0% for 18 months on purchases and balance tra… Citi Simplicity® Credit Card Calculators How we make money
VOATLAS
How to Book a Trip to Croatia

How to · Travel

How to Book a Trip to Croatia

See the Dalmatian coast during the quiet months without draining your savings all at once.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $3,200 before anything else
Across the 0% window $177.78/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $3,200 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Croatia is best when the crowds thin out in May or September, leaving you with empty cobblestone streets in Split and clear water in Hvar. The weather stays warm enough for swimming, but the prices drop significantly compared to the peak summer rush.

You can manage the $3200 cost for a standard trip by spreading it over a longer window using the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. It offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening, which makes your travel expenses much easier to handle.

Remember that the 0% period is a deadline, not a gift. If you have a balance left on the card after the 18 months are up, you will start paying interest on the remaining amount.

The steps

  1. 01

    Lock in your dates

    Aim for May or late September to catch the best weather and lower prices. Booking flights and ferries in these shoulder months saves you a lot of money compared to July or August.

  2. 02

    Set your payment plan

    With an 18-month window, you are looking at paying $177.78 per month to cover the $3200 total. Set up an automatic payment for this amount so you stay on track without thinking about it.

  3. 03

    Use the card for the trip

    Use your Citi Simplicity® Credit Card to pay for your flights and accommodation. This card gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening, helping you keep your cash in your account longer.

  4. 04

    Book regional transport early

    Island hopping is the best part of Croatia, but ferries fill up fast. Book your catamaran tickets online a few weeks before you leave to ensure you have a seat.

  5. 05

    Keep a small buffer

    Even with a plan, unexpected costs like boat tours or nice dinners will happen. Keep a little extra cash aside so you don't have to stress while you are actually on the coast.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Is Croatia expensive to visit?

It can be, but staying in the shoulder season keeps costs down. You can find reasonably priced apartments if you look away from the main harbor fronts.

Do I need a lot of cash in Croatia?

Most places take cards now, but keep some Euros for small cafes or local markets. You will use a card for almost everything else.

What happens if I miss a payment?

Missing a payment can end your 0% rate early. Always set up an auto-pay so you never accidentally skip a month.

Should I buy travel insurance?

It is a good idea for any trip abroad. It protects you if you have to cancel your flights or if you get sick while you are away.