Is Croatia Safe in 2023? (Plus 10 Safety Tips) - Travel Lemming (2024)

👉 Jump to: Is Croatia Safe? | Covid-19 | Crime | Scams | Landmines | Weather | Water | Safety Tips | FAQ

Considering traveling to Croatia and wondering if it’s safe to visit? It’s a common question, and while Croatia is overwhelmingly safe, there are some things you should know before you go.

To date, I’ve spent about a month traveling Croatia without incident and I’ve experienced some of the best things to do in Croatia. While my personal experience is anecdotal, the numbers don’t lie — Croatia has a relatively low travel advisory level and even ranks #15 on the Global Peace Index as of 2022.

Still, to help you have the safest trip to Croatia possible, I’ve put together my top safety tips for Croatia combined with a ton of research on Croatia travel safety.

Disclosure: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. See our Advertising Policy for further explanation. Thank you!

Is Croatia Safe?

Let’s start by directly answering the question on everyone’s minds: is Croatia safe for travel?

Croatia is very safe for travelers in terms of violent crime and the threat of terrorism, which are quite rare in the country. However, travelers should be moderately aware of petty theft, especially around major tourism areas. Travelers should also keep weather patterns in mind while visiting Croatia.

Before we expand upon these safety risks, we should note it may be a good idea to get travel insurance coverage for Croatia. You can easily get a quote in minutes through VisitorsCoverage — and it may cost less than you think!

Things to Know About Safety in Croatia

Covid-19 in Croatia

As of June 2023, Croatia is completely re-open to tourism following the COVID-19 pandemic. Travelers do not need to provide any vaccination certificates, nor are they required to wear masks in public settings.

Still, I recommend staying up to date on the latest restrictions, entry requirements, and health situation by checking out the US Embassy in Croatia’s page ontravel to Croatia during Covid-19.

Crime & Terrorism in Croatia

Crime and terrorism are both relatively low in Croatia. In fact, the homicide rate there has been in steady decline since the Croatian War of Independence ended in 1995, and terrorist attacks are exceedingly rare.

That said, some tension does remain from the war, and occasional ethnically motivated crimes and political demonstrations have been known to occur.

Additionally, while the threat of terrorism is present in all of Europe, the US State Department does consider Croatia to be minimal risk.

Petty Theft and Scams in Croatia

As with most popular destinations in Europe, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in Croatia. In particular, be hyper-aware of pickpocketing in crowded tourist attractions such as Dubrovnik, Split, Zagreb, and while in a National Park.

👉 Pro Tip: While the threat of being pickpocketed in Croatia isn’t as high as in Italy or Spain, I do still recommend bringing along a slash-proof bag or anti-theft backpack, keeping expensive items stowed away, and being aware of your general vicinity.

Unexploded Landmines in Croatia

Leftover from the Croatian War of Independence, unexploded landmines are a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas.

While demining efforts are constantly underway and the country is hoping to be landmine-free in as little as five years, it is estimated that there are as many as 17,000 unexploded mines.

Honestly, you don’t have to worry about these if you stick to marked hiking trails and popular locations, but still, if you see signs warning about the mines, take them seriously. For example, some remote areas of Plitvice Lakes National Park still have some unexploded mines, so don’t venture too far off-trail.

If you’re unsure about the landmine status of the Croatian regions you’ll be visiting, don’t hesitate to ask the locals for guidance.

Hazardous Weather and Natural Disasters

While the weather is usually quite pleasant in Croatia, there are some factors to consider regarding when to visit Croatia. Firstly, the temperatures can get very hot in July and August, and extreme heat (including heat stroke) is something you should be very aware of during these months. Due to the heat, forest fires are common in the summertime.

Additionally, earthquakes are common in Croatia. While most are small tremors and are unlikely to impact your trip, the last major earthquake was in early 2020 when a 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck the country. There has been ongoing restoration following this earthquake as a result of the damage.

Is Tap Water Safe to Drink in Croatia?

Tap water is safe to drink in Croatia. Along with many studies conducted all over the country in regard to tap water safety, I can provide my experience in constantly filling up my water bottle from taps and fountains around the country and staying perfectly healthy.

12 Croatia Safety Tips

Consider Travel Insurance

While not mandatory to visit Croatia, purchasing travel insurance for your trip may be a smart idea.

I’ve purchased travel insurance for multiple destinations around the world and have never regretted it.

Check out our Croatia travel insurance comparison for more information. Or check out VisitorsCoverage to get and compare dozens of quotes all in a minute or so.

Drive Within Your Comfort Zone

I’ve said it before in my tips for driving in Croatia article, but stay within your comfort zone when behind the wheel.

While I highly recommend a Croatian road trip, the highways tend to be narrow and have relatively high-speed limits. Not to mention, some of the most popular, and scenic highways, are along the Adriatic coast.

The locals are used to these conditions, and they tend to drive accordingly.

But, if you’re not comfortable with this, then stick to the speed limit. Yes, people will pass you, but it’s a small price to pay for staying safe on the road.

And, while you’re driving, make sure you have a reflective vest in your car. Croatian law states that every driver must wear a reflective vest if they exit their car on the side of the road, so it’s best to be prepared (most rental cars will come with this, but ask when you pick up the car).

💡 Hot Tip: Looking to book a rental car in Croatia? Then check out Discover Cars! They are my go-to service when reserving cars abroad, they have excellent customer care, and they have plenty of vehicle options.

Be Aware of Nightlife Scams

Did you know that Croatia is one of Europe’s premier party destinations? With tons of clubs, music venues, and parties all over the country, the nightlife is abundant during Croatia’s party season.

Yet, with all the good comes some bad, as there are a few nightlife scams to look out for.

In particular, don’t accept free drinks or food from people you don’t know (spiking is common), avoid gentlemen’s clubs, pay upfront at the bar instead of keeping a tab (tabs have been known to get peculiarly pricier), and be vigilant against pickpockets.

Know the Emergency Numbers

Nobody plans on things going wrong abroad, but if you need help, being as prepared as possible could be game-changing.

I recommend stashing a small piece of paper with emergency numbers both in your wallet and your suitcase just in case.

The emergency numbers in Croatia are:

• Police, Ambulance, and Firefighters– 112
• U.S. Embassy in Zagreb – (385) (1) 661-2200

Keep Bathing Suits for the Beach

Did you know that wearing a bathing suit in Croatia’s towns is against the law?

It’s true! Despite a ton of Croatia’s tourism being sea and beach-based, if you’re not in the water, on the beach, or on a boat, you could be fined up to €150 Euro (163 USD) if you’re caught bearing only your bathing suit.

So, stay respectful of the local customs and cover up when walking around in town.

Be Aware of Sea Urchins

Something I wasn’t aware of before I went to Croatia was just how many sea urchins dot the shores of the Adriatic Sea.

And they are spikey.

👉 Pro Tip: In order to protect your feet against the urchins, I recommend wearing water shoes, like these ones, every time you go in the water and staying very alert as you’re walking along the shores.

Stay Away From Drugs

While staying away from drugs is more or less common sense while traveling, I recommend you take this to heart in Croatia.

In Croatia, most drugs are treated as the same level of offense, and the amount you’re allowed to have on you isn’t set in stone — meaning that, if you get caught, much is left to the police officer’s discretion. Generally, getting caught carrying means either a ticket or a day in court.To make matters easier for yourself, just stick to other kinds of recreational activities and you should be good to go.

Learn Some Basic Croatian Words

While many Croatians who work in tourism speak English, it’s always a good idea to learn some of the local language while traveling.

From being able to read maps to asking for help and calling authorities, learning basic Croatian will show respect from the locals and keep you safe on the road.

This is a great list of Croatian words to learn before your trip.

Steer Clear of Political Demonstrations

Despite its long-standing status as a peaceful country, political demonstrations do happen on occasion in Croatia and, as a visitor, it’s best to steer clear of them.

While mostly peaceful, demonstrations can turn violent or rowdy on a dime. And given the emotional nature of such events, your presence may not be entirely welcome.

Give these demonstrations a wide berth and you should be good to go.

Check the Weather Daily

Being a coastal region, the weather in Croatia can be fickle, and this can make simple activities, such as driving along the coastal roads or boating in open water, more risky.

Though most days in summer are clear and sunny, no matter when you go to Croatia, check the weather report every morning to know if rain or storms are expected and then plan your activities accordingly.

Be Aware of Potential Earthquakes

Resting on top of a collision zone of tectonic plates, the Adriatic tectonic micro-plate and the Eurasian Ivica Sović plate, Croatia is very used to earthquake activity.

While not excessive, earthquakes do happen and, though rarely serious, have been known to cause damage.

If you feel an earthquake, stay calm. If you’re outside, stay where you are, if you’re inside, avoid doorways, and if you’re driving, pull over and park.

👍 Have a week to travel? Then check out our 10 day Croatia itinerary!

Don’t Draw Too Much Attention to Yourself

As a visitor, drawing attention to yourself is going to happen. However, to avoid the risk of scams or pickpocketing, try and be as discreet with your presence as possible.

Don’t flash expensive items around, try not to get overly inebriated, and treat everyone with respect.

FAQs About How to Stay Safe in Croatia

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That’s it for my top Croatian safety tips! So, is Croatia safe? Generally, yes, it is about as safe a destination as you’ll find (just be sure to do your research on the latest situation there right before going). Up next, check out these best places to visit in Croatia!

For more articles on travel in Europe and safety, visit:

• 5 Top Travel Backpacks
• 11 Best Places to Backpack In Europe
• Is Canada safe?
• Is Playa del Carmen safe?

Have fun traveling to Croatia!