Currency, Credit Cards and Tipping in Croatia

 

CURRENCY

As of January 1, 2023, Croatia’s sole currency is the Euro. Like most foreign countries, the least expensive and most convenient way to obtain Croatian currency is from an ATM. It can be obtained from banks and currency exchange offices, but the fees are usually much higher than what you would pay for an ATM transaction. Check with your bank to inquire about the charges. Many banks no longer charge foreign transaction fees and some, such as Charles Schwab, will even refund all ATM fees.

 

CREDIT CARDS

While bigger hotels and many shops do accept credit cards, many restaurants and smaller businesses do not. AMEX, Discover & Diners Club cards are not generally accepted, most places will only accept Mastercard and Visa.

 

COST OF FOOD & DRINK

Croatian food is both delicious and, in most places, excellent value.

In the very best restaurants of major tourist destinations Dubrovnik, Split, and Hvar, a two-course dinner excluding drinks and tips will be around US$80. At the opposite end of the scale, a similar meal in a mid-range restaurant will be around US$40. For context, a meal in a typical fast-food restaurant will be around US$7-8.

Average prices for restaurant and bar drinks are equally competitive. A 500ml glass of draught beer will be around US$5. A 330ml bottle of imported beer is similar. A bottle of mid-priced wine will be around US$30.

A 1L bottle of mineral in a restaurant will be around US$4; in a local supermarket around US$1.50. A cappuccino in a cafe or restaurant is around US$3-4. A cocktail, or spirit and mixer, around $6-8.

 

TIPPING IN CROATIA

Tipping is not mandatory in Croatia but it is a great way to show your appreciation for good service. As a guide we would suggest:

Private Transfers
Airport Transfers and Short Distance Transfers: 5 Euros per traveler
Longer Distance Transfers (2 hour or more): 10 Euros per traveler

Tour Guides
Private Half Day Tour: 10-15 Euros per traveler
Private Full Day Tour: 20-25 Euros per traveler
Small Group Tour: approx 5-10 Euros per traveler

Sailing Cruises & Private Boat Charters
Please see our end-of-cruise article for suggested gratuities for both the ship crew and cruise directors

Bars & Restaurants
It is customary to leave a tip of 10%.