Moving to Opatija, Croatia
Last updated on Jul 15, 2023
Summary: Moving to Opatija, Croatia? Expats talk about what you need to know before moving to Opatija.
What do I need to know before moving to Opatija?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Opatija, they said:
"Opatija, is a beautiful coastal town known for its Mediterranean climate, making it a popular destination for expats. Before moving to Opatija, it's important to understand that while English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, the official language is Croatian, so learning some basic phrases can be beneficial. The cost of living in Opatija is relatively low compared to other European cities, but it's still important to budget accordingly. The local currency is the Croatian Kuna, not the Euro, so you'll need to be familiar with the exchange rates. Healthcare in Croatia is of a high standard, but it's recommended to have comprehensive health insurance. If you're from an EU country, you should obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before you move. Croatia is part of the European Union but not the Schengen Area, which means different visa rules may apply. It's essential to check the visa requirements for your specific nationality before planning your move. Opatija has a rich history and culture, with many festivals and events taking place throughout the year. It's worth researching these to fully immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. Public transportation in Opatija is reliable, but many expats choose to drive. If you plan to drive in Croatia, you'll need to obtain a local driving license or an International Driving Permit. The cuisine in Opatija is heavily influenced by its coastal location, with seafood being a staple in many dishes. It's also known for its excellent local wines and olive oils. Finally, it's important to note that Opatija is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. This means that the town can get quite busy, and prices may increase during this time," remarked one expat in Opatija, Croatia.
How do I find a place to live in Opatija?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Opatija?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Opatija?
- Will I be able to find a job in Opatija?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Opatija appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Opatija?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Opatija accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Opatija like?
- How are healthcare services in Opatija?
- What are medical services in Opatija like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Opatija?
- What are emergency services like in Opatija?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Opatija?
- How are local medical facilities in Opatija?
- As a foreigner living in Opatija, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?