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Croatian citizens need a visa to enter China, regardless of the purpose of travel. The visa must be obtained before traveling at the Embassy of China. There are different types of visas, depending on whether you are traveling for tourism, business, or visiting family. The process can take time, so plan ahead.

China's railway network is excellent, especially the high-speed trains connecting major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. This is the best way to travel long distances. In cities, subways are fast, clean, and cheap, and taxis are readily available, but always check if they use a meter. For shorter distances, bicycles and electric scooters are popular, but be careful in traffic.

Accommodation ranges from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. Cash is becoming less popular in China; most transactions are done through mobile apps such as WeChat Pay and Alipay. Foreign travelers can link their international cards to these apps. Always have some cash (yuan) for smaller merchants or remote areas. Prices are generally lower than in Croatia, especially for food and local transport.

China is generally a very safe country for travelers. The main concern is petty theft in crowded tourist areas. Be wary of scams, especially those where strangers invite you to tea ceremonies or art galleries – these are often traps with high prices. Always use official taxis or ride-hailing apps. Learn a few basic phrases in Mandarin; this will help you a lot, especially outside tourist centers.

Chinese culture is formal and respects hierarchy. Always receive and give things with both hands, especially business cards. Avoid pointing. In restaurants, it is common to share food. Be patient and do not lose your temper in public. It is always good to learn to say 'thank you' (xièxie) and 'hello' (nǐ hǎo). Chinese people appreciate the attempt to communicate in their language, even if it is imperfect. Always be polite and smile.

Chinese cuisine is extremely diverse. Each region has its own specialties, from spicy dishes in Sichuan to sweet dishes in Shanghai. Don't miss trying local street snacks. Tap water is not safe to drink, so always use bottled water. Tipping is not expected in restaurants, but it is accepted in tourist areas. Eat where the locals eat for the best and cheapest experience. Avoid eating raw food or unwashed fruit.