Travelling to Croatia and wondering how money works here? Since January 2023, Croatia has fully adopted the Euro (EUR, €) as its official currency, replacing the former kuna. Whether you're visiting Dubrovnik, Split, Istria or the Dalmatian islands, all payments, from cafés and ferries to hotels and supermarkets, are now made in euros.
This guide gives you clear, up-to-date information on using money in Croatia: how much cash to carry, where to withdraw euros, typical ATM fees, card acceptance, and the most important traveler tips to avoid unnecessary charges. If you're planning island-hopping or visiting smaller villages, we’ll also explain when cash is still essential and how to prepare.
This page is regularly updated to reflect current rules, fees and payment practices.
What currency does Croatia use?
Croatia’s official currency is the Euro (EUR, €). The euro replaced the Croatian kuna on 1 January 2023, and today all payments across the country, from cafés and supermarkets to public transport and accommodation are made exclusively in euros. You will use euros everywhere, whether you’re staying in Dubrovnik, travelling the Dalmatian coast, or exploring regions like Split & Central Dalmatia and Istria.
Cash, cards & payments in Croatia
Croatia is generally a card-friendly country, especially in larger destinations, coastal cities and popular tourist areas. You can pay by debit or credit card in most restaurants, hotels, rental agencies, supermarkets and attractions. However, if you're visiting smaller villages, local markets or islands with fewer services, carrying some euro cash is still essential.
Where cards are widely accepted
Card payments (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro and many contactless options) are the norm in:
- hotels, private accommodation and most restaurants
- supermarkets, pharmacies and larger shops
- museums, attractions and many tours
- ferries, buses and airport services (varies by operator)
When you will still need cash
Even though Croatia is modern and cashless-friendly, having euros on hand is recommended for:
- small cafés, bakeries and kiosks outside main tourist zones
- local markets and family-run taverns (“konobe”)
- public toilets, lockers and small on-the-go purchases
- islands or rural villages where card terminals may be unavailable
If you intend to explore places like the Elaphiti Islands or smaller settlements around Dubrovnik, carrying some cash is a practical backup. You also might want to be prepared and check out our comprehensive page about important and useful phone numbers in Croatia.
How much cash should you carry?
You don’t need large amounts of cash. I recommend you carry a small amount of euros for convenience and rely on cards for everything else. A simple rule:
- Cards for accommodation, dining, transport and tours
- Cash for tips, markets, snacks and remote areas
Tap-to-pay (contactless) is widely supported
Contactless payments using phones and smartwatches are increasingly common. Apple Pay, Google Pay and similar services work in most places that accept standard cards.
Amex and Diners - accepted, but less common
Visa and Mastercard are universally accepted. American Express and Diners Club work in some establishments, but not everywhere. Always have a Visa or Mastercard as your main payment card.
ATMs in Croatia: where to withdraw & what to avoid
ATMs are widely available throughout Croatia and are usually the easiest way to get euros during your trip. You will find machines at airports, ferry ports, shopping centers, main squares and along busy streets in larger towns and cities. In popular destinations such as Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar or Zagreb, you are rarely more than a short walk away from an ATM.
Where you will find ATMs
- city centers, main squares and shopping streets
- inside or just outside bank branches
- shopping malls, larger supermarkets and petrol stations
- bus stations, ferry ports and some marinas
- tourist areas in and around the old towns
On smaller islands and in rural areas, ATMs may be less frequent. Before travelling to more remote places, it is a good idea to withdraw some cash in a larger town or city.
Bank ATMs vs. independent ATMs
Whenever possible, use ATMs attached to banks rather than standalone machines operated by currency exchange companies. Bank ATMs usually have clearer fee information and more competitive rates, while independent ATMs can add extra charges and aggressive exchange markups.
Watch out for dynamic currency conversion (DCC)
Many ATMs in Croatia offer to charge your withdrawal in your home currency instead of euros. This is called dynamic currency conversion (DCC) and usually comes with a poor exchange rate. For almost all travelers it is better to decline DCC and choose to be charged in euros. Your own bank will then handle the conversion, normally at a fairer rate.
Fees and daily limits
The exact fees depend on your card issuer and the ATM owner. Croatian ATM screens will usually show any local fee before you confirm the transaction. If the fee seems unusually high, you can cancel and try another machine, preferably at a bank. I think you will find that withdrawing a bit more cash less often is cheaper than several small withdrawals with repeated fixed fees.
ATM safety tips
- use ATMs located inside or directly next to bank branches whenever possible
- cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN
- avoid using ATMs that look damaged or modified
- if the card or cash is not returned, contact the bank immediately and keep the ATM location noted
In busy tourist areas such as the Old Town of Dubrovnik, you will see many ATMs. If one machine shows very high fees or only offers withdrawals with conversion to your home currency, simply walk a little further and look for an ATM belonging to a major bank.
Exchanging Money in Croatia (banks, exchange offices & what to avoid)
Because Croatia now uses the euro, exchanging money is simpler than it used to be. You can still exchange foreign currency in banks and exchange offices (“mjenjačnica”), but for most travelers, withdrawing euros from a bank ATM or paying by card will be the best-value option. If you do need to exchange cash, here is what to know.
Where you can exchange money
- Banks: Reliable and generally offer the fairest rates. Opening hours vary, but most banks work Monday to Friday, with shorter hours on Saturdays.
- Official exchange offices: Well distributed in tourist areas, especially in city centers and around bus stations, ferry ports and old towns.
- Hotels: Convenient but usually offer weaker rates.
- Post offices: Some branches also exchange currency, though not as commonly as banks.
How to get the best rate
If you are carrying cash in your home currency and want to exchange it, banks normally offer the most transparent conditions. Exchange offices can be competitive too, but rates vary from one to another. Always compare the buying rate (“kupovni”) for your currency and ask if any commission (“provizija”) is charged.
What to avoid
- Street exchanges: Never exchange money with individuals on the street, especially in crowded tourist areas.
- Exchange offices that hide commissions: Some places advertise “0% commission” but use a weaker rate. Always check the full calculation before confirming.
- Unfamiliar exchange booths near major attractions: These often have less favorable rates, especially in peak season.
Should you bring euros from home?
Bringing some euros with you is useful for quick expenses, taxis, small cafés, toll booths, or when arriving late at night. However, I see most travelers prefer withdrawing euros locally from a bank ATM (and declining dynamic currency conversion) as it often yields a better overall rate than exchanging money at home.
Tip: combining exchange with ATM strategy
If your home currency is stable and you can exchange at a favorable rate before departure, carrying a small amount of euros is fine. For the rest, use bank ATMs in Croatia and pay by card wherever possible. This combination usually keeps fees and exchange markups low.
Where to find trusted banks in Dubrovnik
In Dubrovnik’s Old Town and surrounding districts you’ll see branches of major banks such as OTP Banka, Privredna Banka Zagreb (PBZ), Zagrebačka Banka (ZABA) and HPB. If you’re staying in or near the Dubrovnik Old Town, you’ll find bank branches and exchange offices within a few minutes’ walk of the main gates.
Tipping in Croatia
Tipping in Croatia is appreciated but not mandatory. Locals typically leave small amounts for good service, and I recommend you follow a simple rule: tip when you feel the service deserved it. There are no strict expectations or fixed percentages like in some other countries, so tipping remains flexible and situational.
General tipping guidelines
- Restaurants: Rounding up the bill or leaving around 10% for good service is common. For exceptional service, leaving a bit more is appreciated.
- Cafés & bars: Rounding up the bill or leaving a euro or two is perfectly fine.
- Taxis & rides: Most people round up to the nearest convenient amount.
- Hotel staff: Small tips for porters or housekeeping are welcome but not expected.
- Tours & activities: If you enjoyed the experience, a small tip for guides or crew is a nice gesture.
Can you tip with card?
Some places offer a card-based tipping option, but many do not. If you plan to tip, it’s helpful to have a few small euro coins or notes. This is especially true in smaller cafés, local taverns and areas outside major tourist zones such as the villages around Dubrovnik.
No pressure to tip
Croatia does not have a mandatory tipping culture. Service staff do not expect fixed amounts, and you won’t encounter social pressure to tip. If service was average, simply paying the bill is completely normal. If it was excellent, even a small tip is warmly received.
When tipping is most appreciated
Tipping tends to make the biggest difference in places where staff spend extra time helping you, for example answering questions, giving local advice, or offering special service during busy summer periods. A tip in these situations is a kind way to show appreciation.
Everyday costs in Croatia (practical expectations for travelers)
Croatia is generally mid-range in price compared to other European destinations. Costs vary by destination: Dubrovnik, Hvar and parts of Istria are usually the most expensive, while inland regions and smaller coastal towns tend to be more affordable. Here is what you can expect for typical daily expenses.
Food & drink
- Cafés: Coffee, soft drinks and small snacks are usually reasonably priced, especially outside main tourist areas.
- Restaurants: Casual meals are affordable in most towns; seafront and old-town restaurants can be more expensive.
- Seafood & wine: Local seafood and Croatian wines offer very good quality for the price, especially along the Dalmatian coast.
Transport
- Buses & ferries: Public transport is well-priced. Ferries between mainland and islands vary based on route and operator.
- Taxis & ride apps: Prices are moderate; expect higher fares in peak season and late evenings.
- Car rental: Costs depend heavily on season. Book early if travelling in July or August.
Attractions & activities
- Museums & landmarks: Entry fees are generally modest; premium attractions in major cities may be higher.
- Boat trips: Prices vary depending on the route, boat type and inclusions, with Dubrovnik and Split offering many options.
- Guided tours: Walking tours are usually affordable; private guides cost more but offer a personalized experience.
Accommodation
Accommodation prices swing significantly by season. Coastal destinations - especially Dubrovnik - are busiest from June to September. Travellers visiting in spring or autumn often benefit from lower prices and wider availability.
How costs differ across regions
Expect higher prices in:
- Dubrovnik Old Town
- Hvar Town
- Rovinj and parts of Istria
- top seafront locations in major cities
More budget-friendly areas include smaller towns along the Dalmatian coast, the interior of Istria, inland regions, and local neighbourhoods away from historic centres. Even within Dubrovnik, staying in areas just outside the Old Town can offer better value.
Money safety & common scams in Croatia
Croatia is a safe country for travelers, and money-related problems are relatively uncommon. Still, as in any busy tourist destination, it helps to know what to watch out for, especially in popular places such as Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Split’s Riva promenade or island ferry ports in summer. In case you need to contact the police or other authorities here are some important and useful phone numbers in Croatia.
Dynamic currency conversion (DCC)
This is the most common money trap. When paying by card or withdrawing cash, you may be offered to be charged in your home currency instead of euros. This almost always comes with a poor exchange rate. Choose to be charged in euros every time to avoid unnecessary markups.
Independent ATMs with high fees
Standalone ATMs from currency-exchange companies can charge significantly higher withdrawal fees compared to bank ATMs. If a machine shows a large fee or only offers withdrawal with conversion, cancel the transaction and look for an ATM attached to a bank branch.
Overpriced exchange offices
Most exchange offices are legitimate, but rates can vary. Be cautious of booths near major attractions or transport hubs, where rates may be weaker. Always check whether a commission is added before confirming the exchange.
Street exchange offers
Never exchange money with individuals on the street. This can lead to counterfeit currency or unfavorable rates. Use only banks or official exchange offices (“mjenjačnica”).
Restaurant bill confusion
Double-check bills in busy restaurants or bars, particularly in peak season. Mistakes are usually accidental, but it’s good practice to review the total before paying. If unsure, politely ask the staff for clarification.
Pickpocket awareness in crowded areas
Crowds form naturally around attractions, city walls, ferries and bus stations. Petty theft is rare but can happen, so keep wallets and phones secure in crowded places such as the streets around Pile Gate in Dubrovnik.
With basic awareness and by choosing bank ATMs and euro-based transactions, most travelers have no issues at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency does Croatia use?
Croatia uses the Euro (EUR, €) as its official currency. The euro replaced the Croatian kuna on 1 January 2023. All payments are made in euros across the country.
Do I need cash in Croatia or can I pay everything by card?
Cards are widely accepted in most cities and tourist areas. Cash is still useful in small cafés, markets, rural villages and on some islands. Carrying both card and small euro notes is the most practical approach.
Are ATMs easy to find in Croatia?
Yes. ATMs are common in larger towns and tourist centers. In remote areas or islands, they may be less frequent, so withdraw euros in major hubs such as Dubrovnik before travelling onward.
Which ATMs should I use and which should I avoid?
Use bank ATMs (OTP, PBZ, ZABA, HPB) for clearer fees and better exchange rates. Avoid standalone exchange-company ATMs, which often add high fees or force currency conversion.
What is dynamic currency conversion (DCC), and should I accept it?
DCC offers to charge you in your home currency instead of euros. Always decline DCC - choosing euros almost always gives a better overall rate.
Can I tip with a credit card in Croatia?
Some places allow card-based tipping, but many do not. If you plan to tip, carry a small amount of euro cash. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
Should I exchange money before arriving in Croatia?
Optional. Many travelers withdraw euros from a bank ATM upon arrival. Bringing a small amount of euro cash for the first day can be convenient.
Are exchange offices in Croatia safe to use?
Yes, official exchange offices (“mjenjačnica”) are regulated, but rates vary. Check the buying rate and ask about commission before confirming.
Is Croatia expensive compared to other European countries?
Croatia is mid-range overall. Dubrovnik, Hvar and Rovinj are on the higher end; inland regions and smaller towns are more budget-friendly. Prices vary by season.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in Croatia?
Yes. Contactless payments are widely accepted in supermarkets, restaurants and most attractions in major cities. A physical card is still recommended as backup.
Are euros the only currency accepted in Dubrovnik’s Old Town?
Yes. Businesses in Dubrovnik accept euros only. Other currencies such as USD or GBP are not accepted for payments.
What should I do if an ATM charges a very high fee?
Cancel the transaction and find another machine, ideally at a bank branch. Walking a short distance often leads to a better ATM with lower fees.