Connecting with friends, family, or business partners across borders can sometimes feel like a puzzle. When you need to call Croatia from Germany, understanding the correct steps is essential for a smooth conversation. Whether you are planning a holiday, managing international business, or simply catching up with loved ones, knowing the right dialing format saves time and prevents frustration.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making calls from Germany to Croatia. We cover the necessary codes, phone number formats, and even introduce Telfon, a smart solution for affordable and reliable international communication. For more general information about international dialing codes, you might find this resource on country codes helpful. Let’s make your next call to Croatia effortless!

Understanding the Basics: Germany’s Exit Code and Croatia’s Country Code

Before you dial, you need to know a couple of crucial codes. These codes tell the telephone network that your call is leaving Germany and heading to Croatia. It is like addressing a letter for an international destination.

Germany’s International Exit Code (00)

Every country has an exit code, also known as an international direct dialing (IDD) prefix. This code signals that you are making an international call. For Germany, the exit code is 00. You dial this first, no matter which country you are calling internationally.

Croatia’s Country Code (385)

After the exit code, you must dial the specific country code for your destination. This code directs your call to the correct country. The country code for Croatia is 385. This number is unique to Croatia, ensuring your call reaches the right nation.

How to Call Croatia from Germany: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Making an international call involves a simple sequence of numbers. The steps remain consistent, whether you use a landline or a mobile phone. Following these instructions will help you connect without issues.

Calling from a Landline in Germany

If you are using a traditional landline phone, follow these steps to reach someone in Croatia:

1. Dial Germany’s Exit Code: Start by dialing 00. This prepares your call for international transmission.
2. Enter Croatia’s Country Code: Next, dial 385. This directs your call to Croatia.
3. Include the Area Code: After the country code, dial the specific area code for the city or region in Croatia you are calling. Remember to omit the leading zero, if any, that Croatians use for domestic calls.
4. Dial the Local Phone Number: Finally, enter the individual’s or business’s local phone number.

Example Landline Call:

To call a number in Zagreb, Croatia (area code 1), your dialing sequence would look like this:

00 + 385 + 1 + XXXXXXX (where XXXXXXX is the 7-digit local number).

Calling from a Mobile Phone in Germany

Calling from a mobile phone offers a slightly simpler way to dial the international exit code. Most smartphones allow you to use the plus symbol instead of the 00.

1. Use the Plus Symbol: Press and hold the 0 key until a + symbol appears. This automatically replaces the 00 exit code. Alternatively, you can still dial 00 if you prefer.
2. Enter Croatia’s Country Code: Then, dial 385.
3. Include the Area Code: Input the specific area code for the Croatian city or region. Again, do not include any leading zero typically used for domestic calls within Croatia.
4. Dial the Local Phone Number: Complete the sequence with the local phone number.

Example Mobile Call:

To call a number in Split, Croatia (area code 21), your dialing sequence would look like this:

+385 + 21 + XXXXXXX (where XXXXXXX is the 7-digit local number).

Deciphering Croatia’s Phone Number Format

Understanding how Croatian phone numbers are structured is key to successful dialing. Croatian phone numbers generally consist of an area code followed by a local subscriber number.

Structure of a Croatian Phone Number

A typical Croatian phone number, when dialed internationally, follows this pattern:

+385 (Area Code) (Local Number)

• Country Code (385): Always first.
• Area Code: One or two digits long. When calling internationally, you omit the leading ‘0’ that would be used if calling domestically within Croatia.
• Local Number: Typically 6 or 7 digits long, depending on the area code.

Key Point: When you call Croatia from Germany, always remember to drop the ‘0’ from the Croatian area code when dialing internationally. For example, if a local number is listed as 01 123 4567, you would dial +385 1 123 4567.

Here’s a breakdown for clarity:

This format applies to both landline and mobile numbers within Croatia. Mobile numbers in Croatia often start with 9 (e.g., 09X XXXXXXX domestically). When calling a mobile number from Germany, you would dial +385 9X XXXXXXX.

Navigating Croatian Area Codes

Croatian area codes are assigned to specific geographic regions or cities. Knowing the correct area code is vital for your call to reach the intended location. These codes help direct your call to the right part of the country.

Important Croatian Area Codes (When Dialing from Abroad)

Here are some common Croatian area codes you might encounter. Remember, always omit the leading ‘0’ when dialing these from Germany.

• 1: Zagreb (the capital city)
• 20: Dubrovnik and surrounding areas
• 21: Split, one of the largest coastal cities
• 22: Šibenik
• 23: Zadar
• 31: Osijek
• 42: Varaždin
• 51: Rijeka
• 52: Pula

For example, if you want to call a hotel in Dubrovnik, you would use 20 as the area code. If you are calling a business in Rijeka, you would use 51.

What is the area code for Zagreb, Croatia?

The area code for Zagreb, Croatia, is ‘1’. When dialing from Germany, you would use +385 1 followed by the local number. If you see a domestic number listed as 01 XXXXXXX, simply drop the ‘0’ for international dialing.

Using the correct area code ensures your call arrives at the right destination within Croatia. Always double-check the area code if you are unsure, especially when calling a specific region or city.

The Best Time to Call Croatia from Germany

Considering time differences and local customs can significantly improve your chances of a successful and well-received call. A perfectly timed call shows respect and consideration for the person you are contacting.

Understanding Time Zones

Germany and Croatia typically share the same time zone, Central European Time (CET) or Central European Summer Time (CEST). This means there is usually no time difference between the two countries. When it is 10:00 AM in Berlin, it is also 10:00 AM in Zagreb. This simplifies planning your calls greatly.

Ideal Calling Hours for Personal Calls

Since there’s no time difference, you can generally call friends and family during their waking hours, just as you would within Germany.

• Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM local time): People are usually awake and starting their day.
• Afternoon (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM local time): A good window after lunch and before evening activities.
• Evenings (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM local time): A relaxed time for casual chats, but be mindful of late calls.

It is always a good idea to avoid calling too early in the morning (before 8 AM) or too late at night (after 10 PM), unless it’s an emergency or pre-arranged.

Optimal Hours for Business Calls

For business communications, adhering to standard office hours is respectful and professional.

• Monday to Friday: Stick to typical business hours, generally from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Croatian time.
• Avoid Lunch Breaks: Many businesses might observe a lunch break, usually around 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM or 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. Calling immediately before or after these times can be more effective.
• Holidays: Be aware of Croatian public holidays, as offices will likely be closed. A quick online search for “Croatian public holidays” can help you plan.

Being mindful of these simple guidelines will help ensure your call is not only successful but also convenient for the person on the other end.

Understanding the Cost of Calling Croatia from Germany

International calling costs can vary widely depending on your service provider and the type of plan you have. Before you dial, it is wise to consider the potential expenses. Unexpected charges are never a welcome surprise on your phone bill.

Traditional Calling Costs

• Landline Providers: Standard international rates from German landline providers can be quite high per minute. These rates often differ based on whether you are calling a Croatian landline or mobile number. Calling Croatian mobile numbers is typically more expensive.
• Mobile Network Operators: Your German mobile operator might offer various international calling bundles or add-ons. Without such a plan, per-minute charges can quickly add up, especially for longer conversations. Roaming charges apply if you are calling from Croatia to Germany, but not for calling from Germany to Croatia.

Factors Influencing Cost

• Time of Day: Some older plans might have peak and off-peak rates, though this is less common with modern international calling packages.
• Subscription Plans: Check if your current phone contract includes international minutes or if you can add a cost-effective package for calls to EU countries like Croatia.
• Service Provider: Different providers have different rate structures. It pays to compare.

How expensive is it to call Croatia from Germany?

The cost can range from a few cents to over a euro per minute, depending on your German phone provider and whether you have an international calling plan. Without a specific plan, standard international rates can be quite high, especially when calling Croatian mobile numbers. Prepaid options or virtual calling services like Telfon often provide more affordable rates.

Many people find that dedicated international calling services or apps offer much more competitive rates than traditional phone companies. This is especially true for frequent callers.

Why Make the Call? Connecting with Croatia

Croatia, a land of stunning coastlines, rich history, and vibrant culture, draws people for many reasons. From personal connections to professional ventures, there are countless motivations to reach out across the Adriatic. Making that call bridges distances.

Personal Connections: Family and Friends

Many people from Germany have family, friends, or loved ones living in Croatia, or perhaps they have formed friendships during holidays. Regular phone calls maintain these important relationships, sharing life updates and fostering a sense of closeness despite the distance. A simple call can brighten someone’s day.

Travel and Tourism Planning

Croatia is a hugely popular tourist destination for Germans. Before or during a trip, you might need to:

• Book Accommodation: Confirm hotel reservations or inquire about vacation rentals.
• Arrangement Activities: Book tours, boat trips, or local experiences.
• Contact Local Services: Speak with car rental agencies, tour operators, or local guides.
• Emergency Contact: Reach out to local contacts if you encounter unexpected situations while traveling.

Business and Professional Engagements

The economic ties between Germany and Croatia are significant. Businesses often need to communicate for various reasons:

• Trade and Commerce: Discussing import/export deals, supply chain logistics, or product inquiries.
• Real Estate: German investors might be interested in Croatian properties, requiring direct communication with agents or sellers.
• International Hiring: German companies with operations in Croatia, or those looking to hire Croatian talent, rely on seamless communication for recruitment and management.
• Client Support: Providing customer service to Croatian clients or partners.
• Sales & Marketing: Developing business relationships and market expansion efforts.

No matter your reason for calling, knowing how to connect efficiently and affordably is a big advantage.

Telfon: Your Smart Solution for Calling Croatia from Germany

Navigating the complexities and costs of international calls can be daunting. This is where Telfon steps in as a modern, efficient, and cost-effective solution. Telfon helps you call Croatia from Germany with ease, making communication simpler and more affordable. It truly reimagines how we connect globally.

What is Telfon?

Telfon is a leading cloud telephony service that offers virtual phone numbers and a comprehensive VoIP phone system. It provides a robust communication platform for both individuals and businesses. Think of it as your virtual bridge to over 180 countries, including Croatia. Telfon offers advanced software for communication, ensuring high-quality calls and a suite of useful features.

How Telfon Simplifies International Calling to Croatia

Telfon removes many traditional hurdles of international calling, offering a streamlined experience:

1. Affordable International Calls

Telfon provides competitive rates for calls to Croatia, often significantly lower than traditional mobile or landline operators. This means you can have longer conversations without worrying about a huge phone bill. For businesses, these savings can greatly reduce operational costs.

2. Virtual Number for Croatia Calls

With Telfon, you can purchase a virtual number for Croatia. This means you can have a local Croatian number, even while you are in Germany. This is incredibly useful for:

• Businesses: Establish a local presence in Croatia without physical offices. Croatian clients can call you at local rates, making your business more accessible.
• Individuals: Friends and family in Croatia can call you on a local number, saving them money and making it easier for them to reach you.

3. Ease of Use

Telfon’s software is designed for simplicity. Its user-friendly interface makes purchasing virtual numbers, managing calls, and accessing features straightforward. You do not need complex technical knowledge to get started.

4. Reliable and High-Quality Connections

Telfon leverages cloud technology to provide clear, consistent call quality. It ensures your conversations with Croatia are smooth and free from disruptions, just as if you were calling locally.

5. Comprehensive Features for Individuals and Businesses

Telfon offers a range of features that enhance your communication experience:

• International Calls: Connect to Croatia and over 180 other countries.
• Send & Receive SMS: Text family, friends, or clients in Croatia directly through the app.
• WhatsApp Integration: Manage multiple WhatsApp accounts for different virtual numbers, perfect for personal and business use. Send broadcast messages effortlessly.
• Call Recordings: Essential for businesses to monitor calls, training, and compliance.
• Multi-Country Numbers Simultaneously: Manage virtual numbers from Croatia and other countries all within one platform.
• Voicemail & Voicemail to Text: Never miss a message; receive voicemails as text for convenience.
• Call Forwarding: Redirect calls to any other number, ensuring you are always reachable.

6. Tailored Solutions for Businesses

Telfon’s B2B features are robust, ideal for companies engaged in international hiring, real estate, customer support, and sales & marketing:

• User Analytics: Gain insights with cards, graphs, and charts on call data.
• User & Phone Number Management: Easily manage multiple users and a portfolio of virtual numbers.
• Assign Budget to User: Control spending for your team.
• Custom Messaging Services & Bulk SMS: For targeted marketing or important announcements.
• Call Number Widget Generation: Integrate calling features directly into your website.

Whether you are an individual wanting to keep in touch with family in Split or a business aiming to expand into the Croatian market, Telfon offers a flexible, feature-rich, and affordable way to communicate. It makes international calling Germany to Croatia not just possible, but genuinely effortless and smart.

Key Takeaways for Your Next Call

Making an international call to Croatia from Germany doesn’t have to be complicated. By remembering a few key steps and considering the right tools, you can connect seamlessly every time. Here are the essential points to keep in mind:

• Start with the International Exit Code: Always dial 00 (or + on mobile) first to signal an international call from Germany.
• Know Croatia’s Country Code: The country code for Croatia is 385.
• Omit the Leading Zero: When dialing a Croatian area code internationally, drop the ‘0’ that would be used for domestic calls. For example, Zagreb’s area code becomes 1 instead of 01.
• Time Zone Alignment: Germany and Croatia are typically in the same time zone, so there’s usually no time difference to manage.
• Consider Costs: Traditional calling methods can be expensive. Explore cost-effective alternatives like Telfon to save money.
• Telfon’s Advantage: For reliable, affordable, and feature-rich calls to Croatia, a virtual number service like Telfon offers significant benefits for both individuals and businesses. It streamlines the entire process.

By following these simple guidelines, your calls to Croatia will be clear, cost-effective, and successful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some common questions about calling Croatia from Germany:

1. What is the Croatia country code Germany needs for calls?

The country code for Croatia is 385. When calling from Germany, you must dial 00 (or +) followed by 385, then the area code (without the leading zero), and finally the local number.

2. Do I need an international calling plan to call Croatia from Germany?

While not strictly required, having an international calling plan or using a service like Telfon is highly recommended. Standard rates from German mobile or landline providers can be expensive for international calls. A plan or a virtual calling app can significantly reduce costs.

3. How do I dial a Croatian mobile number from Germany?

You dial a Croatian mobile number in the same way you dial a landline number. Use +385 (or 00385), followed by the mobile operator’s prefix (which usually starts with 9 and includes two digits, e.g., 91, 98), and then the subscriber’s number. Remember to drop any leading ‘0’ from the mobile prefix if it’s typically shown for domestic use.

4. Is there a time difference between Germany and Croatia?

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

5. Can I send SMS to Croatia using Telfon?

Yes, Telfon allows you to send and receive SMS messages to and from Croatia. This is one of the many features designed to simplify international communication.

6. What if I encounter issues connecting my call?

First, double-check the dialing sequence: 00 (or +), then 385, then the correct area code (without the ‘0’), and finally the local number. Ensure the number is active and correct. If issues persist, contact your service provider or Telfon support if you are using their service.

7. How can Telfon provide a virtual number for Croatia calls?

Telfon offers virtual numbers for many countries, including Croatia. When you purchase a Croatian virtual number through Telfon, you get a local Croatian phone number that can receive calls from Croatia at local rates. You can then manage these calls from your Telfon app in Germany, making communication seamless and cost-effective for both parties.

8. Is using a virtual number service like Telfon legal for international calling Germany to Croatia?

Yes, using virtual number services like Telfon is completely legal and a widely accepted method for international communication for individuals and businesses. They comply with telecommunication regulations.

Conclusion

Connecting with Croatia from Germany is a straightforward process when you know the correct dialing format. By understanding the exit codes, country codes, and area codes, you can confidently reach out to your contacts, whether for personal reasons, travel planning, or business engagements.

For those seeking an even more efficient and affordable solution, Telfon stands out. It simplifies the entire experience of international calling Germany to Croatia, offering virtual numbers, cost-effective rates, and a host of features designed for seamless global communication. Embrace the power of modern technology to stay connected across borders. Explore Telfon today and make your next call to Croatia effortless and enjoyable.