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Drinks in Croatia: What to Sip, Slurp & Toast While You’re Here
Searching for the best drinks in Croatia? You’re in the right place!
Whether you’re hanging out at a beach bar, grabbing coffee at one of Zagreb’s cafes, or being handed a glass of homemade rakija by someone who insists “just one,” drinks in Croatia are a big part of the local experience.
It’s not just about what’s in your glass. It’s about taking your time, catching up with friends, lingering over a conversation, and enjoying the moment.
Croatians take socializing very seriously, and sharing a drink, whether it’s a coffee, a spritz, or a shot of something stronger, is how people connect.
Here’s a list of the most popular drinks in Croatia, both alcoholic and not, plus a few of my personal favorites you should definitely try while you’re here.
Hi! I’m Olivia, a US-born Croatian who’s been living in Croatia full-time since 2014. I’ve spent over 30 years exploring the country, from childhood visits to now traveling every corner as my job.
📍 Make sure to grab my free Croatia map with 500+ places I’ve personally visited and recommend.
Best Drinks in Croatia
1. Croatian Wine – So Many Good Ones
Croatia has hundreds of vineyards, and the wine scene here is seriously underrated. You’ll find everything from fresh whites to bold reds and dessert wines, many of them award-winning.
Some personal favorites to look out for:
- Istarska Malvazija – a crisp white from Istria; try Kozlović or Benvenuti Livio
- Pošip – a white from Dalmatia; Galić makes a lovely one I recently discovered
- Grk – a dry white from Korčula that’s unique and kind of rare
- Plavac Mali – a bold red, especially good if you like full-bodied wines
- Teran – earthy and deep, from Istria, pairs well with hearty local dishes
Wine is a big deal here, and locals often order it by the carafe in restaurants.
Don’t be afraid to order the house wine, or to ask what’s local…you might just find a new favorite!
🍷 Before you continue, make sure you know what the drinking age in Croatia is!
2. Bevanda – Wine, the Croatian Way
Simple and classic: red wine mixed with still water. Bevanda is what people on the coast drink with lunch or dinner, especially when it’s warm out. It’s not fancy or pretentious, but it’s so popular that even restaurants have been named after it.
You’ll usually see it served with grilled fish or traditional dishes. Just wine, water, and good company.
3. Gemišt – Fizzy White Wine Goodness
If red’s not your thing, gemišt is your move. White wine topped off with sparkling water—it’s refreshing, light, and popular all over Croatia.
It is the perfect summer drink, in my opinion, kind of like the Croatian version of a spritzer. Gemišt is best enjoyed while chilling on a terrace.
4. Rakija – Croatia’s Liquid Handshake
If you’re offered rakija, just say yes. This strong fruit brandy is a big part of Croatian culture, and every region (and family) has its own version. Some of the most common ones you’ll run into:
- Šljivovica – made from plums
- Kruška (also known as Viljamovka) – pear brandy
- Medica – a sweeter, honey-based rakija that’s super easy to sip (too easy, honestly)
- Višnja – a sweet cherry-based rakija that is actually my go-to rakija
- Borovnica – also a sweet rakija but made with blueberries, this one’s pretty good too
Homemade rakija is next level. It’s smooth, strong, and made with pride. Locals swear it fixes everything from a sore throat to a broken heart.
5. Pelinkovac – Croatia’s Go-To Herbal Shot
Pelinkovac is a bitter herbal liqueur that’s been around for ages and is still a popular choice, especially in Zagreb and northern Croatia. It’s made with wormwood and other herbs, giving it a strong, earthy flavor that’s a little medicinal but oddly addictive once you get used to it.
If you want to drink it like a local, order a štrukani pelin. That just means Pelinkovac served over ice with freshly squeezed lemon juice. The lemon really cuts through the bitterness and makes it way more drinkable, especially in the summer.
It’s usually ordered as a quick shot or a slow sipper, depending on the vibe. Not everyone loves it on the first try, but it definitely earns points for being uniquely Croatian.
6. Teranino – My Personal Favorite
If you try just one liqueur in Croatia, make it Teranino.
It’s a sweet, spiced red wine liqueur from Istria made from Teran grapes. It’s smooth, a little syrupy, and just downright delicious. The one from Aura is the best in my opinion.
You can drink it straight, over ice, or even add a splash to your gin & tonic!
7. Maraschino – The Fancy Cherry One
This one comes from Zadar and has been around for centuries. Maraschino is a clear cherry brandy that’s a bit herbal, a bit sweet, and usually served in small glasses after a meal. Definitely more of a “sip slowly” drink, but one with some real history behind it.
8. Croatian Beer – Cold, Cheap, and Everywhere
Beer in Croatia is basically a staple, and while you’ll find tons of options now, these are the ones you’ll see the most:
- Karlovačko – one of the top two big-name beers; easy-drinking and everywhere
- Ožujsko – Karlovačko’s rival, often served at sports bars and concerts
- San Servolo – if you’re in Istria, try this craft beer made in Buje. They’ve got a nice range, and it’s a big step up from the mass-produced stuff
Croatians love their beer cold, usually in a half-liter glass, especially on warm summer nights.
If you’re not into beer, or just want to sip on something summery and refreshing, try a Radler. It’s kind of like a summer shandy in the U.S., which is a combination of lemonade and beer.
The alcohol content is lower than regular beer, and it really hits the spot on a hot day.
9. Aperol, Limoncello, or Hugo – Croatia’s Spritz Game is Strong
Yes, we love our spritzes here too.
- Aperol Spritz – No explanation needed. This is a go-to drink, especially on the coast in summer.
- Limoncello Spritz – Limoncello (my favorite is the one from Aura), prosecco, and soda water make for a light and refreshing summer drink.
- Hugo – A lighter alternative made with elderflower syrup (bazga), sparkling wine, soda water, lime, and mint. Super refreshing and not too sweet.
Perfect for happy hour, especially if you’re sitting near the water.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks in Croatia
Not drinking? No problem. There are plenty of local options that are just as much a part of Croatian culture.
10. Cedevita
Probably the most iconic non-alcoholic drink in Croatia. It’s a vitamin-packed powder you mix with water. Cedevita is basically our version of Kool-Aid but less sweet. Adults like to drink it too!
Flavors like orange and lemon are the classics, but there’s also mango & pineapple, grapefruit, and more popping up lately. You’ll find Cedevita in almost every café and in (almost) every local home.
11. Pipi
Pipi is a citrusy soda that locals love. It’s sweet, fizzy, fun, and it’s got a retro-feel to it. It’s kind of like Croatia’s answer to Fanta, but better (if you ask me).
Pipi is especially big in Dalmatia.
12. Coffee
This one deserves a post of its own.
Coffee is more than just a drink in Croatia. It’s what you do to catch up with friends, to do business, to relax, or just watch the world go by.
Most locals drink espresso or macchiato-style coffee, and they take their time doing it. Don’t expect to grab and go, coffee in Croatia is meant to be sipped slowly.
☕ If you visit Zagreb, don’t miss my favorite cafes in Zagreb!
13. Cockta
Cockta is a local soft drink that kind of looks like coke but has its own unique flavor. The taste is somewhere between cola and herbal soda.
You’ll see it on menus all over the country, and while it’s not my personal go-to, it’s definitely part of the local soft drink scene. If you’re curious about regional favorites or just want to try something different, it’s worth a sip.
FAQs
What is the most popular drink in Croatia?
The most popular drink in Croatia is rakija as it is commonly served as a welcome drink in many restaurants and local homes. It is Croatia’s “liquid handshake”.
What is the drinking culture in Croatia?
Croatians place a lot of importance on socializing, so drinking is less about getting drunk and more about spending time together. Whether it’s coffee in the morning, wine with lunch, or rakija in the evening, sharing a drink is how people connect, catch up, and enjoy each other’s company.
Final Thoughts on Drinks in Croatia
Whether you’re into wine, beer, cocktails, or something totally alcohol-free, drinks in Croatia are full of character and regional flavor. Trying local drinks is a fun (and delicious) way to connect with the culture. And trust me, there’s always someone ready to pour you another round.
Živjeli! (That’s “cheers” in Croatian!)
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💸 What is the currency in Croatia?
As of January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro and NOT the Kuna (which is also the name of the national animal of Croatia).
🇭🇷 What language do they speak in Croatia?
Croatian is the official language of Croatia. Learn some phrases in Croatian before your trip with the Ling app!
🚑 Should I buy Croatia travel insurance?
10000% YES – Seriously, don’t leave home without it. You never know what can happen on the road. I like SafetyWing because they provide excellent coverage for as little as $1.50 a day.
📱 Will my phone work in Croatia?
Maybe – check with your provider to see if you’ll have service while traveling Croatia. If you don’t have service (or it’s too expensive) I recommend getting an eSIM like Airalo. Airalo allows you to have data while traveling without the high costs of roaming. They have super affordable plans available for 190+ countries, including Croatia. Download the app and get your plan before you leave home so that you have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia!
🏨 What’s the best way to book my Croatia accommodations?
For Croatia hotels, Booking is by far the best site.
🛫 What’s the best site to buy Croatia flights?
I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights.
🚗 Is it safe to rent a Car in Croatia?
Yes! – In fact, renting a car in Croatia is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best deal. (Get your Croatia road trip itinerary here)
💦 Is it safe to drink the water in Croatia?
Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink, so bring your reusable water bottle and fill up!
🪪 Do I need a visa for Croatia?
Depending on where you are coming from you may or may not need a visa to enter Croatia. Check the official Republic of Croatia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more information on who should apply for a visa.
