17 Things You Should Know About Croatia

Previously, this country was part of Yugoslavia, but for more than twenty-five years, Croatia has been independent and at the moment is one of the most popular destinations for tourism in Europe. If you are planning your trip, you should think about a trip to the Adriatic Sea. This country boasts a long and picturesque coastline, many islands, stunning natural landscapes, several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, charming cities by the sea and on the mountain slopes, excellent cuisine and wine, kind and friendly people. Want to explore this corner of Europe, but do not know where to start? Here are seventeen interesting facts that will help you!

It's not just the beaches

Thanks to the long coastline and the presence of more than a thousand islands, Croatia really is a great place for a beach holiday. The turquoise waters attract a large number of tourists, but the country has much to offer besides the sun and the sea. There are eight national parks, eight UNESCO sights, thirteen mountain chains, stunning medieval towns on the hills, centuries-old castles and fortresses, a huge selection of delicacies and an eclectic capital that is also worth a visit.

Local residents call the country "Hrvatska"

The Croats call their country "Hrvatska". The Croatian language belongs to the group of Slavic languages and sounds similar to Russian or Czech. With Serbian and Bosnian it is almost identical, there are only a few regional differences. Nevertheless, there are several regional dialects in the country that are very difficult for the traveler to understand. Many residents speak English, especially young people, and in Istria the second language is Italian, as this region was under the control of Italy in the first half of the twentieth century.

Croatia was part of various kingdoms, empires and republics

Croatia has a rich and diverse history - it was ruled by Illyrian kings, Roman and Byzantine emperors, Venetian rulers, Hungarian kings, Ottoman sultans and monarchs from the Habsburg dynasty. The past of the country is manifested in its architecture, in ruins and monuments throughout the territory. You can see the Roman amphitheatres and palaces, Byzantine basilicas and mosaics, Venetian palazzos, neo-Gothic temples and castles, as well as Austrian villas and buildings.

Do not ask about war

After the declaration of independence, Croatia suffered from the consequences of the Yugoslav war until the conflict faded away in 1995. In some regions, the destruction was more serious than in others, however, the memories of the conflict are still alive for many generations, this situation is not forgotten. Many people prefer not to talk about war, they try to focus on the future.

Croatia is part of the European Union, but not part of the Schengen and the euro area

Croatia became a member of the European Union in July 2013. Nevertheless, it is not a territory with an open border - all travelers need to pass at the arrival through passport control. The euro is also not used here - in the course of the national currency called kuna. Prices for hotels are often reported in euros, but it is necessary to pay in local currency, which can cause confusion.

Cash matters

Foreign currency is easy to exchange in banks and special exchange offices, everywhere you can easily find ATMs. Credit cards are accepted in most large hotels and restaurants, however in small establishments only cash is taken. However, some accept payment in euros.

Do not leave a tip

In the local culture it is not customary to leave a tip, usually the service is already included in the bill. However, you can still round up the amount when paying the bill in a cafe or restaurant. If you want to leave a tip and pay by card, leave cash.

You need to rent a car

In Croatia there is a fairly efficient network of buses connecting the main cities, however the frequency of the routes sometimes leaves much to be desired. Railway communication works well between the capital and neighboring countries, the national network is much more limited and does not cover the entire country. For such reasons, many travelers prefer to rent a car to travel at their own speed and to explore cities not only in the most popular tourist destinations. Ferries and catamarans connect the mainland with the islands, in summer they go especially often.

In Croatia they like coffee, but not network coffee houses

Do not try to find Starbucks in Croatia - there it is not. Here, network coffee houses with flavored coffee drinks are not popular. Residents of Croatia like to drink coffee, quietly sitting at a table - they are ready to spend hours like this. You can get acquainted with such a ritual in the capital: in the mornings of Saturday in Zagreb many people go to a cafe to talk with their relatives and enjoy the taste of ordinary coffee.

Croatia is a fairly conservative country

Homosexuality in Croatia is legal and it is tolerant to same-sex relationships, nevertheless, not everyone likes them. Members of the local homosexual society prefer not to show their orientation. For gay travelers it is completely safe, but in public to show love is still not worth it.

In Croatia, it will be hard for the vegans and vegetarians

Croatia is famous for its fine cuisine, but most dishes include meat and fish, which can be a problem for vegetarians or vegans. The situation is gradually changing and more and more restaurants are opening in big cities. Vegetarian dishes from pasta and pizza are quite common, besides you can limit yourself to a side dish - grilled vegetables or a greens salad.

Wireless internet is complimentary.

In Croatia, there are many distribution points of wireless Internet - they are in all tourist cities. Thanks to the initiative of the Ministry of Tourism, the Internet is free. In addition, it is available in restaurants, cafes, hotels and bars - sometimes it is enough just to ask for a password or check if it is written on the check.

Wines and olive oil locally produced are excellent

Wine and olive oil have been produced here for centuries, at the moment some local producers already boast of international awards. You can even go on routes of wine or oil production to do tasting.

Croatian beaches are stony, but very clean

Each guest of Croatia will be conquered by crystal clear water. The quality of water on the beach here is considered a serious issue and thoroughly tested. Many beaches are covered with stones and pebbles, although there are several sandy beaches. In the sea are common hedgehogs, so the local bathing in special shoes - it is easy to buy. In addition, Croatia has many nudist beaches.

Prices are rising during the holiday season

Life in Croatia is cheap enough, a traveler might think that the cost of living or eating in a restaurant is quite affordable. Nevertheless, in the holiday season prices rise - it is better to come to another time.

Hotel pools are filled with salt water

In many hotels the pools are traditional, but those that are located directly on the beach often fill the pools with salt water. It is good for health and especially for the skin.

Croatia suitable for a holiday all year round

In Croatia, it is pleasant to relax at any time of the year, the most popular among tourists are July and August. In winter you can go to a thermal spa or to a spa.