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English in Croatia is more common than you might expect — making it easy to explore, connect, and enjoy your trip without language stress. Croatia attracts millions of travelers each year — and yes, you can enjoy it without knowing Croatian. From the cobbled streets of Dubrovnik to the sun-soaked beaches of Hvar, the country is designed to welcome visitors from all over the world. English has become the unofficial second language in most tourist areas, making it incredibly easy to get around, ask for help, or strike up a conversation. Whether you’re booking a ferry, ordering seafood, or checking into a boutique hotel, chances are you’ll be met with a smile — and fluent English.
The short answer: Yes. English is widely spoken, especially by younger generations and anyone working in tourism. Surprisingly, you’ll often hear Croatian locals speaking with a clear accent — sometimes almost native-like!
According to the 2024 EF English Proficiency Index:
🇭🇷 Croatia scored 607/700, earning 5th place globally (out of 116 countries) and 4th in Europe.
In Zagreb, the score is even higher — 612, ranking the city among European elite.
Roughly 65 % of Croatians speak English as a foreign language, and about 80 % are bilingual.
Among younger Croatians (aged 15–34), a striking 95 % know at least one foreign language, with English being the most common.
A 2009 survey showed that 78 % of Croats claimed proficiency in at least one foreign language, and English topped the list.
These stats mean that Chances are very high you’ll find someone who understands you — even outside tourist zones.
From booking ferries to ordering seafood:
Gas stations, restaurants, bars, and even hospitals and police use English regularly.
In premium resorts, it’s common for employees to be fluent in at least two foreign languages (e.g., English + German or Italian).
Want directions in Zagreb? Need assistance in Split? No need to worry — language won’t be a barrier.
And if you do meet someone who doesn’t speak English, just:
As a local, I’ve always been proud of how open and welcoming Croatians are. We might not all speak perfect English, but we’ll do our best to understand you — with gestures, smiles, or a few words here and there.
Whether you’re lost in a small village or need help in the city, don’t hesitate to ask. We’re happy when people come to discover our country, and we’ll go out of our way to make you feel at home.
Croatia speaks many languages — but kindness is our favorite. ❤️
✔️ Discover our Things To Do in Croatia
✔️ Browse our Travel Resource Croatia
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Your CTC Team ❤️
“We promote Croatia — but we don’t sell its soul.”
At ComeToCroatia.Holiday, we believe that the beauty of Croatia — its hidden beaches, forests, villages, and cliffs — is not a commodity, but a legacy.
That’s why:
We are not just a travel guide. We are guardians of balance — between sharing and preserving.
If you love Croatia, you’ll love it even more when you respect it.
CTC – ComeToCroatia.Holiday
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