10 Tips For First-Time Travel In Croatia

Undoubtedly, Croatia is a great place to explore! Sandy beaches, incredible wonders, adventures, food paradise and coastal towns – a joyful journey awaits you in Croatia. 

Many first timers worry about whether the country is safe for first timers or to explore as solo travelers. Whether it’s about the best time to visit, where to go and what to explore in Croatia, worry not! Croatia is a tourist friendly country which offers them a warm welcome. So, it’s safe to roam around Croatia.  

If you are also planning a first time travel in Croatia, but don’t know where to start? We have prepared an extensive Croatia travel guide that you must check.

Here we will be addressing some of the most common concerns, general tips and misconceptions. Even if you’ve been to Croatia before, we hope you’ll find some useful tips for your next vacation in Croatia.

Top Tips For First Timers Travel in Croatia

So, finally you are visiting Croatia, Congrats! Although Croatia is one of the smaller countries in Europe, you will find amazing things to try in Croatia. 

1. Stay somewhere central

Although this country seems small, it still retains abundant incredible places to see for the First time travel in Croatia. From Umag to Dubrovnik, the place is full of beautiful destinations. Besides, there are so many things to try that you simply can’t do in a week. 

If you wish to explore the core of this place then it will be the best if you stay somewhere central.

In case you want to visit Dalmatia then Split can be a good base. From here you can also visit Brac, Hvar, Vis, Korcula, Omis, Krka Waterfalls and more stunning locations. 

If you want to discover the beauty of Istria, then staying at Porec will be a good idea as it is beautiful as well as cheaper than other destinations. 

2. Take a road trip

If you are traveling to Croatia, then make sure to spend a day enjoying the road trip amidst the beautiful coastal region. The roads in this country are in great condition and you will definitely enjoy the breathtaking scenery that comes during the road trip. 

The most preferred road trips are along the Adriatic coastal road from Split to Dubrovnik, around the beauty of Istria as well as along the Peljesac peninsula. 

3. Visit Zagreb 

Zagreb is an entry point to Croatia which is often skipped by the travelers. But you shouldn’t! Zagreb is magnificent and when you visit this place in summers, you will be amazed seeing those light traffic lights and lots of street performances. 

So, make sure to add this place in your travel itinerary when you First time travel in Croatia. 

4. Island hopping 

When it comes to Croatia, visitors often imagine hopping from one island to another and visiting all of them. In reality, it is not possible at once. Although they are not too far, they can’t be easily accessed with the transport available in the country. 

If you wish to explore more than one island during your Croatia trip, then you must choose a port city on the mainland as your starting point. And the best way to make it happen is renting a yacht or hopping on those charter boats.

Just assure that you booked the dates during the best time to visit Croatia and you will get to see stunning islands here. 

5. Home of eight national park 

The most visited place in Croatia is Plitvice which is the only visited national park of this country. But, indeed it’s not the only beautiful park in this enchanting country as it is home to eight of them.

If you are seeking peaceful spots then visit Northern Velebit, Risnjak or Paklenica national parks. Definitely, they won’t disappoint you. 

6. Istria trip 

Istria, one of the most beautiful spots in Croatia, is often neglected by the visitors. But undeniably it is Europe’s best kept secret which captivates the Europeans to spend their holidays.

If you are on your First time travel in Croatia, then you must head to this magnificent region full of history, beauty, culture and attractions. 

7. Use Public transport 

Being a visitor in this country, you must know the condition of transport there. Unlike the rest of european countries, the train network in this country is really poor and not a viable way to reach its attractions. However, you can opt for a bus network which is expensive, useful and reliable. 

You can use the online apps which aggregate lots of bus lines within Croatia and its towns. And most importantly they offer online tickets too. 

8. English a wide spoken language 

If you are worrying that you can’t speak Croatian, then fret not. Feel relieved as almost everybody speaks at least a little English and many people are familiar with other foreign languages too. 

9. Amazing Wine and Olive oil 

Croatia is a small country and people prefer producing the necessities in small quantities and sell accordingly in the market. This is the reason olive oil and wine are often tried by the visitors in Croatia.

They are of excellent quality and you must try them once. One of the most preferred ones is Malvazija Istarska. Among the Croatian stuff, olive oil is also tried vastly. 

10. Familiarity with Ferries in Croatia 

Sooner or later, make sure you use ferries once in Croatia. Some of the top destinations include Hvar, islands Brac and Korcula where you can reach by ferries.

There are many ferry operators in Croatia and the most renowned one is Jadrolinijia which is the biggest ferry operator only boat company operating car ferries. 

These tips are the key to your First time travel in Croatia which will ensure that you will have a peaceful retreat for sure. 

The Bottom Line 

Woven with beauty of natural splendor and rural vibes, Croatia truly adheres to all the hype and popularity. But with so much to see and do, knowing what to avoid and where to begin your online Croatia visa can be confusing. 

Whether you want to explore Korcula’s fairytale forest or hike the peak of Brac island, there’s something Croatia offers to every visitor. To make the best of your First time travel in Croatia, these suggestions are a must check out ones. 

FAQs

1. For what Croatia is famous?

Croatia is widely known for its pristine beaches, islands, national parks, Game of Thrones sites, local cuisine and historical ruins. 

2. Which food is famous in Croatia?

The most famous traditional foods are: Peka, Boškarin, Brodetto, Black risotto and Buzara. 

3. What should be avoided in Croatia?

While being in Croatia you should avoid staying, drinking or eating solely in the city centre or old town.