Croatia : Safety by CityIt’s hard to find another country that packs so much variety into such a small footprint as Croatia.
Sitting in Southeast Europe along the Adriatic Sea and across from Italy, Croatia stretches from rugged coastlines and more than a thousand islands to inland plains, forests, and mountain ranges that climb over 6,000 feet.
This mix of terrain makes the country feel larger than it is, with easy access to both beach towns and alpine trails.
Croatia’s history has been shaped by Roman, Venetian, Austro-Hungarian, and Ottoman influences, which left behind ancient palaces, medieval fortifications, and striking architecture layered throughout its cities and villages.
The country declared independence from Yugoslavia in 1991 and has since grown into one of Europe’s most visited destinations, joining the European Union and adopting the euro.
More than 21 million visitors come each year for different reasons.
Some want the lively coastal hubs like Dubrovnik and Split, others seek out national parks such as Plitvice Lakes or Krka for hiking and waterfalls, and food lovers head to Istria for truffles and wine.
Add in festivals, island hopping, and historic sites, and it’s clear why Croatia stays on so many travel lists.
All that, plus a pretty impressive safety record!
Warnings & Dangers in Croatia
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Croatia is considered a low-risk destination for most travelers. Violent crime is rare, tourism infrastructure is strong, and emergency services are reliable. Most visitors report feeling safe both day and night.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Public transport is reliable and overall low risk, but you might find unlicensed taxis trying to overcharge in tourist zones. Use official taxi apps or clearly marked cabs, and confirm fares before the ride. Driving yourself is common, though narrow coastal roads and fast local drivers require extra attention.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Pickpocketing is a medium risk in crowded areas like Dubrovnik’s Old Town or Split’s ferry terminals. It happens mostly during summer when visitor numbers spike. Keeping bags zipped, carrying minimal cash, and staying alert in lines or packed buses is usually enough to avoid losing valuables.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Natural disasters pose a low risk, but the region can see sudden coastal storms or strong winds called the bora. Mountain weather can also change quickly, which affects hikers. Checking local forecasts and heeding warnings from park staff or port authorities keeps these issues manageable for travelers.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Mugging is very uncommon, so the risk is low. Incidents are rare and usually linked to isolated nightlife areas late at night. The best guidance from safety officials is to avoid displaying signs of wealth to keep that risk low.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Croatia’s terrorism risk is low compared to many other destinations. There have been no recent incidents targeting tourists or major cities. However, travel advisories will include the standard "terrorism can happen anywhere" guidance, and it's good to read through it before you visit.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Scams are a low risk except for the busy nightlife districts. The most common issue is inflated bills at certain strip clubs or bars. While the tourism and recreational industries are well-regulated, be sure to verify the legitimacy of any tour operator you plan to use.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Women traveling alone face a low risk and generally report positive experiences. Street harassment is uncommon, and locals are usually helpful. Normal safety steps like watching your drink in bars or sharing your plans with someone at home are enough to feel comfortable exploring cities and beaches.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Tap water is safe to drink across Croatia, making it a low risk for visitors. Many locals drink it daily, even in rural regions. Carry a reusable bottle to save on costs and plastic waste, but always double-check with your host in very remote areas.
Safest Places to Visit in Croatia
The official tourism website is croatia.hr.
Look under Travel Info to get practical advice from the tourism agency and download the Explore Croatia app.
In Dalmatia’s far south, Dubrovnik is known for its walled Old Town, Stradun Street, and access to nearby islands like Lokrum.
Moving north, Split centers around Diocletian’s Palace and a lively waterfront, with ferries to Hvar, Bra?, and Vis.
?ibenik features St. James Cathedral and is a jumping-off point for Krka National Park’s waterfalls.
Zadar blends Roman ruins with a modern Sea Organ and easy day trips to Kornati Islands or Paklenica National Park.
Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, offers museums, Dolac Market, and Upper Town’s historic sites, along with a growing café scene.
Istria, in the northwest, is known for Pula’s Roman amphitheater, Rovinj’s coastal charm, and inland truffle-hunting villages.
Kvarner includes Rijeka’s cultural spots, Opatija’s old resorts, and islands like Krk and Cres for hiking and beaches.
Lika and Karlovac County bring outdoor draws such as Plitvice Lakes National Park with its boardwalk trails and cascades.
Slavonia, in the east, is more agricultural but offers Osijek’s baroque architecture, wine routes, and Kopa?ki Rit Nature Park.
Central Croatia holds Vara?din’s preserved old towns and castles, plus rolling countryside ideal for day trips.
Places to Avoid in Croatia
There aren’t dangerous parts of Croatia or neighborhoods/regions to avoid.
However, you should be aware of some of the natural risks.
The Adriatic can turn rough without much warning, especially in late autumn and winter when the bora winds whip across the coast.
Even summer storms can create strong currents and rip tides, so swimming alone or far from shore is a bad idea.
Inland, Croatia’s highest peaks, like Dinara at about 6,000 feet, and Velebit’s rugged trails climb quickly in elevation and can leave even fit hikers winded.
Weather shifts fast in the mountains, and fog can roll in, making trails hard to follow.
Going alone into remote mountain areas or diving into unfamiliar waters means help is far away if something goes wrong.
Stick with vetted tour guides and don’t travel solo.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Croatia
- Croatia’s police are professional and approachable. In tourist-heavy areas, you may even see officers specifically assigned to assist visitors. For any emergency, dial 112 for immediate help with police, fire, or medical issues. Officers generally speak at least basic English, especially in cities and popular coastal regions, which makes reporting problems easier.
- You can receive emergency alerts through Croatia’s “112” system, which is the nationwide number for disasters or urgent situations. Many mobile providers automatically push warnings for storms, wildfires, or other events.
- Tourists can drive in Croatia using a valid license from their home country. However, an International Driving Permit is strongly recommended and may be required by car rental companies. Pay attention to local rules, including strict speed limits and zero tolerance for drunk driving.
- Croatia does not have any special vaccination requirements beyond what you’d already need at home. Routine vaccines like MMR and tetanus should be up-to-date. Many travelers also choose hepatitis A and B protection since rural areas and seafood spots can expose you to different bacteria than you’re used to.
- Before traveling, verify with Croatian customs that your prescription medication is legal to bring in. Keep medicines in their original packaging along with a copy of your doctor’s prescription. Do not mail medicine to Croatia, as that is prohibited by law. The U.S. Embassy’s website has detailed guidance for travelers.
- Croatia’s mountain regions are beautiful but can be unforgiving. Check in with local guides before hitting challenging trails, especially in national parks like Paklenica. Rock climbers should coordinate with Paklenica National Park staff for updated conditions, route closures, or seasonal weather hazards.
- If you plan to charter or captain a Croatian-flagged vessel, you need a valid certificate of competence. The government strictly enforces this to ensure safety on the Adriatic. Check with charter companies in advance to confirm your paperwork, and don’t risk operating a boat without proper authorization.
- Skip any “gentlemen’s clubs” you might see advertised, especially in tourist zones. Visitors have reported being handed outrageous bills and then threatened when they questioned charges. Stick to reputable bars, restaurants, and clubs with clear pricing and positive reviews.
- Armed conflict ended in 1995, but some old minefields remain near former confrontation lines. Known areas are clearly marked with Croatian-language warnings and a skull-and-crossbones inside a red triangle. Stay on paved roads in rural regions and check the Croatian Mine Action Center website if you plan off-road exploration.
- The official language is Croatian. In tourist centers, hotels, restaurants, and many shops, you’ll find staff who speak excellent English. Outside major cities, expect a mix of English proficiency, so learning a few Croatian phrases can go a long way in smaller villages or rural areas where fewer people speak it.
So... How Safe Is Croatia Really?
Croatia’s travel advisory risk is at Level 1, according to the United States, Australian, and Canadian governments.
That’s the lowest level on a four-tiered scale.
It means exercising normal precautions while visiting.
According to a 2024 article from Croatia Week, crime is generally the lowest in places like Bol on the island of Bra?.
That’s especially true in comparison to higher crime areas like Makarska and Hvar.
However, it’s important to remember that a low risk doesn’t mean no risk.
In July 2025, Croatian police issued a warning about pedophiles recording children at the beach.
Nearly 430 cases of child pornography were seized in 2024.
This is most common in the busy summer months.
Children weren’t directly approached in any of the cases under investigation, but it’s worth noting that someone might be watching while you’re at the beach.
Use extra precautions and keep your kids nearby at all times.
Beyond that, most criminal activity here focuses on theft.
Common sense and standard safety precautions go a long way toward enjoying your time in Croatia.
How Does Croatia Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Croatia | 83 |
| Djibouti | 38 |
| Mexico | 65 |
| France | 64 |
| Puerto Rico | 34 |
| Somalia | 16 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| Peru | 50 |
| Vanuatu | 70 |
Useful Information
Visas
Most travelers from the US, Canada, the UK, and EU countries don’t need a visa for short stays of up to 90 days in Croatia. Your passport must be valid for at least three months past your trip. If you plan to work, study, or stay longer, check Croatia’s official consular sites for the right permit.
Currency
Croatia uses the euro, and cash is still common in small shops, local markets, and some islands. ATMs are easy to find in cities and tourist hubs, but doublecheck fees before withdrawing. Credit cards work in most restaurants and hotels, but always keep some euros on hand for small purchases or in rural areas. Personal checks and even traveler's checks are no longer accepted here.
Weather
Croatia’s coast has hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, while inland areas see colder winters and occasional snow. July and August are peak beach months with temperatures in the 80s Fahrenheit. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking and sightseeing with fewer crowds and comfortable weather, though evenings can get chilly.
Airports
Major airports include Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik, all with strong links to other European cities. Seasonal flights also run to smaller hubs like Zadar and Pula. Airports are modern and easy to navigate, but summer travel can mean longer security lines. Arrive early, especially if you’re catching a ferry or bus connection afterward.
Travel Insurance
A good travel insurance policy is worth it in Croatia. It can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and baggage issues, which saves headaches if something goes wrong. Healthcare is solid but not free for visitors, so don’t skip coverage. Get an adventure insurance policy if you plan to do riskier activities like backpacking or diving.
Croatia Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
10 | 12 | 17 | 23 | 27 | 30 | 30 | 32 | 25 | 20 | 15 | 10 |
| Low °C |
4 | 4 | 7 | 11 | 15 | 19 | 22 | 19 | 18 | 14 | 10 | 5 |
| High °F |
50 | 54 | 63 | 73 | 81 | 86 | 86 | 90 | 77 | 68 | 59 | 50 |
| Low °F |
39 | 39 | 45 | 52 | 59 | 66 | 72 | 66 | 64 | 57 | 50 | 41 |
Croatia - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Dubrovnik | 87 |
| Rijeka | 85 |
| Split | 67 |
| Zagreb | 80 |
Great views
The landmine situation is so dangerous! Indeed, we noticed some warnings but we didn’t go anywhere near them, we stayed with our group. Overall I was really impressed with Croatia, well-worth to come back just us and enjoy it on our time.
SPF is a must!!
Yes, you should lather in SPF, the sun is incredibly strong! I got a sunburn after an afternoon in the sun and I never ever get sunburns… We didn’t frequent any strip clubs, luckily, but holy cow, 2k for a champagne?!
Safe and clear waters
Dubrovnik is insanely beautiful in August! We booked a small loft which proved the best solutions for us. As a family with two small children we need a place just for us and this was just perfect, we all had a wonderful time!
Just don’t attempt to climb mountains in flip-flops it is not good idea.
Croatia is a beautiful
Croatia is a beautiful, not as well known country. I think everyone and their dog should experience this country at least once. The prices are ok for the most part and there is a lot to see plus the weather is great most of the time.
Yeah…beautifull with the eye…Food more expensive then Germany and Switzerland…
And never forget:”Nothing bad about Hrvatska!” If “yes”, you WILL bear the consequences!
Scamming is not an issue. Prices are capitalist standartised. For females, female solo travellers, understand the country has a “red alert on rape”. And yes this is written through experience. Not all of country is bad, though we NEVER want to come back again! For cyclists: “a life does not count here”.
Not true!
What are you talking about??
Are you sure you have been to Croatia?
Red alert on crime??? Are you for real???
I live in Croatia my entire life, our biggest crimes are if someone robs a post office, and that is all over the news, and 2 days later the burglars get caught.
If there were rapes going on, that would be on the news in the headlines, believe me!
Now if you drunk tourists engage in alcohol, drugs, whatever and get a bad experience, don’t blame it on the country dude.
Stay safe, sending love from Croatia ?? ?
Exactly I’ve been to “very dangerous” countries and never had an issue worth talking about conduct yourself properly, be wise to your surroundings and you should be fine
Safe, clean and awesome!
I have been in many places in Croatia and have not had a bad experience. Croatians are proud of their country and like to be known as honest. I spend much time in Dalmatia and the surrounding islands. The water is just second to none, renting a boat is a must in my humble opinion because of the many bays were you can be alone even in high season. Likely the safest place I have visited.
Nationalism in progress
Beautiful country in terms of scenery but not a very good sociocultural experience. Too much xenophobia and hatred towards what is different, particularly in cities like Split, which can lead to serious issues. Quite contradictory, in fact, when most tourist attractions are related to other countries, and so is the cuisine, which is not very original. Prices have also skyrocketed since they joined the euro and Schengen. There are countries which offer more without having to face the kind of hostility that you are likely to experience in Croatia.
Can foreigner work in Croatia