Croatia’s Drinking Age & Laws for Travelers

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia, one of the things you might be curious about is the country’s drinking age and laws. As a region known for its vibrant social scene and deeply rooted wine culture, Croatia is a place where enjoying a drink with friends is a common way to relax. But, just like in any other country, there are rules you’ll want to know before you raise a glass. Let’s break down what travelers need to understand about the drinking laws in Croatia.

What’s the Legal Drinking Age in Croatia?

First things first, the legal age to purchase alcohol in Croatia is 18 years old. This applies to buying alcohol from supermarkets, liquor stores, bars, and restaurants. While you might expect that means you can’t drink before you’re 18, it’s actually not the case. Surprisingly, there’s no minimum age for consuming alcohol in Croatia, which often raises a few eyebrows.

The laws about buying alcohol are enforced fairly strictly, and you’ll need to show a valid form of ID—usually your passport or a national ID card—if you look underage. However, when it comes to consumption, things are more relaxed, especially in private settings or family gatherings. This mix of rules reflects Croatia’s laid-back attitude towards alcohol, which is a big part of its culture, especially with wine and rakija (a popular fruit brandy).

Where Can You Buy Alcohol?

In Croatia, alcohol is widely available and easy to find. You can buy beer, wine, and spirits from:

• Supermarkets: Alcohol is sold in almost all grocery stores, usually from early morning until late in the evening. Some stores even have local Croatian wines that are well worth trying.
• Liquor stores: For a wider selection of alcohol, including high-quality spirits and regional specialties, liquor stores are a go-to. If you’re after rakija or other local drinks, you’ll find plenty of options here.
• Bars and restaurants: Whether you’re enjoying a sunset by the coast or a lively night in the city, bars and restaurants serve alcohol freely to anyone over 18.
• Local wineries: Croatia has a growing reputation for its wine. Visitors often enjoy touring wineries and sampling wines directly from the source. For those curious about where to find the best wineries, keep an eye out for vineyards along the coast, especially in regions like Istria and Dalmatia.

What About Drinking in Public?

Now, you might wonder if you can enjoy your drink while strolling along the beach or sitting in a park. Croatia’s laws on public drinking can vary depending on the city or town. While it’s not illegal to drink in public, it can sometimes be frowned upon, especially in more tourist-heavy spots. In places like Dubrovnik and Split, for example, local authorities are stricter, especially if large groups of people are drinking in public spaces. You’ll want to be mindful of your surroundings.

However, in many coastal towns, you’ll often see locals and tourists alike enjoying a beer or a glass of wine by the sea. As long as you’re not causing a disturbance, you’re unlikely to run into any trouble.

What Happens If You Break the Rules?

Croatia doesn’t take underage drinking lightly, and establishments that serve alcohol to minors can face hefty fines, as well as the possibility of losing their license. Fines can also be given to individuals found drinking in prohibited public spaces, though these are generally reserved for situations where the drinking is disruptive or leads to disorderly behavior.

If you’re under 18 and caught purchasing alcohol, the penalties may vary, but the person selling the alcohol is usually the one facing the larger consequences. This is why store clerks and bartenders are typically careful about checking IDs when serving alcohol.

Drinking and Driving – Don’t Do It!

Croatia has strict laws when it comes to drinking and driving. For most drivers, the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. However, for drivers under the age of 24 and for professional drivers, there’s a zero-tolerance policy—meaning any amount of alcohol in your system while driving is illegal.

If you’re caught driving under the influence, the consequences are serious. Fines start high and can go up to €2,000 or more, depending on how far above the legal limit you are. On top of that, your driver’s license could be suspended, and in severe cases, you could even face jail time. Croatia’s authorities have worked hard to reduce the number of alcohol-related accidents, so the police regularly conduct random breathalyzer tests, especially in tourist areas.

Are There Any Exceptions?

One notable exception to Croatia’s drinking laws is that minors are allowed to consume alcohol under parental supervision in private settings. For example, it’s not uncommon to see younger people having a glass of wine with their family at dinner in a restaurant. However, this doesn’t extend to buying alcohol, so keep that distinction in mind if you’re traveling with teens.

Tips for Enjoying Croatia’s Drinking Culture Safely

While Croatia is a fantastic place to enjoy a drink, it’s always best to do so responsibly. Here are some tips to ensure you have a fun and safe experience:

• Pace yourself: Especially when drinking rakija or other strong local spirits, take it slow. Rakija is known to sneak up on you, and it’s much stronger than it tastes.
• Stay hydrated: The Croatian coast can get hot, especially during the summer months. Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re drinking alcohol.
• Eat before you drink: Croatian food pairs beautifully with local drinks. Whether you’re enjoying fresh seafood by the coast or a hearty plate of meat inland, make sure you’ve eaten before you start drinking.
• Plan your transport: If you’re enjoying a night out, make sure you have a way to get back to your accommodation safely. Taxis and rideshare services like Bolt are widely available in cities, and buses run frequently along the coast.

Conclusion

Croatia’s drinking age laws may seem a little different from what you’re used to, but they reflect the country’s relaxed approach to alcohol and its integral role in social and family gatherings. As long as you follow the rules, respect local customs, and drink responsibly, you’ll have no trouble enjoying everything Croatia’s drinking culture has to offer. And, of course, make sure to take in the views with that glass of wine in hand—it’s all part of the experience!

Explore Croatia, enjoy its rich flavors, and make the most of your trip, but remember—safety first. Cheers!