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Croatia: Introduction

In Croatia, the coastline has a warm dry Mediterranean climate and there are literally hundreds of uninhabited islands. Whether you’re looking for a family adventure or a romantic getaway, there’s something perfect for you.

Croatia has soared in popularity as a holiday destination in recent years, as more and more people visit and share the secret. A diverse country with historic cities and ancient forests, mountain ranges and sunlit beaches, Croatia is a country that will continue to charm visitors long into the future. Monarch has plenty of package holidays to Dubrovnik, as well as options for villa and two-centre holidays, so you can explore Croatia at your own pace.

Weather
Croatia has a varied climate with continental conditions inland - where the summers are hot and dry and the winters cold - and Mediterranean conditions on the world-renowned Dalmatian Coast, where temperatures stay mild all year round.

Where to Stay
Dubrovnik, in the far south of Croatia, is by far the country’s most popular visitor destination. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, the city boasts a stunning mix of old and new Croatian heritage. One of the most spectacular medieval cities in the world, Dubrovnik is ringed by walls and marked by terracotta roofs and church spires. To the north of Dubrovnik, the ancient coastal city of Split, famous for the Roman Palace of the Emperor Diocletian, is also a must for any admirers of ancient civilisations.

Activities
The Croatian Adriatic Coast is one of the most impressive coastlines in Europe and no Croatian holiday is complete without a tour of the islands. There are regular boat trips available from the coastal ports of Dubrovnik and Split to take you to the numerous and varied Dalmatian islands. Each island has its own character, from trendy hotspots such as Hvar, to secluded getaways, such as Vis.

Hvar has become the prime destination for the glitterati and their yachts, as well as hosting music festivals in the summer months. Nevertheless, it continues to retain its island charm, much like its neighbours Mljet and Brač.

Travelling by boat to the islands, whether by a cruise line or your own sailboat from Dubrovnik, is a fantastic way of discovering the Dalmatian coastal region. Croatia is blessed by natural beauty, meaning you can dock your boat or park your car nearly anywhere and hike through pine forests to explore natural parks and mountain ranges, or kayak down the rivers.

A holiday in Croatia would be incomplete without visiting the Croatian cities of Dubrovnik and Split. Walk through Dubrovnik’s historic walls and bastions, and explore the countless beautiful churches and Renaissance buildings of the Old Town. If you holiday here, make sure you don’t miss the sunset over the romantic city – it’s a phenomenal sight! The World Heritage site of Diocletian’s Summer Palace makes Split an obligatory stop-over. Indulge in Croatian cuisine, which shows strong Italian influences – make sure you try the ice cream, the best outside of Italy!

Economy of Croatia:
Its economy is largely dependent on tourism and its service sector, but it also has a strong industrial and agricultural sector. Croatia’s economic success is largely due to its strategic location, membership in the EU, and sound fiscal policies.

Croatia has a market-based economy that has experienced strong growth since the mid-1990s. The country is a member of the European Union and the World Trade Organization, and is a signatory to the Central European Free Trade Agreement (CEFTA). As of 2018, the country boasts a GDP of $63.3 billion and GDP per capita of $15,000.

Croatia's service sector contributes the most to the country's GDP and is the main source of employment. The sector is largely based on tourism, which has grown significantly since the mid-1990s. The country has a number of attractive seaside resorts that attract tourists from all over the world. The sector also includes business services, real estate, banking, and finance.

Industry is the second largest sector in Croatia's economy, accounting for approximately 20% of the country's GDP. The sector includes manufacturing, construction, mining, and energy. Croatia is a major producer of chemicals, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. It is also a leading producer of energy from renewable sources, such as hydroelectricity and solar power.

Agriculture is an important sector in Croatia's economy, accounting for around 10% of the country's GDP. The sector is largely based on small farms and family-run businesses. Croatia is a major producer of fruits and vegetables, as well as dairy products and wines.

Croatia is known for its sound fiscal policies and has managed to maintain a balanced budget since the mid-1990s. The country has a low public debt-to-GDP ratio, which is currently at around 50%. Croatia has also maintained a low inflation rate, which is currently around 1.9%.

The country's economy is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The government is implementing reforms to reduce bureaucracy and attract foreign investment. The country is also working to develop its infrastructure, including roads, airports, and ports. With its strategic location, sound fiscal policies, and membership in the EU, Croatia is well-positioned to continue its economic success.