Basic Croatia Facts
Population: 4,489,409
Location:Where is Croatia? Croatia is in Southeastern Europe across the Adriatic Sea from Italy. Much of the country borders the sea – Croatia has about 590 miles of coastline (not including islands). Croatia borders Hungary, Slovenia, Serbia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. View a map of Croatia
Capital:
Currency: Kuna (HRK) – View Croatian coins and Croatian banknotes
Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) and CEST during summer.
Calling Code: 385
Internet TLD: .hr
Language and Alphabet: The Croatians have their own language, which exhibits some similarities with Slovenian, Serbian, and the other languages of the former Yugoslavia. Croatia is a major tourist destination in Europe, so many of the locals can accommodate English, German, and Russian speakers. Croatians use the Latin alphabet.
Religion: Almost 90% of the population in Croatia consider themselves Roman Catholic. The largest religious minority is atheism at about 5%.
Croatia's Major Attractions
- Old Town Dubrovnik: This an enchanting walled city enamors all who visit. Stunning sea views, welcoming cafes and restaurants, and cultural activities make it a can't-miss destination. Dubrovnik Travel Guide
- Diocletian's Palace in Split: The fourth-century palace of Roman Emperor Diocletian is alive with inhabitants and shops. Evidence of changing times – and changing religions – remains in its structures, like the Temple of Jupiter that was later converted into a baptistery. Tour Diocletian's Palace
- Pula: Pula is a city with a well-preserved Roman amphitheater and other Roman architectural artifacts. While the amphitheater is the main draw, seeking out the other important landmarks is a delight – this bustling town has plenty to see and do.
Croatia Travel Facts
Visa Information: Citizens of many countries can enter Croatia with only a passport. Visas are required if visitors intend to stay longer than 90 days. Dogs, cats, and ferrets require an EU pet pass.Airports: According to the FAA, Croatian air travel has much to be desired. Hence, direct flights are not available between Croatia and the US. Croatia has five international airports: Zagreb (ZAG), Zadar (ZAD), Split Kaštela/Resnik Airport (SPU), Dubrovnik (DBV), and Rijeka (RJK) on the island of Krk. Several low-cost airlines provide service to these airports besides Croatia Airlines. In warm months, it may be easiest and cheapest to fly to Venice, Italy and take a ferry to Croatia.
Trains: Croatian rail travel is slow and struggling, but it is developing. Sleeper cars, which are generally regarded as safe, can be booked between Zagreb and Split, Sarajevo, Prague, Hungary and Slovenia.
Roads and Buses: Driving is the most common way to travel in Croatia. The roads in Croatia are arguably the best in Europe. Most have tolls, which can be paid in kunas or euros, or by credit card. The scenic road E65 runs from Split to Montenegro and is comparable to the Romantic Road in Germany. However, drivers are daring even on curvy, cliff-side roads, and it is recommended that you are a confident, experienced driver if you wish to see the coast by car. Buses are the cheapest and easiest way to get Croatia and to serve even the most remote destinations. Zagreb is probably the best hub for international bus routes.
Ports: Croatia can be explored by sailboat. Most of over 50 marinas are welcoming, well-managed, and are open year-round. Natural bays and islets are available to moor in for the night if the closes marina is booked (make reservations in busy seasons). Charters and ferries take people to many of the islands of Croatia as well as Italy. Cruise companies are also finding ports like Dubrovnik to be favorites with travelers, and look for cruise options to expand in the future.
History and Culture Facts about Croatia
History:Croatia's statehood can be traced back to the 7th century, but Croatia has often been absorbed into or ruled by other kingdoms, like Italy, Hungary, and Austria-Hungary. Croatia was a part of Yugoslavia in the last century but began activities to gain independence in 1991. Today, Croatia is known for its tourism, fine coastal weather, and beautiful natural scenery, though evidence of its past associations with various political entities over its centuries-long history can be identified in some of its most popular destinations.Culture: Croatia's World Heritage sites acts as a good introduction to one aspect of Croatia's culture, though the breadth and depth of Croatian culture can better be experienced through its food, Croatian folk costumes, music, and holidays. The number of regional differences in Croatia's cultural artifacts is astounding, and visitors are encouraged to learn a little about the local customs in each city they visit. View Croatia culture in photos.
