By Joshua Duvauchelle
Travel in Croatia
Croatia is a republican country on the southeastern edge of
Europe bordering the Adriatic Sea. Since it was created by the Croats in the year 925 AD, Croatia has developed its own vibrant culture independent of that of its European neighbors. Millions of visitors cross Croatia's borders annually for a European vacation that provides a different experience from that of London, Paris and other typical European tourist hotspots. When visiting Croatia, take advantage of the numerous methods of private and public transportation to see the country's various landmarks and attractions, including seven World Heritage sites. The most common forms of travel in Croatia include ferries, buses, taxis and the train.
Ferries
Ferries are the most popular method of travel between Croatia's mainland and its coastal islands, and they are much cheaper than chartering a plane. Most ferries are operated by Jadrolinija, the country's national ferry company, which has been providing service to major ports and cities for over six decades. Call ahead to obtain a current ferry schedule. The company operates approximately 250 departures a day from September through May, and up to 500 daily ferry runs from May through September. Most ferries allow you to bring your car, thus saving you transportation costs when you get to your destination.
Jadrolinija Ferries
Riva 16
51000 Rijeka
Croatia
+385-51-666-111
http://www.jadrolinija.hr
Buses
Bus travel provides a reliable method of Croatian transportation that is much cheaper than renting a car. Buses travel between all major cities, towns and landmarks and run regularly throughout the day. Most buses operate using assigned seating, so you may wish to purchase your bus ticket 48 to 24 hours in advance to ensure a seat. Bus tickets must be purchased at the bus station and are not available online or through third-parties. Croatia has three major bus companies that provide service to most bus stops.
Autotrans
+385-51-213-821
http://www.autotrans.hr
Brioni
+385-52-535-155
http://www.brioni.hr
Contus
http://www.contus.hr
+385-23-315-315
Trains
Croatia does not operate a very extensive network of trains. However, tourists traveling between major cities who don't want to stop at attractions along the way may find the train to be a more direct method of travel. The most popular train line is the track going from the capital city of Zagreb to Split, taking visitors from the middle of the country to the coast in just under seven hours. The train also runs from the capital city to Zadar, Rijeka, Osijek, and Sibenik. In some cases, such as on the ride to Pula, your train ticket requires a transfer to the local bus system.
Taxis
Tourists making short-distance trips may wish to take a taxi rather than booking a bus ticket. Taxis are prolific and provide quick, efficient service to your destination. If traveling from the airport, solicit taxi service from the main taxi hub just outside of the baggage claims. If departing from a hotel or tourist landmark, you will likely find taxis curbside. If hailing a taxi cab outside of traditional tourist districts, verify that your driver speaks English and knows the way to your destination as some taxi drivers only speak hrvatski jezik, the national language.
Resources
About the Author:
Joshua Duvauchelle is an editor and journalist who has been writing since 2000. His work has appeared in various national and international magazines, including "Honolulu Magazine." Duvauchelle graduated with honors from Trinity Western University, holding a Bachelor of Arts in professional communications, and earned a certificate in applied leadership and public affairs from the Laurentian Leadership Centre.
Photo Credits:
Paeonia
