Former Yugoslavian (south Slav) country known for its beaches and cheaper price despite being very modern and developed.
Croatia is a famous middle-ground country to me. It’s a popular travel destination for people wanting something developed, safe, modern, and cheaper than the usual beach destinations like Italy, Spain, Greece. It’s also not so far away from Western Europe. And the people there speak great English (seems everyone does).
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Croatia is not the cultural tourist destination to me. Many people come here as a cheap Italy beach alternative. It’s not because they’re so interesting in Croatian culture, terrain, or food. Even though I know many Croatians, I don’t have any image of their personality stereotypes.
1 week would be enough to arrive in capital Zagreb, and then hop off to a coastal destination of your choice, Split or Dubrovnik. And can then hop further on into another Balkan country.
General tips for traveling in Croatia:
- Mobile carrier –
- Transportation –
- Public transportation – absolute great. Fast, modern, reliable, cost-effective.
- Bus – many buses to other regions.
- Trains – many trains to get you around.
- Flights – Zagreb is a popular international destination.
- Rideshare –
- Weather –
- Expense – Croatia is generally expensive. Accommodation not that bad, but food for sure.
Miscellaneous tips:
- Tap water – drinkable, some of the best tap water in the world.
- Food delivery – I used Glovo.
Safety tips:
- Croatia is general is very safe. Very posh, high standard of living.
Foods to try:
Customs & Language:
- Languages spoken – Croatian, which is very similar to Serbian and Bosnian. Some people just lump them together as “Serbo-Croatian”. But many speak really good English, if not perfect.
- Hello & Bye –
- Yes & No –
- Thank you –
Croatian cities (* = recommended, ** = must see):
- Zagreb – capital city. Cute colorful charmy vibrant old town. Historic but in a modern and posh way. It’s like a small version of a big city. Walkable, fun, has everything.
- Split – best beach city IMO.
- Dubrovnik – coastal city on the hills, has a very pretty old town area inside a castle. Accommodation can be cheap if off-season. Food is always super expensive, think 40euro meals. Not really a backpacker place, it’s more for fancy tourist and specifically couples. Seems like a European honeymoon type of place.
- Rijeka
- Pula
- Porec – Croatian version of Italian beach vibes.
Nearby countries:
- Slovenia –
- Bosnia –
- Montenegro –
- Italy** – yeah, because it’s Italy! So much pop culture and media references from this country.
Unfiltered notes: