Do you need cash in Dubrovnik?

Like most destinations within the EU, most businesses accept card payments without any problem. But carrying an adequate amount of cash with you will ensure that you are covered for your expenses and can help with your budgeting. Check your bank's fees for international transactions before traveling, as this can vary.



In 2026, you can navigate most of Dubrovnik using only a credit or debit card, but carrying a small amount of cash is still highly recommended for a "frictionless" experience. While the city's restaurants, hotels, and major attractions (like the City Walls) all accept contactless payments and major cards, smaller vendors in the Old Town still prefer cash. You will likely need "Euro" coins or small notes for things like public restrooms, small gelato stalls, local markets (like the one in Gundulić Square), and tipping for free walking tours. Additionally, while the "Libertas" buses accept card payments on some routes, having cash on hand is often faster for purchasing tickets directly from the driver. Since Croatia fully adopted the Euro (€) in 2023, you no longer need to worry about the Kuna. A good rule of thumb for 2026 is to carry about €30–€50 in small denominations as a "backup" for your daily needs, while relying on your card for all your larger holiday expenses and dining.

People Also Ask

Generally with city breaks we take minimal cash and use card for all transactions. Our last 4 breaks we have only had to use cash once in a tiny local town in Portugal. We have a travel guide we have on Dubrovnik that says cash is preferred but that book is possibly from before covid.

MORE DETAILS

It depends on your travel style and spending habits, but a moderate budget could range from €1000 to €1500 for a week for accommodation, meals, entertainment, and some activities. If you're on a backpacker budget, it's possible to visit the country for about €500 a week.

MORE DETAILS

Tipping etiquette in Croatian restaurants follows a fairly standard guideline. Showing appreciation through a tip is always welcomed. When dining at a pizzeria or konoba, a tip of 5% or more is appropriate. For a nice restaurant dinner, we recommend leaving a tip of 10% or more.

MORE DETAILS

The key payment instruments in the Croatia cards and payments market are cash, cards, credit transfers, and direct debits. In 2022, cash was the major payment instrument followed by cards and credit transfers. Croatia is a cash-based economy, with cash typically used for day-to-day, low-value transactions.

MORE DETAILS

How Much Cash Should I Bring? We recommend bringing 800-1000 USD per person for an 8-10 day trip.

MORE DETAILS

In most countries €10 a week is perfectly acceptable — or €15 to €20 if you think the service was exceptional, says Wyse. Generally, in good hotels, you will receive excellent service whether you leave a gratuity daily or not. It is therefore easier to leave a lump sum at the end of your stay.

MORE DETAILS

It is considered rude to place one's hands below the table. Rather, Croatians tend to keep their hands above the table. In informal settings, the napkin is unfolded and placed on the lap. It is very common for a glass of wine to accompany the meal.

MORE DETAILS

With your salary, you'll probably spend €300-€400 on food. Count €150 Eur/month on other necessary stuff. The cost of living in Croatia, for a single person, will be between €1,000 - €1,500 per month. For a couple, the amount would be lower, at around €1,800 per month.

MORE DETAILS