Hotels Croatia

Most Croatian hotels have been classified according to the international star grading system, although some of the grades awarded might seem a little generous – some of Croatia's five-star hotels would only qualify for four stars elsewhere, and so on down the scale. Generally speaking, one-star hotels have rooms with shared WC and bathroom; two-star hotels have rooms with en-suite facilities; three-stars have slightly larger en-suite rooms and, most probably, a television; four-stars correspond to comfy business class; and five-stars are in the international luxury bracket. Not many hotels fall into the one-star category, however, you're much more likely to come across two-star establishments, for which you can expect to pay 450–600Kn for a double, but it's worth bearing in mind that the better categories of private rooms and apartments offer similar comforts for less money. Three-star hotels are the hardest to predict, both in terms of quality and price, and you'll pay anything between 600Kn and 1000Kn, depending on whether it's just a glorified two-star with an extra lick of paint, or a genuinely comfortable and well-managed outfit that meets international standards. Any four-star hotel will have plush carpets, bathtubs in most rooms and a range of other facilities (such as gym or swimming pool) for around 800–1400Kn. There's an increasing number of five-star hotels in Croatia, most of which are in Zagreb or in and around Dubrovnik (1200Kn a double upwards).

Hotels in inland Croatia charge the same price all year round, but on the coast rates vary widely according to season, with July and August proving the most expensive months in which to travel. Prices drop by ten to twenty percent in the shoulder season (May, June and Sept), and may be as much as fifty percent cheaper in winter. Dubrovnik and Hvar are currently the most fashionable – and consequently most expensive – parts of the country, while hotels in areas such as northern and mid-Dalmatia can work out significantly cheaper.
Some hotels in resort areas close between November and April, although most moderate-sized Adriatic towns will have at least one mid-range hotel open all year.
There's a growing number of small family-run hotels aiming to conquer the mid-range market, offering the comforts and level of service of a good three-star hotel, but in cosy, informal surroundings and at a slightly cheaper price.

Hotel prices almost invariably include breakfast. At its most basic, this will feature rolls with butter, jam, and some ham and cheese, although the majority of hotels hosting Western package guests now offer a buffet selection. Many of the hotels on the Adriatic also offer full-board (pansion) and half-board (polupansion) deals for a few extra kuna, but bear in mind that you'll be eating bland, internationalized food in large, institutional dining rooms.

(Source: The Rough Guide to Croatia by Johnatan Bousfield)