Although it has only been independent since 1991, Croatia, a young nation, is a country with a long and turbulent history. Born out of the break-up of the former Yugoslavia, there are still many vestiges of this conflict. But Croatia must not be reduced to this war. As a young Balkan nation, facing the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is becoming a major tourist destination in Europe. The country first of all makes you dream thanks to its many islands set on the blue waters of the Adriatic Sea: Krk Island, Rab Island, Cres Archipelago... But it is also the country of a preserved and protected nature (one tenth of the territory!): mountains, forests, waterfalls, lakes, maritime areas... the Croatian natural heritage is exceptional and would be worth a stay on its own. Destination of nature, right. Destination of culture? Of course it is! Croatia is full of architectural treasures from different periods: Roman (amphitheatre of Pula, Diocletian palace in Split), Middle Ages and Renaissance (monasteries and churches in Dalmatia and Istria in particular), Ottoman period, communist period, modern period... These different periods give the cities of Zagreb, Split, Pula, Zadar or Dubrovnik an amazing and unique architecture, which must be discovered. Finally, visiting Croatia also means immersing yourself in a part of unknown European history, it means meeting a people whose origins are mysterious, still scarred by their history, who claim a strong national identity but who joined the European Union in 2013. An exciting destination!
The best time to visit Croatia is from May to September: it is a hot and sunny period
However, if you have the opportunity, you may want to avoid July and August. The Adriatic coast is experiencing an influx of European holidaymakers who are mixing with the local population. Beaches are crowded, as are historic sites and national parks, especially from July 15 to August 15
Prefer to visit Croatia in May, June and September. Most of the family tourism has not arrived or has already left, making the atmosphere less stifling. Hotels and private rentals generally apply "low season" rates
In April and October, it is sometimes a little chilly to sleep in a tent or swim, but the Croatian coast continues to enjoy bright days, perfect for hiking, although the rains are sometimes heavy
In Croatia, swimming is possible from early June to early October (water temperature between 21 and 24 °C)
In recent years, the tourist season in Croatia has extended until the end of the year and begins in spring, especially in cities with a rich cultural or gastronomic heritage. It is above all a tourism of well-being, heritage and lifestyle (discovery of Croatia, visits, hikes, sports activities, congresses, cruises, gastronomic stays, etc.)
Although Croatia is not a large country, it condenses several climates. The climate in Croatia varies from semi-continental in the north, with high temperatures in the centre, to Mediterranean on the Adriatic coast and contrasting episodes all year round: early spring, pleasant after-seasons, good sunshine but also heavy rainfall, from north to south, strong winds. Summers are generally very hot but the rest of the year is rather mild.
The Croatian currency is the kuna. For the time being, a trip to Croatia (with the exception of transport to get there) will not be too expensive for a French tourist; even if there are differences between places (Zagreb and the Adriatic coast are more expensive, for example). Note: the euro is also accepted (which tends to push prices up a little). However, it is better to have denominations of both currencies in your wallet: euro and kuna
As Croatia is a member of the European Union, a passport or identity card is simply required for European Union nationals (for a tourist stay of less than three months): there is therefore no need for a visa to travel to Croatia. Attention, each minor (even if accompanied by his parents), must have an identity card or passport in his name: the Croatian border police is very vigilant in this respect.
You are not risking your life by going to Croatia. The health services are very competent there. Before you leave, just check to see if your vaccinations (DT Polio, etc.) are up to date. Concerning water in Croatia, no problem: tap water is drinkable throughout the country. If some insects can be found on the coast and in the forests, they will not be so different from French insects and the precautions (creams...) will be the same. With Croatia's accession to the EU, the European Health Insurance Card has been accepted since July 2013.
Croatia, a major destination for European tourism, is easily visited by organised tours. Many tours are organized (by coach, self-drive, group or individual, cruise in the Adriatic Sea, cultural tour...) to discover Croatia and its cities. Escapades are also possible and focus on cities. Finally, you can also opt for an "all inclusive" seaside holiday in some resorts (Split or Dubrovnik in particular).
Discover our selection of travel agencies for this destinationNo problem to visit Croatia on your own. The plane is certainly the easiest way to get there. But buses, trains, roads or boats are also possible (only two countries separate France from Croatia). On the ground, Croatia is now a generally safe country. Be careful, however, in some areas: mines from the Serbo-Croat conflict may still remain. But the areas to avoid are well marked. Finally, wild camping is prohibited.
To travel on site, the plane may be possible (many domestic connections). The bus network is very dense (more so than the train network, which poorly serves certain regions). Croatia's steep terrain only makes these bus journeys long and uncomfortable. Sometimes it is necessary to prefer the ferry, which is faster and cheaper. With the exception of frequent police checks, travelling by car (or motorcycle) is pleasant to be completely independent.
A long weekend in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik in one week
The best time to visit Croatia is from May to September: it is a hot and sunny period
However, if you have...
Read more about it
Although Croatia is not a large country, it condenses several climates. The climate in Croatia varies from semi-conti...
Read more about it
The Croatian currency is the kuna. For the time being, a trip to Croatia (with the exception of transport to get ther...
Read more about it
As Croatia is a member of the European Union, a passport or identity card is simply required for European Union natio...
Read more about it
You are not risking your life by going to Croatia. The health services are very competent there. Before you leave, ju...
Read more about it
No problem to visit Croatia on your own. The plane is certainly the easiest way to get there. But buses, trains, road...
Read more about it
Croatia, a major destination for European tourism, is easily visited by organised tours. Many tours are organized (by...
Read more about it
To travel on site, the plane may be possible (many domestic connections). The bus network is very dense (more so than...
Read more about it
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