Culture & Traditions

A culture dating back to the 6th century, Croatia was part of the Austria-Hungarian Empire until it fell at the conclusion of the First World War. Social conventions, such as a strong family life focused around the traditions of the Catholic Church, are central to the Croatian way of life, with close to 90% of people following Roman Catholicism. Formalities such as wearing long sleeves for women inside religious buildings, and showing respect when entering the many churches throughout the country, are appreciated. Other religions present include Eastern Orthodox Serbians, Protestants, Jews, and Muslims.

Official Croatian holidays tell a story of the complex history of the country, such as Anti-Fascist Resistance Day in June, which marks the formation of the first partisan unit in Croatia in 1941. Statehood Day, also in June, celebrates Croatia’s declaration of independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. A sea of red, white, and blue—the colours of the Croatian flag with its national coat of arms in the centre—fill the streets as a testament to the country’s pride as a nation on Independence Day in October.

What is the visiting etiquette in Croatia?

Greeting people with a handshake, smile, and eye contact will go a long way during your Croatia vacation, as will a smattering of Croatian phrases such as dobro jutro (good morning) or dobro veèer (good evening). Addressing new acquaintances using their surname first is best. Reserve using first names only for friends. Close friends and family may greet one another with a hug or give a kiss on each cheek.

If you have been invited to someone's home for a visit, it's appropriate to arrive on time, or slightly late within 15 minutes. Croatians are a little more relaxed toward life and punctuality. Presenting the host with a small gift, such as cookies or flowers is welcome, odd numbers only—and no chrysanthemums! You’ll likely be offered guest slippers to wear in someone’s home. Take them up on it, as removing your outdoor shoes is the norm. Hosts will probably offer up food, coffee, or rakia, a popular homemade liquor. Politely take a sip or taste, just don’t reject it, as that would be considered rude.

What is Croatia best known for?

Croatia’s coast along the Adriatic Sea, is renowned for its excellent swim quality, warmth, and beautiful blue-hued waters. Many Croatia vacation packages offer full-day tours to secluded beaches, hidden coves, and historic coastal towns. Urban destinations including Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik attract travellers year-round. The charming capital of Zagreb sits where central Europe and the Mediterranean Sea meet. It is known for its unique combination of Austro-Hungarian architecture, cobblestone streets, and festive Christmas markets. In Split, the expansive basement halls of Diocletian's Palace are featured in the pop culture show, Game of Thrones. Meanwhile, the historic fortifications of Dubrovnik’s walls offer a glimpse into the city’s past, along with a view of the old town and the Adriatic Sea.

Venture inland for Croatia tours of the sixteen emerald green lakes connected by cascading waterfalls at the famed Plitvice Lakes National Park. Elevated wooden walkways along the lake shores allow visitors to wander the cavernous limestone cliffs. Other national parks worthy of a visit include Paklenica National Park, Mljet National Park, and North Velebit National Park.

Whether cheering on a national sports team or waving their flag, the šahovnica, a chessboard red and white design is ubiquitous with Croatian pride. It is the national symbol of Croatia and can be found everywhere, even worn by the Croatian national football (soccer) team.

What are some Croatia traditions?

Spending time in kafići, or coffee shops, is an important, long-held tradition of Croatian life (and Croatia vacations!). Be sure to wander into a Zagreb coffee house to enjoy a cup of coffee and witness the tradition. It is as much about the coffee as it is about visiting with friends, doing business, and spending a couple of hours to sit, sip, and socialize. The act of relaxing, taking a pause to enjoy your company and refresh, is embraced nationally. Just don’t be surprised if there is an argument over who will pay the bill. The song and dance of whoever grabs the receipt quickest is a part of the Croatia vacation experience!

If sports is your thing, the best time to visit Croatia is during one of the biggest events, the Neretva Boat Lađa (marathon), which is held annually in August. It attracts over 50,000 spectators watching amateur rowers travel 22.5 km (14 mi) along the Neretva River. The event honours the tradition of the ladjas boats, which are narrow wood vessels historically vital for river transportation. Teams pack 10 rowers, plus a coxswain and drummer in the little boats to go row, row, row their hearts out! Towns along the route host parades, concerts, and cheer loudly with excitement as the teams make their way from Metković. Don’t miss the biggest party at the end in Ploče, about a 90-minute drive from Split.

What are Croatian people like socially?

Croatian people are known to be warm, welcoming, and inclusive. Friendships in Croatia are built slowly over time, and trust is gained as you get to know someone more. Do know that Croatians can be more honest in their interactions than expected, but it is not to be taken personally. Their conversation style can come across as somewhat abrupt and assertive, but speaking up and clearly making a point is admired on your Croatia trip.

Family relations and spending time with one another, especially on weekends, is of great importance. This can include celebrations, birthdays, and family meals. It's common for extended families to live together, such as children living with their parents until marriage, or parents living with their children in older age.

What language do Croatian people speak?

The official language of Croatia is Croatian. Croatian is a Slavic language and although it is the official language, Serbian, Slovenian, Hungarian, and Italian are also spoken throughout the country. You will find English is commonly spoken as a second language, making it easier to communicate with locals, especially in tourist spots. Ask your travel agency for a few polite phrases in Croatian you can use, such as bok (hello) and hvala (thank you). It will be perceived as a kind gesture.