Croatia: Schengen Guide for UK Travellers
Yes, Croatia is a member of the Schengen zone. Croatia joined the Schengen area on 1 January 2023, making it one of the newest members. Every day spent in Croatia now counts toward your 90-day Schengen allowance within any rolling 180-day period.
This is an important change for UK travellers who previously visited Croatia without it affecting their Schengen day count. Before 2023, Croatia was in the EU but not the Schengen zone, so days there did not count toward the 90-day limit. Now they do. If you regularly combine Croatia with trips to Spain, Italy, or other Schengen countries, be aware that Croatian days are now part of the same pool.
Key Facts
- Schengen Member: Yes
- EU Member: Yes
- Year Joined Schengen: 2023
- Capital: Zagreb
- Currency: Euro
- Languages: Croatian
Croatia joined the Schengen zone on 1 January 2023, also adopting the Euro on the same date. It is one of the newest Schengen members.
Heading to the Dalmatian Coast?
Croatia joined Schengen in 2023, so every day now counts toward your 90-day limit. Track your Croatian holiday with Entorii alongside all your other European trips.
How Long Can You Stay?
UK passport holders can stay in Croatia (and the wider Schengen zone) for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period. Since Croatia joined Schengen in 2023, its days are now combined with all other Schengen countries. A week in Dubrovnik followed by two weeks in Italy counts as three weeks of Schengen days.
A typical Croatian holiday for UK visitors lasts 7 to 14 days, often combining the Dalmatian coast with island-hopping or a visit to Dubrovnik and Split. Croatia also pairs naturally with neighbouring Montenegro and Bosnia, both of which are outside the Schengen zone.
Top Destinations in Croatia
Dubrovnik (3-4 days)
The Pearl of the Adriatic: medieval walls, Game of Thrones filming locations, and harbour views.
Split (2-3 days)
Diocletian's Palace, lively waterfront, and a gateway to the islands.
Hvar (3-4 days)
Lavender fields, hilltop fortress, beach clubs, and some of Croatia's best restaurants.
Plitvice Lakes (1-2 days)
Sixteen cascading lakes connected by waterfalls in a stunning national park.
Istria (4-5 days)
Hilltop towns like Rovinj and Motovun, truffle hunting, olive oil, and Italian-influenced cuisine.
Getting There from the UK
Direct flights from the UK serve Dubrovnik, Split, Zagreb, and Pula (seasonally). Flight times are two and a half to three hours. British Airways, easyJet, Jet2, and TUI operate regular services, with the widest choice during summer months (May to October). Dubrovnik and Split airports are small but well organised. Some travellers fly into neighbouring countries and drive: Trieste (Italy) or Ljubljana (Slovenia) are common entry points for Istria.
Travel Tips
Croatia adopted the Euro on 1 January 2023, the same day it joined Schengen. You no longer need to exchange currency if you are coming from another Eurozone country. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but carry some cash for smaller establishments and island businesses.
Croatian ferries operated by Jadrolinija connect the mainland to the islands. Book in advance during July and August, especially for car ferries to popular islands like Hvar and Korcula. The coastal road (Jadranska Magistrala) is scenic but slow; allow extra time for driving along the Dalmatian coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Croatia in the Schengen zone?
Yes. Croatia joined the Schengen zone on 1 January 2023. All days spent in Croatia now count toward the 90-day Schengen limit for UK passport holders.
When did Croatia join the Schengen zone?
Croatia became a member of the Schengen zone on 1 January 2023, the same date it adopted the Euro as its currency. Before this date, Croatia was in the EU but not in the Schengen area.
Can I combine Croatia with Montenegro without using more Schengen days?
Yes. Montenegro is not in the Schengen zone. Days spent in Montenegro do not count toward your 90-day Schengen limit. It is easy to cross from Dubrovnik into Montenegro for a day trip to Kotor or a longer stay.
What currency does Croatia use?
Croatia adopted the Euro on 1 January 2023. You no longer need to exchange Croatian Kuna, which has been replaced by the Euro.
How do I get from Dubrovnik to Split?
The drive from Dubrovnik to Split takes about three and a half hours along the coastal road. Note that the route passes briefly through Bosnia and Herzegovina at the Neum corridor, which is outside the Schengen zone. There are usually no border delays, but carry your passport. Alternatively, ferries and catamarans run between Dubrovnik and Split via the islands.