australian tourist croatia

How Australian citizens can visit and live in Croatia: Guide for 2024

UPDATED: 17.2.2023.

Many Australians come to Croatia for both tourism and to live here long term.

Since Croatia’s hot summer aligns with Australia’s cold winters, it is an ideal place for Aussies to get away on holiday and blow off steam. While the cost to visit Croatia has been on the rise, it can still be relatively affordable for Australian citizens making Australian dollars.

Many Australians are also looking to put down long-term roots in Croatia, some because they love its laid-back culture, some because they married a Croatian abroad, and some because they have Croatian ancestry.

There are over 130.000 Australian nationals who have Croatian ancestry. These Crozzies are now applying for citizenship . As of January 2020, the language test has been waived for the diaspora, so it is much easier to apply for citizenship based on ancestry now.

There are a number of ways Australians can settle in Croatia. They are definitely hoops of fire to jump through, but options do exist.

We’ve created a guide specifically for citizens of Australia that includes every option available to Australian citizens to move to Croatia long term. If you’re just passing through, we cover tourist visas too.

In this post, we cover:

• How Australians can visit Croatia as tourists

Digital nomads

• EU/EEA permanent residence
• Working for a Croatian company

EU Blue Card

• Starting your own Croatian company

Prepayment of rent

• Learning Croatian language

Scientific research

• Members of Croatian people

Volunteering

• Marrying a Croatian or EU/EEA national
• Citizenship by Croatian descent
• Requirements for residence
• Health insurance
• Exchanging driver’s licenses

Buying property in Croatia

• Where to find the Australian embassy in Croatia
• Skip the research! Let EIC answer your questions.
• Read reviews from our clients

The facts are these…

How Australian citizens can visit and live in Croatia

Tourist visas for australian citizens to visit croatia.

Australians enjoy visa-free travel to 115 countries around the world. Croatia is one of those countries.

Even though a visa is not needed, there are requirements for Australian citizens to enter Croatia. You can always see the latest tourist visa status here , but it’s unlikely to ever change.

How to move to Croatia as an Australian citizen

There are many options for Australian citizens to stay in Croatia long term. It will be easiest for those with Croatian heritage or whom marry a citizen. For everyone else, it will be challenging but not impossible. This guide will cover all of your options as well as what is required of you as an Australian.

Before we get started, we need to cover some vocabulary. Croatia divvies up citizens into 3 groups:

• Croatian citizens
• EU/EEA citizens
• Everybody else (third-country nationals or non-EU/EEA citizens)

Australians belong to the third-country national group. This means that the following residence permit schemes apply to all third-country nationals, not just Australians.

Please note that the limited options for residency are consistent with other EU/EEA countries. In some ways, Croatia even gives more leeway than The Netherlands or France.

Now that we have the disclaimers out of the way, let’s get started. We will go through each option for temporary residency, starting with the one that allows you the least amount of time in Croatia, and moving up to the ones that allow you the most time in Croatia.

“Sara was prepared, professional and gave excellent guidance. She reeaallyy knows her stuff, was helpful and lovely to boot. I recommend getting in touch if you are stuck anywhere in the process of navigating the Croatian bureaucracy.” – Mijo B., Australia

Starting in 2021, digital nomads can be granted temporary residence based on their remote work as long as they are not working for any Croatian companies. Australian citizens can now apply for this permit.

Here is a post that explains the requirements and process for applying for a permit based on being a digital nomad.

View frequently asked questions about Croatia’s digital nomad permit here .

Permanent residents of EU/EEA/Switzerland

Australians who hold long-term residence in another EU/EEA member state may be granted temporary residence in Croatia.

Here are instructions on how to apply for a permit based on your permanent residence in another EU/EEA country.

Student permit

Australians have the possibility to study at one of Croatia’s many universities and get residence. You may also study the Croatian language at certain language schools and qualify for a residence permit as well.

To get a student residence, you must show proof of acceptance into a qualified Croatian institution of education as part of your residence application.

Here  are instructions on how to apply for a student residence permit.

Working for Croatian company

Australians can get residence permits with the option to work in Croatia, but first, they must get a job in Croatia.

If you want to seek a work permit to live in Croatia, then start by looking for a job. We have a guide specifically on how to find a job in Croatia available here .

If you have received higher education or qualifications such as ISCED 1997 levels 5a or higher, or an associate’s degree or higher, you may qualify for an EU Blue Card.

Once you have been hired or given a binding work offer for a highly qualified position within Croatia, the company that intends to hire you may apply for a temporary residence that will allow you to work based on a Blue Card.

Our detailed guide on how to apply for an EU Blue Card in Croatia is available here .

Work permit by starting your own company

You can issue yourself a work contract as the director of a Croatian company and therefore qualify for a residence and work permit.

This option should only be used by those who legit want to open and run a company in Croatia, as you’ll be required to hire 3 full-time Croatian citizens as part of the requirements.

If you plan to open your own company, educate yourself on what operating a business in Croatia actually means. We have written many posts about opening and running businesses in Croatia, which you can view here .

In addition, view a detailed post on all the requirements associated with getting a work permit by opening your own company here .

If you only want to live in Croatia for one year, then this option could be the right fit. It’s a great option for retired people and frequent travelers whom have the flexibility to move to a new country for a limited amount of time.

Another benefit is that it is not “merit” based or tied to work contracts and instead is tied to prepaying rent for the term you are here.

You can read more about how to apply for this permit scheme here .

Learning the Croatian language

A residence permit can also be granted if you study the Croatian language at certain language schools. To get this permit, you must enroll in a Croatian language study program (like Croaticum).

[Read: Biggest Croatian language schools in Croatia ]

Our detailed guide on how to apply for temporary residence based on language study is available here .

“We were blown away with how helpful the girls were. We dealt with Sara and Teri. They responded straight away and were so helpful. With all the confusion with our situation, they went above and beyond to help.” – Carole B., Australia

If you are working on a scientific research project for which you need to live in Croatia, you can apply for temporary residence. You’ll definitely need to provide proof of the research and how long it will take. Expect it to be scrutinized.

In addition, you cannot work for a Croatian company if you own this permit.

Members of the Croatian people

Croatian descendants may get Croatian residence based on humanitarian reasons if they plan to use it for the purposes of applying for citizenship based on descent. The most common ground to apply for humanitarian reasons is being a member of the Croatian people.

Once granted temporary residence, members of the Croatian people have the right to work in Croatia without a work and stay permit. In addition, they can attend courses or vocational training, educate, and study.

View our guide on how Croatian diaspora and descendants can apply for temporary residence in Croatia if they don’t have citizenship yet  here .

View our guide on applying for citizenship by descent here .

You may apply for temporary residence on the grounds of humanitarian or volunteer work. To apply on this basis, you must provide a contract with a non-profit organization called udruga that shows the term of work and that the role is unpaid, among other requirements.

You can read more about this permit here .

Also, view our articles on Croatian non-profit organizations that may offer long-term contracts to non-EU/EEA volunteers:

• Volunteer in Rijeka
• Volunteer in Split
• Volunteer in Zagreb

Marry a Croatian or EU/EEA national

This program is called family reunification , which means that spouses and children of Croatians and EU/EEA citizens can come to live in Croatia with their spouse or parent (if they are a minor).

For clarification, I do not encourage or recommend anyone to marry someone they are not in a relationship with just to live in Croatia. Technically that is fraud, and you would be lying to the government, which is a risk.

If you are married, in a  life partnership , or a long-term relationship with a Croatian or EU/EEA national, you are entitled to residency in Croatia as long as both you and your spouse live in Croatia together at the same address. This is by far the easiest and fastest permit to get since there is an automatic trust that is inherent when a Croatian or EU/EEA citizen is involved.

[Read:  How to get married in Croatia (if at least one spouse is a foreigner) ]

Learn more about how to apply for a permit based on marriage here:

• How non-EU/EEA family members of EU/EEA nationals can get temporary residence in Croatia
• How non-EU/EEA spouses of Croatians can apply for residence

Croatian citizenship by descent

If you’ve got Croatian blood, then ignore everything you’ve read up to this point.

To qualify for citizenship, you must have a parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, etc., that is Croatian. Ancestry must be in a straight line, and you must be able to prove ancestry, which can be done in a variety of ways. It is usually done with birth certificates.

[Read:  How to get a copy of a birth certificate ]

You can check out if you qualify for Croatian citizenship here .

Even though having heritage is the golden ticket, there are still catches. This is why we created guides on applying for Croatian citizenship, which you can view here:

• How to apply for Croatian citizenship
• How to apply for Croatian citizenship based on descent

In addition, view the most important things you need to know before applying for Croatian citizenship  here .

Check out all of our citizenship resources  here .

Requirements that apply to all situations

There are common requirements that apply to all Australians, no matter which of the options you choose from above. Below is a list of the most common requirements across all temporary residence permit applications. However, keep in mind that MUP (the police) will request additional items from you depending on your basis for residency.

Everyone must provide:

• The police will provide you with the right application – view it here
• Validity period must be 3 months longer than the validity period of the intended stay
• Criminal background check (with certificate on the length of stay if you lived somewhere other than the US the previous 12 months) – view a guide  here
• This is usually private health insurance unless you have state health insurance from another EU/EEA state
• Proof of accommodation is sufficient for the purposes of applying for residence; after approval, you’ll need a rental contract
• Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself – view a guide  here
• Usually, there is a photo studio right by MUP where you can get these in the right size
• This is due upon approval of your application. All administrative costs for this procedure are available here . Sometimes you may pay an administrative fee earlier in the process using tax stamps .

Health insurance for Australians living in Croatia

When applying for temporary residence in Croatia as an Australian citizen, you are required to have proof of health insurance as part of your application. It will need to be some kind of private health insurance policy or a state health insurance policy if coming from another country within the EU/EEA.

Once approved for residence, you must sign up for obvezno state health insurance with a state insurance fund called HZZO unless you’re a digital nomad.

View our guides on Croatian health insurance:

• Croatia’s state health care obvezno insurance, what it costs and what is included
• What is dopunsko and why you should have this health insurance
• What is Croatian dodatno health insurance
• How to get travel insurance in Croatia (putno), which you can use to apply for residence

HZZO  is the state health insurance fund. View a list of HZZO offices in Croatia  here .

Upon enrollment in HZZO, anyone who has not had an EU state health insurance policy for the previous year are required to pay 12 months of health insurance premiums for the previous year plus the monthly premium going forward. This is for all citizens, children and adults alike. Meaning that if you are a family of 4 with 2 children, you’ll need to pay these fees for all 4 members of your family.

The monthly premium changes from year to year. The current amount is always updated in  this post .

“We had a very informative and useful chat with Sara. The meeting was very well organised and Sara had all the answers to our questions. We now have a better understanding of the systems in Croatia and feel much more prepared to move forward with our plans. Thank you Sara.” – Anthony M., Australia

Exchanging your Australian driver’s license

If you plan to drive in Croatia, you can exchange your Australian driver’s license for a Croatian license during your first year of residence. If you wait longer than one year, you may be fined and/or required to start from scratch with driving school.

You can read about the process of exchanging your Australian driver’s license here .

You can read about the process of getting a Croatian driver’s license from scratch here .

Learn how to take a driving school called  autoškola  in Croatia  here .

Australian citizens are allowed to purchase any property zoned as “residential” in Croatia, as long as they hold permanent or long-stay residence in Croatia. You can see the latest list of reciprocity agreements that Croatia holds, including Australia, here .

If you’re interested in purchasing a house or apartment in Croatia, we’ve got a step-by-step guide that explains the process. Check it out here .

We can also connect you to vetted real estate agents and lawyers to help you through the process to ensure everything goes smoothly. If you’d like an introduction, please complete this form , and we’ll contact you.

Australians living more than 183 days in Croatia each year must report their worldwide income and pay taxes in Croatia.

Currently, Australia does not have a double-taxation treaty in place with Croatia. Due to a lack of a double taxation treaty, you may also need to report your income to Australia. Whether you need to pay tax to Australia depends on a variety of factors.

Here are additional resources from the Australian Taxation Office:

• Working overseas

Taxes are complicated. This is a very high-level view of the tax situation. If you ever want a detailed review of your tax liability while living in Croatia, contact us , and we’ll connect you with a tax expert.

How to find the Australian embassy in Croatia

Embassy of australia, zagreb.

Contact person: Elizabeth Marianne Petrovic

Phone: +385 (0)1 48 91 200 ; +385 (0)1 48 91 216 Email: [email protected] Address: Kaptol Centar, Nova Ves 11, 3rd Floor, 10 000 Zagreb – view map

[Read:  All the foreign embassies and consulates in Croatia ]

While it may not be straightforward to live in Croatia legally long-term as an Australian citizen, there are several options that will allow you to live here for at least 1 year, if not longer. It all depends on how badly you want to live here and how much patience you have.

Skip the research! Save time and talk to EIC.

We crafted this post to be as detailed as possible, but sometimes questions still arise because everyone’s situation is different. If you’d like personalized guidance on your situation, we can help.

Save yourself the time and uncertainty of trying to navigate the ever-changing rules for living in Croatia by scheduling a private chat with us over video chat.

How does it work?

All first-time clients get 30 minutes with an Expat in Croatia coach PLUS 30 minutes with a vetted English-speaking lawyer from our network that you can use at any time.

Your session will be completely tailored to you and your needs whether it’s bureaucracy, culture, or daily life. All legal advice will be handled by our vetted lawyer network. We can help you with everything else.

In addition, you’ll receive a follow up with additional resources based on your situation, our Croatia Restaurant Guide as well as introductions to vetted professionals like insurance, law, real estate, translation and tax.

We have an extensive FAQ about this service  here .

Ready to get started? Click here to jump to the form.

Who will I speak with?

Carol Anne Škorvaga , known to us as “CAM”, is a first-generation Croatian-Canadian living in Jastrebarsko with her family. She grew up entrenched in the Croatian community surrounded by culture and folklore, attended Croatian school in Canada and then returned to Zagreb to attend Filozofski Fakultet. CAM is fluent in Croatian and has firsthand knowledge of being both a Canadian expat and a Croatian returnee, building a home in Croatia and being a parent with children in local schools.

Meet CAM in this quick 2-minute video here .

What is the cost?

The below costs are per 30 minutes and include VAT (25% tax mandated by the Croatian government).

• First-time clients  |  150 euros (includes 30-min session with lawyer)
• Repeat clients  |  75 euros

If additional time is requested, it is billed in ¼ hour increments.

We offer a 100% money back guarantee.  If your session was not helpful, then you will be refunded – no questions asked.

We vet our information through hands-on, human work. This process includes extensive web research, phone calls to the government, collaboration with licensed Croatian professionals, and visits to government.

Reviews from our clients

“My husband and I are looking to obtain our Croatian citizenship through heritage. CAM was exceptional and was extremely informative about the process required, timelines, contact people, both in Croatia and at home, lawyers and services offered by Expat in Croatia. She was able to easy our anxiety and we felt that we will have solid support and direction going forward. She was professional and friendly. Thank you CAM for your support.” ~ Carol W., Canada, February 5, 2024

“After months of Dr Googling we were left with some ideas but had no confidence in which process to citizenship to follow and if any of it was right. Actually at the time of our consultation the laws had changed and CAM was already on top of them. We left the consultation with a clear path to citizenship and in-depth explanation of everything we needed to do in SA before leaving. On top of this when moving to a new country you don’t know how people may react or approach you. I was apprehensive about this and CAM melted all of that away. On the facts she was professional and serious but when welcoming us, making jokes and telling us about Croatia she was so warm, kind and lifted all my fears of moving. My heart now completely lies in Croatia and we have within 2 weeks a complete plan and working on all the documents we need to gather. Every country needs an expat Croatia with such high integrity.” ~ MaryAnn V., South Africa, January 17, 2024

You can view our last few reviews  here  or all of our reviews  here .

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Reviews from our happy clients

Ready to book? Request your personalised session here .

My husband will soon be moving to Croatia from Canada and submitting the papers for temporary residency. I wanted to know if we got everything right when it comes to paperwork, what we needed to do or not to do. I booked a meeting with Carol Anne and she was more than helpful, really kind and she made sure that I have all the info I wanted and needed. We will definitely ask for help again if ever needed. Highly recommended.

June 10, 2024

United States

I recently had the pleasure of consulting with Expat in Croatia for assistance with my Croatian citizenship review, and I must say, their service exceeded my expectations. From the moment I reached out, their team displayed remarkable attentiveness, ensuring that all my questions and concerns were addressed promptly. One of the standout qualities of Expat in Croatia is their exceptional listening skills. They took the time to truly understand my needs and preferences, making me feel valued as a client. This level of attentiveness instilled confidence in their ability to provide tailored solutions. Moreover, CAM impressed me with her thoroughness in providing information. She left no stone un turned, ensuring that I had all the necessary details to make informed decisions. This commitment to transparency and clarity is truly commendable. In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend CAM at Expat in Croatia for anyone seeking professional assistance with citizenship matters. Their attentive approach, coupled with their dedication to providing comprehensive information, sets them apart as a leader in their field. Thank you, Expat in Croatia for your outstanding service!

June 5, 2024

We had many questions regarding bringing our pets from the USA to Croatia that were answered as well as our residency questions. The team we spoke with was very helpful and kind. They provided great information and resources.

April 19, 2024

Consulting, Introduced to a Professional, Research Assistance

My husband and I were overwhelmed by the requirements for Digital Nomad Visas in Croatia, but Expat in Croatia came to our rescue. CAM provided a thorough consultation, clarifying crucial details like the need for a “federal level” apostilled FBI background check (I did not even know what this was prior to our conversation). We are also bringing our dog to Croatia, so Tamara did some research to find answers to very important questions about her entry as well. It was an extra fee, but very minimal and well worth it.  We now feel very prepared and confident that we will be approved once we arrive in Croatia. I HIGHLY recommend their services and if I have questions about anything else, I will certainly be reaching out to CAM + team again!

April 16, 2024

My husband and I are looking to obtain our Croatian citizenship through heritage. CAM was exceptional and was extremely informative about the process required, timelines, contact people, both in Croatia and at home, lawyers and services offered by Expat in Croatia. She was able to easy our anxiety and we felt that we will have solid support and direction going forward. She was professional and friendly. Thank you CAM for your support.

February 5, 2024

South Africa

Consulting, Introduced to a Professional

We needed to know the ins and outs about moving to Croatia. Our first contact we made was with CAM, then had the consult with Sara. We had superb service, they really know the meaning of customer service, with great continued follow up after our first consult, prior planning to our meeting and immediately providing us with follow up docs after our consult based on our relevant questions, and connection made with external professionals who form part of the EIC team to further support us on our journey. Great team, can definitely recommend them.

January 24, 2024

After months of Dr Googling we were left with some ideas but had no confidence in which process to citizenship to follow and if any of it was right. Actually at the time of our consultation the laws had changed and CAM was already on top of them. We left the consultation with a clear path to citizenship and in-depth explanation of everything we needed to do in SA before leaving. On top of this when moving to a new country you don’t know how people may react or approach you. I was apprehensive about this and CAM melted all of that away. On the facts she was professional and serious but when welcoming us, making jokes and telling us about Croatia she was so warm, kind and lifted all my fears of moving. My heart now completely lies in Croatia and we have within 2 weeks a complete plan and working on all the documents we need to gather. Every country needs an expat Croatia with such high integrity.

January 17, 2024

Research Assistance

I worked with Carol Anne Skorvaga and Tamara Ilic regarding some questions involving purchasing agricultural land/real estate. Carol was very clear about what EIC could do to provide assistance and what would require further research. She was very prompt in seeking out the information and providing it to me in written form. The information was very helpful to me and helped me better understand the real estate process in Croatia. I would highly recommend Carol and EIC. A pleasure with which to work. Thank you!

January 4, 2024

For my consulting session with Sara, I had questions about establishing residency, and also some questions about Healthcare. I sent in questions to her ahead of time so that my session was customized for my needs. Sara had all of those questions noted and was very prepared to elaborate on each one of them and more. I felt confident on the information that was provided and when I had a follow-up questions she was able to easily answer those for me as well. Sara is very personable and approachable in her demeanor which made the meeting enjoyable. I have been following EIC for a few years now and I am always so impressed by the wealth of information that is out there for all of us “seekers”. In addition, the pre-session communication by CAM was very efficient and much appreciated. I have already recommended Expat in Croatia to friends and family members in need of information. Thank you!

December 6, 2023

Thank you so much to these wonderful ladies for the fantastic service. I needed help with some Croatian business issues, terms & processes. They connected me with an appropriate professional – another lovely lady who I immediately connected with and felt she really understood my issue, & she was able to answer all my queries in English – bonus! I would highly recommend these fabulous, friendly ladies and service to anyone who needs some assistance. Again, many thanks.

November 16, 2023

Barbara (Richard) H.

The Expat in Croatia newsletter has been an indispensable guide for us while waiting to acquire Croatian citizenship. Since receiving citizenship this month, we decided to book a consultation to address more specific questions as we move closer to actually moving to Croatia. We chose CAM (Carol Anne) to be our consultant and found her to be the perfect “fit” for us. She has experienced everything that we will be dealing with as she moved from Canada to Croatia. Whether it is information about shipping items, registering a car, health insurance, or getting a tax consultant to navigate important financial details, she provided everything and more. We found her to be thorough, professional, personable, and smart. She is also funny and charming. We love CAM! We will continue to use this resource, consulting with CAM as needed or as more questions arise.

October 2, 2023

We needed assistance with purchasing property and moving forward with applying for Croatian citizenship. We had a great conversation with Sara and CAM, they explained both processes clearly and provides us with numerous resources.  It has been helpful to understand timelines and requirements, and they have provided contact with professionals that can be responsible for the aspects that we cannot do on our own.

September 23, 2023

View our other residency by nationality guides

• How EU/EEA permanent residents can get temporary residence in Croatia
• How EU/EEA citizens can get temporary residence in Croatia
• How EU/EEA citizens can apply for permanent residency in Croatia
• How American citizens can visit and live in Croatia
• How Brits can visit and live in Croatia (post-Brexit)
• How Canadian citizens can visit and live in Croatia
• How New Zealand citizens can visit and live in Croatia
• How South African citizens can visit and live in Croatia
• How third-country (non-EU/EEA) citizens can apply for temporary residency in Croatia

Please note:  Information provided by Expat in Croatia is only for the purposes of guidance. It does not constitute legal or financial advice in any form. Croatian laws and bureaucratic rules often change, and each personal case is individual, so different rules may apply. For legal advice,  contact us  to consult with a licensed Croatian lawyer. For financial advice,  contact us  to consult with a licensed Croatian tax advisor or accountant.

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Country Roads

Crisscross Croatia’s Country Roads & Hop Between the Adriatic Isles on a 2 Week Guided Tour

Discover Croatia’s rich heritage and stunning Dalmatian coastline—with fascinating itineraries curated by Local Experts. Charting a course through the cities of Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik, the journey pauses for sea-to-table oysters in Ston, a quaint coastal village. Croatia’s culinary delicacies are also the order of the day at Celebration Dinner in Dubrovnik paired with wine and grappa. Explore Plitvice National Park, one of Europe’s great natural wonders. On this Insight Choice, learn about local Tara Community folklore, or journey through the forest paths, alongside 16 interconnecting lakes.

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Start Zagreb, Croatia. End Dubrovnik, Croatia.

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Croatia Tours & Holidays

Be it on land or sea, walking or adventure cruising – Croatia will have you in the palm of its hand.

Croatia's glittering Adriatic coast, charming cobblestone towns and thriving food and wine scene are certain to reward curiosities. Join one of our small group tours and wander through the ancient streets of Split to find the perfect gelato, dance up a storm in Dubrovnik’s castle nightclubs , and shout a hearty ‘zivjeli!’ while sipping sundowners on Hvar’s mountaintop fortress. You might even island hop in the Adriatic Sea , bathe in the turquoise waters of Zlatni Rat, or take a dip in the emerald-green lakes of Mljet. Trust us when we say uncovering the treasures of this Balkan beauty will be the adventure of a lifetime. 

Our Croatia trips

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Croatia tour reviews

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Croatia departures by month

We also travel to, croatia at a glance, capital city.

Zagreb (population 930,000)

4.4 million

(GMT+01:00) Sarajevo, Skopje, Warsaw, Zagreb

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Croatia

Best time to visit croatia.

Croatia's peak season runs between July and August, with temperatures in the high 20s or 30s on the coast. But in this region you can expect plenty of sunshine from May to October, which are the best times to visit if you want to take advantage of Croatia's beautiful beaches and islands. The inland areas are also hot in the summer but can get cold in the winter with low temperatures and snowfall. Winter on the coast is milder and frequent rain can be expected.

Read more about the best time to visit Croatia

Culture and customs

Generally, Croatians are very proud of their country and cultural heritage. While this may not be obvious in everyday life, the Slavic heritage of Croatian people becomes more evident during festivals and national holidays, where cities and villages come to life with traditional costume, folk music and feasts. While most of Croatia's population are Roman Catholic, there are also groups of people who identify as Serbian Orthodox, Muslim, Protestant and Jewish. Having endured war, hardship and frequent earthquakes, the people of Croatia have a great amount of national pride and connection to their country and family. Time for leisure and family is highly valued, particularly along the coast, where many offices end their day at 3pm.

Eating and drinking

Croatian cuisine   is heavily influenced by its surrounding countries. Separated from Italy by the Adriatic Sea, cuisine along the coast tends to have more of a Mediterranean flair. Fish and seafood are integral to many coastal dishes, such as brodet (fish stew) and crni rizot (black risotto made with squid). Homemade pasta and olive oil are also dietary staples. Further inland, you’ll find heartier dishes with Austrian, Hungarian and Turkish influences such as cobanac (a goulash-like stew) and kulen (paprika-seasoned sausage).

Foodies will definitely want to visit Istria – home to award-winning olive oil, wild asparagus, rare white truffles and excellent wines – which has gained an international reputation as a foodie destination.

Croatians enjoy their beer (Karlovacko and Ozujsko are two of the most popular local brews), but they love their kava (coffee). Take a cue from the locals and spend a morning people-watching at a cafe over a kava – it’s a Saturday morning tradition in Zagreb. Rakija (brandy) is the spirit of choice, with many restaurants offering a small glass before a meal. Another favourite is Pelinkovac, a must-try bitter liqueur.

Things to try in Croatia

1. Pasticada

A slow-cooked beef dish usually served with gnocchi. This Dalmatian staple can be found in many restaurants in this region.

2. Manestra

There are many variations to Istria’s hearty take on minestrone soup, but it usually includes beans, corn and meat.

3. Paski sir

This popular hard cheese is produced exclusively from the milk of sheep on the Island of Pag. It gets its unique pungent taste from the sheep’s aromatic herb diet.

These grilled skinless sausages are common throughout Croatia and usually served with onions and ajvar (a red capsicum relish) on a flatbread

Geography and environment

Sharing borders with   Bosnia and Herzegovina ,   Slovenia ,   Hungary ,   Serbia   and   Montenegro , Croatia benefits from more than 5,000 km of coastline that spans along the Adriatic Sea. In addition to the mainland, Croatia also has many islands, some inhabited, some not. Croatia's terrain is very diverse and varies from flat plains to low mountains and highlands, limestone karst cliffs, wetlands, lakes and forests of cypress. Nature reserves and wetland areas are home to large populations of migratory birds, deer, bats and bears. Visitors will also see much of the land is used for agriculture with vineyards, lavender fields, olive groves and orchards being prevalent in rural areas. Croatia's cities, while developed, have managed to maintain a high level of charm with cobblestone streets, ancient housing, historic squares and heritage buildings being preserved and still used by the current population.

History and government

Early history.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the land now known as Croatia has been occupied by humans since the Stone Age. Croatia's geographical position in   Europe   allowed a great amount of influence from neighbouring regions, with tribes and people from different cultures and groups making their mark. The first Kingdom of Croatia was formed in 925 but by the 12th century Croatia had formed a union with Hungary, with a Hungarian King instated as leader of both territories. During the 15th century, Croatia lost territory to the Ottoman Empire and, in later centuries, once again came under Hungarian rule. Evidence of these many cultural influences can be seen in the architecture, cuisine and archaeological ruins of contemporary Croatia.

Recent history

Croatia, Slovenia and Serbia formed a union in 1918 to create the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, but the occupation of Axis forces during World War II lead to the creation of the Independent State of Croatia, which only lasted a couple of years during the war. By the end of the war in 1945, Croatia had become a Socialist Republic (within the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, together with Bosnia, Serbia, Slovenia, Macedonia and Montenegro), with the constitution of 1963 attempting to alleviate tensions surrounding the balance of power between Serbians and Croats. By 1980, after the death of President Tito (founder of modern Yugoslavia), economic and political difficulties resulted in a near collapse of government. What followed was years of conflict, polarity and political turmoil. The referendum of 1991 resulted in an overwhelming vote for independence, with Croatia and Slovenia declaring independence from Yugoslavia in June of the same year. Much armed conflict followed and lasted until 1995, leading to great loss of civilian life and displacement, creating large populations of refugees. However, the last two decades have been a time of peace and reconciliation for the people of Croatia and the country even joined the European Union in 2013.

Top 10 historic buildings of Croatia

1. cathedral of the assumption of the virgin mary.

One of Zagreb’s most visited historic sites, this grand neo-Gothic cathedral has been renovated and reconstructed many times since it was originally built in the 13th century. With massive twin spires, a marble interior and 800-year-old treasury, this is a monumental masterpiece.

2. Church of St Donatus

Considered one of the most impressive examples of early Byzantine architecture, this church in Zadar was built way back in the 9th century. With much historical value, its simplistic, circular design is quite unlike other buildings in Croatia, making it a standout, must-see church in a country with so many churches and cathedrals to see.

3. Croatian National Theatre

Built in 1895, this national treasure located in Zagreb is an elegant example of neo-Baroque style architecture. Visitors lucky enough to catch an opera, ballet or classical music concert here will be able to revel in all the fine details, from the luxe furnishings to the excellent acoustics.

4. Diocletian’s Palace

One of Split’s main attractions, this UNESCO World Heritage monument is considered one of the best-preserved Roman palaces in the world. The sprawling complex is home to many fine examples of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, so visitors will be able to admire open air courtyards, marble arches, columns, gates and walls from a variety of different periods.

5. Cathedral of St Lovro

This cathedral located 30 minutes from Split is well known for its distinct Romanesque portal crafted by one of Croatia's most celebrated sculptors, Radovan. Mythological creatures and biblical figures all feature heavily, with saints, lions, sirens and centaurs all gracing the spectacular doorways.

6. Rector’s Palace

Also known as Dubrovnik Museum, Rector’s Palace is an impressive building in itself. With soaring arches, period furniture and a dramatic staircase, this structure steals the show from the museum exhibits it holds within.

7. Dubrovnik Synagogue

Reported to be the second oldest synagogue in Europe and the world’s oldest Sefardic synagogue still in use, Dubrovnik’s synagogue is still a place for the local Jewish community to worship on holy days. Sustaining damage from earthquakes and wars, this small but well cared for structure stills stands today due to its historical value and unique design.

8. Marco Polo Tower

While not the most elaborate or opulent building in Croatia, the Marco Polo Tower of Korcula has much historical significance. It is believed that Marco Polo was born in this medieval, walled city and this tower named in his honour rises above the town as a reminder of his legacy. Climb to the top for phenomenal views and panoramic photo opportunities.

9. Franciscan Monastery

Featuring 14th century cloisters, intricately carved columns and a striking, sculptured facade this Dubrovnik wonder is also home to the third oldest pharmacy in Europe, so you can get a prescription filled while seeing the sights.

10. Trakoscan Castle

This lovely castle located in northern Croatia was inhabited from the 13th century right up until the 1940s. Featuring all good things a castle should have - including a dungeon, hunting room and tower - visiting here is like stepping back to a time where castles weren’t just historical monuments, but valid places to live.

Top places to visit in Croatia

1. islands of kornati.

There are plenty of enchanting islands along the coast of Croatia but perhaps none more so than the secluded Kornati, a collection of 89 spectacular islands full of islets and reef systems just waiting to be explored. Known as the largest and densest archipelago in the Adriatic region, the Kornatis present the perfect way to spend a couple of days with beautiful bays to swim in and fascinating nature parks to adventure through.

2. Dubrovnik

Steeped in both beauty and history, Dubrovnik’s UNESCO-listed Old Town is, quite simply, the undisputed jewel of the Dalmatian Coast. With its beautiful white stone-covered buildings, tiled-roof houses, and limestone streets all encompassed within sea-facing city walls, this city is full of charm and splendour. Whether you want to wander the bustling streets on foot or view the town from the sparkling water of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is one character-filled city you can’t miss.

Wander the cobblestoned streets of Dubrovnik on our 15 day Dubrovnik to Athens tour or on our 15 day Dubrovnik to Bled tour.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik then setting sail for the small island of Lokrum is the best way to achieve it. Covered in lush vegetation and surrounded by sparkling blue waters you’re never going to want to leave, this sleepy island presents the perfect opportunity to relax under the warm Croatian sun. Whether you want to soak up the rays on rocks by the sea or wander through the Botanical Garden, you’re guaranteed to find peace within Lokrum’s stunning surroundings.

Sail to the small island of Lokrum on our 10 day Dubrovnik to Venice tour or on our 8 day Explore Croatia adventure.

Another day, another magnificent city in Croatia to adventure through; this time, it’s Zadar. Once the capital city of Dalmatia, Zadar boasts a rich heritage that’s easily visible when you start wandering its ancient buildings such as the Roman Forum and St Donatus’ Church. From walking through cultural exhibitions at the Museum of Church Art and exploring the spirited fish markets at the port to admiring the ‘Greeting to the Sun’, a modern monument dedicated to the sun, this energetic destination will surely capture your heart (and your camera’s remaining storage).

Explore historic Zadar on our 8 day Croatia & Slovenia tour.

Packed with a rich history you’re going to want to explore, Korcula Island is a hidden gem with as many beautiful sights and ancient buildings as some of the bigger islands, such as Hvar, but without the crowds. Offering a lot of sun to soak up, plenty of golden sandy beaches to lie on, and an abundance of sparkling blue waters to swim in, this seaside destination is truly one-of-a-kind. And you can't forget about the food. From traditional beef stews to the sweet delicacy of travarica, you'll never go hungry in Korcula.

Marvel at the sights of Korcula on our 8 day Croatian Coastal Cruising or on our 7 day Cycle Croatia tour.

Split may be Croatia’s second largest city (after Zagreb) but it’s first when it comes to personality and soul with historic streets, a World-Heritage listed palace, and a vibrant mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants scattered throughout its picturesque Old Town. From sipping on frothy kava at a table on the Riva waterfront promenade to listening to street musicians filling ancient courtyards with their sweet sounds, Split promises to take your Croatian tour to another level.

Eat your way through Split on our 11 day Slovenia & Croatia Real Food Adventure.

7. Plitvice Lakes National Park

If you thought Croatia couldn’t get any more beautiful, only one visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park is enough to make you change your mind. Gaining World Heritage listed status 20 years ago, this spectacular park covers 19 hectares of wooded hills and 16 turquoise-covered lakes all connected by a series of waterfalls that won’t hesitate to take your breath away. Whether you want to spot some wild animals (think wolves, deer, and birds), wander through the park’s forest vegetation, or simply marvel at the captivating landscape that surrounds you, this dazzling park will be etched in your mind forever.

Walk through Plitvice Lakes National Park on our 26 day Budapest to Rome adventure or on our 17 day Dubrovnik to Rome tour.

If culture’s what you’re after, then visiting the spirited city of Zagreb should be high on your Croatia bucket list. Bursting with museums such as the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships or the more traditional Croatian Museum of Naïve Art, and historic locations such as the Mirogoj Cemetery and Lotrščak Tower, you’ll never run out of things to do in Zagreb. Perfect for exploring on foot, this lively destination blends the best of crafts, cuisine, and culture for an adventure you’ll want to relive over and over again.

Absorb the Croatian culture on our 19 day Budapest to Venice tour or on our 10 day Dubrovnik to Venice tour.

On the surface, Osijek may seem like just another breathtaking Croatian town but as soon as you start wandering its streets full of grand buildings and popular landmarks, you’ll see why it deserves to be explored. With a laidback atmosphere and bubbling personality, this town will easily have you entranced from its many cafes and restaurants lining the Drava River to its captivating medieval structures. Spend your time walking through the Museum of Slavonia or strolling down the European Avenue for an in-depth look at this remarkable region.

Stroll the streets of Osijek on our 29 day Vienna to Dubrovnik tour or on our 15 day Balkan Adventure.

If Dubrovnik is known as the ‘Jewel of the Dalmatian Coast’ then Hvar is the ‘Queen of the Dalmatian Islands’ thanks to its picture-perfect town full of wonderfully preserved Renaissance facades. Boasting plenty to do including admiring the views of the town and the Adriatic Sea from the Spanjola Fortress, wandering the streets full of unusual boutiques and interesting galleries, and sipping on cocktails at a bar by the water, this spectacular island town is like something straight out of a fairytale. 

Croatia has an interesting mix of quaint outdoor markets, modern malls and hip clothing boutiques. There's plenty of options that make better souvenirs than the usual lurid magnets or tourist t-shirts.

It's a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.   Australia   and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Croatia

1. Local produce

If you're able to take food products back to your home country, then Croatia's markets are filled with delicious gourmet produce. Honey, olives, cheese, wine and lavender products are good choices that help to support local farmers and the rural economy.

2. Traditional handicrafts

Embroidered table cloths, handmade dolls and lace from the island of Pag make authentic gifts for friends back home.

3. Natural cosmetics

Croatia has many brands of natural soap, body butter and shower gel derived from ingredients like olive oil, goat's milk, lavender, almond oil and seaweed.

Festivals and events

Dance week festival.

This celebration of dance and movement hits Zagreb each year. Featuring a diverse range of contemporary and traditional dance from local and international dancers and choreographers, the eclectic program highlights the artistic vision of many coming together to celebrate their love of dance.

Dubrovnik Summer Festival

Classical music, theatre, dance and opera combine to create an enriching program of events performed in open air venues around Dubrovnik. Held every year since 1949, Croatia's temperate summer climate ensures the perfect conditions for outdoor performances.

International Folklore Festival

This important festival held in Zagreb each year helps to preserve cultural diversity by promoting traditional dance, costumes, music and handicrafts from all over the world. Visitors can see everything from African drumming performances to traditional Croatian dancing and Bulgarian bands.

Read more about festivals in Croatia

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Anti-Fascist Resistance Day

Statehood Day

Homeland Thanksgiving Day

Independence Day

Please note that the dates of  Croatia's public holidays  may vary.

Further reading

Croatia travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa to visit Croatia?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Croatia?

Tipping isn't mandatory in Croatia, although feel free to round up the bill or leave spare change for wait staff. Tip more if the service has been particularly good. Some restaurants and cafes will already include a 10-15% margin in the bill, to account for taxes and tips. In this case, generally no further tip is required.

What is the internet access like in Croatia?

Travellers will be able to access the internet at internet cafes and hotels in Croatia's large cities and tourist-orientated towns. Expect less internet accessibility in rural areas.

Will my mobile phone work in Croatia?

Mobile phone coverage is generally very good in Croatia's large cities and urban areas. Islands and remote areas may have less reliable service.

Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before arrival.

What are the toilets like in Croatia?

Western-style, flushable toilets are the norm in Croatia's cities and urban centres.

Can I drink the water in Croatia?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in Croatia; however, due to the different mineral content, some people may get stomach upsets from the drinking water if they aren't used to it. A better option is finding filtered water rather than relying on bottled water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Croatia?

Large hotels, restaurants and tourist sites will most likely accept credit cards. Always carry enough cash for smaller purchases and when shopping at vendors like market stalls and smaller cafes and hotels, which may not have credit card facilities.

What is ATM access like in Croatia?

ATMs are readily available throughout Croatia. Cities and large towns will have more ATM access than small villages or rural areas, so prepare accordingly if travelling out of urban areas.

What is the weather like in Croatia?

Croatia's climate is split into two different regions - along the coast and in the mainland.

Depending on which region you're travelling to, the weather may vary slightly with temperatures higher in the mainland area due to a lack of sea breeze.

Winter temperatures are also lower in the mainland with snowfall expected and enjoyed, whereas on the coast, snowfall is quite uncommon.

Is Croatia a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Discretion is advised for LGBTQIA+ travellers in Croatia. Homosexuality has been legal in Croatia since 1977 and is tolerated but not widely accepted. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples may be met with hostility in lesser populated cities. Gay venues are virtually non-existent outside Zagreb but this is improving every year. 

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex   or   ILGA   before you travel.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What's the transport like in Croatia?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Croatia, you may find yourself travelling by:

No tourist coaches here! Travel through Croatia the way the locals do, aboard a local bus. It's a cheap, reliable and authentic way to get around.

Trip: Explore Croatia

Amazing views and quick access to the islands - what better way to see Croatia's splendid coast than aboard a ferry?

Trip: Cycle Croatia

Trip: Dubrovnik to Bled

What is it like travelling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or you’re about to embark on your first trip, travelling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organising amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), travelling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Croatia support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveller. Trips to Croatia directly support our foundation partner, Humana Zagreb.

Humana Zagreb

Humana Zagreb provides job opportunities and education programs in sustainable fashion and textile industries for people with disabilities. Donations fund educational programs run by Humana employees with disabilities. These programs teach school children about the issues of fast fashion, the importance of reusing and recycling clothes, and the barriers that people with disabilities face when searching for employment.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

My Hidden Croatia

The Expectations of my Australian Guests…

      Ha Ha…See no Evil, Hear no Evil, Speak no Evil! What goes on tour..stays on tour! 

Talking about Croatian food and wines, and expectations of our foreign first-time visitors  …

In September  2018 I had a group of  Australian foodie and wine buffs and most of the group of 10 had been here before and were back for more! HOWEVER, On arrival into Split one gentleman called Peter, a first-timer  from Perth in Western Australia made the comment..’I have heard Croatia is a beautiful country scenically, and I’m looking forward to, experiencing the magnificent coastline, but you wouldn’t come here for the food and wine would you Robyn? You would more happily go to Italy and France wouldn’t you?” It was Peter’s first visit to Croatia.. I remained quiet, bit my tongue and 18 days later, after escorting the group through the regions of Dalmatia, Kvarner, Istria and Continental Croatia, visiting many vineyards and tasting a great variety of Croatian fine wines paired with delicious traditional meals. I asked him to give me his impressions..

We’ll get back to that story a little later…

My name is Robyn Vulinovich ex restaurateur of Italian Cuisine, from the Gold Coast in Australia, presently a consultant in the tourism sector here in Croatia..I continue to follow my passion presenting the very best of unique food and wine experiences in a country I have come to call home and also serving as a specialist in all things Croatian with the independent traveller in mind; small group cruises; writing of customized travel itineraries according to the age of my guests, and their particular interests..which almost ALWAYS includes authentic food and wine experiences.

Difference between Tourists and travellers. A tourist hops from place to place..been there! done that! While a traveller is more interested in learning, tasting, seeing, smelling aromas, understanding and hearing a new country, using all of our senses! I like to think that my guests are 100% travellers!

So Getting back to Expectations ..Many of our  ‘Travellers’ have heard about this distant country called Croatia..ex-member of former communist-socialist Yugoslavia. They remember the scenes of war..they’re not sure what it was all about..and most are very eager to learn a little about this piece of recent history…but most of all they love hearing about the local way of life of today, what’s happening in this part of the world, sometimes comparing the cost of living with that of Australia, talking about family values and traditions, but ultimately they love being immersed  in the local food and wine scene as well as learning a little about the culture and history.

Their expectations conjure up thoughts of many kinds. They’ve heard about the seafood, the oysters of Ston, the konoba restaurants serving traditional style meals, whether that be somewhere up in the Dalmatian hinterland in a private agritourism, on an island, or in a city, tasting local cheeses, visiting ancient olive groves, or in a local restaurant serving the days catch, their expectations are hopeful of finding places with ambience, where the waitperson takes time to explain the menu, and the local wines and although they have heard lots of good travel stories from their mates, they arrive with their differing expectations hoping to be fulfilled!

History of Croatian food… It would be very difficult for me to answer the following question, ‘What is the national dish of Croatia?’ if I had to choose a single dish or a single menu it would be impossible because the Croatian cuisine is distinctly regional, and sampling each one of the local specialities is an exceptional and totally different experience. It can roughly be divided into Mediterranean and continental, even though the Mediterranean cuisine along the coast differs from the cuisine found in the hinterland or on the smaller islands, not to mention the differences between specialities found in Istria in the north and down in southern Dalmatia.

While there are many excellent restaurants, one of my favourite culinary experiences has been up in the village of Vrgorac at the BOROVAC family agritourism, almost a 1.5 hour from Split heading south-east into the mountains, approximately 9 km from the Bosnia&Herzegovina  border Grandfather’s stone house and Konoba have been renovated, nestling under the ancient fort of the town. Here you will be warmly welcomed By Dragica and Željko into the Konoba, with a glowing fire in the cooler months and seated at a low table surrounded by a comfortable cushioned area ..making yourself comfortable and preparing for an absolute gourmet traveller’s delight..starting with a large selection of welcome liqueurs, each with a special quality ..”Take your pick..try a few!” ..The food starts arriving,.a selection of homemade cheeses from fresh to more aged, goat’s milk, and cow’s milk, pate’s of chicken and duck liver, olives, pancetta and prosciutto, home-baked bread, and pastries, cold-pressed virgin olive oils, a savoury slice, and while we are excitedly feasting on these specialities, the meat and potatoes are slowly roasting in the iron peka under the coals..served with roast seasonal vegetables and a bowl of fresh salad greens dressed with a drizzle of that delicious homegrown olive oil….and a squeeze of lemon juice..Dessert was the most amazing Dalmatian style cheesecake, serving with a little berry coulis..and even MORE, amazing..all that was presented on the table was grown and produced here at the Borovac family property. Needless to say, they have been awarded first prize for the very best agrotourism in this part of the country  …and well deserved!

My guests were singing the praises of this unique experience …of the warmest hospitality, the ambience of the Konoba, the aromas, the taste, the local wines that pleased the palate and the glowing embers of the fire, all blending to create an unforgettable dining occasion.

At the other end of the spectrum , a recent group of 6 Foodie and Wine buffs, from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, visited Croatia for the very first time.

Their expectations were high!  Following a 7-day cruise Split to Dubrovnik on a luxurious authentic timber gulet boat where they were treated to great traditional Dalmatian meals on board, they were also treated to some of the very best of Croatian wines and wine tastings at various Island vineyards discovering wine varieties of grape that they had never heard about before! Wine tastings were taking on a whole new and exciting meaning to this group! ..They were so impressed, and following the cruise, I prepared an 8-day itinerary on land. First stop was a degustation 6-course menu and wine tasting at BIBICH Vineyards near Skradin…an hour north of Split.…they were so impressed, they bought boxes of BIBICH wine to take home to Australia…! Here they found first-class cuisine and world-class wines as far as they were concerned..they were in awe of this establishment, the 500-year-old restored vineyard of Alen Bibich. Their other extraordinary culinary event was enjoyed at the multi-award-winning restaurant of PELEGRINI in Šibenik..Not knowing what to expect, but trusting in my recommendation they entered the restaurant at 12.30pm …4 hours later they finally dragged themselves away…calling me to rave over the quality of this fine dining restaurant that continues to be acclaimed as Number One in Croatia 3 years running! The attention to detail, the explanations of the cuisine and wines by waiter and sommelier were so appreciated..One of the group, an avid photographer photographed each bottle of wine, every cork and every glass of alcoholic beverage along the way…Here is the email I received following their return home to Australia……

Hi Robyn,                                                                                                                                We have fabulous memories of our time in Croatia and we will definitely be back. We saw so much over our 2 weeks but feel we barely touched the surface. ‘ Carpe Diem’ is a great gulet made extra special by Frano, Lorena and Nico. We are seriously thinking of heading north from Split towards Istria in 2019.

The land part of our holiday was equally terrific. We would especially like to thank you for helping put together a well-paced 8 days with lots of variety Our driver Marin was a champion, great sense of humour and lots of titbits of information. I am not sure which of our two special lunches I would but first, both were outstanding with world-class food and wine. Our Bibich Wines arrived safely back home and will bring back great memories in the years to come. Each of the guides you arranged for us were delightful individuals with excellent English and they gave us a much better understanding not just of the sights but of the history and character of Croatia. 

Thank you again for all your efforts in ensuring our holiday went smoothly, especially in helping us to check in Split. Sorry, we did not have the opportunity to say good by properly, Tony and Anna had made a mistake on their departure time so we had to rush to the Airport. All 6 of us loved our time in Croatia it over-delivered in every way and we can’t wait to get back again.                                                                              Best Regards, Dinah & Peter Davis.

There have been many other similar groups, during this recent summer..a mother and her two adult daughters from Sydney spent 10 days eating and travelling around the countryside..while based in Split they took a number of organized day trips … to the Krka River Falls where they had platters of cheese and prosciutto, Dalmatian Ham at it’s very best, bowls of mixed salads, tomatoes and cucumbers that were bursting with flavour always served with home-baked breads…and high quality virgin olive oils always on the table, and ready to be drizzled on the fresh bread!  They were in love with it all and especially The Babić wines of the local Krka region..

Another small group visited The Island of Hvar and after touring around some of the little fishing villages, they were taken to an old Dalmatian village of Vrisnik up in the hills above Jelsa for lunch. Here they met Andro, the proud owner of Konoba Vrisnik, his old stone family home belonging to his ancestors has been lovingly restored and here is where so many of my guests have been very impressed with the food, and Andro’s red wine Mali Plavac (Little Blue), a local Dalmatian variety and a superb white wine called Bogdanuša also grown in his vineyard. At Konoba Vrisnik you’ll find the friendly calming ambience and warm personalities of Andro and his family. On this occasion we found Andro checking on the peak. He explained the way the meats were being cooked, a mixture of veal, lamb and chicken slowly roasting over the hot coals. One of my guests was allergic to MSG, so I asked Andro if there was any MSG stock cubes or any flavour enhancers in the delicious split pea and ham soup. Andro was horrified..his face screwed up and he flung his arms in the air in absolute rejection to my question! Enhancers in my soup? I would never use such enhancers in my soup! NEVER! The Aussie group so appreciated the dining experience, their expectations were more than satisfied.

In Australia …marketing of travel to Croatia seems to be primarily by word of mouth.. ‘Would be’ travellers hear from their friends about the beauty of the Dalmatian Coast about the freshest seafood prepared as only the Dalmatians know how…basically on the grill over the coals…brushed with olive oil, salt and basted with a sprig of rosemary from time to time…or a tuna steak grilled to perfection while covered and partly steamed, yet grilled…resulting in the most delicious and succulent piece of tuna you’ll ever taste! …and the high quality of the wines.  Many of them opting for visits to some of the local vineyards, and more recently our Aussies are hearing about the other gourmet regions of Istria, and the Zagora Region around Zagreb, the Hinterland  Region inland from Split, and the Southern Konavle Region near Dubrovnik, oysters and Mussels in Ston, The World Class cheeses of Island  Pag in Northern Dalmatia, and the lamb of Island Brač. But as I said, marketing is mainly by word of mouth..and I think this is one of the best forms of promoting any travel experience.

Probably the least known region in Croatia is Slavonia and yet it has so much to offer, particularly in the field of privately run Bed and Breakfasts that are now being offered and down to earth agritourism properties. Slavonija (not to be confused with Slovenia) is the region . over in the east near the Hungarian border.. flat fertile fields as far as the eye can see..and once the food bowl of the nation until the EU market introduced European food at very competitive prices…however, this area still today produces a range of smallgoods, smoked meats and pork rinds, sausages of all descriptions including their famous blood sausage, salamis, jams, marmalades, sauerkraut, pickled vegetables,  wheat products, sauces and vinegar..The wines of this region are also outstanding..There is much to delight the food and wine hedonist in Slavonija…home to some of the nation’s leading winemakers.

The interest in visiting food and wine producers, particularly local food and wine trails, cooking schools, meeting the people involved, tasting their products in places of scenic beauty is growing year by year..and I am very happy to be part of this type of quality tourism.

Recently we took a group of Australians to Island Pag on our way north from Split to Istria culminating in Zagreb…Pag is scenically exotic …cheese, salt, lace, olive trees of Lun, ending the day at a family restaurant called Grandfather’s House…and Cheese production home of GLIGORA cheeses.. Pag is a very unique environment…seemingly a wasteland of stone sea and salt..devoid of vegetation due to the force of the strong Bura winds blowing out to sea from the mainland and depositing sea salt across the Northern side of the Island..however, this island is very rich in produce, particularly world gold medal Gligora award-winning cheeses, ancient 1000-year-old olive groves producing first-class olive oil, and Pag lamb..a speciality as well as the ancient salt pans where salt has been harvested since the days of the Roman Empire..not to mention the fine laces of Pag!

Definitely a Slow Food Paradise.. visiting the vineyards of Matoševic and Meneghetti, Veralda and Klaudio Tomaz in Istria..to name a few…visiting the atmospheric 15th-century village of Bale and the hill town of Motovun..here you will find pasta dishes to die for..Sept is the time of year for porcini mushrooms and the local forests are a truffle hunters delight! Coupled with some of the finest of local wines, sitting and dining on a hilltop village overlooking centuries of Venetian architecture, stone houses and walls, with the famous winged lion of Venice carved into stone adorning the entrances of many buildings dating back at least 500 years…as we walked through the quiet and quaint narrow streets of Bale, I saw a woman in her shop talking to a couple of olive oil enthusiasts..I stopped to listen and she gestured to me to come closer.

Lucky I did..with my Aussies following me..we listened…her story was inspiring ..the ins and outs of producing a high-quality extra virgin olive oil, and then showing us how to properly become an olive oil taster..My guests loved this impromptu presentation. Purchasing a few bottles of this liquid gold and later drizzling it over fresh bread was another traveller’s delight.!

Croatia is a place where a discerning traveller can stop awhile and enjoy the environment, the food, the history, and culture,  in a country that is considered to be very safe and where expectations are easily fulfilled.

The Australian traveller is known to be pretty easy going…. They don’t easily get upset..they are not usually demanding…most proprietors say they are delightful guests…however, they do expect value for money, no smoking in restaurants, and good service with a smile.

I am very proud when meeting and greeting my guests …knowing I have a wonderful smorgasbord of places to visit.. I hope I have been able to explain to you the style of tourism that many of our guests really enjoy…Croatia is a place where daily life seems to be moving at a much slower pace than most..certainly slower than the fast hectic pace in Australia..time to wander, smell the roses, explore and indulge in authentic traditional cuisine and local wines that are now being awarded by world wine groups such as Decanter…this is the Croatia my Australians love to discover and experience…out of the way places, away from the commercialised tourist routes… food and wine trails are becoming increasingly popular in Croatia..meeting the local people, the producers, and for those who allow sufficient time ..there is certainly an abundance here in this country to satisfy the senses..and the appetite!

Finally getting back to the story about Peter from Perth …the wine buff… I reminded him on the last evening of our tour of the dramatic statement he had made on his arrival..!

‘Peter, after touring through Croatia, please tell me your impressions of Croatian Food and Wine’.  He held his head in his hands, and for a moment he was quiet…trying to think of the best words to explain his thoughts and feelings about what he had discovered here in Croatia..He had travelled from Island Cres in the north to Dubrovnik in the south, sailed through the Dalmatian islands to Zadar, and toured through the regions of Lika and Kvarner to Istria, finally arriving into the capital of Zagreb in the  Continental  part of the country..he had loved it all, was totally in awe of the diversity and freshness of Croatian Cuisine, and as for the wines..he was amazed and has definitely added Croatia to his list of BEST COUNTRIES TO VISIT FOR FINE AUTHENTIC FOOD AND WINES:

I felt so happy…he was a tough nut to crack..but Croatia had done it again..another MORE than satisfied traveller now back home in Perth and spreading the word!

Robyn Vulinovich, Split, Croatia.

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• Croatia Visa Exemption

Croatian visa for Australian citizens

Visa requirements:, croatia tourist visa requirements:.

• Holding Australian passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of the intended stay in Croatia.
• Proof of onward travel (departure) from Croatia.

If you are looking for Croatia visa information, such as available types of visas, or how to apply from Australia, we recommend you visit or contact the embassy or consulate of Croatia nearest your place of residence.

• Canberra : The Embassy of Croatia in Canberra, Australia (Working hours: Close now )
• Perth : The Consulate of Croatia in Perth, Australia (Working hours: Close now )
• Sydney : The Consulate General of Croatia in Sydney, Australia (Working hours: Close now )
• Melbourne : The Consulate General of Croatia in Melbourne, Australia (Working hours: Close now )

Tourism Statistics Chart

The line chart shows the number of visitors from Australia traveling to Croatia from 2008 to 2018.

References: UNWTO.org , World Bank and multiple sources. (This data is for informational purposes only. Please see our disclaimer page for more information.)

Croatia & Australia comparison

Croatia's area is approximately 55,960 km2 (21,606 sq mi), while the area of Australia is approximately 7,682,300 km2 (2,966,151 sq mi). This means Australia is 137.28 times bigger than Croatia.

As of June 2024, Croatia's population is ~4.0 million people - 22,698,380 fewer people than the population of Australia.

We have highlighted Croatia & Australia’s relative positions on world's map for your reference.

Frequently asked questions, answered

How many visitors from australia travel to croatia in one year.

The number of visitors from Australia visiting Croatia in 2019 was approximately 217,190.

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The Travel Guides take on three surprising activities you'd never thought to do in Croatia

The Travel Guides swapped the land for the sea as they sailed along Croatian waters aboard the premium yacht Princess Elegnaza.

While in Croatia the Guides did the usual cruising and sight seeing that you'd expect from the Mediterranean hotspot.

Stream new episodes of Travel Guides on 9Now.

But "holiday snobs" Kevin and Janetta , the Frens , siblings Stack and Josh , best mates Kev, Dorian and Teng and Matt and Brett put themselves outside of their comfort zone to try some of the most surprising activities Croatia has to offer.

From sword dancing to transforming into mermaids, the Guides take on all the Croatian tourist attractions you'd never thought to try.

The Frens sample donkey's milk

Holidays are usually a time to relax but the Guides put themselves to work on the Antunović family farm which invites tourists to lend a hand.

While some of the other guides were sampling Rakija – a traditional Croatian spirit – after a successful vineyard harvest, the Frens were busy sampling another Croatian delicacy – donkey's milk.

And of course they had to work for it, getting on their hands and knees to milk the hoofed mammal.

"Who milks a donkey!?" Victoria asked in disgust.

But it turns out a few people do. High in vitamin D, probiotics and protein, donkey's milk is sold for 10 times the price of regular cow's milk.

READ MORE: 3 of the most eye-opening moments from the Travel Guides' trip to Morocco

As thanks for their hard work the farmer treated the Frens to a glass or two of donkey's milk.

Although they would've preferred to turn the offer down, Mark managed to swallow the cup full while Cathy was less successful spitting the milk all over the floor.

"I felt extremely bad for the Croatian farmer when we found out that milk is actually worth $40 a litre!" Victoria told cameras.

"We just wasted a month's worth of profit for him." 

The male Guides learn sword dancing

The Guides didn't know exactly what they were in for when stumbled across a group of sword dancers in the small town of Blato.

"Are we about to be executed?" Dorian questioned the group of men holding weapons.

But Dorian was happy to learn that the local men were performing a traditional sword dance called Kumpanjija as they do every summer in the main square.

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It's the only place in the world where you can see the unique battle dance – a reenactment of the bloody clash between the invading pirates and the brave men of Blato.

The traditional dance is reserved for men only, so it was just the male Guides that had a stab at recreating the dance themselves.

While Kevin took the lesson seriously, Kev, Dorian and Teng were a little harder to control with the instructor reminding them "it's not Star Trek".

Matt and Brett transform into mermen

According to the ancient Greeks the brave god Odysseus frolicked with mermaids during his travels around the Croatian islands. 

Some of the locals have brought that legend to life by creating a real life mermaid experience - and you bet the Guides put their best fins forward for the task. 

"Learning to be a merman was not something that was ever on our to-do list," Matt told cameras.  

READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Travel Guides 2023

But it wasn't as easy as the instructor mama mermaid made it look. 

"Mama mermaid was telling us 'Just pick your tail up and slap it against the water.' Do you know the kind of muscles that works and how heavy that tail was? That was a proper workout!" Stack wheezed. 

And while Stack and Josh struggled to stay afloat, Matt and Brett "took to it like fish to water". 

"I felt instantly graceful and elegant," Brett said. 

Travel Guides airs on Wednesdays at 7.30pm on Channel 9 and 9Now.

• Kev Dorian And Teng
• Kevin And Janetta
• Stack And Josh
• Matt And Brett

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Australia eVisitor Visa for Croatian citizens

For Croatian citizens dreaming of exploring Australia's vast and diverse landscapes, the Australia eVisitor Visa offers an incredible opportunity. This electronic visa allows you to experience some of the world's most iconic tourist attractions, from the majestic Great Barrier Reef to the bustling streets of Sydney.

Getting an Australia eVisitor Visa for Croatian citizens is straightforward using our platform: it takes just a few clicks. This guide will provide all the necessary information to apply hassle-free. Let's get started!

Australia eVisitor Visa: Do Croatian citizens need an Australia Visa?

Yes, Croatian citizens visiting Australia need an eVisitor Visa . This electronic visa simplifies the process, allowing you to apply online without needing a physical visit to an embassy or consulate. Whether you're planning to marvel at Australia's natural beauty, participate in a business conference, visit family and friends, or engage in a short study course, the eVisitor Visa caters to all these activities.

This digital visa, valid for one year after arrival, offers the flexibility of multiple entries . You can enjoy stays of up to 90 days Per Entry , making it ideal for short visits.

How to get an Australia Visa for Croatian citizens with us

Securing your Australia eVisitor Visa as a Croatian citizen is a breeze with our streamlined online service. Here’s how you can quickly obtain your visa, leaving you more time to plan your Australian adventure:

Step 1: Enter your contact and travel information in the online form using our website or iVisa app .

Step 2: Ensure all your information is accurate before choosing your preferred processing time. Then, pay the visa fees.

Step 3: Upload the supporting documents and submit your application. Stay updated via email, where you'll receive confirmation of your visa approval.

With your eVisitor Visa in hand, Australia's wonders are just a flight away!

Australia Embassy in Croatia

The Australian Embassy in Zagreb offers comprehensive support and information regarding travel to Australia. Croatian travelers can seek specific consular advice, including assistance for long-term visa applications and other consular services.

Address: Grand Centar, 5th floor, Hektorovićeva 2, 10 000 Zagreb

Phone: +385 1 4891 200

Contact us for more details about the Australia eVisitor Visa

If you have more questions or need further assistance with applying for your Australia eVisitor Visa, please contact us online chat or at [email protected] . Our team is dedicated to ensuring your travel plans run smoothly.

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Horror fall off wall in Dubrovnik, Croatia leaves Aussies fighting for life

An Australian couple have had their dream European holiday shattered after suffering a serious fall while travelling in Croatia.

Plane forced to make emergency landing

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An Australian couple are fighting for life in Dubrovnik, Croatia after falling 10 metres from a wall in this weekend.

Local media reports a man in his 30s and woman in her 20s were rushed to hospital after the incident. It’s believed the couple slipped and fell from the wall while walking between restaurants in the medieval town of Pile at about 2.25am on Saturday local time.

It’s believed they did not climb the wall, with Dubrovnik police spokesperson Andrijana Biskup telling Croatian news station Dubrovacka Televizija that the couple may have been cuddling or kissing when they fell and that alcohol may have been involved.

According to Ms Biskup, the man had a blood alcohol reading of 0.2 and the woman’s was 0.3.

The fall is being treated as an accident by local authorities.

The man has undergone surgery due to the fall and the woman is currently in a critical condition in the intensive care unit of Dubrovnik General Hospital.

Trauma specialist at the hospital Dr Ivan Bencic told Croatian media outlet HRT the woman was suffering from cerebral damage and multiple fractures to her vertebrae.

“We are constantly monitoring her and doing everything we can to fight for her life,” he said.

“As far as the male is concerned he had a far better run than she did.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT) confirmed they are helping the couple after the incident.

“The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance to two Australians injured in Croatia,” a DFAT spokesperson said in a statement.

A Qantas flight was forced to make an emergency landing after it brakes failed.

A man has been charged after allegedly setting up fake free Wi-Fi access points at airports and on planes, and using them to steal personal data.

Boeing is in big trouble after it was revealed it had “blatantly violated” its rules around the Alaska Airlines jet whose door blew off in mid-air.

This African country is No. 1 for friendliest destination: See who made the top 10

• The world's friendliest countries were determined by a new report from digital financial services company Remitly.
• The company surveyed 3,000 participants from 27 countries on the "agreeableness" trait from the popular Big 5 Personality Test.
• The scores of each country's residents were averaged, with the higher averages deeming the country friendlier.

Traveling to a new country can be nerve-racking , from having a basic grasp of the language to navigating the public transit system.

One thing that can ease the stress of being in a new place is encountering friendly locals, who can make you feel welcome and help if you’re lost.

Digital financial services company Remitly recently determined the world’s friendliest nations in a new report . The company surveyed 3,000 participants from 27 countries on their “agreeableness” from the popular Big 5 Personality Test in April. Participants took a simplified version of the test’s “agreeableness” section and were given a score between 1 and 40, with a higher score meaning they were more agreeable. The scores of each country’s residents were averaged, and the higher the average, the friendlier the country. 

Solo traveling basics: Expert advice for your first trip

If someone’s personality is concluded as agreeable, they’re friendly, compassionate and empathetic. This is the type of person who prioritizes interpersonal relationships, is warm to others and wants to strike up conversations − all good traits if travelers want to feel comfortable in a new destination. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“A big part of being in a new place is the experience you have with locals, whether it's getting insider tips on the best places to eat, or making long-lasting connections and forging friendships that will last a lifetime,” said Ollie Cassel, head of growth marketing at Remitly, in an email to USA TODAY. “The friendliness of the people you interact with can sometimes make or break your experience.”

Read below to find out the top 10 friendliest countries, according to Remitly.

10. Belgium, 32.5

Belgium is ranked as one of the friendliest countries to travelers. The European nation not only has progressive social policies and low crime rates, but English is easily spoken, which makes it easy to meet locals. 

9. Estonia, 32.58

Home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and more than 1,000 islands, Estonia has friendly locals who are known to be respectful and polite to foreigners. A 2019 survey of almost 14,000 Estonians found that most residents prioritize safety and openness. 

8. Germany, 32.66

There’s a lot of history and culture to uncover in Germany, and its friendly residents help make it a popular European destination. Germans aren’t known for engaging in small talk but will help you out if you’re in need. 

7. Canada, 32.84

Known for their kindness – and love for the word “sorry – Canadians scored high for agreeableness in the Remitly report, which makes it a welcoming destination for travelers. 

6. Australia, 33.13

With friendly, laid-back locals, Australia earned a spot as one of the friendliest countries for travelers, so you can feel good about visiting the Land Down Under. 

5. Sweden, 33.30

Known to have friendly and courteous locals, Sweden earned the spot as the fifth-friendliest nation. It makes sense: The country is often ranked as one of the happiest places in the world . 

4. Mexico, 33.47

Known for having strong family ties and being proud of their heritage, Mexicans are generally friendly and kind to travelers, earning the North American country the fourth spot in the report. 

3. Croatia, 33.50

Scoring the spot for the third-friendliest country, Croatia is highly welcoming for travelers. Croatians are known to be polite and social, so you can feel comfortable asking locals for directions. 

2. Greece, 33.71

The Greeks live by a value known as philoxenia , which translates to “friend of the foreign” and stems from ancient Greek mythology. Essentially, this means the country is especially welcoming and warm to travelers. 

1. South Africa, 34.63

South Africans are known to be friendly, so travelers can expect to encounter many locals saying hello and striking up conversations. Eleven official languages are spoken in the African country, like English and Afrikaans, so you can feel comfortable engaging with residents. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

Why a rise in 'tourism-phobia' should give Australians flocking to European summer a cause for pause

It's that time of year again when social media feeds become flooded with "Euro summer" holiday content.

Every winter, there's a cohort of Australians who escape to the Mediterranean Sea, seeking an idyllic scene to sip Aperol spritz in the sun.

But, they may not all be getting a warm welcome. 

Since pandemic travel restrictions eased, tourism has come surging back and Europe is copping an influx of visitors in record numbers.

And some locals aren't happy about it. 

Graffiti and stickers exclaiming, "Tourists go home!" and threats such as "We'll spit in your beer" are becoming a common sight across major cities. 

Anti-tourism protests are also spreading, with locals angered by "bad tourists", short-term rentals and "the touristification of daily life".

Experts say at this rate there's no way tourism can be sustainable, and we need to re-think the way we travel so we're not part of the problem. 

A return to overseas travel

Australians are back on the move.

In 2023, nearly 10 million residents returned from a short-term trip overseas , an increase of over 4.7 million on the previous year, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

June was a particularly high time to travel, with more Australians leaving the country in mid-last year than in December 2022. 

Skyscanner Australia travel expert, Jarrod Kris, says there has been an increase in Australians searching for flights to European destinations.

Search volumes for European countries in 2023 were up by 28 per cent on the previous year, with Greece, France, Italy and Spain among the most popular.

Searches were also 16 per cent higher than pre-pandemic 2019, Mr Kris said. 

Based on Skyscanner flight booking data, the most popular 2024 Euro summers destinations for Australians so far are: 

• 2. Manchester
• 4. Istanbul

Landing in an overtourism crisis

Many of these popular destinations are facing an "overtourism crisis", Claudio Milano from the University of Barcelona's department of social anthropology, said. 

And it's leading to a resurgence of "tourism-phobia".

The term emerged around the 2008 financial crisis with locals blaming tourists for their deteriorating quality of life.

Now as crowds have come flooding back in record numbers after the pandemic reprieve, so too has social unrest and tourism rejection.

Especially as cities confront housing emergencies, masses of Airbnb lockboxes strewn down residential streets are a scathing sign of the times. 

Already Europe's foreign tourist arrivals for 2024 have exceeded 2019 levels.

And summer is bringing two major sporting events to the continent — the Paris Olympics and the UEFA European Football Championship in Germany.

Tourism officials expect 15.3 million visitors to the French capital over the Olympics period. 

Parisians have been staging protests and strikes, calling out the social impact the Games will have on their city, which is already the most-visited destination in the world.

Locals lash out   

In recent weeks, tens of thousands of residents have also been taking to the streets in Athens, Venice, Barcelona and Spain's Balearic Islands.

Last weekend, protesters occupied beaches frequented by tourists in Mallorca, after about 10,000 demonstrated the previous week under the banner #Mallorca no es ven — Mallorca is not for sale. 

Smaller protests have been held in neighbouring Menorca and the notorious party island Ibiza.

And throughout April, more than 50,000 people from the small Spanish Canary Islands took part in demonstrations.

Freya Higgins-Desbiolles, a lecturer in tourism management at the University of South Australia, says it's clear impacts of overtourism have reached new heights.   

"The recent activism in the Canary Islands, where tens of thousands of people came out in a relatively small community, indicates just how angry people are," she told the ABC.

Fake signs have been spotted at Spanish beaches warning tourists that there's dangerous jellyfish and falling rocks.

Then small-print in Catalan reads "the problem isn’t a rockfall, it's mass tourism", according to local media reports. 

There's also been more confronting backlash with reports of rentals cars, bikes and tourist buses being vandalised or their tires slashed.

Tourists making life unlivable

Professor Milano says similar messages are being echoed by anti-tourism activists and movements across the board.

Locals are frustrated by cities being oversold and overcrowded with "capitalistic tourism".

Short-term rentals are raising housing costs, taking over residential buildings, and pricing locals out of living in their own towns.

Javier Carbonell, a real estate agent in Mallorca, told Reuters over half of rental properties were used for holiday rentals and were not affordable for locals.

"We want less mass tourism and more sustainable tourism," Mr Carbonell said.

Professor Higgins-Desbiolles said cities and towns have become completely over-run by tourists, making them unlivable and unrecognisable to those who call them home.

"There's no problem having tourists in the city, the problem is to have only tourists in the city," Professor Milano said. 

He called it the "touristification of daily life".

In places such as Venice, Italy, locals have been displaced due to poorly managed tourism, Professor Higgins-Desbiolles said.

Some shops that sustained local life have been replaced with tacky souvenir shops.

"Because of tourism developments and the way tourism has run, it's made it difficult to lead normal lives," she said.

"Whether you can travel to Venice, and have that accepted, requires thought on the part of the traveller."

Should you still travel?

Professor Milano says for the most part activists are not angered by the tourist encounter, rather the tourism model and the issues it provokes. 

They don't want no tourism at all, but he admitted they do want better tourists. 

And there are ways to minimise negative effects so your travels benefit local businesses. 

Avoid Airbnb 

In Athens, graffiti is sprayed across walls showing buildings up in flames alongside the words "burn Airbnb", according to local media.

And protesters in the city have been waving signs reading "Barcelona: Tourists welcome, locals NOT welcome", and chanting "tourists are taking our houses".

Professor Milano said travellers should avoid booking Airbnb and instead find a hotel.

And tourists should try to spend money on local businesses as much as they can. 

A lot of frustration stems from outside entities profiting while locals suffer, Professor Higgins-Desbiolles said. 

"The most simple advice that I could give to make sure you're welcome — no matter where you go — is to knowledgeably and intentionally spend money in that local economy." 

Beware of 'live like a local' myths 

Travellers are being warned about falling for commercial narratives that promote getting a local's experience. 

"With Airbnb, we have brought tourism into our buildings," Professor Milano said. 

"Airbnb used to be promoted as 'live like a local' ... But it’s not 'live like a local' because the property manager is a big company that probably owns 200 apartments in Barcelona."

In some cities, residential areas are becoming so congested locals can't easily access their own streets or get on a bus. 

The advice is to stay away from the crowded areas and avoid travelling at peak seasons.

Scrap the multi-stop trips

What has been called the "Ryanair revolution" has enabled travellers to jet between European destinations for next to nothing.

This hyper mobility is a big part of the problem, Professor Milano said.

Regularly flying to Europe for two weeks and visiting several destinations isn't uncommon for some Australians. 

But Professor Higgins-Desbiolles says we need to consider slowing down — not just for the wellbeing of the local communities, but for the environment.

"Access to these places is not our right, it’s a privilege," she said.

"We need to get more considered in our consumption."

She said we don't need to stop holidaying, but it would be better to scale it back to one big holiday every few years, and staying in the one country.

'Don't be a jerk'

Protesters in the Canary Islands have been calling out "bad tourists" who disrespect the land and culture.

While campaigns in Amsterdam have been targeting badly-behaved tourists with the slogan "stay away" if your plan is to come for a messy night "getting trashed".

Professor Higgins-Desbiolles says if you want to be accepted in cities, simply "don’t be a jerk".

"You're a visitor in somebody's home, and that's the thing about these destinations that we forget — these are local people's homes," she said.

"Visitors think they have a right to go to places, that their money buys them access, and that they don't need to be thoughtful and sensitive."

This also applies to "commodifying travels", and the lengths people will take to get the perfect social media shot. 

Listen to communities 

Policies and measures are being rolled out in many places to address overcrowding, such as introducing tourist taxes, entry fees, and capping visitor numbers at peak times. 

Professor Higgins-Desbiolles says it's also important to listen to what communities want, because locals are saying this isn't enough.

"We should stop emphasising continual economic growth to instead look at wellbeing," she said. 

Countries outside Europe have been developing responsible tourist pledges for visitors to sign when they arrive.

The Pacific Island nation of Palau has taken this a step further, opening up local opportunities for tourists who abide by the pledge and show respect.

"That's what gets you a warm welcome into these places," Dr Higgins-Desbiolles said.

"We really should centre tourism on local community rights. That would make the difference."

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