What Currency Is Used in Croatia?

What currency is used in Croatia?

If you’re planning a trip to Dubrovnik, buying property on the Adriatic coast, or trading with Croatian businesses, it’s important to understand the country’s currency. This guide is written for travellers, importers, expats, and investors who need practical, up-to-date information. We’ll explain what currency Croatia uses, how it works, and how to manage it effectively while avoiding common mistakes.

Croatia’s official currency: the Euro (EUR)

As of 1 January 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the euro, abbreviated as EUR and symbolised by €. It replaced the Croatian kuna (HRK), which had been in use since 1994. Croatia adopted the euro after joining the Eurozone, following its accession to the European Union in 2013.

• Currency name: Euro

• Currency code: EUR

• Symbol: €

• Subunits: 1 euro = 100 cents

Croatia now shares the same currency as 19 other Eurozone countries, simplifying travel, trade, and investment across borders.

Denominations in use

• Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents; €1 and €2

• Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500 (though €200 and €500 notes are rarely used in everyday transactions)

Croatian euro coins have unique national designs on one side, such as depictions of Nikola Tesla and the distinctive Glagolitic script, while the reverse side follows standard euro formatting.

Where the euro is used in Croatia

The euro is now the only legal tender in Croatia. It is accepted throughout the country for all purchases, from local markets in Split to luxury resorts in Hvar. Whether you're paying for transport, meals, property taxes, or services, euros are required for all transactions.

The Croatian kuna (HRK) is no longer accepted as payment, although some banks and post offices continued offering limited exchange options for kuna into 2024.

Why Croatia adopted the euro

Croatia joined the euro to:

• Strengthen economic stability

• Reduce exchange rate risk for trade and tourism

• Improve access to European financial markets

The move also makes it easier for EU citizens to travel and invest in Croatia without needing to exchange money.

Benefits and considerations of using the euro in Croatia

Advantages:

• No exchange required for travellers from other euro-using countries

• Price transparency for trade and imports across the EU

• Access to the Eurozone’s financial and regulatory framework

• Stable and widely accepted currency with global recognition

Considerations:

• Exchange required for visitors from non-euro countries (e.g. UK, US)

• Currency confusion for those used to the Croatian kuna

• Dual pricing transition: Prices were initially shown in both EUR and HRK during the switch, which may persist in older listings

Common misconceptions

Some travellers still believe that Croatia uses the kuna. While the kuna was the national currency for decades, it was fully replaced by the euro in January 2023.

Another misconception is that euros are only accepted in tourist areas. In fact, euros are now mandatory legal tender across all of Croatia, including rural and inland regions.

Tips for managing money in Croatia

• Withdraw euros from local ATMs—machines are widespread, and rates are usually competitive.

• Use contactless cards—Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere.

• Avoid airport currency exchange kiosks, where rates tend to be poor.

• Decline dynamic currency conversion when using foreign cards—choose to pay in euros to get a better rate.

• Carry some cash for small businesses, especially in remote areas.

FAQs

Does Croatia still accept kuna?
No. As of 2024, the Croatian kuna is no longer accepted for payments. All transactions are now conducted in euros.

Can I use pounds or US dollars in Croatia?
No. Only euros are accepted. You'll need to exchange your home currency before or after arrival.

Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes. Cards are accepted across most hotels, restaurants, shops, and transport services. Cash may still be preferred in small local businesses.

Is tipping expected in Croatia?
Yes. While not mandatory, it’s customary to tip 5–10% in restaurants and to round up for taxis and small services.