Frequently Asked Questions

What is ETIAS and do I need it?

The rollout of ETIAS has again been postponed to 2026 so no travel authorization is needed for the EU in 2025.

Do I Need a Visa to Go to Croatia?

With an American passport, you do not need a visa to travel to Croatia. You will get a stamp on your passport once you get there and that stamp serves as your tourist visa and allows you to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days without any other paperwork. Also, make sure you have at least one blank page in your passport for an entry stamp when you land in Croatia.

You can find a detailed Visa requirements overview, together with all related information, on the website of the Government of the Republic of Croatia.

What Do U.S. Citizens Need to Enter Croatia?

A valid passport is required for travel to Croatia and, beginning in late 2026, a valid ETIAS authorization. EU regulations require that U.S. passport holders have at least three month’s validity from the date of departure from the Schengen Area remaining on their passport when traveling.

Is It Safe to Travel to Croatia?

Yes! Croatia is among the top 20 safest places to travel in the world. The risk of serious crime or natural disasters is super low. Of course, you will want to exercise caution wherever you are traveling by keeping your belongings in sight all the time and watch out for pickpockets or scammers.

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Croatia?

The peak season for Croatia travel in is mid-summer, between June and August. That is when you will get the best tropical weather and the chance to meet other travelers, but some of the most popular destinations will be more crowded.
If you are looking to avoid crowds, you might want to plan a trip in late spring or early fall, that way, you will still catch the balmy weather and most of the best bars, restaurants, and tours will still be open.

What Is the Currency in Croatia?

As of January 1st, 2023, Croatia officially adopted the Euro (€) after being part of the European Union since 2013. The current exchange rate is $1 to €0,93 but check it out before your trip. You should not have a problem exchanging currency once you get there, but just to be safe, we recommend exchanging some ahead of time so that you are prepared as soon as you land. Once in Croatia exchange money only in banks and exchange offices. It is recommended to always carry cash with you, as many places accept cash payments only. This saves you from hunting for exchange offices or ATMs on the spot.

Can I Use My Credit/Debit Card in Croatia?

Yes, in the cities this option is always available. If you are traveling to rural Croatia, you might have to pay for your meals or accommodation in cash. When dining out in Croatia, you are able to pay your bill by credit card, but if you would like to leave the server a tip, it needs to be done in cash. Because of this, we recommend always keeping some cash on hand just in case. Customary tipping in restaurants in Croatia is 10%.

How Much Cash Should I Bring?

We recommend bringing 400-500 USD per person for an 8-10 day trip. You can exchange it in local exchange offices when you arrive. Be sure to mind the exchange rate. The best exchange office in Split is TravelEx. You can also pull cash out of ATMs but the rate varies and oftentimes, it’s not very good.

What Should I Pack?

If you are heading to Croatia in the summer, you should be prepared for balmy, tropical temperatures and the occasional rainstorm. Do not be afraid to dress casually on the coast. Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, etc. are standard. It would be a clever idea to pack a light jacket or two, especially if you are traveling inland.
If you are joining for one of our island-hopping cruises, you will be having some dinners onboard. The attire is smart casual -anything you would wear out to a nice restaurant in the evening is just fine to wear on the ship. Daytime attire on our cruises is casual loungewear or swimwear. Think: comfortable. Some of our guests even like to wear slippers on board! A compact umbrella is always a good idea regardless of the time of year along with a set of earplugs because you never know when a neighboring ship might have some loud guests and a late night.

What Kind of Adapter Will I Need for My Electronics?

Croatia uses the standard European socket with round, two-pronged plugs. It’s easiest to order some from Amazon in advance of your trip.

Are There Hair Dryers in the Cruise Cabins?

Yes. Your cruise cabin will have all the amenities of a regular hotel room. Towels, shampoo, body gel, bar soap and hair dryers are provided. You will have use of the ship’s beach towels as well.

Will I be Able to Do Laundry on the Ship?

Our Croatia cruise ships are small with limited space. Laundry for guest use is not available on the ship, however there are wash and fold laundromats in every port you visit. Just ask your Cruise Manager and he or she will direct you.

Can we Bring Our Own Alcohol Onboard?

Outside alcohol is not permitted. The bars on our ships are fully stocked with all the standard spirits you see back home along with soft drinks, beer and domestic wine.

Will I Need to Know Any Croatian to Get Around, or Do People Speak English?

Most of the people do speak at least a bit of English. In big cities like Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Split, and Zadar, you should not have issues communicating.

What Travel Documents Do I Need to Enter Croatia?

American, Canadian, and Australian citizens traveling to Croatia only need a passport valid for at least three months from the date of return, however, other countries may require a visa.

How Does Always Croatia Support Its Travelers?

At Always Croatia, we pride ourselves in our ability to always take care of our travelers from the United States or Canada during their trip.
Our dedicated and professional team will start planning your trip from the United States or Canada, and we will take care of all the details to ensure you have an unforgettable time. Our team of professionals on the ground in Croatia are native Croatians with a passion for their country. They are committed to providing the most authentic and unique experiences for all our guests. We offer on-the-ground assistance in real-time so that you never have to feel alone or unassisted during your trip.

What Happens If I Get COVID on Holiday?

If you become unwell at an airport, bus or train station before or during a long trip, seek medical advice and do not start/continue your journey. If you test positive for COVID-19 abroad, you must follow local public health advice. You may need to quarantine or self-isolate and stay longer than planned.

Do I Need a COVID Test or Certificate for Traveling?

Travelers to Croatia are not required to provide any COVID-19 certificates or test results. Updated information you may check here.

Do I Need Any Special Vaccines Before I Go?

Nope! If you live in the United States, you probably have all your necessary vaccines already. If you want to be sure, though, you can cruise through the recommended vaccines for Croatia.