Where to stay in Croatia

The sojourn tax

• EUR 1 to EUR 3 per adult per night, depending on the destination and the season. Coastal towns in peak summer sit at the top.
• Children under 12 pay nothing, and 12 to 18 year olds usually pay half.
• It is collected at check-in and is rarely included in the online price.
• It applies to campsites, apartments, hotels and boats alike.
• Several islands have discussed adding an eco-fee on top. Nothing is in force yet, but do not be shocked if one appears.

Registration

• Your host must register you within 24 hours of arrival. They will ask for your passport, which is normal and legally required.
• A host who does not ask for it is probably unregistered, which becomes your problem if there is a dispute or an inspection.
• You get nothing back to carry. The registration is electronic and you do not need proof.

Types of accommodation

• "Sobe" and "apartmani" signs mean private rooms and apartments, the traditional Croatian option and often the best value.
• Family-run apartments dominate the coast, and many are booked directly with no deposit.
• Hotels in Dubrovnik and Hvar are expensive in season. Staying in Cavtat, Gruz or on a nearby island cuts the price sharply.
• Campsites are excellent and many are right on the water.
• Naturist campsites are a well-established Croatian institution and clearly signed as FKK. You will not wander into one by accident.

Timing

• Book July and August months ahead, especially for islands and anywhere with a festival.
• June and September are the sweet spot, warm sea, half the crowds, lower prices.
• Much of the coast shuts down from November to April. On smaller islands that includes the restaurants and the ferries thin out.