Croatia FAQs

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Written by
Melania Siriu, Kate Herz, Hanna Fischer & Murray Mitchell

Published on: October 31st, 2016

Last modified: May 31st, 2023

We've compiled our list of most frequently asked questions to help you get prepared before your big adventure to Croatia. Please read through the questions, using the navigation bar on the left hand side of your page to move easily between the different sections.

Please note that requirements and advice can change so we do recommend you check in with your own travel insurer, doctor and relevant local embassies before embarking on your adventure.

Are there any entry requirements for Croatia?

 

For US, Canadian and EU passport holders a visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days. For any other nationalities who do require a visa before arrival please make sure you have enough time to complete the process before arrival. We can help you to obtain hotel vouchers and a confirmed itinerary which are usually the documents required by the embassy to issue visas. All travellers should have at least one blank page for immigration stamps and should check the requirements of the countries they will transit through to reach Croatia. 

Please note that requirements can change and we recommend that our guests contact the local embassy in the country where you live for the most recent and up to date information.

Passports 

UK, US and Canadian passport holders will need more than 3 months left on your passport from your intended departure date. UK passport holders cannot travel if their passport is more than 10 years old, regardless of the expiry date. 

We will confirm certain elements of your trip such as domestic flights, permits or train tickets using your current passport details. If a member of your party changes their name in their passport after booking (for example, through marriage or adoption) this could mean having to reissue important parts of the trip at an extra cost and subject to availability. 

Do I need travel insurance?

 

Yes, once your trip is confirmed it is essential that you take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover you in case anything unexpected happens. 

We always recommend that our guests get the maximum level of coverage that you feel comfortable investing in. Read more about travel insurance for US travellers here and for travellers from other countries here.

Do I need to visit a travel doctor before my trip?

 

Yes, it is always recommended to talk to your Travel Doctor before taking a trip. You should discuss your itinerary and international travel arrangements to hear any recommendations or advice they may have.

No vaccinations are required for travel to any part of Croatia.

What do I need to know about my regional flights?

 

Flights within Europe are usually with standard commercial airlines and airports are generally large and easy to transit. Two hours is the recommended time needed before check in for European flights. Most airlines will allow seat selection up to 48 hours prior to departure although seats are subject to change on most airlines. If you do have flights within your trip we will be sure to share the relevant ticket information with you before travel. 

What will I receive from Jacada before I depart?

 

Travel pack

Before you head off on your adventure you will be sent a travel pack. The travel pack is full of great information and is also a beautiful keepsake. It is not necessary to travel with vouchers or confirmations on your trip but we do recommend having a printed copy of your travel itinerary to hand when you arrive into Croatia.

Bon Voyage email

Around 2 weeks before you depart we will email you an electronic version of your travel pack including your domestic flight tickets. Once you’ve received this email your Travel Designer will reach out to arrange a time for you to talk on the phone to go over any last minute questions and talk you through the information we’ve sent over.

Do I need to bring the local currency?

 

The currency in Croatia is the EURO. Kuna can be exchanged in Croatia until the end of 2023 but cannot be used for transactions. ATMs are generally easy to find (they will often charge a small fee for withdrawals) and credit cards are accepted widely in the main cities and larger shops/restaurants (American Express is rarely accepted). 

Large cities and International airports will have currency exchange facilities where you can exchange US Dollars and other currencies, you will need to show ID (typically a passport) when you exchange currency in Croatia.

If you’re travelling to very remote areas then ATMs become less frequent so we recommend making sure you have the cash you need before leaving larger cities or towns, particularly if taking a sailing trip where you might need cash for local payments and tipping.

Can you tell me about tipping and etiquette in Croatia?

 

Tipping is good practice in Croatia and it is generally better to tip with cash. It will be best to tip in Euros, however some guides will accept USD. 

  • Restaurants: 10 – 20% of the total bill (cash only)
  • Luggage: 1-2 Euro per bag
  • Hotel bar: 5-10%
  • Local Bar: 10-20% of the total bill
  • Private transfers: 10 Euro to the driver 
  • Private car & driver: 50 Euro full day 
  • Guided tour: 30 Euro to the guide half day /50 Euro full day 
  • Full time driver: 50 Euro per day to the driver

What’s the weather like and how should I pack?

 

Croatia follows a classic mediterranean climate with warm and dry summers and cool winters that do see some rain. 

Peak season is June to September and at this time you can expect hot, humid sunny days and mild evenings. Shoulder season is April to June and October when you can get warm, generally sunny days but cool evenings. In winter you can get more rain and much colder temperatures, with the north of the country much cooler on average than the south. 

What to pack depends on where you travel, your excursions and activities and the time of year you go. It’s best to speak with your travel designer or concierge for a personalised list of travel essentials we recommend packing.

Should I make restaurant reservations?

 

We highly recommend that you make restaurant reservations in advance of your trip. Once your trip is confirmed you will be introduced to your concierge who will be able to assist you in not only making the reservations but also  making  recommendations based on your preferences.

What’s the transport like?

 

Taxis are easy to find in the cities and commonly used. Hotels and restaurants will be happy to help you flag down a taxi. Trains are easy to use both within cities and for day trips out of the city, and generally reasonably prompt. We don’t recommend taking buses in cities.

 

How can I keep connected on my trip?

 

Croatia uses the standard European plugs C or F with round pins, so you will most likely need a plug adapter for your trip to Croatia if you’re coming from overseas. 

Wifi is generally easy to find in hotels but not always away from the hotel. On sailing trips, in remote areas or at smaller cafes and restaurants wifi may not be accessible. Cell phone coverage can be a little patchy in remote areas. It’s recommended to speak with your cell phone provider to ask about roaming charges.

Please contact your Jacada travel designer or concierge before your trip with any further questions.