In the near future, Croatia expects the introduction of the euro, which is almost implied by joining the Union. The introduction of the euro brings many benefits, however, there are significant indicators that Croatia still needs a lot of time to fix its economy, and then after significant changes that need to be introduced and the euro is introduced to a "clean" economic whole. The problems plaguing the Croatian economy cannot be solved by introducing the euro, but can only increase. The deepening state of recession in Croatia, ie the constant loss, leads to a decrease in employment, an increase in interest rates, and increasing indebtedness through inadequate policies of progress. From which it can be concluded that these problems cannot be solved by the introduction of the euro, but by a responsible macroeconomic policy in achieving the set current and development goals that will achieve the well-being of the disturbed economy. The objectives of the research are to analyze the basic settings of EMS; consider nominal and realistic convergence criteria; define the role of the ECB in determining the European Monetary Policy strategy; determine whether the EMU is the optimal currency area for Croatia; analyze macroeconomic indicators before and after the introduction of the euro in euro area countries; assess the positive and negative effects of the introduction of the euro in Croatia. Based on the analysis of the negative and positive sides of the introduction of the euro, Croatia should adopt the euro. Then interest rates would be favorable, conversion costs would not have to be paid, and most of the savings of Croatian citizens are in euros anyway. EMU is the optimal currency area from which Croatia will have the greatest economic benefit due to the use of the common currency, ie the euro.