Where is Croatia Located?

Where is Croatia located on the map? Croatia is an independent nation located in Southern Europe. Check out the following images to see location of Croatia on maps.

Croatia Location in World Map

On this map you can see where Croatia is in Europe.

Location Information of Croatia

Croatia is a Southeastern European country situated along the eastern coastline of the Adriatic Sea, bordering Slovenia to the northwest, Hungary to the northeast, Serbia to the east, and Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro to the southeast. The country’s coastline is known for its stunning beauty, dotted with islands, beautiful beaches, and medieval towns. Croatia is also located on a key crossroads of historical trade and cultural exchanges, between Central Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Balkans. The country’s natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage have made it one of Europe’s top tourist destinations.

Latitude and Longitude

Croatia is geographically located between 42° 10′ N latitude and 17° 25′ E longitude. The country stretches approximately 1,100 km (680 miles) from its northern border with Hungary and Slovenia to its southern border with Montenegro. Croatia’s coastal region along the Adriatic is an important part of the country’s identity, providing a gateway to the Mediterranean. The mainland of Croatia is more inland, with expansive plains, rivers, and mountain ranges that contribute to its diverse geography.

Capital City and Major Cities

Capital City: Zagreb

The capital and largest city of Croatia is Zagreb, located in the northwestern part of the country. Zagreb has a population of around 800,000 in the city proper, and approximately 1.3 million people in its metropolitan area. As the political, economic, and cultural center of the country, Zagreb is home to most of Croatia’s government institutions, major businesses, cultural landmarks, and educational institutions. It is located on the southern slopes of the Medvednica mountain, on the banks of the Sava River.

Zagreb is known for its medieval old town (Gornji Grad), historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful parks. Key landmarks include Ban Jelačić Square, the Zagreb Cathedral, and the Stone Gate, which is part of the medieval fortifications of the city. Zagreb is also famous for its cafés, lively atmosphere, and festivals, including the famous Advent Christmas market, one of the largest in Europe.

Major Cities

1. Split Split is the second-largest city in Croatia, located on the central Dalmatian coast of the Adriatic Sea. Split has a population of about 180,000 people. It is a major port city and a popular tourist destination, known for the Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 4th century. Split serves as the cultural and economic hub of the Dalmatian region, with its vibrant markets, beaches, and proximity to nearby islands like Hvar and Brac.
2. Rijeka Rijeka, located on the northern Adriatic coast, is the third-largest city in Croatia, with a population of around 130,000 people. Rijeka is an important port city and industrial center, with a rich history that includes Venetian rule and maritime heritage. The city’s Korzo Street, Trsat Castle, and Rijeka’s Maritime and History Museum are among its top attractions.
3. Osijek Osijek is located in the eastern part of the country, near the Danube River. It is the largest city in the Slavonia region, with a population of about 100,000 people. Osijek has a significant agricultural and industrial base, and its cultural life is centered around Osijek Cathedral, Tvrđa, the old town, and the Osijek Zoo and Aquarium.
4. Zadar Zadar, situated on the central Adriatic coast, is a city with a population of approximately 75,000 people. Zadar is known for its historical sites, including the Roman Forum, the St. Donatus Church, and the Sea Organ—a modern architectural and musical instrument played by the movement of the sea. It is also a gateway to the islands of Ugljan, Pašman, and Pag.
5. Dubrovnik Dubrovnik, located on the southern coast of Croatia along the Adriatic, is one of the most famous and visually striking cities in the country. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik has a population of about 42,000 people. The city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the City Walls, Stradun Street, and Sponza Palace. Dubrovnik is also a popular destination for international tourists, especially during the summer months.

Time Zone

Croatia is located in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is UTC +1 hour. During the summer months, Croatia observes Daylight Saving Time (DST) and switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC +2 hours. The country follows the standard European practice of moving the clocks forward in the spring and back in the autumn, which helps maximize daylight during the summer months.

Climate

Croatia’s climate is highly diverse, owing to its varied geography and location along the Adriatic coast. It has three main climate zones:

Mediterranean Climate (Coastal Areas)

The coastal regions of Croatia, including cities like Dubrovnik, Split, and Zadar, experience a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while winter temperatures rarely fall below 5°C (41°F). The Adriatic coast benefits from plenty of sunshine, especially during the summer months, making it a popular destination for beachgoers.

Continental Climate (Inland Areas)

The inland regions, including Zagreb and Osijek, experience a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach 30°C (86°F) or higher, while winter temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F), with snow being common in the winter months. These areas also receive more precipitation, especially during the late autumn and spring months.

Mountain Climate (Highland Areas)

The mountainous regions of Croatia, such as the Medvednica and Velebit mountains, experience a highland climate with cooler temperatures and snowfall in the winter. These areas are ideal for winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, while the summers are typically mild and pleasant, making them a popular destination for hiking.

Economic Status

Croatia’s economy is classified as a developed market economy, with key sectors including tourism, manufacturing, and agriculture. Croatia’s membership in the European Union (EU) since 2013 has had a positive impact on its economy, boosting trade, investment, and infrastructure development. However, challenges remain, such as high unemployment, especially among youth, and reliance on imports for some industrial goods.

Key Industries

1. Tourism Tourism is one of the most important sectors of Croatia’s economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. The country’s stunning coastline, historical cities, national parks, and islands attract millions of visitors annually. Coastal regions, especially Dubrovnik, Split, and Hvar, are particularly popular for their beaches, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife. The cultural heritage and eco-tourism options also play a growing role in attracting visitors year-round.
2. Agriculture Agriculture plays an important role in the Croatian economy, particularly in the continental and inland areas. The country produces wheat, corn, grapes (for wine production), olives, and fruits like apples and citrus fruits. Croatian wines, especially from regions like Istria and Dalmatia, are internationally recognized. Livestock farming and dairy production are also important contributors to the agricultural sector.
3. Manufacturing Croatia’s manufacturing sector is diverse, including industries such as shipbuilding, chemicals, food processing, and textiles. Croatia has a strong shipbuilding industry, with key ports in Rijeka and Split. Industrial machinery, electronics, and pharmaceuticals are other important manufacturing sectors. However, Croatia still faces challenges in modernizing some of its industrial infrastructure.
4. Renewable Energy Croatia has significant potential for renewable energy, particularly in hydropower, wind energy, and solar energy. The country has already developed a substantial number of hydroelectric power plants, and both the government and private sector are focused on expanding renewable energy projects to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
5. Banking and Services The banking and services sectors are well-developed in Croatia, especially in major cities like Zagreb. The country’s banking system is integrated into the EU financial system, and the Euro is used by many businesses in tourist areas. Additionally, the telecommunications and information technology (IT) sectors are growing, with an increasing focus on outsourcing and startups.

Tourist Attractions

Croatia offers a wealth of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences that attract visitors from around the world.

1. Dubrovnik Old Town The historic Old Town of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its well-preserved medieval walls and Renaissance architecture. The City Walls, Stradun Street, and Sponza Palace are among the key landmarks. Dubrovnik is also known as the filming location for Game of Thrones.
2. Plitvice Lakes National Park Plitvice Lakes is one of Croatia’s most famous national parks, known for its stunning waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts millions of visitors each year.
3. Diocletian’s Palace in Split The ancient Diocletian’s Palace in Split, built by the Roman emperor Diocletian in the 4th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive Roman monuments in existence. The palace is now a living part of the city, with cafes, shops, and homes situated within its walls.
4. Hvar Island Hvar is known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and historic towns, such as Hvar Town. The island is a popular spot for yachting, wine tours, and visiting lavender fields.
5. Krka National Park Known for its waterfalls, especially Skradinski Buk, Krka National Park offers scenic walking trails, swimming areas, and opportunities to explore monasteries and ancient ruins.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens traveling to Croatia for tourism do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, a valid passport is required, and it must remain valid for at least three months beyond the intended date of departure from Croatia. Visitors must also show proof of sufficient funds for their stay and may need to provide evidence of onward travel.

Distance to Major U.S. Cities

1. Distance to New York City The distance from New York City (JFK) to Zagreb, Croatia, is approximately 4,700 miles (7,500 kilometers). A flight typically takes 8 to 9 hours, depending on the specific route.
2. Distance to Los Angeles The distance from Los Angeles (LAX) to Zagreb is approximately 5,800 miles (9,300 kilometers). Flight times generally range from 10 to 12 hours, depending on layovers and route selection.

Croatia Facts

Size	56,594 km²
Residents	4.06 million
Language	Croatian
Capital	Zagreb
Longest river	Save (562 km in Croatia)
Highest mountain	Dinara (1,831 m)
Currency	Kuna