With the new year comes some good news: ten years after its entry into the European Union, from January 1st 2023 Croatia also enters the Schengen area and the Eurozone, thus becoming the 20th country to adopt the single currency and the 27th to enter the free movement area.
A positive change for the tourism industry, which already represents 20% of the country's GDP and which will probably receive a further boost.
What changes for tourism
For tourists from the European Union this is undoubtedly good news, mainly for two reasons:
- Entrance in the Schengen area has led to the abolition of internal borders, so to enter Croatia you no longer need border controls: no more queues at land borders or at ships' disembarkation. At the airports controls will be maintained until March 26th, when the summer flight schedules will come into effect.
- Currency exchange is no longer necessary, as from 15 January 2023 the euro is the only legal tender. However, prices will remain posted in both euro and kuna until the end of next year, with the exchange rate set at 7.53450 Croatian kuna per 1 euro.
It therefore becomes much easier to go on holiday in this country, already a very popular tourist destination.
Discover Croatia from a new point of view: set sail with us
So, what better time than now to visit Croatia? We at BeBlue know it like the inside of our pockets and we will be happy to accompany you to discover the most hidden glimpses and the most evocative landscapes. We have different itineraries to offer you, both in group trips if you want to travel alone, as a couple or with a small group of friends and share the experience with new people; or if you want to rent a boat all for yourself and create your own tailor-made holiday. Here are some suggestions:
- Istria and northern Croatia: easily accessible by car from Trieste, Istria is one of the most popular Croatian areas for tourists. The main towns are Rovinj, a historic village with a romantic charm, and Pula, an ancient Roman city and capital of the peninsula. There is no shortage of natural parks such as that of Komenjac, famous for its enchanting bays, and the characteristic islets such as Olib, Silba and Premuda. You can also go as far as the northern Kornati Islands, a protected site of priceless beauty in whose crystal clear waters it is possible to snorkel.
- Split and southern Dalmatia: you can start from the coastal city of Split and, after visiting the Roman ruins in the old town, set sail towards the islands of southern Dalmatia. The must-see are Vis, Drvenik, Hvar, Solta and more, each with its own unique charm. We recommend that you visit the small historic centers on foot to enjoy the characteristic towns rich in history. Appreciated for the beauty of its waters and beaches and for its incredible natural heritage, this country always knows how to amaze and enchant us like the first time. Discover it with us!