Tips and Hacks for Croatia - Pre-Arrival

Sure, here are 50 tips and hacks for travelers going to Croatia from India, before you travel:

Visas and paperwork

1. Visa Requirements:  Double-check if you need a visa to enter Croatia. Citizens of India do require a visa to visit Croatia. You can apply for a visa at the Croatian embassy or consulate in India.  https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/hrv/
2. Visa Processing Time:  The processing time for a Croatian visa can take up to 15 days. So make sure to apply well in advance of your trip.
3. Travel Insurance:  Get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. This is especially important since medical bills can be expensive in Europe.
4. Photocopies of Important Documents:  Make photocopies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and any other important documents. Keep these copies in a separate location from the originals in case you lose them.

Flights

5. Compare Flight Prices:  There are a number of airlines that offer flights from India to Croatia. Be sure to compare prices before you book your flight.
6. Consider Layovers:  Flights with layovers can sometimes be cheaper than non-stop flights. However, they will also take longer.
7. Book Your Flights in Advance:  Flights to Croatia tend to be more expensive during the peak tourist season (July and August). So if you are traveling during this time, be sure to book your flights well in advance.
8. Check Baggage Fees:  Be sure to check the baggage fees for your airline before you pack. Some airlines charge extra for checked bags.

Accommodation

9. Book Your Accommodation in Advance:  Especially during peak season, popular places tend to get booked up quickly. So be sure to book your accommodation well in advance of your trip.
10. Consider Different Types of Accommodation:  There are a variety of accommodation options available in Croatia, from hotels and resorts to apartments and vacation rentals. Consider your budget and travel style when choosing your accommodation.
11. Look for Apartments with Kitchens:  If you are planning on doing some cooking during your trip, look for apartments with kitchens. This will save you money on eating out.
12. Consider Staying Outside of City Centers:  Accommodation in city centers tends to be more expensive. You may be able to find cheaper accommodation if you are willing to stay outside of the city center.

Money

13. Currency Exchange:  The currency in Croatia is the kuna (HRK). You can exchange your Indian rupees (INR) for kuna at a currency exchange office or bank in Croatia.
14. ATM Cards:  ATMs are widely available in Croatia. You can use your ATM card to withdraw kuna from ATMs. However, be sure to check with your bank about any ATM fees that may apply.
15. Credit Cards:  Credit cards are also widely accepted in Croatia. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash with you as well, for smaller purchases and emergencies.
16. Tipping:  Tipping is not expected in Croatia, but it is appreciated. If you do decide to tip, a small amount is sufficient.

Packing

17. Check the Weather Forecast:  Before you pack, be sure to check the weather forecast for Croatia. This will help you determine what clothes to pack.
18. Pack Light:  You will likely be doing a lot of walking on your trip, so it is best to pack light.
19. Bring Comfortable Shoes:  You will be doing a lot of walking in Croatia, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes.
20. Pack an Adapter:  The electrical outlets in Croatia are different from the electrical outlets in India. So you will need to bring a travel adapter.
21. Sunscreen:  Croatia has a Mediterranean climate, so be sure to pack sunscreen.
22. Hat:  The sun can be intense in Croatia, so be sure to pack a hat.
23. Sunglasses:  Sunglasses are also a must-pack item.
24. Swimsuit:  If you are planning on spending any time at the beach, be sure to pack a swimsuit.
25. Quick-drying Clothes:  Quick-drying clothes are a great option for traveling, as they will dry quickly after you wash them.
26. Layers:  The weather in Croatia can vary depending on the time of year, so it is a good idea to pack layers.

Things to do in Croatia

27. Visit Dubrovnik:  Dubrovnik is a beautiful walled city located on the Adriatic coast. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its stunning architecture and beaches. 
28. Explore Split:  Split is the second-largest city in Croatia and is home to Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Split is also a great base for exploring the nearby islands, such as Hvar and Brač.
29. Relax on the Beach:  Croatia has a beautiful coastline with many stunning beaches. Some of the most popular beaches include Zlatni Rat Beach on Brač Island, Banje Beach in Dubrovnik, and Sakarun Beach on Dugi Otok Island.
30. Go Island Hopping:  Croatia has over 1,000 islands, so there are plenty of options for island hopping. Some of the most popular islands include Hvar, Brač, Korčula, Mljet, and Vis.
31. Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park:  Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a series of stunning waterfalls and lakes.
32. Hike in Krka National Park:  Krka National Park is another beautiful national park in Croatia. It is home to waterfalls, lakes, and a historic monastery.
33. Take a Game of Thrones Tour:  If you are a fan of Game of Thrones, you can take a tour of the filming locations in Dubrovnik.
34. Sample the Local Cuisine:  Croatian cuisine is influenced by Mediterranean and Central European cuisine. Some popular dishes include peka (meat or fish baked under a bell cover), black risotto, and cevapčiči (grilled sausages).
35. Try Croatian Wine:  Croatia has a long history of winemaking. Be sure to try some of the local wines during your trip.

Getting Around

36. Public Transportation:  Croatia has a good public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries.
37. Car Rentals:  If you are planning on doing a lot of exploring, you may want to consider renting a car. However, be aware that driving in Croatia can be challenging, especially in the cities.
38. Ferry:  Ferries are a great way to get around Croatia, especially if you are planning on visiting the islands.
39. Walking:  Walking is a great way to get around the cities and towns in Croatia.

Language and Communication

40. Learn a Few Basic Croatian Phrases:  Learning a few basic Croatian phrases will go a long way with the locals. Here are a few helpful phrases: "Hello" (Bok), "Goodbye" (Doviđenja), "Thank you" (Hvala), "Please" (Molim), "Yes" (Da), and "No" (Ne).
41. Download a Translation App:  A translation app can be helpful for communicating with the locals.

Safety

42. General Safety:  Croatia is a safe country to travel to. However, it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid petty theft.
43. Carry a photocopy of your passport:  Keep a photocopy of your passport with you in case you lose the original.
44. Sun Safety:  Be sure to protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
45. Swim Safety:  Only swim in designated swimming areas and be aware of the currents.

Culture

46. Dress Modestly when Visiting Religious Sites:  When visiting religious sites, such as churches and monasteries, be sure to dress modestly.
47. Smoking:  Smoking is banned indoors in most public places in Croatia.
48. Bargaining:  Bargaining is expected at some markets and shops in Croatia.
49. Siesta:  Many shops and businesses close for a siesta in the afternoon, typically between 1pm and 4pm.

Additional Tips

50. Learn some Croatian History:  Learning a bit about Croatian history will help you appreciate the country even more.

By following these tips and hacks, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable trip to Croatia.