Cost of Living in Croatia
Croatia, with its spectacular Adriatic coast and idyllic islands, offers a variety of attractions for travelers off-the-beaten-track. Its modern coastal cities are complemented by tranquil towns, steeped in culture. But beyond sights, sounds and attractions, Croatia offers potential travelers insight into the cost of living and, more specifically, the price of a pint of beer.
Croatia’s cost of living, in general, is relatively low when compared to other European and Mediterranean countries. The average salary in Croatia is around 3,324 Croatian Kuna ($534USD pp pre-tax) according to SalaryExpert.com. This means that while a pint of beer may cost more than what it does in some other countries, it is still comparatively cheaper than than many other places.
Average Costs of Beer Drinking in Croatia
The average cost of a pint of beer in Croatia is around 12-15 Croatian Kuna ($2-2.50 USD). However, that amount can vary substantially based on the kind of beer (local, imported, etc) and where it is served. In tourist areas along the coast, a pint of beer can cost upwards of 20 Croatian Kuna ($3.20 USD). Local beers, however, are usually between 10-13 Kuna ($1.60-2.10 USD) per pint.
Given the relatively low cost of living in Croatia, this results in a pint of beer being very affordable. When compared to other parts of Europe, the cost is significantly lower, ranging from three times less in Italy, to more than five times less than in the UK. Consequently, Croatia is one of the most affordable places to enjoy a beer in Europe.
Cost Comparisons in Croatia
It is worth noting that the price of a pint of beer is indicative of how much of a budget may be needed for a longer trip to Croatia. A night in a double room in a mid-range hotel will cost around $60-70 USD. A 3-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant is around $29USD (including one bottle of wine). Groceries, bought from local markets, are also very reasonably priced.
In comparison, a pint of beer is relatively inexpensive. Therefore, if travelers are looking for an affordable holiday in Europe with a variety of activities, Croatia is an excellent option.
Craft Beer Scene in Croatia
Though not as popular as in other European countries, Croatia’s craft beer scene is slowly but steadily on the rise. There are dozens of craft beer cafes in Croatia, mostly located in Zagreb, that offer a variety of styles for a reasonable price. Craft beer is often sold in 0.3 or 0.5-liter glasses and usually cost slightly more than local lagers. For example, a pint of craft beer in Zagreb can cost around $4-5 USD.
The craft beer scene in Croatia has exploded over the last few years and has become a popular destination for craft beer lovers. Craft brewers like Mali Medo, Varionica, and Orbita, to name a few, have been making an impact in the Croatian craft beer scene and have sparked a trend that is gaining momentum.
Local Drinks in Croatia
In addition to beer, there are a variety of local drinks that can be found in Croatia that are both affordable and delicious. Rakija, a popular spirit distilled from either plums or grapes, can usually be found in amounts of 0.7L or 0.5L bottles. Rakija can cost around $10 USD for a 0.7L bottle, which is quite affordable for a local spirit.
Another popular Croatian drink is Lozovača, a type of brandy made from distilled grapes. Lozovača is usually much cheaper than Rakija and can cost around $7 USD for a 0.7L bottle.
Summary
In conclusion, while the average cost of a pint of beer in Croatia is roughly 12-15 Croatian Kuna ($2.00 – 2.50 USD), the cost varies based on the kind of beer and where it is served. On the whole, Croatia is an excellent destination for travelers as it is relatively affordable in terms of groceries, hotels, and drinks. Moreover, the Croatian craft beer scene is gaining momentum and is slowly becoming a popular destination for craft beer enthusiasts.
Wine Culture in Croatia
Croatia is renowned for its extensive and oldest wine cultures, with viticulture possibly dating back as early as the 7th century BC. Wine production has long been an essential trade for generations of Croatian families and shaped the culture as we know it today. It is estimated that over 75% of Croatian wine exported is exported to EU countries, primarily to Germany, Slovenia and the United Kingdom, and most recently, to the United States.
Today, Croatia boasts 127 varieties of wine and 25 denominations of origin – from Zagorje’s Graševina wines to the famous Istrian Teran red wines and the world-renowned Plavac Mali. According to the Croatian Chamber of Economy, Croatian wine exports had increased by around 20% in 2020, which is a testament to Croatia’s well-established and international wine culture.
When it comes to the grapes grown, Croatia is unique in that it affords both cool-climate and hot-climate wines, as well as a plethora of indigenous grape varietals each specific to a region. While Croatia’s exported wines are predominantly white and red, Rose, sparkling, and desert wines are becoming increasingly popular. Croatia is especially known for its crisp, herbal-scented whites, such as the Traminac, Pošip or Graševina, and velvety-smooth reds, such as the Plavac Mali, Dingac and Babic.
Wine Production in Croatia
Another unique aspect of Croatia is its preservation of traditional wine production methods. Wine is made sustainably from grapes harvested by hand and stored in small wooden barrels or stainless steel tanks. Since much of Croatia’s wine production is still housed in small family-operated wineries or “kodera”, it is not uncommon to find rustic storage and processing facilities.
Many of Croatia’s best wines are produced in the “primorska” region in the Croatian coast, where the Istrian peninsula is located, home to numerous and exquisite wineries. All of Croatia’s wine styles are typically made from local grape varieties, which are naturally prone to a shorter lifespan. Thus, careful wine handling is essential for preserving each wine’s distinct characteristics.
Wine Tastings in Croatia
Croatia also provides travelers with an abundance of opportunities to explore and sample local wines. Various wine tastings and dinners, such as Dalmatian Wine Days, are organized by local winemakers. Additionally, travelers can easily book an organized wine tour with a specialized agency or create their own bespoke tasting sessions at a local restaurant.
Moving forward, many winemakers in Croatia are opening their cellars to the public by organizing events and tastings that are both educational and entertaining. Wine is an important part of Croatian culture, and it is undeniable that Croatian winemakers pride themselves in the quality and flavor of their wines.
Conclusion
In summary, Croatia is a unique and attractive destination for travelers who wish to explore its extensive and oldest wine culture. Croatia’s wineries are small and equipped with the best technological advances that ensure sustainability and optimal wine quality. Travelers have the opportunity to explore Croatian wines through various tastings and dinners that are organized by local winemakers. Croatia’s wines are becoming increasingly popular in international markets, so travelers are sure to make a lasting impression by exploring its many wineries and quaint family-operated cellars.
