Croatia : Safety by CityCroatia is a country located in Central Europe, to the east side of Italy, or more specifically, to the east side of the Adriatic Sea.
It shares borders with Slovenia to the northwest, Hungary to the north, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the southeast, Serbia to the east, and Montenegro to the south.
Croatia offers possibly the prettiest coastline in the entire Balkan Peninsula, with turquoise blue sea and perfectly kept beaches, and most of its cities have impressive historical centers with architecture typical for Croatia.
Beaches of Croatia offer a completely different experience than its cities and little towns, so it’s worth seeing both.
The most famous town in the country is Dubrovnik, which is the prime example of the typical coastal architecture, yet Zagreb, the country’s capital is a modern city with all the contemporary elements and landmarks, with a laid back feel to it.
As for Croatia’s countryside, it’s scattered through the region of Slavonija, and filled with vineyards and wine cellars.
Warnings & Dangers in Croatia
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Croatia is overall a very safe country to visit, even compared to other countries in Europe. However, there is some petty theft in the main cities though using your common sense should get you out of any trouble.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Transportation and taxis are generally safe and reliable in Croatia, but be careful when asking taxi drivers for recommendations of clubs or bars as you might get ridiculously overcharged at those places, and be extra cautious on public transport.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Even though Croatia is not exactly known for pickpockets, it is still recommended to remain vigilant, especially in larger cities such as Zagreb, Split etc.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Croatia is located on a seismically active spot, but serious earthquakes are extremely rare. Apart from that, there are no threats of natural disasters.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Muggings do not happen in Croatia, nor do kidnappings. However, it is best to avoid poorly illuminated areas of Zagreb, which are mainly parks, for example "Ribnjak Park" or "King Tomislav Park". Also avoid the "Zagreb Bus Terminal", mainly because it is located close to the area where bars and clubs are crowded together which is why the areas is filled with intoxicated and aggressive people.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Even though were no terrorist attacks in Croatia's recent history, tourist should remain vigilant and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Croatia is a country where you could get scammed, so you should check your change twice, and never let your credit card out of site. Be wary of people trying to distract you offering you unwanted help, since it might be a trick to steal from you.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
There are no risks for women traveling solo in Croatia. You can relax, but still remain careful and stay out of dangerous situations such as finding yourself alone with strange people, or in poorly lit or empty streets.
So... How Safe Is Croatia Really?
Croatia is a safe country to travel to.
Crime rates are low and even petty crime is not a serious issue here.
Still, you should exercise caution when in larger cities such as Zagreb, and common sense should keep you out of any trouble.
When at the beach, be very careful not to get sunburns.
Even though there are no ozone holes over Croatia, it’s fairly easy to burn so make sure you use adequate SPF.
Some estimates say there are around 90.000 landmines left in Croatia since the war ended in 1955.
Even though these are not located in places frequented by tourists, it is better to keep in mind that you shouldn’t stray off the beaten track without consulting the locals.
Areas suspected of being riddled with mines are marked with 16.000 warning signs.
Avoid strip club at all costs.
They are run by Croatia’s underground and shady characters, often with bouncers ready to beat you senseless if you say you aren’t ready to pay ridiculous prices for what you ordered.
There have been reports of a bottle of champagne costing 2000 euro.
Since you aren’t likely to strike a deal with the bouncers, it’s best to avoid these shady places completely.
How Does Croatia Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Croatia | 83 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Canada | 88 |
| Latvia | 80 |
| Cyprus | 75 |
| Czech Republic | 88 |
| Bulgaria | 80 |
| Vietnam | 73 |
| Slovenia | 87 |
Useful Information
Visas
For most countries, visas are not required for stays under 90 days. Any longer than that, you will have to obtain a visa. You should also own a passport valid for at least six months from your planned date of return. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.
Currency
Croatian kuna is the official currency in Croatia. ATMs are widely available throughout the country and credit cards are accepted in most establishments such as hotels and restaurants. However, smaller restaurants, business, shops and private accommodation owners will probably require cash payment.
Weather
Croatia has a warm temperate Mediterranean climate characterized by dry and warm summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit Croatia is probably in May-June or September-October, when you can enjoy the warm sunny days without the tourist crowds mingling along the streets.
Airports
Franjo Tuđman Airport, often referred to as Zagreb Airport, is the biggest and busiest international airport in Croatia. It is located around 10 km south-east of Zagreb Central Station at Velika Gorica.
Travel Insurance
Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Croatia, since it covers the costs of not only medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.
Croatia Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 4 | 7 | 12 | 17 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 22 | 16 | 10 | 5 |
| Low °C | -1 | 1 | 4 | 8 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 17 | 13 | 9 | 4 | 0 |
| High °F | 39 | 45 | 54 | 63 | 72 | 77 | 81 | 81 | 72 | 61 | 50 | 41 |
| Low °F | 30 | 34 | 39 | 46 | 55 | 61 | 64 | 63 | 55 | 48 | 39 | 32 |
Croatia - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Dubrovnik | 87 |
| Rijeka | 85 |
| Split | 67 |
| Zagreb | 80 |
Great views
The landmine situation is so dangerous! Indeed, we noticed some warnings but we didn’t go anywhere near them, we stayed with our group. Overall I was really impressed with Croatia, well-worth to come back just us and enjoy it on our time.
SPF is a must!!
Yes, you should lather in SPF, the sun is incredibly strong! I got a sunburn after an afternoon in the sun and I never ever get sunburns… We didn’t frequent any strip clubs, luckily, but holy cow, 2k for a champagne?!
Safe and clear waters
Dubrovnik is insanely beautiful in August! We booked a small loft which proved the best solutions for us. As a family with two small children we need a place just for us and this was just perfect, we all had a wonderful time!
Just don’t attempt to climb mountains in flip-flops it is not good idea.
Croatia is a beautiful
Croatia is a beautiful, not as well known country. I think everyone and their dog should experience this country at least once. The prices are ok for the most part and there is a lot to see plus the weather is great most of the time.
Yeah…beautifull with the eye…Food more expensive then Germany and Switzerland…
And never forget:”Nothing bad about Hrvatska!” If “yes”, you WILL bear the consequences!
Scamming is not an issue. Prices are capitalist standartised. For females, female solo travellers, understand the country has a “red alert on rape”. And yes this is written through experience. Not all of country is bad, though we NEVER want to come back again! For cyclists: “a life does not count here”.
Not true!
What are you talking about??
Are you sure you have been to Croatia?
Red alert on crime??? Are you for real???
I live in Croatia my entire life, our biggest crimes are if someone robs a post office, and that is all over the news, and 2 days later the burglars get caught.
If there were rapes going on, that would be on the news in the headlines, believe me!
Now if you drunk tourists engage in alcohol, drugs, whatever and get a bad experience, don’t blame it on the country dude.
Stay safe, sending love from Croatia 🇭🇷 😘
Exactly I’ve been to “very dangerous” countries and never had an issue worth talking about conduct yourself properly, be wise to your surroundings and you should be fine
Safe, clean and awesome!
I have been in many places in Croatia and have not had a bad experience. Croatians are proud of their country and like to be known as honest. I spend much time in Dalmatia and the surrounding islands. The water is just second to none, renting a boat is a must in my humble opinion because of the many bays were you can be alone even in high season. Likely the safest place I have visited.
Nationalism in progress
Beautiful country in terms of scenery but not a very good sociocultural experience. Too much xenophobia and hatred towards what is different, particularly in cities like Split, which can lead to serious issues. Quite contradictory, in fact, when most tourist attractions are related to other countries, and so is the cuisine, which is not very original. Prices have also skyrocketed since they joined the euro and Schengen. There are countries which offer more without having to face the kind of hostility that you are likely to experience in Croatia.