Dubrovnik-Neretva County is Croatia's southernmost county, renowned for the UNESCO-listed walled city of Dubrovnik, the Pelješac Peninsula with its world-class wines and oysters, and the lush Neretva River delta. The region encompasses stunning Adriatic coastline, idyllic islands including Korčula, Mljet, and the Elafiti archipelago, and historic towns that blend Venetian and Ragusan architectural heritage.
Dubrovnik-Neretva County is one of the safest travel destinations in Europe, with very low crime rates and excellent infrastructure. The main risks for visitors are heat-related illness in summer, minor pickpocketing in crowded Old Town, and water hazards at unmonitored beaches.
Current safety advisory
Low
No specific travel advisory for Dubrovnik-Neretva. Croatia is a safe EU member state with stable political conditions. Standard European travel precautions apply.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Croatia is at Level 1. Exercise normal precautions. The country is generally safe for travelers.
Safe destination
Croatia is rated as a generally safe destination for British tourists. Follow normal travel precautions.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Dubrovnik-Neretva is extremely safe — Croatia consistently ranks among Europe's lowest crime rate countries; violent crime targeting tourists is virtually unheard of
Pickpocketing can occur in the crowded Old Town, especially during summer cruise ship days when 10,000+ day visitors descend; keep bags zipped and valuables in front pockets
Wear proper footwear on the City Walls — marble steps become slippery when wet and sandals/flip-flops can lead to falls
Stay well hydrated in summer: July-August temperatures regularly exceed 35°C and the reflected heat from Old Town's limestone and marble is intense
The Adriatic current along the coast can be surprisingly strong — check sea conditions before open-water swimming between islands
Use only licensed taxis (marked with official taxi signs) or ride apps like Uber to avoid overcharging; some unlicensed drivers operate near the airport
Book ferry tickets in advance for island trips in July-August; being stranded on an island at night is uncomfortable and not a safety risk, but inconvenient
The zig-zag hiking trail to Mt. Srđ is unshaded and exposed — start early morning and carry at least 1.5L of water in summer
Emergency number in Croatia: 112 (EU standard) works for all emergencies including police (192), ambulance (194), and fire (193)
Be cautious when swimming at unmarked beaches — look for the blue flag designation indicating safe, clean water and lifeguard presence
Keep a photocopy of your passport separate from the original; Croatia requires ID on your person at all times
Croatian roads are well-maintained but Pelješac mountain roads can be narrow and winding; drive carefully in unfamiliar areas especially at night
Jellyfish (particularly the mauve stinger) can appear in Adriatic waters in late summer — vinegar neutralizes stings; first aid kits are available at most beach facilities
Sea urchins (ježi) are common on rocky coasts; wear water shoes when entering the sea from rocky shores
Drinking water from taps is safe throughout Dubrovnik-Neretva County; tap water quality is among Europe's best
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Unlicensed taxis at Dubrovnik Airport
Unofficial drivers approach arrivals offering rides at inflated rates, particularly from the parking area outside terminals
How to avoid: Use official taxi stands inside the terminal, pre-booked transfers, or the Atlas airport shuttle bus
Restaurant price discrepancies
Occasional over-charging or unordered items added to bills at tourist-heavy restaurants in Old Town
How to avoid: Check the menu for prices before ordering; review the bill carefully before paying
Overpriced unofficial boat trips
Private boat operators on the Old Port quay offer island trips at inflated prices without transparency about return schedules
How to avoid: Use official Jadrolinija ferries or reputable tour operators; ask for written confirmation of price and schedule
Fake free walking tour guides
Individuals near Pile Gate offer 'free' tours but pressure participants for large cash tips at the end
How to avoid: Use established free walking tour companies with online presence and reviews
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No specific vaccinations required for Croatia; standard European travel vaccinations (hepatitis A, tetanus) recommended as precaution
- Water
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout the region and is of high quality
- Food
- Food safety standards are excellent; Croatian restaurants follow EU hygiene regulations; no special food precautions needed
- Facilities
- Dubrovnik General Hospital provides emergency and inpatient care; pharmacies (ljekarna) widespread in Dubrovnik, Cavtat, and major towns; EU EHIC/GHIC cards honored
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Dubrovnik-Neretva is excellent for solo travelers of all genders. The Old Town and beach areas are well-lit and populated until late at night. Solo travelers report feeling extremely safe walking Stradun and the Lapad promenade at all hours.
Female travellers
Female solo travelers consistently rate Dubrovnik as one of Europe's safest destinations. Harassment is rare in tourist areas. Normal precautions apply in smaller towns and late-night bar areas. Dress codes are relaxed; swimwear is appropriate at beaches and can be worn at seaside cafes.
Families
Excellent family destination. Beaches are generally calm and sheltered, with lifeguards at main beaches. Old Town marble streets can be challenging with strollers (steep steps) but manageable. Children are welcomed warmly in Croatian culture.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex partnerships are legally recognized in Croatia (civil unions since 2014). Public displays of affection are generally accepted in tourist areas of Dubrovnik. The city has a small but active LGBTQ+ scene. In rural areas of the county, conservative attitudes may persist. Dubrovnik Pride events have been held in recent years without incident.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 192 (or 112 general emergency)
- Medical
- 194 (ambulance) or 112
- Embassy
- US Embassy in Zagreb: +385 1 661 2200; UK Embassy: +385 1 6009 100; Australian Embassy: +385 1 489 1200
- Tourist Police
- Dubrovnik police station (+385 20 443 333) has English-speaking officers in peak season