Discover Tailor-Made Croatia Vacations

Summer, from June to early September, is the country’s high season for good reason. Sun-drenched days, warm Adriatic waters, and lively seaside towns buzzing late into the night all come together to create an idyllic backdrop for island-hopping, open-air festivals, and beach clubs—though you’ll be sharing them with plenty of fellow travellers.

For many, the real magic unfolds in early autumn (mid-September to October), when the crowds thin out and the temperature cools, while still remaining balmy enough for beach days. “In early fall, the sea is still warm from the summer heat, making it perfect for swimming,” says Destination Specialist Ainslee Hansen. “Fall is also grape and truffle harvest season, which is ideal for food and wine lovers.”

Winter (November to April) brings a quieter beauty. Along the coast, the weather stays mild (though you’ll still need a light jacket) and cities like Dubrovnik and Split become blissfully free of tourist throngs. Inland, mountain regions grow chilly, setting the scene for cozy escapes.

Spring (May to early June) feels like a grand awakening. Lavender fields on Hvar begin to bloom, national parks grow lush, and café terraces fill once more. With mild weather and fewer visitors, it’s another sweet spot for exploration. 

Explore our guide to the best time to visit Croatia, and let us help you choose the perfect time for your Croatia adventure.

From Dubrovnik’s summer arts festival to Zagreb’s Christmas markets, Croatians embrace any occasion to gather and celebrate. Traditional klapa singing, recognized by UNESCO, fills coastal squares with harmonies, while the Lađa Boat Marathon in August sees rowers race down the Neretva river as parties and parades encourage fanfare.

“One of the most memorable traditions travellers should experience in Croatia is the Sinjska Alka,” says Destination Specialist Andres Serrano. “Held every August in the town of Sinj, near Split, it’s a centuries-old knights’ tournament where horsemen in traditional uniforms gallop at full speed trying to spear a small iron ring (“alka”) with their lances.”

Warm and welcoming, locals often speak English as a second language, but simple greetings in Croatian—dobro jutro (good morning) and dobro večer (good evening)—are met with smiles. Pair that with a handshake, eye contact, and a willingness to linger at a café, and you’ll quickly immerse yourself in the culture and flavours of Croatia. Explore our guide to Croatia’s culture and traditions for a more detailed look into the local customs.

Meals linger late into the evening, often closing with a glass of rakija, a fruity brandy beloved across the country. Other distinctive tipples include Maraska Orahovac (a walnut liqueur) and teranino (a dessert wine best enjoyed over ice cream). Wine traditions run especially deep on the Pelješac Peninsula, in Istria, and across the Dalmatian Islands. “The red wine grape Plavac Mali, native to Croatia, is a close relative of Zinfandel,” says Destination Specialist Ainslee Hansen. Croatia’s food and drink scene is constantly evolving, but you can never do wrong with the national dish, lamb peka, a barbecue-style main slow-cooked under an iron dome.

For the coast, don’t forget water shoes. “Most beaches are rocky or pebbly, so they’ll make swimming and shoreline exploring far more enjoyable,” says Destination Specialist Ainslee Hansen.

Since January 2023, Croatia has used the euro (EUR). ATMs are easy to find in tourist areas, but many tack on a steep service fee (often 14% or more), so exchanging some cash in your home country is wise.

To enter Croatia, you’ll need a passport valid for at least three months beyond your stay. Croatia is part of the Schengen Area, which means Canadian and U.S. citizens can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. Starting in 2026, travellers will need to register with ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before arrival.

Once there, getting around is straightforward. English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist hubs, and transportation options range from public ferries and buses to private transfers and rental cars. “Rail service does exist, but it’s slower and less extensive than buses,” adds Hansen. “Trains are mainly used for some regional routes, like Zagreb to Split.”

Keep in mind that Sundays are generally a day of rest. Most shops and banks close, while restaurants, cafés, and bars usually remain open in busier areas (though it’s always worth checking ahead). If you plan to visit any religious sites, you’re expected to cover your knees and shoulders and may be denied entry if you’re dressed inappropriately. Read our guide to things to know about Croatia for more practical tips and insights.