Before heading out to Croatia, make sure you’ve got suitable travel and medical insurance in place. Policies can differ between providers, so it’s worth checking exactly what’s covered — don’t just pick the cheapest option. Even a small accident or illness can end up being costly without the right protection.
While it’s not a replacement for insurance, UK residents should carry a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). This allows you access to state healthcare in Croatia at a reduced cost, or sometimes for free. If you still have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you can continue using it until it expires. You can find more details or apply for a GHIC at www.gov.uk.
If you fall ill while in Croatia, there are plenty of options for medical care. For minor issues, pharmacies (ljekarna) are easy to find and the staff are knowledgeable. For more serious concerns, there are several private medical centres and clinics in popular destinations like Split, Zadar, and Dubrovnik — for example, KBC Split Hospital or Medico Polyclinic in Split. Many offer English-speaking doctors, but they often operate privately, so having comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended.