The Clothing Mistake That Will Cost You Big Time While Visiting Croatia

Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is a captivating destination known for its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and historic charm. From its lesser-known national parks that are perfect for thrill-seekers to its picturesque islands brimming with hidden snorkeling spots, to the beautifully-preserved cities drenched in history, visitors flock to the Mediterranean paradise looking for the perfect combination of culture, history, and beach life. After all, the country's 3,600 miles of coastline offer countless opportunities for visitors to enjoy plenty of activities like sunbathing, swimming, and water sports while still immersing themselves in centuries-old tradition — all of which ultimately makes it a top choice for European summer vacations, as well as a hotspot to visit during the fall.

However, despite its reputation as a beach haven, Croatia isn't all sun, sand, and bare chests. In recent months, as a means to preserve the culture and maintain decorum, local governments in Split are cracking down hard on a common tourist mistake: Wearing beachwear beyond the beach. In fact, as of early 2023, tourists who get caught walking around the town center uncovered can face a fine of around $166. The same goes for other popular Croatian cities like Dubrovnik, where wearing nothing but your bikini or swim trunks in and around the historic district also carries a fine of roughly $147.

While incredibly welcoming to tourists from all over the world — a whopping 20 million visitors flock to the country every year — locals still expect a level of decency when it comes to visiting religious sites, historic centers, and cultural landmarks. That said, these regulations don't mean to scare off beachgoers or sun-seekers — they're just a way to avoid inappropriate behavior and maintain a respectful atmosphere where it's needed most. Plus, it's worth noting that these rules don't just apply to tourists — locals are subject to the same exact regulations, with plenty of signs dotted around city centers to ensure that everyone follows them.

Beyond swimwear, another no-go when it comes to clothing in Croatia includes wearing clothing items and accessories that allude to drugs or drug use. So, that old T-shirt you got from Amsterdam with a marijuana leaf and a cheeky slogan that you love to wear on a night out? Yeah, it's best to just leave it at home and avoid potential fines.

Along with its new "dress code," Croatian officials are also clamping down on other disruptive behaviors, including public drunkenness and rowdiness. For starters, drinking alcohol in a public space (outside of a bar or restaurant) can get you and your wallet in trouble with a pretty hefty $166 fine. As for other potentially dangerous actions, like fighting, yelling, or being a nuisance while under the influence, authorities are working to nip it in the bud with fines of up to $4,400, as well as a 30-day jail sentence.