When to Go & Travel Tips
Croatia’s coast is at its best in late spring and early autumn, and very busy in midsummer. Seasons, ferries, entry rules and getting around are here.
When to go
May and June
Warm days, sea that is warming up, and fewer crowds than midsummer. Ferry schedules expand as the season begins.
July and August
Hot, sunny and the busiest months on the coast and islands, with the fullest ferry schedules and the highest prices. Book well ahead.
September and October
The sea is still warm in September, and the crowds thin out. By October, some island businesses start to close for the season.
November to April
Quiet and mild on the coast, with fewer ferry sailings and many seasonal businesses closed. Zagreb’s Christmas market makes December a good city break.
Getting there and entry
- Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik all have international airports. Most trips from Canada connect through another European hub.
- Croatia is in the Schengen Area. Canadians do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in any 180 days in the Schengen Area, and the EU Entry/Exit System registers you at the border. ETIAS is not in operation yet.
- Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen Area.
- Visitors must be registered with local authorities within 48 hours of arrival. Hotels usually do this for you; in private rentals, check that your host has done it.
Getting around
- Ferries and fast catamarans connect the coast and islands. Book ahead for summer, especially if you are taking a car.
- Traffic keeps to the right, right turns on a red light are not allowed, and a Canadian licence is accepted. The Government of Canada recommends carrying an International Driving Permit.
- The Pelješac Bridge lets you drive between Split and Dubrovnik without crossing into Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Buses link most coastal towns and are often easier than driving in summer traffic.
Practical notes
- The currency is the euro (EUR).
- Some towns fine visitors for walking around in swimwear or shirtless away from the beach.
- Camping outside organized campsites is illegal.
- When hiking inland, stay on marked trails and watch for signs warning of possible landmines.
- Dial 112 for emergencies.
Entry rules and advisories change. Before you book and again before you fly, check travel.gc.ca.
Croatia planning questions
Do Canadians need a visa for Croatia?
Not for a holiday of up to 90 days in any 180 in the Schengen Area, which Croatia joined in 2023. You will be registered in the EU Entry/Exit System at the border. ETIAS is not in operation yet. Check travel.gc.ca before you book and again before you fly.
When is the best time to visit Croatia?
May, June and September offer warm weather and warm sea without the peak crowds. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, and many island businesses close from late October to April.
Can you swim at Plitvice Lakes?
No. Swimming is not allowed in Plitvice Lakes National Park. The park is explored on boardwalks, trails and short boat rides, and summer tickets should be bought in advance.
How long do I need in Croatia?
A week covers Split, an island and Dubrovnik at a comfortable pace. Ten to twelve nights adds Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes, or more island time.
What currency does Croatia use?
The euro. Croatia adopted it in 2023, and cards are widely accepted, though some small island businesses prefer cash.
Let’s plan your Croatia trip
Tell me when you’d like to go, how long you have, and how much island time you want. I’ll plan the route and book the stays, ferries, transfers and flights.
The initial 30-minute consultation is complimentary. The professional research fee is $50 per traveller aged 2 or older, paid before research begins.