Croatia has become one of the most sought-after travel destinations in Europe, attracting millions of tourists each year with its stunning coastline, historic cities, and breathtaking national parks.
However, as with any destination, safety is a top concern for travelers. So, is Croatia safe to travel? Let’s break it down with insights from local experts and some official statistics.
How Safe Is Croatia for Tourists?
Croatia is consistently ranked among the safest countries in the world. According to the Global Peace Index, Croatia is positioned in the top 20 safest countries, thanks to its low crime rates and stable political environment.
Crime Rates in Croatia
- Violent Crime: Extremely rare. Croatia has one of the lowest violent crime rates in Europe.
- Petty Crime: Pickpocketing can occur in tourist-heavy areas, but it’s not as common as in other major European destinations.
- Scams: Some common tourist scams exist, but they are easy to avoid with basic awareness.
- Terrorism Threat: Virtually non-existent.
Is Croatia Safe to Visit for Solo Travelers?
Yes! Whether you’re a solo female traveler or backpacking across Europe alone, Croatia is considered very safe. Public transportation is reliable, people are friendly, and violent crime against tourists is almost unheard of.
Cities like Split, Dubrovnik, and Zagreb have vibrant tourist communities, making it easy to meet other travelers and locals, without any safety-related issues.
Is Croatia Safe for American Tourists?
Yes, Croatia is safe for American tourists, the same as for any other tourists. The country has a strong diplomatic relationship with the U.S., and English is widely spoken in tourist areas, making communication easy. American travelers are welcomed warmly, and no specific threats or risks are targeting them.
Women’s Safety in Croatia
Croatia is considered a very safe destination for female travelers. Harassment is rare, and women can generally walk around safely at night in most tourist areas.
That’s one of the first things people notice when they visit Croatia for the first time – you can casually decide to take a walk around your neighbourhood at 2 AM if you want to, and you will be safe and without any trouble in 99.99% of cases.
This doesn’t mean you should act irresponsibly, in Croatia there is a saying “If you don’t watch out for yourself, God will neither”.
However, as with anywhere, it’s always good to take standard precautions, such as:
- Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas late at night.
- Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps (Uber, Bolt and other popular taxi apps are all available in Croatia).
- Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering drinks in bars or clubs.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, leave the situation.
LGBTQ+ Safety in Croatia
While Croatia is traditionally conservative, major tourist destinations like Split, Zadar, Rijeka, Dubrovnik, and Zagreb are welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers.
There are LGBTQ+ friendly bars and clubs, particularly in Zagreb, and Pride events are held annually. However, public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention in smaller towns or rural areas, so discretion is advised.
Safety in Popular Tourist Destinations in Croatia
Is Split safe to visit?
Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, is generally very safe. The Old Town and Riva promenade are well-patrolled, and violent crime is almost nonexistent. The only issues you might face are occasional pickpocketing or minor tourist scams near crowded spots.
Is Dubrovnik safe to visit?
Dubrovnik, one of Croatia’s most famous cities, is also one of its safest. It is well-policed, and crime rates are low. However, due to its popularity, expect higher prices and occasional tourist-targeted scams (like overpriced taxis). The city is very walkable, and you can safely explore the Old Town and nearby attractions at any time of day.
Is Zagreb safe to visit?
The capital, Zagreb, is safe, even at night. As with any city, it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings, but overall, violent crime is rare, and public transportation is secure. The city has a vibrant café culture, and locals are friendly and willing to help tourists.
Travel Safety Tips for Croatia
While Croatia is very safe, here are some practical tips to ensure a hassle-free trip:
General Safety Tips
- Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas like beaches, bus stations, and markets.
- Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber to avoid overcharging.
- Be cautious with ATMs—use bank ATMs instead of independent ones to avoid high fees and potential scams.
- Respect local laws and customs, particularly regarding noise and public drinking in historic areas.
- Carry a copy of your passport in case of emergency.
- Beware of beach vendors selling overpriced items, particularly on the Adriatic coast.
Road Safety in Croatia
- Driving laws are strict, and seatbelts are mandatory.
- Speed limits are enforced with cameras.
- Coastal roads are beautiful but winding—drive carefully, especially at night.
- Beware of local drivers, as some can be aggressive, particularly in summer.
- Renting a car? Ensure you have an International Driving Permit if required by your home country.
Health & Medical Safety in Croatia
- Healthcare is excellent, with well-equipped hospitals and pharmacies in major cities.
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Croatia.
- No special vaccinations are required for entry.
- Emergency number: 112 is the all-purpose emergency number in Croatia.
Beach & Water Safety
- Be aware of strong currents in some coastal areas, particularly in the Adriatic.
- Respect lifeguard flags and safety guidelines when swimming.
- Jellyfish stings are rare but can happen—seek assistance from local medical stations if needed.
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen to avoid heatstroke, especially during peak summer months.
Is It Safe to Travel to Croatia Right Now?
As of 2025, Croatia remains one of the safest travel destinations in Europe. However, it’s always wise to check for travel updates from sources like the U.S. Department of State or the UK Foreign Travel Advice before your trip. While Croatia is generally safe, be mindful of occasional protests or political gatherings, particularly in larger cities.
Final Verdict: Is Croatia Safe to Travel?
Absolutely! Whether you’re exploring medieval towns, island hopping along the Adriatic, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, Croatia is one of the safest and most welcoming destinations in Europe. With basic precautions, your trip will be an unforgettable experience.