Croatian Culture

Eating & Drinking

“Incredible tastes right from the Dalmatian sea, and spick-and-span agriproducts from some of the most fertile lands of the Mediterranean…Excellent food is the heart of Croatian culture.”

Every region has its own culinary way. The Dalmatians like it fresh from the sea and dressed in whatever spices the season offers. In the inner parts such as Zagreb, root veggies and simplicity is valued, similar to the rest of Central Europe. The Slavonia region diverges from the main palette, replacing fish with some juicy pork meat. The best part of taking a trip to the Dalmatian is that you will find all kinds of restaurants bringing together recipes from around the country. Most of the fresh vegetables come from family-run farms, which has had a significant role in the Croatian culture of food. If you are looking for the most authentic food experience in Croatia, go to the konobas, often family-owned cozy tavernas that serve the best appetizers.

Risotto with seafood and exquisite olive oil, farm-made cheese accompanied with seasonal spices, and a sip of award-winning wines… This is how your usual meal starts in Croatia. Bread is a table staple, often coming in different varieties based on the dish you order. Even breakfasts have their own selection of aperitives. The true star of Croatian cuisine is fish, or anything that comes from the Dalmatian sea. Oysters are a specialty along the coast, so you must engage in that iconic oyster-tasting ritual with some local white wine. Between breakfast and lunch, experience the light and joyful Marenda. Some may say this is basically brunch, and they are wrong! Marenda is as traditional and authentic as it gets, hailing good quality dry meat and cheese.

There are four signature tastes of Croatia, truffles, the local white grape (and of course its wine), seasalt, and oysters. Try these wherever you are visiting, and you will also get to experience their great varieties. Visit a winery or an oyster farm if you can, or learn about the local tradition of truffle hunting in the Mediterranean scrubs. Don’t hesitate to get to the bottom of Croatian culture with these activities.

Religion & Etiquette

Croatia’s religious portrait is far from diverse. Over 90% of the population define themselves as Catholics, while the remaining Orthodox Christians, Muslims, and Atheists. Catholicism is one of the defining elements of Croatian culture. It was a driving force for independence, and today it is one of the core constituents of customs and etiquette. A blend of Western values and religious faith results in an open-minded society that likes to practice traditionalism in some matters. To practice some common courtesy, the best things to keep in mind are to avoid talking about the war, not questioning independence and keep unusual comments about Catholicism to yourself.

You will see religion practiced in different ways across the country, and the reason for this is ethnic diversity. Regional varieties of Croatian culture are a delight to experience. Slovenians, Dalmatians, and other ethnicities from the neighboring regions make up the ethnic palette. Never assume that they are the same in terms of culture and way of life. Croatians value their individualism very much. However, there are certain customs that have become the fabric of life here. Everyone in Croatia gives importance to dressing neatly, and often stylishly. Refusing offerings and refreshments in smaller restaurants may be perceived as rude, but Croatians are relatively tolerant towards travelers.

When walking on the street, don’t be so surprised if you receive a few sincere greetings from strangers. It is common in street culture. Also part of the contemporary scene is the cozy coffeehouses scattered all across the Dalmatian. These are the best places in Croatia for people-watching and making some local acquaintances.