Living in Croatia: the ultimate expat guide

As an EU and Schengen Area member, Croatia follows standardized European entry and residence regulations. Requirements vary significantly based on your nationality and intended length of stay. Here's what you need to know to plan your arrival.

EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals

If you're a citizen of the European Union, European Economic Area, or Switzerland, no visa is required. You enjoy freedom of movement and can stay up to 90 days without formalities. For longer stays, simply register with the local police station (MUP) to obtain a residence certificate.

Schengen visa for short stays

Third-country nationals can apply for a Schengen Type C visa allowing stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This covers tourist, business, or family visits. Costs vary by nationality, and applications are submitted at Croatian embassies or consulates.

National visa for extended stays

Planning to stay beyond 90 days? You'll need a Type D (long-stay) visa before departure. This visa can only be obtained at a Croatian embassy or consulate abroad and serves as the mandatory first step for applying for temporary residence once in Croatia.

Temporary residence permits

The Temporary Residence Permit is issued for one year and is renewable. Several categories accommodate different situations: employment, self-employment or entrepreneurship, family reunification, studies, property ownership, or other justified reasons. You'll need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources, valid health insurance, and accommodation in Croatia. Application costs vary by permit type.

Digital nomad visa: A standout program

Croatia offers one of Europe's most attractive digital nomad visas. Since August 2025, the initial duration can reach 18 months, with a possible 6-month extension if the initial visa was for 12 months. This program targets citizens of non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss countries working remotely for companies not registered in Croatia.

Financial requirements were updated in May 2025: you must demonstrate monthly income of at least €3,295 or savings of €39,540 for a 12-month visa, or €59,310 for 18 months. A 10% supplement applies per accompanying family member. You'll also need bank statements covering 6 months (increased from 3 months in 2025).

The tax benefit is substantial: remote work income is tax-exempt (note: this exemption doesn't cover passive income). However, the visa is non-renewable, with a 180-day waiting period before reapplication. The approval rate stands at 48.8% in 2025.

EU Blue Card for skilled professionals

The EU Blue Card targets highly qualified professionals. Its duration was extended to 48 months (4 years) in 2025, up from 24 months. A significant update: qualifications can now be recognized based on professional experience, not solely formal degrees. ICT sector roles are particularly targeted. You'll need an employment contract with a Croatian employer.

Long-term and permanent residence

After 5 consecutive years of legal residence in Croatia, you can apply for Long-term Residence status. The time calculation accounts for absences: they must not exceed 10 months cumulative over 5 years, or 6 consecutive months for a single absence. You'll need to pass a Croatian language and Latin alphabet test, administered by the universities of Zagreb, Rijeka, Osijek, Split, or Zadar.

Permanent residence (Permanent Stay) follows specific rules: 4 years of uninterrupted temporary residence for family members of Croatian citizens, or 3 years for members of the Croatian people holding foreign citizenship.

Step-by-step procedure

First, determine if you need a visa. EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens are exempt for stays under 90 days. Other nationalities should consult the Ministry of Interior's official website.

Next, prepare your documentation. Generally required items include: the application form (Form 1a for residence), a passport valid at least 3 months beyond your intended stay, 2 identity photos, proof of accommodation in Croatia, valid health insurance, evidence of financial resources, an apostilled criminal background check translated into Croatian by a certified translator (dated within 6 months), and proof of your reason for stay such as an employment contract or study certificate.

Submit your application either at a Croatian embassy or consulate in your country (if a visa is required), or online or at a police station in Croatia (if no visa is needed). Visa applications can be submitted up to 90 days before departure.

Processing typically takes 8-30 days but may extend to 3-6 weeks during peak tourist season. After approval, collect your visa or permit and register at the police station within 3 days of arrival. You'll receive your biometric residence card within 30 days, or 6 months if a long-stay visa was required. Don't forget to request your OIB number (personal identification number), mandatory for all administrative procedures.

2025 legislative changes

The Law on Foreigners was amended in March 2025 with several notable improvements. Beyond extending the EU Blue Card and recognizing ICT competencies, new employer-based work permit quotas were introduced based on company size. Transfers between employers via recruitment agencies are now faster (3-5 days), and foreign workers benefit from enhanced protection.

For additional information, consult the official Ministry of Interior (MUP) website or contact the nearest Croatian embassy.

Croatia's job market has undergone notable transformation, with unemployment hitting a historic low of 5.8% in September 2025. This favorable climate creates opportunities for skilled workers, particularly in sectors facing labor shortages. The minimum wage was raised to €970 gross per month in January 2025, while the national average net salary stands at €1,251 in 2025. In Zagreb, this figure climbs to €1,465 net monthly, reflecting the capital's economic dynamism.

High-demand sectors

Tourism remains the country's largest employer, generating strong labor demand especially during summer season. Hospitality, restaurant, and hotel positions offer numerous opportunities, even for non-Croatians.

The information technology sector is experiencing rapid growth. Developers, software engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and digital marketing professionals are in high demand. Croatian companies and international subsidiaries based in Zagreb and Rijeka offer attractive positions, often with above-average salaries.

Construction and engineering benefit from significant infrastructure investments. Skills in civil engineering, architecture, and project management are particularly valued. The healthcare sector also seeks doctors, nurses, and paramedical professionals, while education offers positions in foreign language teaching, especially at international schools.

The table below presents estimated monthly net salaries by sector, helping you assess opportunities in your field of expertise.

Sources: Trading Economics, Expat in Croatia, Wage Centre

Job hunting strategies

Job searches utilize multiple channels. The European EURES portal centralizes numerous listings and facilitates professional mobility within the EU. Local sites like MojPosao.net and Posao.hr are heavily used by Croatian employers. International platforms like LinkedIn remain relevant, particularly for qualified positions at multinational companies.

Professional networking plays a significant role in Croatia. Attending events, joining expat groups, and establishing local contacts significantly increases your chances of landing a position. Specialized recruitment agencies can also assist, particularly in IT and engineering sectors.

Credential recognition

If you hold a degree earned outside Croatia, you'll need it recognized by the Agency for Science and Higher Education (ASHE). This procedure can take several weeks to months. For regulated professions like physician, architect, lawyer, or teacher, additional steps with professional bodies are necessary. Plan to gather your documents (apostilled and translated degrees) well before your relocation.

Starting a business

Croatia encourages entrepreneurship and is progressively simplifying formalities. You can establish a limited liability company (d.o.o.) with minimum capital of €2,500, or opt for sole trader status (obrt), particularly suited to freelancers and liberal professions.

Registration occurs via the electronic system e-Tvrtka or in person at the competent Commercial Court. You'll need to open a business bank account, obtain a tax identification number (OIB), and register with the tax administration (Porezna uprava). The entire process typically takes 1-3 weeks.

Entrepreneurs benefit from a favorable environment: social contributions calculated on a flat-rate basis for the self-employed, choice between different tax regimes, and access to European support programs. Promising sectors include alternative tourism, digital services, agribusiness, and renewable energy.

Employment rights and conditions

The standard work week is 40 hours, typically Monday through Friday. Employees receive a minimum of 20 days paid leave annually, often more under collective agreements. Overtime is limited and compensated at premium rates.

Social contributions cover health insurance, pension, and unemployment insurance. Employers contribute approximately 17.2% in employer contributions, while employees contribute 20% of their gross salary. The 2025 reforms strengthened protections for foreign workers, particularly regarding employer transfers and fair employment conditions.

For specific questions about employment procedures, consult the official EURES network portal or contact the Croatian Ministry of Labor.

Croatia's tax system underwent major reform in January 2025, simplifying procedures and lowering certain tax rates. Understanding these rules will help optimize your financial situation and avoid surprises. The Croatian tax administration, Porezna uprava, manages income tax, VAT, and social contributions.

Tax residency: Are you covered?

You're considered a Croatian tax resident if you spend more than 183 days per year in the country, or if Croatia constitutes your center of vital interests (family, primary economic activity). Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income, while non-residents pay tax only on Croatian-source income.

Personal income tax

Personal Income Tax operates on a progressive scale applied to net annual income. Since the January 2025 reform, brackets were adjusted to ease the tax burden on middle incomes.

Tax rates are as follows: income up to €50,400 annually is taxed at 15%, while income exceeding €50,400 is taxed at 25%. These rates apply at the national level, but a local surtax may be added depending on your city of residence. In Zagreb, this surtax reaches 18%, the country's highest. In Split, it's 12%, in Rijeka 15%, while some rural municipalities apply no surtax.

For example, on a gross salary of €2,000 per month in Zagreb, you'll pay approximately €400 in tax and contributions, netting around €1,600. Online calculators like Relocate.me provide precise net salary estimates.

Mandatory social contributions

Beyond income tax, you must pay social contributions funding healthcare, pension, and unemployment insurance. Employees contribute 20% of gross salary, broken down as: 16.5% for pension (pillar I), 2% for pension (pillar II), and 1.7% for health insurance.

Employers contribute approximately 17.2% of gross salary, covering health insurance, unemployment, and other social contributions.

VAT and indirect taxes

VAT (Porez na dodanu vrijednost - PDV) applies to most goods and services. The standard rate is 25%, among Europe's highest. A reduced rate of 13% covers certain food products, medicines, tourist accommodation, and restaurant services. A super-reduced rate of 5% applies to bread, milk, books, and newspapers.

Businesses with turnover exceeding €40,000 annually must register for VAT. Thresholds and procedures are detailed on the tax administration website.

Property and wealth taxes

If you own real estate in Croatia, you'll be subject to Property Tax, varying by municipality and cadastral value. This tax generally remains modest, ranging between 0.25% and 1% of estimated value.

Capital Gains Tax applies when selling property. The rate is 10% on realized gain, but exemptions exist if the property was your primary residence for at least 3 years or if you've held it for more than 10 years.

International tax treaties

Croatia has signed over 60 double taxation agreements with various countries, including the UK, US, Canada, and Australia. These agreements prevent your income from being taxed twice, once in your home country and once in Croatia. They typically provide tax credit or exemption mechanisms. Consult the treaty applicable to your situation for precise terms.

Tax filing and payment

Annual income tax returns must be filed by February 28 of the year following the tax year. Employees typically receive a pre-filled form from their employer. You can file online via the e-Porezna portal or in person at tax administration offices.

Self-employed individuals must declare income quarterly and pay provisional installments. Missing deadlines incurs penalties and late interest. To avoid errors, engaging a local accountant is often advisable, particularly during your first year of residence.

Tax advantages for specific profiles

Digital nomad visa holders benefit from total tax exemption on remote work income, provided these earnings come from companies not registered in Croatia. However, passive income (dividends, rent, interest) remains taxable.

Investors in certain development zones or research and development projects may also qualify for tax relief. Details are available from the Croatian Agency for Investment and Competitiveness.

For tax questions, consult a local accountant or tax advisor. The tax administration also offers telephone assistance and a detailed website in English.

Croatia's healthcare system relies on mandatory public insurance, complemented by a growing private sector. While care quality is generally satisfactory, waiting times in the public system can be lengthy for certain specialties. Planning your health coverage from the outset is essential.

The public system: HZZO

The Croatian Health Insurance Institute (Hrvatski zavod za zdravstveno osiguranje - HZZO) manages public health insurance. This system covers GP consultations, hospital care, prescribed medications, laboratory tests, and basic dental care.

To benefit, you must be enrolled as an employee, self-employed, or hold a temporary residence permit with voluntary contributions. Contributions are automatically deducted from your salary (approximately 1.7% for employees). Self-employed workers pay a flat monthly contribution of around €110.

Once enrolled, you'll receive a health insurance card (zdravstvena iskaznica) to present at each consultation. You'll need to select a primary care physician (izabrani liječnik) serving as your entry point for all care. Consultations with this doctor are free, but co-payments apply for certain services: approximately €2.65 per specialist consultation, €2.65 per prescription, and €13 per day of hospitalization.

Public care quality and wait times

The public system suffers from staff shortages, particularly in rural areas and certain specialties. Wait times for specialist appointments or non-urgent procedures can reach several months. However, emergency care is immediately accessible, and physician technical quality is generally recognized.

University hospitals in Zagreb, Split, and Rijeka have modern equipment and specialized services. For common conditions, care standards are comparable to other European countries.

Private health insurance: A useful supplement

Given public system limitations, many expats purchase private insurance. This enables quick access to private clinics and hospitals, free choice of doctors, and avoiding waiting lists. Private consultations cost between €50 and €100, with prices rising for surgical procedures or imaging studies.

Major local insurers include Croatia osiguranje and Allianz Hrvatska. International insurers like AXA, Cigna, or Allianz Care also offer expat-tailored plans, with or without worldwide coverage. Private insurance costs range from €50 to €200 per month depending on age, coverage extent, and chosen deductibles.

Pharmacies and medications

Pharmacies (ljekarna) are numerous and easily accessible. Prescribed medications within the public system receive partial or full HZZO coverage, depending on medication category. Over-the-counter medications are available without prescription at prices comparable to other European countries.

24-hour pharmacies operate in major cities like Zagreb, Split, and Rijeka. Bring a Croatian or English translation of prescriptions if you follow specific treatment.

Dental and optical care

Basic dental care (extractions, emergency treatment) is covered by HZZO, but cosmetic treatments, prosthetics, and implants are your responsibility. Private dental rates are significantly lower than Western Europe, attracting considerable dental tourism. Expect €40-€80 for cleaning and €400-€800 for an implant.

Optical care (glasses, contacts) isn't covered by public insurance, except for children and certain conditions. Frame and lens prices remain affordable.

Public system enrollment for expats

If you work in Croatia, your employer automatically enrolls you with HZZO and deducts contributions from your salary. If self-employed, handle the process yourself by visiting your local HZZO office with your OIB number, residence permit, and proof of professional activity.

EU retirees and inactive residents can continue their home country health coverage by requesting Form S1 from their national office. This document transfers your coverage to the Croatian system. Non-EU residents must purchase mandatory private health insurance to obtain their residence permit.

Emergency numbers and services

For medical emergencies, dial 112 (European emergency number) or 194 (emergency medical services - Hitna medicinska pomoć). Emergency services operate 24/7 at all public hospitals. English speakers can generally communicate without difficulty in major cities.

For health coverage questions, consult the HZZO website or contact an expat-specialized insurance broker.

Croatia's education system offers expat families several options, from local public schools to international institutions. Choosing the right path depends on your planned stay duration, preferred language of instruction, and your child's educational goals. Here's a comprehensive overview.

The Croatian school system

Education in Croatia is compulsory from ages 6 to 15 and divides into three cycles. Primary school (Osnovna škola) lasts 8 years, split into two 4-year phases. Secondary education (Srednja škola) continues for 4 years with two tracks: general high schools (Gimnazija) preparing for university, and vocational schools (Strukovna škola) oriented toward rapid workforce entry.

Public schools are free and of decent quality, but instruction is exclusively in Croatian, which may challenge non-Croatian children. Some schools offer bilingual Croatian-English programs, particularly in Zagreb and Split, facilitating gradual linguistic integration.

International schools: Educational continuity

For families prioritizing educational continuity or maintaining instruction in English, international schools are an excellent option. They follow internationally recognized curricula and often employ native-speaking teachers.

In Zagreb, several schools stand out. The American International School of Zagreb (AISZ) offers the American curriculum from kindergarten through high school, with approximately 300 students from over 40 nationalities. Annual tuition ranges from €12,000 to €18,000 depending on grade level. The British International School Zagreb (BISZ) follows the British curriculum and prepares students for IGCSE and A-Level exams. It has around 200 students with similar fees.

The French School of Zagreb is accredited by the French Ministry of Education and follows the French curriculum from preschool through grade 9. It welcomes approximately 80 students and offers an affordable alternative, with annual tuition ranging from €3,500 to €6,000. The Zagreb International School offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program in English.

In Split, the International School of Split primarily accommodates primary and middle school students with an English-language program. Annual fees range from €8,000 to €12,000. Places are limited, so register several months in advance.

Higher education: Croatian universities

Croatia has several recognized public universities, particularly in medicine, engineering, and sciences. The University of Zagreb (Sveučilište u Zagrebu), founded in 1669, is the country's oldest and most prestigious. It offers numerous international programs in English, especially in medicine, engineering, and economics.

The University of Split (Sveučilište u Splitu) excels in marine sciences, maritime studies, and tourism, reflecting the region's coastal identity. The University of Rijeka (Sveučilište u Rijeci) distinguishes itself in medicine, biotechnology, and informatics, while J.J. Strossmayer University of Osijek (Sveučilište J.J. Strossmayera u Osijeku) specializes in agriculture, economics, and sciences. Finally, the University of Zadar (Sveučilište u Zadru) offers programs in humanities and languages.

Admission and university costs

To enter a Croatian university, you'll need a recognized secondary school diploma and, depending on the program, may need to pass an entrance exam. English or Croatian proficiency must be certified officially. Foreign documents must be apostilled and translated into Croatian by a certified translator.

Tuition for international English-language programs ranges from €1,000 to €5,000 per year, considerably lower than other European countries. Croatian-language programs are often free or reduced-rate for EU citizens. Medical studies, highly sought after, cost between €8,000 and €15,000 per year.

Student life and accommodation

Students can live in university dormitories or opt for shared apartments. Monthly budget for a student, including accommodation and living expenses, ranges from €600 to €1,000. EU students can work part-time without restrictions, supplementing their resources.

Croatian universities offer numerous student associations, cultural and sports events, plus easy access to Erasmus exchange programs. The ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) is applied, ensuring degree recognition throughout the European Union through the Bologna Process.

For international school enrollment or university information, contact institutions directly several months before the intended start date. Places are often limited and waiting lists common.

Finding accommodation in Croatia is a crucial step in your relocation. The real estate market varies considerably by region: while Zagreb and coastal tourist cities command high prices, rural areas and inland cities remain highly affordable. Whether renting or buying, here's what you need to know.

Renting: Process and rates

Rental is often the preferred solution during initial months of settling. The rental market is dynamic in major cities but can be tight during peak tourist season, particularly along the coast. In Zagreb, monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from €600 to €900, while in suburbs it's €450 to €650.

In Split and Dubrovnik, prices are comparable or higher due to strong tourist demand. A two-bedroom apartment in the city center costs €800 to €1,200 per month. In less touristy cities like Rijeka, Zadar, or Osijek, rents are notably more accessible, with similar apartments available for €400 to €700.

Popular search sites include Njuškalo.hr, Index.hr, and Crozilla.com. Listings are generally in Croatian, but landlords often speak English, especially in tourist areas. Beware of scams: never transfer money before viewing the property and signing an official contract.

Rental contracts and security deposits

Rental contracts (ugovor o najmu) must be written and registered with tax authorities. This formality protects both tenant and landlord. Security deposits typically equal one or two months' rent and must be returned at lease end, minus any damages.

Utilities (water, electricity, heating, internet) aren't always included in rent and can add €100 to €200 monthly depending on property size and season. Winter heating represents a significant expense in continental regions.

Purchasing property

Since Croatia's EU accession, European citizens can freely purchase real estate, except certain coastal or border zones with restrictions. Prices vary enormously: in Zagreb, expect €2,500 to €4,000 per m² in the city center. On the Adriatic coast, in sought-after destinations like Dubrovnik or Hvar, prices can exceed €5,000 per m².

However, in interior regions like Slavonia or Lika, prices drop dramatically, with properties available around €500 to €1,000 per m². This disparity creates opportunities for buyers seeking tranquility or renovation projects.

Purchase procedures and additional costs

Property purchases require a notary (javni bilježnik) who drafts the sales deed and verifies the transaction's legal validity. Budget approximately 1-2% of purchase price for notary fees, plus cadastral registration fees (0.5%) and real estate agency commissions (typically 3-5%, split between buyer and seller).

A Property Transfer Tax of 3% applies to the purchase price. Since 2025, exemptions or reductions are possible for first-time buyers or investments in certain development zones. Consult a real estate law specialist to secure your transaction.

Popular expat neighborhoods

In Zagreb, the districts of Trešnjevka, Maksimir, and Novi Zagreb attract expats thanks to good infrastructure, international schools, and efficient public transport. The historic center, while charming, is noisier and more touristy.

In Split, the Meje and Spinut areas offer a good balance between proximity to the center and tranquility. In Rijeka, the Pećine and Zamet neighborhoods are favored for their calm and schools. Along the coast, cities like Rovinj, Poreč, or Zadar provide pleasant living with strong international communities.

Mandatory services and diagnostics

Unlike some countries, there's no legal obligation for energy or technical diagnostics before sale, though it's recommended. Have an independent expert conduct an inspection to avoid surprises, particularly concerning roof condition, plumbing, or electrical installations.

High-speed internet connections are available everywhere, even in rural areas, thanks to fiber optics and 4G/5G networks. Main operators are A1, Hrvatski Telekom, and Telemach, with monthly packages around €20 to €40.

For property questions, assistance from a local agent or English-speaking attorney is highly recommended. Expat forums and Facebook groups also provide practical advice and private listings.

Moving abroad involves far more than changing addresses. Between administrative formalities, shipping belongings, and logistical coordination, it's best to start planning several months ahead. Here's a detailed checklist for a smooth relocation to Croatia.

Before departure: Laying the groundwork

1. Verify document validity: Ensure passports and identity cards are valid at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date. Make certified copies of all official documents.
2. Obtain your visa or residence permit: Depending on nationality, initiate the procedure at a Croatian embassy several months before departure. Gather all required documents (apostilled criminal record, financial proof, health insurance).
3. Translate and apostille documents: Degrees, birth certificates, marriage certificates, driver's licenses must be translated into Croatian by a certified translator and apostilled. These procedures can take several weeks.
4. Arrange health insurance: If not covered by the public system upon arrival, secure international private insurance to avoid coverage gaps.
5. Organize children's schooling: Enroll children in their future school several months ahead, especially at international schools where places are limited. Request enrollment files and prepare translated school records.
6. Cancel contracts and subscriptions: Electricity, gas, internet, phone, insurance, gym... Cancel all subscriptions respecting notice periods. Transfer or close bank accounts if necessary.
7. Notify authorities: Inform your pension office, health insurance, tax office, social security, and local government of your residence change. Request tax deregistration certificate if ceasing tax residency in your home country.
8. Choose shipping method: Depending on volume, opt for an international mover, maritime or air freight service, or truck rental if self-managing transport. Request multiple quotes and verify insurance coverage.

Upon arrival in Croatia: Immediate steps

1. Register your temporary address: Report to the police station (MUP) within 3 days of arrival to register your residence location, even if temporary.
2. Obtain your OIB number: This personal identification number is essential for all procedures: opening bank accounts, signing employment contracts, tax filing. Visit the tax office with your passport and proof of residence.
3. Open a bank account: Major Croatian banks (Privredna banka Zagreb, Zagrebačka banka, Erste Bank) offer expat accounts. You'll need your OIB, passport, proof of residence, and sometimes income verification.
4. Arrange health insurance: If employed, your employer handles this. Otherwise, enroll with HZZO or purchase private insurance according to your situation.
5. Obtain your biometric residence card: Within 30 days (or 6 months if long-stay visa required), you'll receive your residence card. Keep it with you always.
6. Subscribe to local services: Electricity (HEP), water, internet (A1, Hrvatski Telekom, Telemach), mobile phone. Unlimited data mobile plans cost €15-30 per month.
7. Obtain a Croatian driver's license: If staying over 6 months, exchange your license for a Croatian one. EU licenses are generally recognized, but exchange simplifies procedures. Visit the police (MUP) with your original license, certified translation, and ID photo.
8. Finalize school enrollment: Complete school registration and participate in orientation days if the school organizes them.

Integrating into local life

1. Join expat groups: Facebook communities, forums like Expat.com, and local association events will help you quickly build a social network.
2. Learn basic Croatian: While English is widely spoken, knowing some Croatian phrases eases daily life and is appreciated by locals. Courses are offered at cultural centers and online.
3. Explore your neighborhood: Identify nearby shops, markets, medical centers, pharmacies, public transport, and green spaces. Croatia offers excellent quality of life once you take time to settle in.

With proper preparation and this checklist in hand, your move will proceed smoothly. Don't hesitate to seek help from local professionals or already-settled expats to facilitate your transition.

Croatia offers far more than beaches and turquoise waters. The country boasts exceptional cultural richness, renowned festivals, and pristine nature inviting exploration. Whether you're passionate about history, outdoor activities, or gastronomy, you'll find plenty to engage your interests.

Historical heritage and UNESCO sites

Croatian heritage includes ten remarkable UNESCO World Heritage sites. Diocletian's Palace in Split, 1,700 years old, forms the city's beating heart and offers a journey into ancient Rome. Dubrovnik's Old Town, dubbed the "Pearl of the Adriatic," enchants with medieval ramparts and cobblestone streets. Don't miss the Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč, a 6th-century Byzantine jewel, or Šibenik Cathedral, a Renaissance architectural masterpiece.

Nature lovers will be amazed by Plitvice Lakes National Park, where sixteen crystalline lakes cascade spectacularly. Krka National Park, with majestic waterfalls, even permits swimming in certain areas. Further south, the Kornati Islands archipelago offers a unique marine landscape with over 140 nearly-deserted islands, a paradise for sailors and divers.

Festivals and cultural events

Croatia's cultural scene thrives year-round. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival (July-August) presents theater, opera, and concerts in breathtaking historic settings. Ultra Europe Festival in Split attracts electronic music fans from worldwide each summer. In Pula, the Film Festival takes place in the Roman arena, one of the world's best-preserved.

Zagreb hosts the INmusic Festival, one of Southeast Europe's largest rock and pop festivals, held each June on Jarun Island. Jazz festivals, street theater, and traditional music events also animate cities throughout the year.

Sports and outdoor activities

The Adriatic coast is ideal for water sports. Sailing, sea kayaking, paddleboarding, and scuba diving are accessible everywhere, with warm waters from May to October. The islands of Hvar, Brač, and Vis offer exceptional diving spots to observe colorful fish, wrecks, and underwater caves.

Hiking enthusiasts will find satisfaction in the mountains of Velebit, Biokovo, or Učka, with marked trails for all levels. Cycling is developing rapidly, particularly in Istria where hundreds of kilometers of bike paths traverse medieval villages and vineyards. In winter, modest but charming ski resorts at Sljeme (near Zagreb) and Platak (near Rijeka) offer snowy slopes.

Gastronomy: A culinary journey

Croatian cuisine blends Mediterranean, Austro-Hungarian, and Balkan influences. Along the coast, fresh fish and seafood take center stage, often simply grilled with local olive oil. Try crni rižot (black risotto with cuttlefish ink), scampi na buzaru (prawns in tomato sauce), or brudet (fish stew).

Inland, dishes are heartier: pašticada (marinated beef in sauce), čevapi (small grilled sausages), or sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls) will satisfy robust appetites. Pag cheeses and Istrian truffles are renowned throughout Europe.

For wines, Croatia produces excellent vintages often unknown internationally: Plavac Mali red from Dalmatia, Malvazija white from Istria, or Graševina from Slavonia. Local markets, like Dolac in Zagreb, let you discover fresh products and regional specialties in a convivial atmosphere.

Nightlife and socializing

Zagreb offers lively nightlife with trendy bars in the Tkalčićeva district, underground clubs, and literary cafés. Split and Dubrovnik also feature numerous seaside bars and clubs open until dawn in summer. Hvar island is renowned for beach clubs and summer parties attracting an international crowd.

To meet other expats, join local groups via social media or attend events organized by international chambers of commerce. Croatians are generally warm and curious about newcomers, especially if you show genuine interest in their culture and language.

Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Croatia will exceed your expectations and offer a fulfilling lifestyle throughout the year.

Want to know what life in Croatia is really like? Here's a taste: explore the country, find tips to use transportation, to set up internet and phone services, and everything you need to live like a local.

Croatia's cost of living is approximately 23.5% lower than Germany, making it an attractive destination for expats with moderate incomes. However, significant gaps exist between major tourist cities like Zagreb or Dubrovnik and rural interior areas. Prices have risen since euro adoption in 2023 but remain competitive compared to Western Europe.

Regular expenses include housing, food, transportation, and leisure. Housing represents the largest item, especially in sought-after areas. Food remains affordable if you favor local markets and seasonal products. Public transport is inexpensive and efficient in major cities, while car ownership becomes nearly essential in rural areas.

The tables below present estimated monthly budgets for a single person and a family of four, based on Numbeo data from August 2025. These amounts represent national averages and may vary by location and lifestyle.

Monthly budget for a single person

Sources: Numbeo (August 2025)

Monthly budget for a family of four

Families should plan a larger budget, particularly for housing, schooling, and leisure. International schools represent a significant expense if you choose this option.

Sources: Numbeo (August 2025)

Typical price examples

For a more precise picture, here are some Croatian prices: a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around €10, while dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant runs €40-€60. A café on a terrace is about €1.50-€2.50, and a local beer at a bar costs €2.50-€4.

At supermarkets, a liter of milk costs approximately €1, a dozen eggs €2.50, a kilogram of chicken €6, and a kilogram of tomatoes €1.50 in season. Fresh bread costs under €1 per loaf. Fruits and vegetables are notably cheaper at local markets than at supermarkets.

For transportation, a single bus or tram ticket costs €0.80-€1, and monthly passes range from €35 to €50 depending on the city. Fuel is around €1.50-€1.60 per liter. A gym membership costs €30-€50 per month, and a cinema ticket about €6-€8.

These figures will help you plan your budget realistically and anticipate monthly expenses based on your location and lifestyle.