Croatia is the country that earns most of its GDP through tourism earnings. The number of tourists visiting Croatia is growing every year and, along the traditional Dalmatian coast, different destinations in lowland and mountainous Croatia are becoming increasingly attractive. The capital city of Zagreb stands out as a special tourist centre, which has no division into more intense and less intense periods of the season, but the tourist offer is attractive and constant throughout the year.
Money
In Croatia, it is paid in national currency - Croatian Kuna. Paper banknotes are issued in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 kn, and coins are from 5, 2 and 1 kuna. Coins of lesser value than the kuna are called lipa. There are values of 50, 20 and 10 lipa and those of 2 and 1 lipa are practically no longer used. Euros can be paid on highways, and exchange offices are widespread and generally offer a good exchange rate. An extensive ATM network offers good coverage for withdrawing cash in the event of non-payment by card - which is generally the case for cafes and smaller restaurants.
Transport
Croatia, especially after the construction and reconstruction of motorways in recent years, is extremely well connected both in internal traffic and with neighbouring countries. There are no vignettes, but payment is made on cash boxes, by card or ENC (it must be purchased in advance). During the summer season (June - August) and especially on weekends, long lines of vehicles are created on individual roads towards the sea or inland, and traffic jams are possible at border crossings. It is necessary to monitor the situation on the roads (information on the radio or the HAC website), bring water and food, and arm yourself with patience.
The largest commercial airports in Croatia are Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik. Although they cannot compete in size with those in major European centres, they comply with European standards and all information can be checked on the Internet.
Croatian railways are not the main means of transportation around Croatia for tourists because road traffic is faster. Apart from Krk and Pag (and smaller bridges to Murter and Čiovo), the islands are connected to the mainland by ferry and boat lines.
Food and drink
Croats are famous gourmets, and the geographical location and richness of various gastronomic influences throughout history have provided an extremely wide range of food and drink. The coastal part is dominated by the classic Mediterranean diet, while typical Slavonian cuisine is closer to the Central European one. Although everyone will find something for their taste in restaurants, it is a shame to miss out on the specialty of the house, that is, a typical climate dish. Kosher and halal certified foods are not so present. Smaller shops, bakeries and stalls in larger cities generally operate from 8am to 8pm, with fewer shops open on Sundays and large shopping malls open on Sundays all day. Tap water is suitable for drinking.
Safety
Croatia is an extremely safe country and the accidents that happen to tourists are mainly caused by their own negligence, ignorance of the environment they are in or disrespect for existing laws.
Nature
Vaccination against some specific diseases is not required. In order to make your stay in Croatia more enjoyable during the summer, it is advisable to use creams with a protective factor during the strongest sun, consume sufficient amounts of water and adjust the level of physical activity outdoors during that time. In winter, land and mountain temperatures drop below zero and you should dress appropriately.
It is not recommended to go to the mountains without hiking shoes and clothing, sufficient food and drink, and knowing the direction of travel. Common caution is advised for cyclists and those involved in extreme sports and leisure activities. Caution is advised when navigating rough terrain, unfenced areas and taking selfies in inaccessible locations.
Apart from two species of snakes and two species of spiders, there are no poisonous animals in Croatia. The poisonous snake horned viper lives in the area of Medvednica and along the Adriatic coast, while another poisonous snake, common European adder, can be found in the bushes and marshes of Slavonia and in the forests of Gorski Kotar. Wearing high shoes and warning of arrival is advised to give snakes time to take shelter.
Road safety
Traffic signs on the roads should be monitored and observed. Allowed blood alcohol content is up to 0.5 permil (for young drivers 0 permil). It is advised not to go on the road if the driver is tired and also check the correctness of the vehicle.
Personal safety
In Croatia, the crime rate is low and usual caution in crowds and tourist centres is sufficient.
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