Croatia is a country located in southeastern Europe, bordered by Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro, with a long Adriatic coastline facing Italy across the sea. It has a population of approximately 3.9 million people.

The capital and largest city is Zagreb, known for its Austro-Hungarian architecture, lively café culture, and historic Upper Town.

The official language of Croatia is Croatian, a South Slavic language written in the Latin alphabet.

Croatia is celebrated for its stunning coastline, more than 1,000 islands, and beautifully preserved medieval towns such as Dubrovnik, Split, and Trogir.

Tourism is a major part of the Croatian economy, alongside shipbuilding, agriculture, and services. Popular exports include wine, olive oil, truffles, and seafood.

Croatia joined the European Union in 2013 and adopted the Euro (€) as its official currency in 2023. It is also a member of NATO and the United Nations.

The country is predominantly Roman Catholic, and its cultural heritage blends Mediterranean and Central European influences.

The Croatian flag features red, white, and blue horizontal stripes with a distinctive red-and-white chequerboard shield in the centre.

Croatia’s natural wonders include Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Parks, both famous for cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes.

The best time to visit Croatia is during the spring and autumn months, from April to June and September to October, when the weather is warm but not overly hot, and the crowds are smaller. During this period, daytime temperatures generally range between 18°C and 27°C (64°F to 81°F), making it ideal for sightseeing, sailing, and exploring coastal towns and national parks.

The summer months from July to August are the peak tourist season, especially along the Dalmatian Coast and islands like Hvar, Korčula, and Brač. Expect higher prices and temperatures often reaching 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). This is the best time for swimming, festivals, and island-hopping, though accommodations book out quickly.

The winter months from November to March bring cooler weather, with temperatures averaging 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F), particularly in inland areas like Zagreb. Many coastal resorts slow down during this time, but cities such as Dubrovnik and Split offer a quieter, more authentic experience.

Overall, the best time to travel to Croatia depends on your preferences — spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer tourists, or summer for warm seas and lively coastal energy.