Is cash still widely used?
Yes, moderately. Croatia adopted the euro in 2023, which simplified things considerably. Cards are accepted at most tourist-facing hotels, restaurants, and shops along the Dalmatian coast. However, smaller vendors, island markets, ferry tickets, and local guesthouses still often require cash.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available in cities and tourist areas. Erste Bank and Privredna banka (PBZ) machines are common.
- Fees for foreign non-EU cards are around 3 EUR per withdrawal
- ATMs are available on most inhabited islands but can have queues in peak season
- Withdraw cash before heading to very small islands
Card acceptance
Good in tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels and larger restaurants. Smaller and family-run businesses, markets, and island vendors often prefer cash.
Tips for travelers
- Carry €30-50 for island hopping, markets, and smaller restaurants
- Ferry tickets between islands are sometimes cash-only
- Tipping 10% is appreciated and usually given in cash
- Croatia’s Adriatic coast is stunning — budget for peak season price increases