Croatia Travel Tips

Croatia uses the Euro (€) as its official currency, and it’s helpful to become familiar with the available denominations and best practices for handling money while in the country.

Though many establishments in cities accept credit and debit cards, Croatia retains a strong cash-based economy, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas. For convenience, it’s wise to carry smaller denominations, as some local businesses, markets, and taxis may not accept large bills, and exact change is often appreciated.

ATMs, known locally as "bankomati," are readily available across Croatia, especially in urban areas and tourist locations. Withdrawing cash from ATMs is generally the most convenient and cost-effective way to obtain euros, as they tend to offer favorable exchange rates compared to currency exchange offices. However, it’s best to check with your home bank before traveling to be aware of any foreign transaction or ATM fees, which could apply to international withdrawals.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger retail stores in Croatia. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted, while American Express and Discover cards may not be as universally welcomed, especially in smaller establishments. Some businesses may impose a minimum spending requirement for card payments or offer discounts for cash payments. It’s a good idea to carry a form of identification, such as a photocopy of your passport, as card transactions sometimes require it.

Before departing for Croatia, notify your bank of your travel plans to prevent any card issues due to unexpected foreign transactions. It’s also advisable to bring a backup card in case your primary card is lost, stolen, or compromised. Monitoring your bank statements for any unauthorized charges while traveling is recommended for added security.

If you plan to use traveler’s checks, note that they are not widely accepted in Croatia, and exchanging them can be inconvenient and costly. Instead, rely on ATMs for cash withdrawals and use credit cards for larger transactions.