Connecting with friends, family, or business partners in another country can feel complex. Whether you are reaching out for a friendly chat, managing international business, or planning your next holiday, knowing the right steps to call Croatia from Netherlands is essential. This guide simplifies the process, making sure your calls connect smoothly every time.

Croatia, with its stunning coastline and vibrant cities, is a popular destination for Dutch travelers and businesses alike. From the bustling streets of Zagreb to the historic beauty of Dubrovnik, staying in touch across borders is more important than ever. Understanding the correct dialing sequence, time differences, and even cost-effective solutions can make all the difference. For a quick reference on international calling codes, you can check out resources like Wikipedia’s List of Country Calling Codes.

This guide will walk you through the precise steps to dial Croatia from the Netherlands, whether you use a landline or a mobile phone. We will cover everything from country codes and area codes to the best times to call and how services like Telfon can make international communication effortless and affordable.

Why You Might Need to Call Croatia from the Netherlands

People call Croatia from Netherlands for many reasons. These calls bridge distances for both personal connections and professional endeavors. Understanding these reasons highlights the importance of reliable international calling methods.

Staying Connected with Loved Ones

Many people from the Netherlands have family or friends living, working, or studying in Croatia. Regular calls help maintain these vital personal connections. You might call to share daily news, plan visits, or simply check in. Birthdays, holidays, and special events often prompt these international conversations. For these personal reasons, a clear and affordable way to dialing Croatia from Netherlands is highly valued.

Business and Professional Engagements

The Netherlands and Croatia share growing economic ties. Dutch businesses might call Croatian partners, clients, or suppliers for several reasons. These include discussing trade, coordinating logistics, or exploring new market opportunities. Industries like tourism, logistics, and IT often require frequent international communication. HR personnel in the Netherlands might call Croatia mobile from Netherlands to interview candidates or manage remote teams. Sales and marketing experts also rely on direct calls to build relationships and close deals. Efficient and cost-effective communication is key for these professional interactions.

Travel and Tourism Planning

Croatia is a popular holiday destination for Dutch tourists. Many travelers call Croatian hotels, guesthouses, or tour operators to make bookings or gather information. These calls ensure smooth travel plans and address any questions before arrival. People might also call local services or emergency contacts while traveling. Knowing how to reach Croatian numbers effectively helps travelers feel more secure and prepared.

Understanding International Dialing Codes

Before you can call Croatia from Netherlands, you need to understand the components of an international phone number. Every international call follows a specific sequence. This sequence ensures your call reaches the correct country and specific recipient.

The Exit Code (00)

The exit code tells your phone provider that you are making an international call. For calls from the Netherlands, this code is always “00”. You dial this first to leave the Dutch telephone network. Think of it as opening the international gateway.

The Country Code (385)

After the exit code, you dial the country code for your destination. Croatia’s country code is “385”. This code directs your call to Croatia’s telecommunications network. Every country has a unique code.

The Area Code (Varies)

Following the country code, you dial the area code. This code specifies a particular region or city within Croatia. For example, Zagreb has a different area code than Split. Area codes for landlines typically range from one to two digits. Mobile numbers in Croatia do not use traditional area codes; instead, their prefixes indicate the mobile network.

The Local Phone Number

Finally, you dial the local phone number. This is the unique number of the person or business you wish to reach. The total length of the Croatian phone number (excluding the country code) will vary depending on whether it’s a landline or a mobile number.

The Basics of Calling Croatia from the Netherlands

Whether you use a landline or a mobile phone, the initial steps to call Croatia from Netherlands are similar. The main difference lies in how you dial the numbers and potential associated costs.

Calling from a Landline

When calling Croatia from a landline in the Netherlands, you follow a straightforward sequence. It is important to dial each part correctly to ensure your call connects.

1. Dial the Dutch Exit Code: Start by dialing “00”. This tells your Dutch landline provider you are making an international call.
2. Enter Croatia’s Country Code: Next, dial “385”. This is the specific code for Croatia.
3. Add the Croatian Area Code: Now, dial the specific area code for the city or region in Croatia you are calling. For example, if calling Zagreb, you would dial “1”. (We will provide a list of common area codes later).
4. Dial the Local Phone Number: Finish by entering the individual landline number.

So, the full format looks like: 00 - 385 - [Area Code] - [Local Number].

Calling from a Mobile Phone

Calling Croatia mobile from Netherlands is very similar, but mobile phones offer a convenient alternative for the exit code.

1. Use the Plus Sign (+) or Exit Code: You can either dial “00” (the standard exit code) or simply press and hold “0” until a “+” sign appears. The “+” sign automatically serves as the international exit code on most mobile phones. This is a common feature on smartphones worldwide.
2. Enter Croatia’s Country Code: Dial “385”.
3. Add the Croatian Area Code or Mobile Prefix: If you are calling a Croatian landline, you will dial the area code. If you are calling a Croatian mobile number, you will dial the mobile prefix instead (which acts like an area code for mobile numbers). Croatian mobile numbers usually start with 09x, but when calling internationally, you drop the leading zero, so it becomes 9x.
4. Dial the Local Phone Number: Finally, enter the rest of the mobile or landline number.

So, the full format looks like: +385 - [Area Code/Mobile Prefix] - [Local Number].

Here is a summary table for clarity:

Croatia’s Country Code and Area Codes

To successfully dialing Croatia from Netherlands, you need to know the specific codes. The country code is universal, but area codes vary depending on the location you want to reach.

Croatia’s International Dialing Code (385)

As mentioned, “385” is the international dialing code for Croatia. This code is crucial and must be included after your exit code (00 or +). It tells the international phone networks that your call is destined for Croatia. Without it, your call will not connect.

Key Croatian Area Codes

Croatian landline numbers are organized by geographical area codes. These codes identify specific regions or cities. Mobile numbers, on the other hand, use network-specific prefixes that act similarly to area codes but are tied to mobile carriers rather than fixed locations.

Here are some common Croatian area codes for major cities and regions:

• 1: Zagreb (the capital city)
• 20: Dubrovnik (a popular coastal city)
• 21: Split (another major coastal city)
• 22: Šibenik
• 23: Zadar
• 31: Osijek
• 42: Varaždin
• 51: Rijeka
• 52: Pula

Important Note for Mobile Numbers:

When you call Croatia mobile from Netherlands, you do not use a geographical area code. Instead, Croatian mobile numbers typically start with a ’09x’ prefix (e.g., 091, 092, 095, 098, 099). When dialing internationally, you must drop the leading zero. So, a Croatian mobile number like 091 123 4567 becomes +385 91 123 4567 when dialed from the Netherlands. The ’91’ (or ’92’, ’95’, etc.) effectively acts as the mobile network indicator, like an area code.

Understanding the Croatian Phone Number Format

Knowing the correct format for Croatian phone numbers is vital for a successful connection. This applies whether you are calling a fixed-line or a mobile number.

Fixed-Line Numbers in Croatia

Croatian landline numbers follow a consistent structure. They consist of an area code and a local subscriber number.

• Area Code: This is usually 1 or 2 digits long. For example, Zagreb’s area code is ‘1’.
• Local Number: This number ranges from 6 to 8 digits long, depending on the area code.

Example of a Croatian Landline Number (Zagreb):

00 385 1 1234 5678

Here:

• 00 is the Netherlands exit code.
• 385 is Croatia’s country code.
• 1 is the area code for Zagreb.
• 1234 5678 is the local landline number.

When written domestically within Croatia, the number might appear as 01 1234 5678, with the ‘0’ indicating a national call. However, for international calls, you must use +385 and drop the domestic ‘0’.

Mobile Numbers in Croatia

Calling Croatia mobile from Netherlands means understanding their specific mobile prefixes. Croatian mobile numbers begin with a ’09x’ prefix, followed by a 6 or 7-digit subscriber number.

• Mobile Prefix: This is always ’09’ followed by a single digit (e.g., 091, 092, 095, 098, 099). These prefixes indicate the mobile network operator.
• Subscriber Number: This is typically 6 or 7 digits long.

Example of a Croatian Mobile Number:

If a Croatian mobile number is 091 123 4567.

When dialing from the Netherlands, you use: +385 91 123 4567

Here:

• + replaces the Netherlands exit code 00.
• 385 is Croatia’s country code.
• 91 is the mobile network prefix (the leading zero ‘0’ is dropped for international calls).
• 123 4567 is the local mobile subscriber number.

Always double-check the full number provided to you, including any area codes or mobile prefixes, to avoid misdials.

Timing Your Call: The Best Time to Connect

Considering the time difference is crucial when you call Croatia from Netherlands. You want to avoid calling too early or too late, which could be inconvenient for the person you are trying to reach.

Time Zone Differences

Croatia operates on Central European Time (CET). This means it is typically in the same time zone as the Netherlands during most of the year, both observing CET (UTC+1) and Central European Summer Time (CEST, UTC+2).

• Standard Time (Winter): Both Netherlands and Croatia are UTC+1.
• Daylight Saving Time (Summer): Both Netherlands and Croatia are UTC+2.

This simplifies things significantly! You generally do not need to adjust for time zone differences when dialing Croatia from Netherlands. If it’s 10:00 AM in Amsterdam, it’s also 10:00 AM in Zagreb.

Working Hours in Croatia

Even with the same time zone, understanding typical working hours helps ensure your call is well-received, especially for business contacts.

• Business Hours: Most businesses in Croatia operate from Monday to Friday, generally from 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. Some businesses might have a break in the middle of the day.
• Lunch Breaks: Many Croatians take a lunch break between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, or sometimes a bit later. Avoid calling during these times for professional contacts.
• Best Time for Business Calls: Aim to call between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM, or after 2:00 PM and before 4:00 PM (local time).

For personal calls, these times are more flexible, but always consider the recipient’s daily routine. Early mornings or late evenings might not be ideal.

Consider Weekends and Public Holidays

Just like in the Netherlands, weekends (Saturday and Sunday) are generally off-days in Croatia. Public holidays also mean most businesses are closed, and people are often spending time with family or friends.

Before making an important business call, a quick check for Croatian public holidays can prevent disappointment. Public holidays include New Year’s Day, Easter, Labour Day, Statehood Day, Assumption Day, All Saints’ Day, and Christmas. Calling on these days for non-urgent matters might be intrusive.

How Much Does It Cost to Call Croatia from the Netherlands?

The cost of international calls Netherlands Croatia can vary significantly. It depends on your service provider and the type of phone you are using. Knowing the potential costs helps you choose the most economical option.

Traditional Calling Methods

Calling Croatia using a traditional landline or a standard mobile plan can sometimes be expensive.

• Landline Providers: National landline operators in the Netherlands offer international calling packages. Without a specific package, calls are often charged per minute at higher rates. These rates can vary depending on whether you call a Croatian landline or mobile number.
• Mobile Network Operators: Dutch mobile providers (like KPN, T-Mobile, Vodafone) also charge per minute for international calls. These rates can be quite high, especially for calls to international mobile numbers. It is wise to check your specific plan’s international call rates before dialing. Many plans offer bundles or add-ons for international minutes, which can be more cost-effective if you call frequently.
• Prepaid Cards: Some people use international calling cards, which can offer cheaper per-minute rates. However, these often involve extra steps to dial and might have connection fees or hidden charges.

VoIP and Virtual Numbers: A Cost-Effective Solution

This is where services like Telfon truly stand out. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services allow you to make calls over the internet. This bypasses traditional phone networks, often resulting in much lower costs.

• Reduced Per-Minute Rates: VoIP providers typically offer highly competitive rates for international calls, sometimes just a few cents per minute, or even unlimited calling with certain subscriptions.
• Virtual Numbers: A key feature of VoIP is the ability to purchase a virtual number Croatia. This means you can have a local Croatian phone number, even if you are physically in the Netherlands. For your contacts in Croatia, calling you on this virtual number would be a local call for them, making it cheaper or even free if they have unlimited local minutes.
• Bundled Features: Many VoIP services, including Telfon, offer features like free calls to other users on the same platform, call forwarding, and messaging, which further reduce communication costs.

Comparing the cost of Netherlands to Croatia calling code via traditional methods versus VoIP services often shows significant savings, especially for frequent or long calls.

Streamline Your International Calls with Telfon

When it comes to international calls Netherlands Croatia, Telfon offers a modern, efficient, and cost-effective solution. It goes beyond just making calls, providing a comprehensive communication platform for individuals and businesses.

Why Choose Telfon for Calling Croatia?

Telfon is not just another calling app; it is a full-fledged cloud telephony solution. It helps you manage your international communication seamlessly. Here’s how it makes calling Croatia from Netherlands easier:

• Virtual Number Croatia: With Telfon, you can easily purchase a virtual number for Croatia. This means you get a local Croatian phone number that rings on your existing device in the Netherlands. For your Croatian contacts, it’s a local call, removing their international calling charges. This is especially useful for businesses establishing a local presence without physical offices.
• Affordable International Rates: Telfon leverages VoIP technology, providing significantly lower per-minute rates compared to traditional carriers. You save money on every call you make to Croatia.
• Reliable Connection Quality: We use robust cloud infrastructure to ensure clear voice quality, making your conversations as smooth as if you were local.
• Ease of Use: Telfon’s intuitive interface makes it simple to manage calls, messages, and virtual numbers. You do not need complex equipment or technical expertise.

Getting a Virtual Number Croatia with Telfon

Setting up a virtual number Croatia with Telfon is a straightforward process. It gives you a local presence and simplifies communication for your contacts in Croatia.

1. Sign Up for Telfon: Create an account on the Telfon platform.
2. Select Croatia: Browse the available countries and choose Croatia for your virtual number.
3. Choose Your Number: Select a suitable virtual number from the options provided.
4. Configure Settings: Set up call forwarding to your desired device (mobile, landline, or other VoIP service) in the Netherlands.
5. Start Receiving Calls: Your Croatian contacts can now dial your new local virtual number, and you will receive their calls in the Netherlands without any international hassle for them.

This feature is invaluable for businesses wanting to offer local contact points or individuals who frequently communicate with people in Croatia.

Beyond Calling: Telfon’s Comprehensive Features

Telfon is designed as a complete communication tool, offering a wide array of features that enhance your ability to call Croatia from Netherlands and beyond.

• International Calls: Connect to over 180+ countries with competitive rates.
• Send & Receive SMS/Bulk SMS: Communicate via text messages globally, perfect for alerts, confirmations, or marketing.
• WhatsApp Integration: Manage multiple WhatsApp accounts through Telfon, allowing for seamless messaging with Croatian contacts. Send broadcast messages for effective outreach.
• Call Recordings: Keep records of important conversations for training, compliance, or reference.
• Multi-Country Numbers Simultaneously: Manage virtual numbers from several countries, all from one platform.
• Voicemail & Voicemail to Text: Never miss a message. Voicemail can also be transcribed into text for convenience.
• Call Forwarding: Redirect calls to different numbers or devices, ensuring you are always reachable.
• 20+ Language Support: Our platform supports multiple languages, making it accessible to a global user base.
• Business-Specific Features: For B2B clients, Telfon offers user analytics, dashboard filters, user management, budget assignment, and more, providing powerful insights and control over communication.

These features make Telfon an ideal solution for individuals, HR personnel, sales executives, travel agencies, and any business looking to interact globally.

Benefits for Individuals and Businesses

Telfon brings distinct advantages for both personal and professional users engaging in international calls Netherlands Croatia.

• For Individuals: Stay in closer contact with family and friends in Croatia without worrying about high costs. Enjoy clear connections and convenient features like SMS.
• For Businesses: Establish a local presence in Croatia with a virtual number, boosting customer trust and accessibility. Manage international teams, conduct sales outreach, and provide customer support more efficiently. Utilize features like call recordings for quality assurance and analytics for performance tracking. Telfon supports diverse business needs, from real estate to international hiring.

Common Issues When Dialing Croatia and How to Fix Them

Even with the correct codes, you might occasionally face issues when trying to call Croatia from Netherlands. Knowing common problems and their solutions can save you time and frustration.

Incorrect Codes or Missing Digits

The most frequent reason for a failed international call is an incorrect dialing sequence.

• Problem: You might have missed the ’00’ or ‘+’ exit code, forgotten Croatia’s ‘385’ country code, or entered a wrong area code. For mobile numbers, forgetting to drop the leading ‘0’ from the ’09x’ prefix is a common mistake.
• Solution: Double-check the entire number you are dialing against the format provided earlier: 00 385 [Area Code] [Local Number] for landlines, or +385 [Mobile Prefix without 0] [Local Number] for mobiles. Ensure every digit is correct. Ask the recipient to send their number in the international format (+385...) to avoid confusion.
• Use Telfon: Telfon’s VoIP system routes calls over the internet, often providing more reliable connections than traditional networks, especially if local network congestion is an issue.

Network Issues

Sometimes, the problem lies with the phone network itself, either on your end or on the recipient’s end.

• Problem: Poor signal strength, temporary network outages, or issues with your service provider’s international routing. The recipient might also be in an area with bad coverage.
• Solution:

Check your signal: If using a mobile, ensure you have good network reception.

Try again: A momentary glitch can often be resolved by simply redialing.

Contact your provider: If problems persist, contact your Dutch phone provider to inquire about international calling service status.

Ask the recipient: If possible, contact the recipient via another method (e.g., messaging app) to check if they have network issues or if their phone is reachable.

Use Telfon: Telfon’s VoIP system routes calls over the internet, often providing more reliable connections than traditional networks, especially if local network congestion is an issue.

Time Zone Miscalculations

While the Netherlands and Croatia share the same time zone, mistakes can still happen, especially if you are thinking about different daylight saving patterns or if a call is pre-scheduled far in advance.

• Problem: Calling at an inconvenient hour for the recipient, leading to unanswered calls or disturbed sleep.
• Solution: Always confirm the current local time in Croatia before making a call, even if the general rule is no time difference. Use an online time zone converter if you have any doubt, especially during transitions to or from daylight saving. For business calls, refer to the typical working hours mentioned previously.

Quick Reference Guide: Call Croatia from Netherlands

Here is a quick summary to keep handy for your next call to Croatia.

• Exit Code (from Netherlands): 00 (or + on mobile)
• Croatia Country Code: 385
• Landline Format: 00 385 [Area Code] [Local Number]

Example (Zagreb): 00 385 1 1234 5678

• Mobile Format: +385 [Mobile Prefix without 0] [Local Number]

Example (Mobile): +385 91 123 4567

• Time Zone: Same as Netherlands (CET/CEST) – no time difference to worry about.
• Cost Savings: Consider VoIP services like Telfon for cheaper rates and virtual Croatian numbers.
• Common Area Codes:

1 (Zagreb)

20 (Dubrovnik)

21 (Split)

31 (Osijek)

51 (Rijeka)

Key Takeaways for Calling Croatia

Making international calls Netherlands Croatia does not have to be complicated. Keeping a few key points in mind will ensure your calls are successful and stress-free.

• Always use the correct international dialing sequence: Exit Code (00 or +) + Country Code (385) + Area Code/Mobile Prefix + Local Number.
• Drop the leading zero for Croatian mobile prefixes: A mobile number like 091... becomes 91... when dialing internationally.
• No time zone difference: The Netherlands and Croatia share the same time zone (CET/CEST), making scheduling easier.
• Consider call costs: Traditional calls can be expensive. Explore VoIP services for more affordable rates.
• Telfon offers a comprehensive solution: It provides virtual Croatian numbers, competitive international rates, and advanced communication features for both personal and business needs.
• Double-check numbers: A single incorrect digit can prevent your call from connecting.
• Be mindful of the recipient’s time: Even with no time difference, avoid calling during typical non-working hours or late at night.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions people ask about calling Croatia from Netherlands.

1. What is the Croatia country code when calling from the Netherlands?

The country code for Croatia is 385. You dial this after your international exit code (00 or +).

2. How do I dial a Croatian mobile number from the Netherlands?

You dial +385 followed by the mobile prefix (without the leading zero) and then the local number. For example, if the number is 091 123 4567, you dial +385 91 123 4567.

3. Do I need an area code to call a Croatian mobile number?

No, you do not use a separate geographical area code for Croatian mobile numbers. The mobile prefix (like 91, 92, 95) serves this purpose and should be dialed after the country code, without its leading zero.

4. Is there a time difference between the Netherlands and Croatia?

No, generally there is no time difference. Both the Netherlands and Croatia observe Central European Time (CET) and Central European Summer Time (CEST), so they are in the same time zone throughout the year.

5. How can I make cheap calls to Croatia from the Netherlands?

VoIP services like Telfon offer significantly cheaper rates for international calls Netherlands Croatia compared to traditional phone providers. They use internet-based calling, reducing costs.

6. What is a virtual number Croatia, and how does it help?

A virtual number Croatia is a local Croatian phone number you can purchase through services like Telfon. It allows people in Croatia to call you at local rates (or even for free if they have unlimited local minutes), while you receive the calls on your phone in the Netherlands. It provides a local presence without needing a physical office.

7. Why might my call to Croatia not be connecting?

Common reasons include incorrect dialing codes (missing exit code, wrong country/area code), incorrect mobile prefix (not dropping the leading zero), or network issues. Always double-check the full number and try again.

8. Can I send SMS messages to Croatia from the Netherlands?

Yes, you can send SMS messages. Standard mobile networks allow this, but costs can vary. Services like Telfon also offer SMS sending and receiving, often at more competitive rates.

9. What is the best time to call Croatia for business?

Given there is no time difference, the best time for business calls is usually between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM, or 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM local Croatian time, Monday to Friday, avoiding lunch breaks and public holidays.

10. Does Telfon offer features other than just calling to Croatia?

Yes, Telfon is a comprehensive communication platform. It includes features like WhatsApp integration, call recordings, multi-country virtual numbers, voicemail to text, bulk SMS, and advanced analytics for business users, among others.

Conclusion

Calling Croatia from Netherlands is a straightforward process once you understand the correct dialing sequence. By using the international exit code (00 or +), Croatia’s country code (385), and the appropriate area or mobile code, you can connect reliably. Remember to account for time zones, although in this case, there is no difference.

For frequent callers or businesses, managing international calls Netherlands Croatia efficiently and affordably is key. Services like Telfon offer a powerful alternative to traditional phone lines. With features like virtual number Croatia, competitive rates, and a suite of communication tools including SMS and WhatsApp integration, Telfon simplifies your global connections. It helps you stay in touch with loved ones or expand your business reach without the burden of high costs or complex setups. Embrace modern cloud telephony and make your next call to Croatia with confidence and ease.