Find out more about Croatia, a Mediterranean gem with 1,244 islands, 8 national parks and over 2,700 hours of sunshine per year. Explore the most interesting facts about Croatia and book private accommodation directly with owners via Laganini.com — no agency fees, no middlemen.
The Republic of Croatia is regarded as one of the most interesting and beautiful countries in the world. It mainly deserves this to its geographical position. Croatia occupies the largest part of the eastern coast of the Adriatic sea which, as a part of the Mediterranean sea, penetrates deepest into European soil. The narrow Dinarides mountain range separates the country's Mediterranean region from its central European continental part, which spans from the easterly edges of the Alps in the north-west to the shores of the Danube in the east, encompassing the southern part of the fertile Pannonian plain. Thanks to its 3 very distinct regions (Adriatic, Dinaric, and Continental/Pannonian), Croatia is abundant with natural beauties;
Intensively blue Adriatic Sea is 783 km long, of which the total coastline including the islands is 7868 km long. The Croatian part occupies as much as 74%, or 5,835 km of Adriatic coastline and represents the true Mediterranean from pleasant climate to Mediterannean (Laganini) lifestyle. Croatia has more than 1000 islands of which 48 are permanently inhabited. Here is located the densest archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea (Kornati islands) and sea clarity is among the highest in the world (up to 56 m). The sea depth in the north along the shoreline of Istra is up to 50 m deep, while along the island of Palagruža going up to 250 m deep and near the farthest island of Jabuka going up to 1300 meters in-depth. The average sea temperature in summer ranges between 22-27 °C and the lowest winter temperature about 7 °C, and in the spring pleasant 18 °C.
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The Mountain part of Croatia occupies the far northwestern part of the Dinaric mountain range. It is divided into 2 main subregions: Gorski Kotar and Lika. It is a relatively high karst region, built predominantly from Mesozoic limestones and distinctly separated from the Mediterranean and Panone areas. Here are located one of the highest mountains in Croatia; Risnjak, Snježnik, Velebit, Plješevica, Mala, and Velika Kapela. The greater part of this area, especially in Lika are big karst fields separated from each other by highlands. This area is very sparsely populated and is abundant in natural beauty, preserved nature, and beautiful vistas. Here are located 3 national parks; Plitvice Lakes, Risnjak and Northern Velebit that attract more and more tourists and nature lovers. This is the perfect area for many outdoor activities like mountaineering, walking, skiing, bicycle riding, but also for a peaceful vacation surrounded by forests, mountains, and fresh mountain air.
The largest part of Croatia is located in the lowland area - Continental Croatia (comprising 55% of the territory and 66% of the population). Here is located a part of Pannonian plain (Slavonia) and the hilly area (Central Croatia). The largest rivers of Croatia are passing this region; the Danube river, the Sava, and the Drava. This region is rightfully called the granary of Croatia because of its rich fertile land, where is produced most of the food in Croatia. The capital city of Zagreb is located here (economic and political center of Croatia). Recently, this area has been attracting more and more tourists visiting the Croatian metropolis, but also other tourist attractions such as castles in Hrvatsko Zagorje, the baroque town of Varaždin, the natural beauties of Slavonia, numerous cultural events...
Croatia has three climate zones. Interior is moderately warm and rainy, while Croatia's highest peaks have a mountain climate which includes heavy snowfall. The areas along the Adriatic coast have a pleasantly mild Mediterranean climate with a large number of sunny days, summers are hot and dry and winters are mild and wet. Average temperatures in continental Croatia are January -2 to 0 °C, with somewhat lower temperatures at the highest altitudes. In August are approximately 20 °C, with around 12 °C in mountains at the highest altitudes. Average temperatures on Adriatic Coast are in January -5 to 9 °C, in August from 22 to 25 °C. The sea temperature in winter is 12 °C and approximately 25 °C in summer.
Weather in Croatia and when is best time to visit Croatia? We would say spring (May and June) and autumn (September and October) to avoid the tourist peak season (July and August) and crowds. May and the first half of June is a great time to visit Croatia, as temperatures have already risen to pleasant levels and days are longer and longer. September and early October have plenty of sunny weather with very warm temperatures, and the sea is still warm and pleasant enough for swimming.
If you are interested in the days of antiquity, you should start from the Roman amphitheater in Pula, through Zadar and its forum - the largest excavated forum on the eastern shores of the Adriatic - and then to the magnificent palace of Emperor Diocletian in Split. Go through time, from the pre-Romanesque Church of St. Domnius in Zadar dating from the 9th century to the Romanesque period in the magical city of Trogir, or the islands of Krk and Rab. Explore the Gothic period in Zagreb, Pazin, or the town of Ston on the Pelješac peninsula. Discover the Renaissance in Osor on the island of Cres, cathedral of St. Jacob in Šibenik and the islands of Hvar and Korčula. Finally, visit the one and only old town of Dubrovnik with its magnificent citywalls. The towns of Varaždin, Bjelovar, and Vukovar glow with the splendor of the Baroque, while the heritage of the 19th century has been best preserved in Rijeka, Osijek and, of course, in downtown Zagreb.
Croatian cuisine is heterogeneous and is specific for every region (Istria, Dalmatia, Lika, Gorski Kotar, Zagorje, Slavonia) since every region of Croatia has its own distinct culinary tradition.
Istrian and Dalmatian olive oil has exceptional extra virgin quality. You can visit many interesting olive oil roads during your stay in Croatia and participate in olive harvest during October and November and experience local customs and traditional way of life. In almost every private accommodation on the Adriatic coast, you can buy homemade olive oil, dry figs, local wine, or liqueurs. It is a long tradition and most of the households are still producing olive oil, wine, and other products for their needs and selling to their guests all extra quantities.
The official currency in Croatia is Euro (1 euro = 100 cents). Foreign currency can be exchanged in banks, exchange offices, post offices, and in the majority of tourist information offices, hotels, and campsites. Credit cards (Mastercard, Visa, American Express, and Diners) are accepted in almost all hotels, marinas, restaurants, shops, and cash machines.
We invite you to discover and enjoy the beauty of Croatia, its mild climate, crystal clear waters, beautiful beaches, and unspoiled nature. The perfect combination of rich history and cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, good wines, and natural beauties for perfect holidays. Above all, meet friendly Croatians and their Laganini style of life!
Search private accommodation in CroatiaParliamentary democracy
Official language – Croatian
Population – 3.888.529
Area - 56.594 km2
Capital city - Zagreb
Length of the coastline - 5835 km
Islands - 1244 (48 inhabited)
Highest peak – Dinara (1831m)
Currency – Euro (1EUR = 100 cents)
Religion – Roman Catholic
EU member state – since 2013
Schengen & Eurozone – since January 2023
National parks Croatia
Along the western coast of Istria are several island groups among which the most interesting, the largest and most developed are Brijuni island group of 14 islands and islets area of 7.4 km2. Large Island as the largest island of Brijuni archipelago, which was cultivated in a harmonious landscape of meadows and parks, contains extremely valuable remains of the architectural heritage and is important to note that the sea is almost 80% of the protected national park area in which are almost all the elements of the marine eco-system of the Adriatic .
NP Kornati occupies an area of 220 km2 and includes 89 islands, islets and reefs with about 238 km of coastline. Despite this relatively large number of islands, the continental part of the park makes less then 25% of total area, while the rest is marine ecosystem. Swim in crystal clear and warm sea of the Kornati. This is an experience that you will remember all your life.
Virgin pure karst river with 7 magical waterfall originates near Knin, in two thirds of its length runs through the canyons. It is extremely rich in endemic flora and fauna, with 222 species of birds. The Lake Visovac between Roski Slap and Skradinski slap (13 km) is the island Visovac with the Franciscan monastery in idyllic gardens with a long cultural history. Quiet lakes and rivers are ideal for canoes and kayaks. The national park is allowed to swim, so bring your swimsuits and refresh yourself in the crystal clear river Krka!
This is by many the most beautiful and picturesque island of the Adriatic, one of the most attractive and cultural-historical most interesting pearls of the Mediterranean, visited by many tourists year after year. It covers almost 5400ha, including the seafront 500m from the coast, islets and rocks. The flooded bays, the Malo and Veliko jezero, are the most prominent locations of this area and an important geological and oceanographic phenomenon. A pleasant stay is ideal for swimming, sunbathing and walking paths around the lake.
Paklenica National Park covers an area of the coastal slope of southern Velebit, the zone of highest mountain peaks (Vaganski vrh, Babin vrh, Sveto Brdo). It covers an area of torrential flows of Velika and Mala Paklenica, and their distinctive canyons carved vertically into the southern slopes of Velebit. Paklenica National Park is the most important Croatian climbing center, known outside the Croatian borders. A special highlight of this climbing area is its proximity to the coast, and the Paklenica Riviera is an ideal place to combine climbing and water sports.
The most popular among the eight national parks in Croatia is Plitvice Lakes national park. Plitvice lakes is the only national park in Croatia included in the List of World Heritage (UNESCO) in 1979. and was among the first in the world. There are 16 crystal clear lakes connected with numerous waterfalls that makes a nature wonder. Plitvice stream water are descending from the rocks, forming a 78 m high waterfall of the Great falls, the highest waterfall in Croatia, together with water from lakes forms the river Korana.
The western mountain range associated with the Dinaric Alps and features a Large Risnjak (1528 m) and Snjeznik (1506 m) and is abundant with karst phenomens like faults, chasms, caves and pits. Large areas are covered with old conifer forests, mountain meadows, subalpine and alpine flora with many endemic species. If you want to learn more about the fauna of the park, especially the great beasts come, listen and merge with nature.
From Vratnik (698 m) on the road Otočac-Senj to Veliki Alan (1379 m), surrounded by sea with the naked rocks of Velebit Channel, with the interior of the forested mountains, National park North velebit covers the widest part of the Velebit Mountain. The area was declared a national park because of the diversity of karst phenomenon, the biodiversity of wildlife and outstanding natural beauty on a relatively small area.
Did You know?
Croatia surprises most visitors with facts they never expected. From world firsts and ancient inventions to stunning geography records, here are the 21 most interesting facts about Croatia that will make you want to visit:
Tips for arrival
On map of Croatia, you can explore tourist destinations, tourist attractions or search for private accommodation. To enter Croatia is required to have: a driver’s license, an automobile registration, and vehicle insurance documents. An international driving license is required for the use of rent-a-car services.
The driver of a motor vehicle registered abroad entering the territory of the Republic of Croatia must have a valid International Motor Third Party Liability Insurance document valid on the territory of the European Union, or some other evidence of the existence of such insurance.
Please reduce and adjust your speed in wet road conditions. Driving with dipped headlights is obligatory during wintertime. The use of mobile telephones while driving is forbidden!
The use of seat belts is obligatory. The driver is obliged to wear a reflective jacket when is on the road, outside the car (changing a tire, doing repair works on the car, filling up with petrol, stopping other cars in an attempt to seek help, etc.)
In larger cities and on the motorways, petrol stations are open 24 hours a day. Petrol stations sell Eurosuper 95, Super 95, Super 98, Super plus 98, Euro Diesel and Diesel. Gas (LPG) is available in major cities and at petrol stations on motorways.
For information on fuel prices and a list of centers selling LPG gas visit: www.ina.hr,
www.tifon.hr, www.hak.hr.
Experience Croatia
We invite you to try all the activities and experience an unforgettable active vacation in all parts of Croatia, from the crystal clear Adriatic Sea, across the Dinarides mountains, to the golden plains of Slavonia and green hills in continental Croatia!
66 islands, 652 small islands, 389 cliffs, and 78 reefs are more than a thousand and one reasons to sail in Croatia. With approximately 1500 bays and ports on the islands and the mainland, the Croatian Adriatic is equally ideal for sailing or cruising boats. 56 modern marinas with 16.000 moorings and 5,500 dry berths are available all year round. In most of these marinas, you can rent a sailboat or take professional courses in sailing. Kornati islands are among the most popular sailing destinations in Croatia, but each island is unique, and exploring them will offer you an unforgettable sailing experience.
From the macadam field paths ideal for mountain biking to paved roads for easy bike driving for families, anyone can find the ideal cycling path for themselves. If you are unable to take your bike, you can always rent it and start an unforgettable adventure on the mountains, islands, and the Croatian coast. Especially popular are Istrian bike trails, most of them passing through less inhabited areas, green hills, vineyards, and olive groves. Also one of the best ways to explore Croatian islands, hidden coves, and secluded beaches is by bike using well-marked bike trails or macadam roads.
The rich underwater world of the Adriatic sea is around 50 meters deep in the north Adriatic and reaches to around 250 m depth near island of Palagruža, and not far from Jabuka island it reaches depths of around 1300 m. Experienced divers can go on organized tours in search of attractions like attractive endemic flora and fauna of the Adriatic sea or shipwrecks and sunken ships and warships. One of the most visited shipwrecks is the Baron Gautsch - a luxury passenger steamer that sank in 1914 near the Brijuni islands. Beginners are offered the possibility of various professional courses and scuba diving. You can dive and snorkel almost anywhere on the Adriatic coast of Croatia because the sea is clear but around the islands and uninhabited part of the coast, you will see much more sea flora and fauna.
If you are looking for quality rafting in Croatia, remember the names of rivers: Kupa, Dobra, Mrežnica, Korana, Una, Zrmanja, and Cetina. Numerous organized rafting tours in Croatia include a guide and all the necessary equipment for each crew member. By degree of difficulty, Croatian rivers generally have third degrees, and only exceptionally in some parts rivers, Dobra and Una have a fourth-degree which implies a great degree of technical readiness and capability. Rafting can also be fun and relaxing for the entire family like for example on the river Cetina in Dalmatia close to town of Omiš.
Did you know that canoeing is the old tradition in Croatia? Traditional Croatian canoes so-called trupice are still used for fishing and transport in the delta of the Neretva river. Suitable for family and group excursions, canoe excursions with local guides will take you on scenic drive close to many castles and forts like Trakošćan, Ozalj, and Dubovac, or Radman's mills on the river Cetina or Krka old mills. Special scenery awaits you on the island Visovac with a monastery which is located in the midst of a lake formed by river Krka.
Exciting kayaking adventures on fast rivers or calmer scenic rides and kayaking on the sea, Croatian rivers, and Adriatic sea have great potential. Almost every river offers varying degrees of severity. From rivers Dobra, Mrežnica, Una, Kupa, Korana in the north (Continental Croatia) to the rivers Zrmanja, Krka, and Cetina in the south (Dalmatia), with a kayak you are discovering pristine and untouched nature. You can go on organized tours where you will have all the equipment secured, or by yourself. Kayaking down the river canyons and over many waterfalls and enjoying pristine nature full of wildlife is a unique experience. Kayaking on the sea is also very popular and is offered along the entire coast especially in tourist places like Dubrovnik where you can, for example, see Dubrovnik city walls from the sea. You can also visit numerous uninhabited small islands hidden coves and secluded beaches and enjoy the crystal clear Adriatic sea.
The most famous equestrian centers in Croatia are located in Slavonia, Istria (Ranch Istra Star), and Dalmatia. From small family farms to the modern horse-riding centers with schools, and the increasingly popular therapeutic horseback riding, to the best-known traditional equestrian competition - famous Sinj Alka, Croatia offers a wide range of offers for horseback riding. In Djakovo in Slavonia, you can still find famous Lipizzaner horses that are grown here since the 13th century. You can explore many natural wonders of Croatia like Velebit mountain (Linden Retreat Ranch) on horseback which is a unique experience when you completely connect with nature.
Zipline is a very popular activity for tourists because it offers a lot of fun and an adrenaline rush but everybody can try it including entire families. One of the most popular zipline sites in Croatia is Omiš and the Cetina river canyon. Omiš zipline consists of eight wires with a total length of 2.100 m and the highest speed up to 65 km/h. In Istria, you can fly (zipline) above the Pazin cave. Plitvice is another popular ziplining site in Croatia. The zipline center Pazi Medo (beware of the bear) is located in the village of Rudopolje, close to Plitvice Lakes National park, and beside zipline offers outdoor activities like climbing, cycling...
Gathered in private clubs and flight schools, Croatian flyers and Paragliders offer organized tours and international competitions. You can fly with a balloon over the Medvednica mountain near Zagreb to the Croatian Zagorje, Samobor, or Žumberak and all the way to Slavonia. Suitable for paragliders are numerous mountain peaks like Učka and Ćićarija in Istria, Gorski Kotar, on mountains Velebit and Mosor and Dalmatian hinterland and also in southern Dalmatia like Biokovo and Rilić mountains and peaks of the island of Krk, Brač, and Hvar. Paragliding offers an unforgettable experience of flying with breathtaking scenic views and one of the best examples is on Biokovo mountain where you start your flying at the altitude of 1500 meters and end on one of the beaches of Makarska Riviera.
As a true Karst region, Croatia is full of caves. The most famous is the Blue cave on the island of Biševo and Dragon's cave on the island of Brač. Caves of Papuk mountain, Kordun region, Lika, Dalmatia, and Dalmatian Zagora are open to visitors to enjoy interesting forms of stalactites and stalagmites. The most attractive caves are located in Istria, Gorski Kotar, and Medvednica. For the true lovers of the underground, we recommend visiting Veternica cave near Zagreb, Cerovačke caves near Gračac, Biserujka on the island of Krk, Beredine cave in Istria, Modrića cave in National park Paklenica on Velebit mountain, and Grabovača cave park in Lika (the only cave park in Europe).
Croatia is a country with numerous hiking routes. Beginners can start already in the vicinity of Zagreb (Medvednica), Ogulin (Klek), Rovinj, Pazin, Split (Mosor), and Omiš. Interesting hiking paths and mountains are also waiting on the islands like Mljet, Hvar, Brač, and Vis. Hikers and nature lovers can choose as many as 400 well-marked hiking trails in Croatia, some of them which are the most demanding in Europe. Top destinations for mountaineers are Velebit, Ućka, Dinara, Mosor, and Biokovo mountains, and National park Paklenica, where is located 350 m high cliff Anića Kuk, Croatia biggest alpinist attraction. One of the most famous hiking trails in Croatia is certainly the Premužić trail which is 60 kilometers long and passes through the most interesting and wildest parts of Velebit mountain with spectacular views on Kvarner and the Adriatic sea.
Rock climbing is a popular adrenalin activity for tourists and Paklenica National Park is the most popular rock climbing site, not only in Croatia but in all Southern Europe. There are many marked climbing routes of different difficulty levels (grade 3 to 8b+) and length. The most popular climbing rock within the park is 400 meters high Anića Kuk. The season lasts from early spring until late autumn thanks to the mild Mediterranean climate and just a few kilometers away is Starigrad Paklenica where you can relax and chill on the beautiful beaches of the Adriatic sea. Another popular climbing site is the canyon of river Cetina in the town of Omiš. There are many smaller climbing sites on islands and inland Croatia which are much smaller but will give you at least a small dose of adrenaline and breath of fresh air.
Windsurfing is becoming an increasingly popular sport and the most popular place in Croatia is Viganj on the Pelješac peninsula. Other places include Premantura and Ravni in Istria, Baška on the island of Krk, and Bol on the island of Brač. All these places have almost perfect weather conditions during the entire summer, when light morning winds fit beginners, while the afternoon stronger winds, with an average speed of 20 knots, are suitable for more advanced windsurfers. Kite-boarding is a relatively new sport and summer activity and requires similar weather conditions to windsurfing. The most popular kite-surfing destination in Croatia is the mouth of the river Neretva (sandy beach Ušće). Other popular kite-boarding destinations are Nin near Zadar (Ždrijac beach), Bol on the island of Brač, and Viganj on the Pelješac peninsula.
Did you know that the first harpoon for underwater fishing came to Croatia at the beginning of the 20th century and that the first world championship in underwater fishing was held long ago in Mali Lošinj in 1957? Whether you like fishing on the river, sea, or underwater, Croatia will definitely fulfill all your dreams of fishing. From various marine species like sea bass, common dentex, sea bream, tuna and freshwater specimens like trout or catfish, Croatia is an unrivaled top destination for sports fishermen. Along the coast, you can book fishing trips and tours and spend a fun-filled day, or evening out on the sea with your friends or family!
The growth trend of Golf is each year higher and more and more people choose this sport as the ideal form of recreation and relaxation in nature. Although in Croatia currently there is no field with 18 holes except in National park Brijuni, and a few private golf terrains, with 9-holes. Because of its ideal landscape and mild climate, Croatia is planning to become a major golf destination in Europe.
Immediately in the hinterland of Rijeka is ski center Platak, and a little further the Croatian Olympic Centre Bjelolasica at 620 m altitudes. In the vicinity of the capital Zagreb, you can ski on the slopes of Medvednica on the newly decorated trails from its highest peak Sljeme. Here, since 2005. is holding an important international competition - Snow queen, which is named after our world ski queen Janica Kostelić.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit Croatia is from June to September, when the Adriatic coast enjoys warm, sunny weather with sea temperatures of 22–27°C. For fewer tourists and lower prices, consider May or October, when the weather is still pleasant.
Croatia has 1,244 islands, islets and reefs along its Adriatic coast, of which 48 are permanently inhabited. The largest islands are Krk and Cres (each approx. 405 km²). The most famous include Hvar, Brač, Korčula, Mljet and Vis.
Croatia uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency since January 1, 2023, when it replaced the Croatian Kuna (HRK). Major credit and debit cards are accepted throughout the country, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.
Croatia offers sailing and yachting along 1,244 islands, scuba diving in crystal-clear Adriatic waters, white-water rafting, cycling, hiking in 8 national parks, kayaking, rock climbing, zip-lining, windsurfing, golf and skiing in winter.
Speed limits in Croatia: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h on roads outside built-up areas, 110 km/h on expressways, 130 km/h on motorways. A 0.0‰ blood alcohol limit applies to drivers under 24 and professional drivers; 0.05% for other drivers.
Croatia is known for its stunning Adriatic coastline with 1,244 islands, crystal-clear sea, UNESCO World Heritage sites (Dubrovnik, Split's Diocletian's Palace, Plitvice Lakes), Game of Thrones filming locations, excellent seafood and Mediterranean cuisine, affordable private accommodation and 8 national parks.
Yes. Croatia joined the Schengen Area on 1 January 2023. EU citizens travel freely without border checks. Non-EU visitors with a valid Schengen visa can also enter Croatia. Citizens of countries with Schengen visa-free agreements (USA, UK, Canada, Australia) may visit for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Croatia is one of the safest countries in Europe for tourists. It consistently ranks among the lowest crime rates in the EU. Standard precautions apply: watch for pickpockets in crowded areas like the Old Town of Dubrovnik, but violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. Croatia is an excellent destination for solo travellers, couples and families.
Where to go, stay and what to do?
