Sustainable Travel in Croatia

About Croatia

Green Travel

Responsible Travel
  • Officially called The Republic of Croatia
  • Population: 4.28 million
  • Capital: Zagreb
  • Currency: Kuna
  • The country covers 56,594 square kilometers and has a coastline with more than 1,000 islands
  • Croatian cuisine is regional and includes both Italian and Slavic influences
  • Like other countries with Mediterranean climates, Croatia produces well known wine, cheese, olive oil, figs, and lavender
  • Low-cost European airlines fly into Zagreb, Split, Zadar and Rijeka
  • Take public transportation: Croatia has incredible bus systems (although the prices are sometimes a little baffling) that connect the entire country. There are also numerous options for train travel, though most route through the inland capital of Zagreb. Public ferries are quick and easy and connect many of the islands off the Dalmatian Coast. 
  • In many grocery stores, plastic bags will cost you, so make sure to bring a reusable, packable daypack or grocery bag to avoid the extra cost and help save the planet
  • Tap water is just fine for drinking in Croatia, so bring a reusable water bottle or pick up a large one from the store and fill it up before heading out for the day
  • Stay in a locally-owned apartment (AirBnB) or TripAdvisor GreenLeader hotel
  • Eat and drink products made in Croatia. It’s easy to do and you’ll reduce carbon emissions caused by international shipping - look for delicious Croatian olive oil, figs, cheeses, wines, and other products
  • Take a walking tour: Many cities in Croatia (such as Split and Sibenik) offer excellent walking tours that provide insight to local history and culture. You’ll learn a lot, burn some calories, and save the emissions from a bus or van tour
  • When looking for a place to stay, choose locally-owned apartments or independent hotels so the money you spend goes back into the community 
  • If you have the option, donate when visiting historical landmarks to support preservation
  • Take a tour of a local producer: Wineries, farms, and olive oil producers often offer free (or cheap) tours where you can learn about and purchase locally-made products
  • Learn a few phrases in Croatian: While most Croats speak a little English, starting off a conversation with a Croatian greeting can go a long way. Bok (bohk) means hello, molim (MOH-leem) means please, and Hvala (HVAH-lah) means thank you
  • Find a shop that sells traditional Croatian items to take home as souvenirs, rather than buying cheap trinkets (many of which are made in China) in the touristy areas of town