Whether you're planning a trip to Croatia or simply curious, you'll be pleased to know that Croatia has officially shifted to the Euro.
Both the Euro and Kuna are currently accepted during the adjustment period.
This piece explores Croatia's new currency, from the design of Euro coins and banknotes to the best ways to exchange money and make payments.
Key Takeaways
- Croatia has officially adopted the Euro as its new currency, replacing the Kuna.
- Euro banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 EUR, with coins ranging from 1 cent to 2 EUR.
- Banks and ATMs in Croatia offer competitive exchange rates for converting home currency to Euros.
- Major credit and debit cards like MasterCard, Cirrus, and Diners Club are widely accepted in Croatia.
- ATMs, known locally as 'bankomats', are widely available and compatible with major international cards.
Croatia's Currency Transition
Smooth Sailing with the Euro
Croatia's big currency change is now officially underway. After years of using the Kuna, the country has officially adopted the Euro as its new currency. This means no more hassle with exchanging money when traveling to Croatia – the Euro is now the standard across the country.
There's an adjustment period in place, so both Kuna and Euro can be used until the end of 2023. Prices will be displayed in both currencies to help you get the hang of it. But after that, the Euro takes over completely as the sole legal tender.
The benefits of this switch are clear. No more worrying about exchange rates means smoother cross-border transactions. Plus, Croatia will now enjoy the stability of the Eurozone's monetary policy. It's a win-win for both visitors and locals.
If you happen to have any leftover Kuna after the transition, don't worry. You can still exchange them for Euros at the Croatian National Bank in Zagreb until 2025. That gives you plenty of time to use up those old bills.
Euro Coins and Banknotes
Coins and Banknotes in Croatia
When you visit Croatia, you'll be using the Euro – the official currency of the country. Euro banknotes come in handy denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 EUR. The coins you'll encounter range from 1 cent all the way up to 2 EUR, with the familiar 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cent options.
The Euro symbol, €, and the ISO code EUR, will be displayed on all your transactions. Keep an eye out for the unique Croatian designs featured on the national side of the coins. These special touches add a touch of local flair to your purchases.
Adopting the Euro offers Croatia some significant advantages. It eliminates exchange rate risk within the Eurozone, making travel and trade smoother for you and other visitors. No more juggling different currencies – just pull out those Euros and you're good to go!
Exchanging Money in Croatia
When Exchanging Money in Croatia
Croatia operates on the Croatian Kuna, but as a tourist, you'll likely want to use Euros. Luckily, you have a few options to get your hands on Euros before or during your trip.
Before arriving in Croatia, you can convert your home currency to Euros. This is a convenient option, as you'll already have Euros on hand when you touch down. Just be sure to check the exchange rates to ensure you're getting a fair deal.
Alternatively, you can wait until you're in Croatia to exchange your money. Banks and ATMs are widely available and offer competitive rates, often better than hotels or currency exchange offices. Using your debit or credit card at an ATM is a simple way to withdraw Euros as needed.
A good rule of thumb is to carry a mix of Euros and local Croatian Kuna. Euros are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, but having some Kuna on hand can be helpful for smaller towns or off-the-beaten-path destinations. And if you happen to have any leftover Kuna from previous trips, you can exchange them for Euros free of charge until the end of 2023, up to 100 notes or coins.
When exchanging currency, steer clear of airport or hotel exchanges, as they often offer less favorable rates. Instead, check the mid-market GBP/EUR rate to ensure you're getting the best possible deal.
Paying With Cards
Paying with Cards in Croatia
Croatian merchants widely accept major credit and debit cards like MasterCard, Cirrus, and Diners Club, making it a breeze to pay for your purchases. While digital wallets like Google Pay and Apple Pay are gaining traction, traditional plastic still reigns supreme.
Don't forget to keep some cash on hand though. Smaller establishments may not have the capability to process card payments electronically.
With Croatia's recent adoption of the euro, spending money has become even more straightforward, as the common currency has been well-established in the country for quite some time.
Using ATMs
Navigating ATMs in Croatia
Withdrawing cash from ATMs, known locally as 'bankomats', is a breeze in Croatia. These handy machines are widely available and compatible with major international cards. You'll find them conveniently located in supermarkets, airports, post offices, train stations, and banks – it's hard to miss them!
Most ATMs offer English language options, making the process simple for foreign travelers. Just remember to use your four-digit PIN when withdrawing.
To avoid extra fees, it's best to choose to be charged in the local currency (euro) rather than your home currency. This helps you steer clear of Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) charges.
Although ATMs are ubiquitous, it's still wise to carry a small amount of cash, as some smaller merchants may not accept card payments.
With these tips, you'll be well-equipped to handle your financial needs while exploring the wonders of Croatia. ATMs make accessing your money a straightforward affair, leaving you free to focus on enjoying your trip.
