Environmental zones
Croatia has not yet established any environmental zones, so an environmental sticker is not required.

Toll roads
Almost all highways in Croatia are toll roads. Tolls can be paid in cash or by credit card. A toll badge called ENC is also available. With an ENC toll badge, you get a 20% discount on tolls and do not have to join the often long queues. Current toll rates can be found here.

Fuel
More than enough petrol stations can be found along motorways and main roads. Refuelling is generally cheaper than in Ireland. 

Charging posts
Croatia has significantly expanded its charging station network in recent years. While charging stations are easy to find in the north of the country, in the cities, and along motorways, there are a lot fewer charging stations in the south. So an electric car ride takes some planning.

Please note that in Croatia it is mandatory to carry the following things in the car::

• Hazard triangle
• Safety Vest
• First-aid box
• Spare bulbs (unless you have xenon, neon, or LED lights)
• Spare wheel, home carrier, or repair kit (unless you drive on run-flat tyres)

Climate in Istria
Istria is a large peninsula in northwestern Croatia. The climate is Mediterranean, giving this beautiful region a mild climate with many hours of sunshine. The coast of Istria is influenced by the Adriatic Sea and is perfect for wonderful beach vacations with the family, especially in the summer months. Temperatures are pleasant with average highs of around 28°C, plenty of sunshine and little rain.

Tap water
Water from the tap can be drunk without hesitation. Do you still prefer to drink bottled water? This is widely available in all shops.

Culinary in Croatia

Many different cuisines can be found in Croatian restaurants. Italian cuisine is particularly popular here. On the coast in Istria and Dalmatia, you will find plenty of restaurants serving fresh fish that is often caught in the morning. So there is something for everyone here!

The supermarkets are open daily between 07.00 and 19.00. Well-known chains are Konzum, Plodine, Mercator, and Kaufland. But you will also find Lidl and Aldi in Croatia.

Dinner in Croatia often starts later. Before 19.00, there is often no one in the restaurant. Will you stay at the campsite for dinner? Then you can often eat earlier. Tips are usually included in the price. You often have to pay separately for bread. It is appreciated to leave a tip of 5-10% in bars and restaurants as well as on guided excursions.

By plane
Croatia has 9 airports, 6 of which are international, spread across the country. This makes it easy to reach any desired region. At most airports, you can also easily rent a car to travel further to your destination.

Public transport
Public transport is fine in Croatia. Bus travel is especially popular, with trains only running to and from major cities. In a country with over a thousand islands, ferries are an important form of public transport. There are at least 40 routes from the mainland to the Croatian islands and Italy.

Healthcare
Medical care in Croatia is of good quality. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) entitles you to necessary medical care during your holiday in Croatia. You can visit all pharmacies, and make sure you carry enough of your medication, the language barrier can be a challenge. As everywhere in the EU, the European emergency number 112 applies.

Money matters
Since 2023, the euro has been used in Croatia. Almost everywhere you can pay by cash as well as by debit or credit card. You will find several cash withdrawal machines all over the country.

Sockets
For Croatia there are two associated plug types, types C and F. Plug type C is the plug that has two round pins and plug type F is the plug that has two round pins with two earth clips on the side. Croatia operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. If you forget to bring an adapter, you can buy a new one in most shops carrying electronic or IT equipment, while in tourist destinations they are often available in well-stocked newsstands. 

Travelling with a dog
Croatia is an animal-friendly country, but there are some rules for travelling with dogs. For example, your dog must have a microchip, a valid dog passport, and be up-to-date with vaccinations, including rabies. Dogs must be leashed almost everywhere in Croatia. See a list of all the rules and banned dog breeds in Croatia here.