Planning a yacht charter in Croatia? Knowing the country’s public holidays is essential. From April to November, several national and religious holidays may affect your sailing trip—shops, banks, marinas, and even restaurants could be closed or operate on reduced hours.

Here’s a guide to all Croatian public holidays during the sailing season, including local tips to help you plan around them.

Croatian Public Holidays from April to November

DATE HOLIDAY CROATIAN NAME WHAT TO EXPECT
March 31 & April 1, 2025 (dates vary) Easter Sunday & Easter Monday Uskrs i Uskrsni ponedjeljak One of the most important holidays. Shops are closed both days. Easter Sunday is very quiet.
May 1 Labour Day Praznik rada Locals celebrate with barbecues and outings. Shops may close early or stay closed all day.
May 30 Statehood Day Dan državnosti National pride day. Offices and some stores may close; tourist services remain available.
June 19, 2025 (date varies) Corpus Christi Tijelovo A Catholic feast day with religious processions. Some shops and restaurants may close in smaller towns.
June 22 Anti-Fascist Struggle Day Dan antifašističke borbe A national holiday; quieter than others. Some closures expected.
June 25 Independence Day Dan neovisnosti Celebrates Croatia’s declaration of independence. Expect parades, music, and some closures.
August 5 Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day & Veterans Day Dan pobjede i domovinske zahvalnosti Major patriotic holiday. Fireworks and festivals in some towns, especially Knin.
August 15 Assumption of Mary Velika Gospa A Catholic feast day. Many shops in smaller towns closed; religious events take place.
November 1 All Saints’ Day Dan svih svetih A solemn day; cemeteries are full of flowers. Nearly everything is closed, even in tourist areas.

What’s Open and Closed on Croatian Holidays?

  • Supermarkets & Shops: Closed or operate shorter hours, especially in smaller towns.
  • Restaurants: Many stay open in tourist areas; locals often dine out on holidays.
  • Marinas & Fuel Stations: Typically open but may have reduced staffing.
  • Banks & Government Offices: Always closed on public holidays.
  • Public Transport: Reduced schedules for ferries, buses, and local transport.

Tips for Sailors & Charter Guests

  • Stock up early.
    If your sailing week starts near a holiday, buy provisions in advance.
  • Confirm marina reservations.
    Marinas can be busy during public holidays when local boaters set sail too.
  • Check restaurant hours.
    In smaller islands and towns, restaurants may open only in the evening or not at all.
  • Enjoy the festivities.
    Holidays like Assumption Day or Statehood Day often include concerts, parades, and fireworks in towns like Split, Dubrovnik, and Zadar.

Smooth Sailing Starts with Smart Planning

Croatian holidays offer a beautiful glimpse into local culture, but they can impact travel logistics. Planning around them ensures a stress-free and well-prepared charter.

Ready to set sail? Browse our yacht options in Croatia and start your dream sailing adventure today.