Or consider fall between late September to late October, when the temperature is pleasant with light sweater-weather, the European students are back in class, and the air is crisp along the cobblestone streets. For biking and hiking enthusiasts, plan to visit in the spring when the inland forests explode with new greenery.

When is Croatia's peak tourist season?

The summer months of July and August are high season and feature hot days and warm Adriatic sea water. Travellers seek out the beaches and yachts dot the coast. Lines at attractions can be long, and accommodation rates high, especially along the coastlines and on the larger islands. If you are hoping to check some islands such as Hvar or Cres, the ferries bump up their schedules in the summer making daytime visits a breeze. With so many locals flocking to the coast, August sees Zagreb much less busy and a great time to explore.

Which is the most affordable time to visit Croatia?

October to March is low season in Croatia, when the cool wind picks up by the coast and some hotels and tourist attractions close. The savvy traveller may enjoy this time to take in the historic centres of Dubrovnik, Split, and Zadar, which are at their most romantic and dreamy when the streets are less crowded and the pricing for accommodation and flights is most affordable.

How long should I plan to visit Croatia?

The ideal amount of time to visit Croatia is 10 days, providing a first time visitor with the highlights, starting with an inland visit to Croatia’s capital of Zagreb, along with visits along the coast to Split and Dubrovnik. Should you have more time, consider adding additional coastal stops to Korcula and Makarska or venture out on the sea for a cruise to the Kvarner Bay Islands.

What documentation is required to travel to Croatia?

All trips to Croatia under 90 days, travelling from Canada or the United States, require a valid passport. No additional visas are required. Croatia is now a part of the European Union, and as of 2025 will require an online electronic travel authorization form, known as ETIAS, to be filled out prior to arrival.

How do I plan a trip to Croatia?

Croatia is a good fit for all types of travellers, including families looking to relax at beach resorts, mature travellers wanting to cruise along the Dalmatian Coast, and those seeking long summer nights partying on the beach. Want to climb above old town Dubrovnik to walk the ancient walls, or hike the suspended boardwalks over cascading waterfalls in the Plitvice Lakes? With the expertise of a Goway Destination Specialist, you can plan a tailor-made trip and embark on a journey through Croatia.

How much does it typically cost to vacation in Croatia?

Croatia has historically been known to be very affordable to travel, though recent years have seen an increase in tourist attraction pricing. Accommodation, dining and transportation at all price points is still attainable. When planning a one week vacation to Croatia, plan to budget at least $3,000 per person, not including airfare. A Goway Destination Specialist can plan and budget every step of the journey.

What are some of the best places to visit in Croatia?

The highlight of Croatia is travelling along the Adriatic Sea to visit the coastal cities of Zadar, Dubrovnik, and Split. In Zadar, meander the narrow streets to find ancient Roman ruins, and wander down to the architectural sound art, the Sea Organ. Listen to music notes created by air from the waves to the 35 underwater pipes stretching across 70 m of marble. On the southernmost tip of Croatia, see the old town of Dubrovnik by walking the elevated medieval wall built over thousands of years, extending over 6,300 ft (1,940 m). Tour Split by walking up for the panoramic views from Marjan Hill, stroll the Riva Promenade, or immerse yourself in the imperial sea fortress of Diocletian's Palace. Be sure to allow time to travel inland to visit the lush forests and sixteen lakes of Plitvice Lakes National Park, connected by a series of stunning cascading waterfalls.

What to wear on a trip to Croatia?

For a first time visitor to Croatia, the most popular vacation spots along the coast require lightweight clothing May-September. It can get very hot during peak months of July and August. If travelling inland Croatia, October-May requires warm clothing as temperatures can get low with rain and snow falling.

Is Croatia LGBTQ+ friendly?

Croatia has anti-discrimination laws, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression. While Catholic ideologies do continue to shape an overall lack of support for the LGBTQ+ community, Croatia is also a relatively tolerant nation and people unlikely to give you much hassle so long as you avoid public displays of affection. The cities of Split and Zagreb both commemorate Pride month in June with parades and celebrations. Visitors will find LGBTQ+ friendly restaurants and bars in cities.

What currency is used in Croatia?

Croatia recently became a member of the European Union and now uses the Euro (EUR) as its official form of currency. On average $1 USD is worth €0.90 EUR, but exchange rates fluctuate, so check rates before traveling. While credit cards are increasingly accepted, having cash on hand is especially important for smaller towns.

Do I need to tip in Croatia?

Tipping in Croatia is not expected, but it is appreciated. When dining, a tip rounding up the bill or up to 10% is appropriate. Tipping staff in the service industry as an expression of gratitude for services such as baggage, transportation, and tour guides.

Croatian cuisine is as diverse as its neighbours, with varying influences depending on the proximity to the sea or the interior. A pleasant climate lends itself to many locally grown ingredients and the Adriatic is teeming with fish and seafood, prepared waterside with local olive oil and paired with fresh young wines from an abundance of Croatian wineries.

Vineyards have been cultivated here since ancient times, introduced in the 6th century BC. The warmth of the afternoon sun cooks the grapes on the vines and because of plenty of sunshine paired with experience, Croatia is making a name for itself on the world wine stage. Pairing deep reds like a Montepulciano or a Malvazija with local cheeses, focaccia, meats, and olive oil might lead to long leisurely lunches or intimate memorable dinners. A beer and a flaky burek over lunch hits the spot between sightseeing. Breweries around the country have exploded in popularity and in the past decade have gone from a handful to well over a hundred of all styles and specialties.

What is Croatia's traditional cuisine?

The variety of food reflects the variety of cultures which have penetrated all aspects of Croatian culture. Closer to the mountains the cuisine is heartier; meat-and-potatoes, a legacy of the Austro-Hungarians. Rich savoury aged ham and truffle infused pastas from the interior can take you to gastronomic ecstasy. During winter months, sarma is a popular cabbage roll dish made of ground smoked meat and rice, wrapped in pickled cabbage leaves. A succulent meat and vegetable dish called peka, or under the bell in Croatian, is cooked within a terracotta or iron pot over a low fire, with chicken, lamb, veal, or even octopus slowly cooked to perfection.

By the coast, ripe, meaty tomatoes in a fresh seafood stew known as brodet or white wine mussels collected that morning showcase the best the Adriatic has to offer. A traditionally served side to seafood dishes is crni rizot, a squid risotto that makes the rice look black because of the squid ink.

For a sweet favourite, try madjarica, a moist intricate dessert consisting of many thin layers of chocolate and cake, or potica, a sweet bread with walnut fillings, rolled up to form beautiful layers when you cut it.

What is the dining etiquette in Croatia?

Lunch is considered the most important meal, eaten closer to 2pm. It is also the largest meal of the day, enjoyed at a slow pace. A meal will likely start with soup, which Croatians believe open up the appetite. Before you devour, wait until the host of the meal says dobar tek or enjoy your meal. They may also say a quick prayer. The remaining dishes served will likely be sizable shared platters presented family style, with everyone getting a chance to help themselves to a portion. Just take just a little the first round of serving, as taking seconds or even third helpings is expected. If you leave just a tiny amount of food on your plate, it indicates you are finished eating.

What is drinking etiquette in Croatia?

Croatia is widely apt to enjoy alcohol, primarily wine and beer, with some locally popular spirits such as rakija too. Rakija is a traditional brandy made from various fruits depending on the region, such as plums or cherries. But be warned, it is a strong drink! Meeting friends in a pub for a beer, or pivo in Croatian, to watch a football game is popular. While wine has been produced for thousands of years in Croatia, it has been experiencing a revival and is regularly poured during meals by Croatians. It is common to see locals add some sparkling mineral water to their wine glass, in the south with red called bevanda, in the north with white wine, known as gemišt. Toasting is mandatory before taking a sip and a hearty živjeli! (pronounced zheev-yeh-lee) sets the tone for an evening of libations.

Does Croatia cater to dietary restrictions?

Croatia cuisine including seafood dishes featuring fish, oysters, mussels and octopus are extremely prevalent on menus along the sea. Dairy, eggs, nuts and flour are commonly used ingredients in traditional Croatian dishes. With some research, finding vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options is feasible, though Croatia is not as accommodating as other countries. That said, Croataians are hospitable and will often make an effort to cater to dietary restrictions. Finding halal friendly restaurants in larger cities such as Zagreb and Dubrovnik is best, but smaller coastal cities are more challenging. Oftentime, larger hotel restaurants are found to be the most accommodating. Do bring along a translated copy of your dietary restrictions on a card for communication with restaurants.

What do meals typically cost in Croatia?

Dining out in Croatia can vary depending on type of cuisine, and location, but overall food is lower priced compared to other European destinations. That said, food prices have seen an increase since Croatia started using the Euro. Expect a mid-range taverna style meal to be about $15 per person, while a high end spot in a tourist spot such as Dubrovnik will be closer to $30 per person. If seeking more affordable options, a lunch plate, consisting of a main, vegetable and a soup is often called a gablec menu, can commonly be found for $8-10.

Inexpensive Croatian street food, such as the cevapi, which uses grilled beef or pork sausage stuffed into a thin flatbread, along with onions, red pepper, cheese and tomato sauce can be found for around $3 per piece.