Croatia

Croatia stretches along the Adriatic Sea and has become one of Europe’s most popular coastal destinations. It offers over a thousand islands, medieval towns, and national parks. The capital, Zagreb, blends Austro-Hungarian architecture with a relaxed café culture, while cities like Dubrovnik and Split are famed for their Roman ruins and sea views. Croatia uses the euro and is part of the European Union and the Schengen Area as of 2023. Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The coastline is dotted with beaches and islands accessible by ferry, and inland regions offer hiking, rafting, and UNESCO-listed parks like Plitvice Lakes. Croatia has a Mediterranean climate along the coast and a continental climate inland. Transport is reliable, with good road and ferry connections, though rail options are limited. The country is safe and relatively affordable compared to Western Europe. With its mix of historic sites, natural beauty, and accessible tourism infrastructure, Croatia appeals to both beachgoers and culture seekers.