Is It Expensive To Travel To Croatia? A Break Down Of The Costs

Planning a trip to Croatia sounds like a dream, doesn't it? But you're probably wondering about Croatia's travel costs. Rest assured, we've broken down the expenses you'll need to consider right here.

On average, expect to spend around €55 - €275 per day while vacationing in Croatia. This figure is a ballpark estimate to help you get started.

Now, to the details...

Before diving into the costs, we want to note that Croatia switched its currency from the Croatian Kuna (HRK) to the Euro (€) in 2023. This means all your expenses in Croatia will now be in Euros, so converting your currency accordingly is essential before your trip.

In addition, understand that your actual expenses can swing based on how fast you're moving, the experiences you pick, and whether you're solo or with a squad. Group travel can reduce the price per person, children often have discounted fares, and the option to share accommodation can help you save cash.

Now for the breakdown:

Flying into Croatia from various parts of Europe can be relatively affordable, especially if you book in advance.

For example, consider low-cost carriers within Europe that frequently offer competitive rates to Croatian cities like Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik, from €50 to €150 one way, depending on your departure city and how early you book. Baggage fees and other add-ons can increase the cost, so factor these into your budget.

Direct flights are less common for those coming from further afield, such as North America or Australia, so you might connect through a major European hub like London, Frankfurt, or Paris. Starting prices for these long-haul flights range around €1,000, but you can find deals or opt for budget airlines for the European leg to reduce costs.

Quick travel tip: Flying during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) can significantly lower your airfare.

Lastly, consider the cost of getting from the airport to your final destination in Croatia. Major airports offer bus, shuttle, or taxi services to nearby cities, with prices varying from €5 to €40. Planning this part of your journey can save you time and money upon arrival.

The documents you need depend on where you're coming from. European and American travellers only need ID cards, while visitors from other regions might require visas. Costs can vary, so it's best to check with the Croatian embassy in your country for the most accurate information.

If you're from the UK, you can travel to Croatia without a visa for 90 days, according to Gov.UK. The same visa requirements apply to US nationals.

If you need a guided tour in Croatia, understand it will come at a cost, but that usually covers other expenses like accommodation, food, and local transport.

For example, you can book a mixed-activity Cetina River tour with Skyhook for €750 per person.

This trip covers everything apart from flights, insurance, airport transfers, and visa (if you need one).

Accommodation prices in Croatia vary widely depending on the type, location, and season of your visit.

Hostels are available for budget-friendly accommodation, particularly in popular spots like Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik. During the low season, you might find a bed in a dorm room for as low as €15 - €20 per night.

If you're looking for private accommodation, such as an apartment, prices start around €50 per night, but luxury villas can go upwards of €250 per night.

Hotels also range from budget to luxury, with 4-star hotels priced between €40 and €80 per night in the low season. In contrast, high season prices for the same category can range from €200 to €400 per night, and luxury hotels can exceed €500 per night.

Buses are a popular and affordable way to get around Croatia, with prices depending on the route and time of day.

For example, a one-way bus ticket from Zagreb to Split can cost about €20 to €34. A train ticket will mostly cost twice as much. The fastest mode to get from Zagreb to Split is a flight that costs around €83.

Ferry prices depend on the route and whether you're taking a car. A passenger ferry from Split to Hvar might cost around €23, while car ferries cost more due to the added vehicle charge.

In major cities like Zagreb and Dubrovnik, Uber is available and provides a convenient option for travellers. Taxi prices depend on the distance, with an initial start price of around €2 and a per kilometre charge, with the most expensive total in major towns around €26.

You can also rent a car for as low as €3 - €10 per day and around €25 from major cities like Zagreb to Split. However, car rental prices vary by the rental period, car type, and season.

The average cost of food per person per day is about €32.

Dining out for an average meal at a restaurant will cost around €13 per person, though this can vary. For a more comprehensive dining experience, including drinks and a tip, you might pay around €20, especially in touristy areas.

It's worth noting that prices can increase in the most popular destinations or during peak tourist season. Opting for local beer or wine can be more cost-effective, with local beers costing about €2 for a draught and wines ranging from €15 to €30 per bottle at restaurants.

You can also expect to pay between €2.5 to €5 for a cup of coffee in tourist hotspots, though prices can be as low as €2 in less crowded areas​.

This includes shopping, souvenirs, a bit of tipping, and more spur-of-the-moment expenses. You can also budget for entertainment expenses: activities like museum visits can cost around €5.

Still, be aware of potential hidden fees like tourist taxes (about €1.35 per day) and accommodation cleaning fees (around €30 - €50 per stay).

When shopping or dining, choosing less touristy areas can offer better value. Tipping is common, with a usual rate of 5% to 15% in restaurants, though it's always at your discretion based on service quality.

Ah, Croatia, the land of a thousand islands (or about 1,244 islands!)

Travelling here can indeed be as affordable or as lavish as you make it. The country offers a range of experiences, and by planning and managing your budget wisely, you can explore the beauty of Croatia without stretching your finances too thin.