Money in Croatia

Croatia Uses the Euro

Croatia adopted the euro on 1 January 2023, replacing the Croatian kuna. The country is now fully part of the eurozone — no currency exchange needed for visitors from other euro-zone countries. For UK, US, Australian and Canadian travellers, exchange your home currency to euros before departure or withdraw euros from ATMs in Croatia. Exchange offices are widespread in tourist cities, though airport rates are generally less competitive than in-town options. Any leftover kuna notes are no longer valid legal tender for purchases.

ATM Coverage Thins Out on the Smaller Islands

Croatia has a well-developed ATM network across its major banks, widely available in Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Rijeka and Zadar. Smaller Dalmatian islands carry noticeably fewer machines, so carrying enough cash for the duration of an island stop is worth planning for specifically. Very remote areas and national parks also have limited ATM access. Decline dynamic currency conversion if offered at the machine — you'll get a better rate letting your own bank handle the conversion rather than accepting the ATM's on-the-spot rate.

Cards Are Widely Accepted

Croatia has strong card acceptance overall. Visa, Mastercard and, at many establishments, American Express are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and shops in tourist areas, and contactless mobile payments are widely supported at modern terminals in the major cities and tourist destinations. Street vendors and local markets tend to be cash-only, so keep some cash on hand for those situations. Watch for dynamic currency conversion at the terminal — always choose to pay in euros rather than your home currency if given the option.

A Mid-Range European Destination

Croatia remains more affordable than Western Europe generally, though prices have risen since eurozone entry, and costs vary considerably by region and season. Dubrovnik runs noticeably more expensive than other Croatian cities for accommodation and dining, while inland cities and the shoulder seasons offer better value than the Dalmatian coast at peak summer. National park entry fees (Plitvice, Krka) vary by season, with summer rates highest — check current pricing before visiting, since these fees are reviewed periodically.