Beautiful houses of Dubrovnik Photo by Tambako The Jaguar via Flickr Creative Commons

US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens can enter Croatia visa-free for a period of up to 90 days, as can nationals of the European Union and those from a long list of other countries including Russia and Japan. Contact your Croatian Embassy for further details.

Health and Safety

No specific vaccinations are required for a vacation in Croatia, although regular shots should be up to date. If outdoor sports or camping is on the agenda, be aware that three in every 1,000 ticks carry potentially fatal encephalitis and Lyme’s disease. Ticks are most prevalent in the Eastern Slavonia region, especially in the countryside around Osijek. Long trousers, boots, long –sleeved shirts and insect repellent are advised. Tap water is safe, and the water quality in Croatia is amongst the highest in the world.

The homemade wine sold at farmers’ markets in plastic jugs may cause stomach problems, but the quality of food and its preparation should have no side effects. Sunscreen is essential in high summer, especially on boat or ferry trips and make sure to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. If you’re hiking or trekking, remember that over 90,000 landmines still remain in remote rural areas from the War of Independence so make sure to have a local guide show you what areas are safe. Never ignore warning signs.

Croatia’s cities and beaches are generally safe, with the exception of pickpockets and bag-snatchers in crowded areas and on public transportation. The crime rate is relatively low, and rarely involves visitors, with common sense the best defense. Take care when leaving bars and nightclubs late at night is an obvious precaution, and strip clubs should be avoided. Run by the local mafias, they’re infamous for extreme overcharging and violence is common if you refuse to pay.

Click here to learn about History and Culture in Croatia