Car rental in Croatia

Croatia unveils its treasures for those willing to explore independently. Car rental in Croatia is essential for a true adventure, offering access to stunning roads along the Adriatic coast and hidden gems in national parks. Having a vehicle allows you the freedom to stop at scenic viewpoints, reach secluded beaches, and visit mountain villages that are inaccessible by public transport.

Key Points

• Documents and Age — Minimum age is 21, with 1-2 years of driving experience required. Non-EU citizens need an international driving license. A credit card is mandatory for a deposit ranging from €1000 to €3500.
• Seasonal Pricing — Booking 2-4 months in advance can save you up to 60%. Summer prices surge by 2-3 times, with economy rentals increasing from €20-45 to €50-70 per day.
• Local vs. International Companies — Companies like Nova Rent a Car, Oryx, and Lutar offer prices that are 20-30% lower than Sixt, Avis, and Hertz while maintaining high service quality.
• Insurance Matters — Opting for full coverage at €15-25 per day reduces excess to €0. Some credit cards, such as Platinum and Sapphire, provide coverage for car hire in Croatia.
• Toll Roads and Ferries — The toll from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is €25, while ferries to the islands cost €15-30 per car. One-way rental fees range from €200 to €300.
• Parking in Major Cities — In Dubrovnik, parking can cost up to €40 per day, so it’s best to arrive by 8-9 AM. In Split, rates are €1-2 per hour depending on the zone, and in Zagreb, it’s €2-3 per hour in the city center.
• Access to Neighboring Countries — A surcharge of €20-50 applies for travel to Slovenia, Bosnia, and Montenegro. Note that transit through Neum (Bosnia) is mandatory when traveling between Split and Dubrovnik.

Article Overview

This comprehensive guide for car rental in Croatia provides all the practical information needed for independent travel throughout the country.

What the Guide Includes:

• Booking — Comparison of international and local companies, along with the best websites and booking times.
• Documents and Requirements — Age restrictions, required licenses, and credit card information.
• Cost and Budget — Price breakdown by car classes, additional fees, and cost-saving tips.
• Insurance — Types of coverage, deposit amounts, and alternatives through bank cards.
• Practical Tips — Pickup and return information, fuel stations, and parking options in cities.
• Road Features — Traffic rules, toll sections, border crossings, and island travel.

Advantages of Car Rental in Croatia

Car hire in Croatia enhances travel experiences by enabling easy movement between cities. For instance, you can explore Dubrovnik in the morning, reach Split by lunchtime, and watch the sunset in Trogir, covering just 230 kilometers in about 3 hours.

Car rental from Split to other destinations is particularly advantageous for groups of 3-4 people. While bus tickets from Split to Dubrovnik cost around €15-20 per person, renting a car offers similar costs with added comfort and flexibility.

A car is essential for visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park, Krka, or Korčula Island, as public transport to these locations is infrequent, and tourist buses have rigid schedules.

When You Can Do Without a Car

If you plan to stay in one city, such as Zagreb, Split, or Dubrovnik, a car may not be necessary. Parking is limited and expensive in historical centers. In Dubrovnik, for example, garage parking costs €3-5 per hour, and finding a spot during peak season can be nearly impossible.

For short trips between major cities, Flixbus offers comfortable connections for €10-25, and regular ferries by Jadrolinija operate between the islands.

Basic Requirements and Documents for Rental

Age Restrictions and Driving Experience

The minimum age for car rental in Croatia is 18, but most companies require drivers to be at least 21. Drivers under 25 incur an additional fee of €7-10 per day, known as the “young driver fee.” The maximum age limit is typically 80, with some companies imposing restrictions starting at 70.

A minimum of 1-2 years of driving experience is required, calculated from the date of obtaining the first driving license.

Rental Documents

To rent a car in Croatia, you need the following documents:

• Driving License: EU citizens can use their national licenses. Citizens from other countries must present international driving licenses, especially if their national licenses are not in the Latin alphabet.
• Passport or ID: The rental company will take a copy for their records.
• Credit Card: This must be issued in the name of the main driver. Not all companies accept debit cards.

Most rental offices require a credit card for blocking the deposit, which ranges from €1000 to €3500, depending on the car class and chosen insurance.

How to Choose and Book a Car

International vs. Local Companies

Car rental in Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb is available through major international chains such as Sixt, Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget. These companies provide standardized service, a wide fleet, and airport offices, but their prices are often higher than local competitors.

Local companies like Nova Rent a Car, Oryx, Unirent, and Lutar Rent a Car frequently offer better rates and more personalized service. Nova Rent a Car is known for its reliability and good price-quality ratio, while Oryx specializes in budget options, and Lutar Rent a Car is recognized for having no hidden fees.

Best Booking Sites

Aggregators such as Rentalcars.com and Economybookings.com often provide better prices than booking directly with companies. These platforms compare offers from various companies and may offer discounts of up to 30%. They also provide a unified cancellation system and technical support.

Direct booking through rental company websites has its advantages, such as loyalty programs, priority service, and exclusive offers. Members of Sixt ONE or Avis Preferred enjoy expedited check-in and free upgrades.

When to Book

Car rental in Zagreb and other popular destinations requires advance planning. The optimal booking timeframe is 2-4 months before travel. During the high season (June-August), prices can increase by 2-3 times, and availability becomes limited.

In the low season (November-March), economy class cars can be found for €15-25 per day, while the same cars may cost €50-80 per day in summer.

Car Rental Croatia Costs and Additional Expenses

Base Prices by Class

Rental costs vary based on season, car class, and rental duration:

Economy Class (e.g., Suzuki Swift, Renault Clio):

• Low season: €20-45 per day
• High season: €50-70 per day

Compact Class (e.g., VW Golf, Opel Astra):

• Low season: €25-50 per day
• High season: €60-80 per day

Premium Class (e.g., Mercedes C-Class, BMW 3 Series):

• Low season: €80-110 per day
• High season: €120-200 per day

Automatic transmission vehicles add €15-20 to the daily cost. As manual transmission cars are more common in Croatia, it’s advisable to book automatics in advance.

Additional Services and Fees

Car rental in Split and other cities typically includes basic insurance, but additional services incur extra charges:

• GPS Navigator: €10 per day (modern smartphones can serve as alternatives)
• Additional Driver: €5-10 per day
• Child Seats: €8-15 per day each
• Young Driver Fee: €7-10 per day for drivers under 25
• Island Travel: €2 per day or €25 for the entire rental
• Border Crossing: €20-50, depending on the destination country

One-Way Rental

Renting a vehicle in one city and returning it in another incurs a fee of €200-300. Popular routes include Split-Dubrovnik, Zagreb-Split, and Dubrovnik-Zagreb. This service is particularly convenient for traveling along linear coastal routes.

Insurance and Deposits

Insurance Types

Basic insurance is included in the rental cost and covers:

• CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) — limits liability for damages
• Theft Protection — provides theft coverage
• Third Party Liability — civil liability insurance

The excess on basic insurance ranges from €1000 to €1200. This is the amount the client must pay from their own funds in the event of an insurance claim.

Full Insurance

Additional insurance costs between €15 and €25 per day and reduces the excess to €0. It includes:

• Coverage for tire and glass damage
• Protection for the undercarriage
• Insurance for personal belongings left in the car

Many travelers opt for full insurance for peace of mind, especially when navigating mountain roads or unfamiliar areas.

Deposits and Card Blocks

The size of the deposit depends on the chosen insurance:

• With basic insurance: €1000-3500
• With full insurance: €200-500

The deposit is blocked on the credit card and released 7-14 days after the car is returned undamaged. It’s important to ensure that your card limit covers both the deposit and vacation expenses.

Credit Card Insurance

Some credit cards (e.g., American Express Platinum, Chase Sapphire) offer car rental coverage, allowing you to decline the rental company’s insurance and saving on costs. However, in the event of damage, you must pay for repairs upfront and then seek reimbursement from the bank.

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Pickup and Return

Airport vs City

Car rentals in Dubrovnik often begin right at the airport, with major company offices located in terminals or nearby. The cost of airport rentals is typically the same as city office rentals, but airport pickups save transfer time.

Local companies sometimes provide free car delivery to hotels or airport pickups, which is especially convenient for late arrivals or early departures.

Pickup Procedure

When collecting the car, always:

• Thoroughly inspect the bodywork — photograph all scratches, dents, and damage
• Check the interior — assess the condition of seats, air conditioning, and radio
• Ensure all documents are available — registration, insurance, and support service phone numbers
• Record the fuel level — cars are usually provided with a full tank

A company representative will prepare an inspection report noting any existing damage. Without this document, any new scratches may be attributed to you during the return process.

Fuel Policy

The most common fuel policy is “full-full”: the car is provided with a full tank and must be returned refueled. A penalty for not refueling typically ranges from €20 to €30, plus the cost of fuel at inflated rates.

Some companies offer prepaid fuel for €100, allowing you to return the car with any fuel level. However, this option rarely pays off unless you plan to return with an empty tank.

Car Return

A final inspection occurs upon return. The company representative checks:

• External bodywork for damage
• The interior and trunk’s condition
• The fuel level
• Completeness (spare tire, tools, and documents)

This procedure takes about 10-15 minutes. If new damage is discovered, an additional report will be prepared, and the corresponding amount will be charged from your deposit.

Driving Features in Croatia

Traffic Rules

Croatian traffic rules largely align with European standards:

• Driving on the right side
• Speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 90 km/h on regional roads, 130 km/h on highways
• Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers
• Phone use without hands-free devices is prohibited
• Headlights are required to be on 24/7

Fines in Croatia can be substantial: speeding by 20 km/h costs between €65 and €130, driving without a seatbelt incurs a €65 fine, and using a phone while driving results in a €130 penalty.

Mandatory Equipment

Every car must be equipped with:

• A first aid kit
• A reflective vest (one per passenger)
• An emergency stop sign
• A spare bulb for headlights

Rental companies typically provide all necessary equipment, but it’s wise to check for completeness during pickup.

Road Conditions

Croatian highways are in excellent condition. The main routes—A1 (Zagreb-Split-Dubrovnik), A6 (Zagreb-Rijeka), and A8 (Rijeka-Istria)—are modern and safe. Regional roads are also well-maintained, although those in mountain areas may be narrow and winding.

The scenic coastal road D8 from Rijeka to Dubrovnik features numerous tunnels and serpentines. It is one of Europe’s most beautiful roads but requires careful driving.

Toll Roads

Most Croatian highways are toll roads. Travel costs include:

• Zagreb-Split (A1): approximately €25
• Zagreb-Rijeka (A6): approximately €15
• Rijeka-Pula (A8): approximately €10

Payments can be made in cash (kuna or euro) or by card. A ticket is issued at the entrance, and payment is calculated based on distance at the exit.

The ENC (Electronic Non-stop Collection) system allows you to pass through toll sections without stopping, but it requires prior registration.

Parking in Major Cities

Dubrovnik

Parking in Dubrovnik’s historic center is nearly impossible. The nearest options include:

• Ilijina Glavica Garage: €7 per hour, €40 per day
• Cable Car Parking: €2.9-3 per hour, a 10-minute walk to the center
• Gruž Port Parking: €2.9-3 per hour, with a bus to the old town every 15 minutes

During the high season, it’s advisable to arrive by 8-9 AM to secure a spot.

Split

The center of Split operates a zoned parking system:

• Zone I (near Diocletian’s Palace): €2 per hour
• Zone II: €1.5 per hour
• Zone III: €1 per hour

Major Parking Areas:

• Dioklecijanova: €1.5 per hour, a 5-minute walk to the center
• Matejuška: €1 per hour, located by the old town’s western wall

Zagreb

Parking in central Zagreb is expensive, costing €2-3 per hour. Alternatives include:

• Park & Ride system: peripheral parking with transfers to the center
• Shopping center parking: often free with purchases
• Underground garages: €15-25 per day

Border Crossings and Island Travel

Permits for Neighboring Countries

Car rentals in Croatia allow visits to neighboring EU countries, but require:

• Advance notification to the rental company
• A surcharge of €20-50 depending on the country
• Arrangement of a Green Card (international insurance)

Popular destinations include Slovenia (Ljubljana, Bled), Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mostar), Montenegro (Budva, Kotor), and Italy (Venice, Trieste).

Neum Trip Features

Neum is a Bosnian resort that separates the Croatian coast. When traveling from Split to Dubrovnik, passing through Bosnia is unavoidable. Most rental companies do not charge extra for transit through Neum, but it’s best to confirm beforehand.

Island Ferries

Visiting Croatian islands by car requires using Jadrolinija ferries. Popular routes include:

Split — Hvar (Stari Grad):

• Travel time: 2 hours
• Cost: €15-25 per car + €5 per passenger
• Frequency: 4-6 daily trips in summer

Split — Korčula:

• Travel time: 2.5 hours
• Cost: €20-30 per car + €8 per passenger
• Frequency: 2-3 daily trips

Tickets can be purchased online at the Jadrolinija website or at the port. It is advisable to book in advance during the high season.

Some rental companies charge an additional €2 per day or a €25 surcharge for island travel due to increased wear on vehicles from salt air.

Practical Tips and Life Hacks

How to Save on Rental

• Book early: prices tend to rise as your travel date approaches
• Compare aggregators: websites like Rentalcars.com, Economybookings, and Kayak may show different prices
• Consider local companies: they often offer better rates
• Choose manual transmission: this can save you €15-20 daily
• Skip additional options: a smartphone can replace a GPS, and you can bring your own child seats

Fuel and Gas Stations

Fuel prices in Croatia range from €1.35 to €1.45 per liter for A95 petrol and €1.30 to €1.40 for diesel. Major gas station chains include INA (Croatian), Petrol (Slovenian), and Crodux. Most stations operate from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, while highway stations are open 24/7.

Economy class cars typically consume 5-6 liters per 100 km on highways and 7-8 liters in city driving.

Useful Apps

• Google Maps: works offline, provides traffic updates and alternative routes
• Jadrolinija: ferry schedules and booking
• HAK Croatian Auto Club: offers information on road conditions, cameras, and weather
• Park Zagreb/Split: helps locate parking spots in major cities
• Croatia Travel Guide: provides tourist information about attractions

What to Do in Accidents or Breakdowns

In the event of an accident:

1. Turn on your hazard lights
2. Put on a reflective vest
3. Place an emergency sign 50 meters from the car
4. Call the police at 192
5. Contact the rental company

The Croatian Auto Club (HAK) provides roadside assistance at 987. Many rental companies include towing in their insurance.

Expert Review on Car Rental in Croatia

Croatia is an excellent country for road trips, but it’s important to be aware of several key nuances. The road quality is outstanding—the A1 highway from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is exceptional, and the coastal D8 offers breathtaking views. Local drivers are generally polite, parking is plentiful, and the ability to access hidden coves and mountain villages makes car rental a worthwhile choice.

The most important aspect is proper preparation for car pickup. Some companies may attempt to sell additional insurance at the airport, often using scare tactics about scratches and theft.

My advice is to familiarize yourself with your insurance conditions in advance and firmly decline additional offers. During pickup, make sure to record a detailed video of the car from all angles—this serves as your primary protection against any “discovered” damage upon return.

From my experience, the local company Nova Rent a Car operates honestly and transparently. Among international chains, Hertz or Avis are preferable for their clear procedures and fewer surprises. By following these simple guidelines, car rental in Croatia can transform your journey into an unforgettable adventure with complete freedom of movement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent a car with a debit card instead of a credit card?

Most companies require a credit card for the deposit, but there are exceptions. Nova Rent a Car accepts debit cards with the purchase of premium insurance and a “no credit card” surcharge (€80). Avax Rent also allows debit cards for an additional €60 fee. However, keep in mind that debit cards charge the money immediately rather than blocking it as a deposit.

What if it turns out there’s no airport office during pickup?

This is a common issue with smaller companies. Tourists often complain about waiting 1-1.5 hours in the heat for a transfer instead of finding an office in the terminal. Always save the company’s contact phone number and your booking number. If a representative does not arrive at the specified time, call immediately. Major companies (Hertz, Avis) typically have genuine terminal offices.

Why is the car provided with less than a full tank despite the “full-full” policy?

This is a common trick used by dishonest companies. They may provide the car with a partially filled tank (e.g., 3/4), requiring you to return it at the same level. The problem is that determining the exact fuel level can be difficult. Always photograph the fuel gauge during pickup and request written documentation of the fuel level.

Is it necessary to buy a GPS for €10 daily, or is a smartphone sufficient?

Modern smartphones equipped with Google Maps or Waze perform excellently in Croatia. Mobile coverage extends across the entire territory, including the islands. If you have unlimited roaming or a local SIM card, it’s more economical to use your phone. Rental GPS units are often outdated and less convenient.

How long does the car pickup and return process actually take?

At airports with major companies, the pickup process typically takes 15-30 minutes if all documents are ready. The return process usually takes 10-15 minutes. However, smaller companies may extend this process to an hour, particularly if one employee is servicing all clients.

What if my credit card “doesn’t work” at the company terminal?

This is a common tactic used by unscrupulous rental companies—claiming there is an issue with your card to compel you into purchasing their insurance. Test your card at the nearest ATM or store. If it works normally, insist on retrying or request access to a different terminal.