Connecting with friends or business partners abroad should be simple. You might worry about complex dialing codes or high costs. However, calling Croatia from the Netherlands is straightforward. You just need to follow the correct sequence. This guide ensures your calls connect smoothly every time. Whether you use a landline or a mobile, we have you covered.

Croatia is a popular destination for Dutch travelers. Many businesses also have strong ties there. Understanding the dialing steps saves you time. It also prevents frustration from failed connections. For a quick check of other international codes, you can visit CountryCode.org for accurate listings. This article breaks down everything you need.

Why You Need to Call Croatia

You might call Croatia for various reasons. Personal connections are the most common motivation. Many Dutch residents have family in Zagreb or Split. Regular calls keep these relationships strong. You might plan holidays or family visits. Hearing a loved one’s voice bridges the distance instantly.

Business Connections

Economic ties between the Netherlands and Croatia are growing. You might need to contact suppliers or clients. Logistics companies often coordinate shipments across borders. IT firms frequently manage remote teams in Croatia. HR professionals conduct phone interviews with candidates. Clear communication is vital for these professional interactions.

Tourism and Travel

Croatia offers a stunning coastline. You might need to book a hotel directly. perhaps you need to confirm a tour reservation. Calling local numbers helps you solve travel issues quickly. It is often faster than waiting for an email reply.

Understanding the Dialing Codes

Every international call requires specific codes. You cannot simply dial the local number. The network needs to know the destination country. You also need to signal that you are calling internationally.

The Exit Code (00)

The exit code lets you leave the Dutch network. For the Netherlands, this code is “00”. You dial this first. It opens the line for an international connection. Most European countries use this same standard.

The Country Code (385)

You must direct the call to Croatia. The unique country code for Croatia is “385”. You dial this immediately after the exit code. This routes your call to the Croatian telecom system. Without this, your call will fail.

The Area Code

This narrows down the location. Landlines in Croatia use geographic area codes. Zagreb uses “1”, while Split uses “21”. We will provide a full list later. Mobile phones do not use geographic codes. They use network prefixes instead.

How to Call Croatia from a Landline

Calling from a fixed line follows a strict format. You must enter every digit precisely. This method is reliable for business calls.

Step-by-Step Guide

• Dial the Exit Code: Pick up the receiver. Dial “00”.

• Enter the Country Code: Dial “385”.

• Add the Area Code: Enter the city code (e.g., “1” for Zagreb).

• Dial the Subscriber Number: Enter the person’s local number.

Example Calculation

Let’s say you are calling a business in Zagreb. Their local number is 1234 5678.

You dial: 00 – 385 – 1 – 1234 5678.

How to Call Croatia from a Mobile Phone

Mobile phones offer a slightly easier method. You do not need to memorize the “00” exit code. Smartphones have a built-in shortcut.

Using the Plus (+) Sign

Most modern phones allow you to use the plus sign. You press and hold the “0” key. The “+” symbol appears on your screen. This symbol replaces the “00” exit code. It works globally on any network.

Dialing a Mobile Number

Croatian mobile numbers have specific prefixes. These usually start with 091, 098, or 095. Crucial Rule: You must drop the leading zero. If the prefix is “091”, you dial “91”.

Mobile Dialing Example

You are calling a friend’s mobile. Their number is 091 555 1234.

You dial: +385 – 91 – 555 1234.

Summary of Dialing Formats

Reference this table for quick formatting.

Major Croatian Area Codes

You need the correct area code for landlines. These codes correspond to specific cities and regions. Using the wrong code connects you to the wrong city.

List of Key Cities

• Zagreb: 1

• Split: 21

• Rijeka: 51

• Dubrovnik: 20

• Zadar: 23

• Osijek: 31

• Pula: 52

• Šibenik: 22

• Varaždin: 42

Mobile Network Prefixes

Mobile numbers are not tied to cities. They are tied to providers like Hrvatski Telekom or A1.

Common prefixes include:

• 91

• 92

• 95

• 98

• 99

Remember to exclude the zero before these digits.

Time Zone Considerations

Timing your call is important. You want to reach people when they are available. Fortunately, this is easy between these two countries.

No Time Difference

The Netherlands and Croatia share the same time zone. They both use Central European Time (CET). They also switch to Summer Time (CEST) together. If it is 2:00 PM in Amsterdam, it is 2:00 PM in Zagreb.

Business Hours

Business culture is slightly different. Croatian offices usually open around 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM. They close between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM.

Lunch Breaks

Many Croatians take a lunch break around noon. This break can last up to an hour. Avoid calling between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM. This ensures you catch your contact at their desk.

The Cost of Calling Croatia

International calls can get expensive. Traditional carriers charge high rates per minute.

Dutch Mobile Carriers

Providers like KPN, Vodafone, or T-Mobile often treat Croatia as Zone 1 (EU). This might be included in your bundle. However, calls from the Netherlands to another EU country often cost extra. They are not always covered by “Roam Like at Home” rules. Check your specific plan to avoid shock.

Landline Rates

Calling from a landline is often the most expensive option. You pay a connection fee plus a rate per minute. Costs can accumulate quickly during long conversations.

VoIP Solutions

Voice over IP (VoIP) is the modern alternative. Services like Telfon use the internet. This bypasses expensive traditional infrastructure. The rates are significantly lower. You often get better audio quality as well.

Reduce Costs with Telfon

Telfon offers a smart way to manage calls. It is a cloud telephony solution. It is perfect for both individuals and businesses.

Virtual Numbers

You can buy a virtual Croatian number. You own this number while living in the Netherlands. When you call clients in Croatia, they see a local number. This increases trust. It also saves them money when they call you back.

Significant Savings

Telfon users save up to 50% compared to standard carriers. You pay for what you use. There are no hidden fees. This is ideal for high-volume callers. Sales teams and support centers benefit immensely.

Feature-Rich Calling

Telfon is not just for voice calls. It integrates with WhatsApp. You can manage multiple accounts. You can also send bulk SMS messages. This is powerful for marketing campaigns.

Key Features of Telfon

Telfon provides tools that standard phones lack. These features enhance your communication strategy.

• Global Reach: Call over 180 countries.

• Call Recording: Save important business discussions.

• Voicemail to Text: Read your messages on the go.

• Call Forwarding: Never miss a client call.

• Analytics: Track call duration and costs.

For Business Users

Businesses get advanced control. You can assign budgets to employees. You can view detailed call history. You can also block unwanted numbers easily. The dashboard provides clear graphs and insights.

Common Dialing Problems

Sometimes calls do not connect. This is frustrating. Usually, the error is simple to fix.

The Leading Zero Mistake

This is the most frequent error. You must not dial the “0” in the area code. You must not dial the “0” in the mobile prefix.

• Wrong: +385 091 123 4567

• Right: +385 91 123 4567

Missing Exit Code

If dialing from a landline, you must dial “00”. You cannot just start with 385. The Dutch network will not recognize the request.

Blocked Numbers

Some business numbers block international callers. This happens with toll-free numbers. You might need to find a standard landline alternative.

Troubleshooting Checklist

If your call fails, check these points.

• Check the Balance: Do you have enough credit?

• Check the Signal: Is your mobile coverage strong?

• Verify the Number: Did you drop the zero?

• Restart the Phone: This often fixes network glitches.

• Use an App: Try calling via Telfon or WhatsApp.

Calling for Business Purposes

Professional etiquette matters. When calling Croatian partners, be polite.

Language Barriers

Most professionals in Croatia speak excellent English. Younger generations are very fluent. However, learning a few words helps. “Dobar dan” means Good day. It shows respect and effort.

Scheduling Meetings

Always send a calendar invite. Even with no time difference, it confirms availability. Mention the purpose of the call in advance. This helps your contact prepare.

Follow Up

Send an email summary after the call. This clarifies any agreements. It prevents misunderstandings due to language nuances.

Why Choose Cloud Telephony?

Traditional phone lines are becoming obsolete. Cloud systems like Telfon offer flexibility. You are not tied to a desk.

Remote Work Ready

You can use Telfon on your mobile. You can use it on your laptop. Your business number travels with you. This is essential for modern hybrid work.

Scalability

You can add new numbers instantly. You do not need to wait for a technician. As your business grows, your phone system grows. You can manage everything from a web browser.

Setting Up Your Call

Preparation ensures a good conversation.

• Find a Quiet Spot: Reduce background noise.

• Use Headphones: This improves audio clarity.

• Have Notes Ready: Know what you want to discuss.

• Test Your Mic: Ensure the other person can hear you.
  

Final Thoughts on Connectivity

Staying in touch with Croatia is vital. Whether for love or business, clear communication bridges the gap. The technology is easy to master. You have options ranging from standard carriers to advanced VoIP apps.

Using a service like Telfon saves money. It also professionalizes your communication. You get clear audio and versatile features. You are now ready to make that call confidently. Dial correctly, save money, and enjoy the conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I call a Croatian mobile from the Netherlands?

Dial the exit code “00” or “+”. Then dial “385”. Then dial the mobile prefix without the first zero. Finally, enter the subscriber number.

What is the country code for Croatia?

The country code is 385. It is required for all international calls to the country.

Are calls to Croatia free with Dutch mobile plans?

Usually, they are not free. Calls from the Netherlands to the EU are capped but chargeable. Check your specific carrier contract.

Can I keep my Dutch number when calling via Telfon?

Yes. You can use the app to make calls. You can also purchase a virtual Croatian number to display a local presence.

Is there a time difference between Amsterdam and Zagreb?

No. Both cities are in the Central European Time zone. You can call at the same local time.

Why does my call fail instantly?

You likely included the leading zero in the area code. Try dialing again without the zero after the country code.

What is the best app for calling Croatia?

Telfon is a top choice. It offers low rates, high quality, and business features like call recording and analytics.

Do I need an area code for mobile numbers?

No. Mobile numbers use network prefixes (like 91 or 98). They do not use geographic area codes like landlines.

Can I send SMS to Croatia?

Yes. You can send standard SMS. Telfon also supports bulk SMS for business marketing purposes.

How do I call a landline in Split?

Dial +385, then 21 (Split code), then the local number. Remember to drop the zero from the area code 021.