Everything you need to know about driving in Croatia, renting a car, road rules, tolls, parking, and planning the perfect Croatian road trip.
Why rent a car in Croatia?
Croatia is one of Europe’s best road trip destinations. From the stunning Dalmatian Coast to the rolling vineyards of Istria and the waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes, many of Croatia’s most beautiful locations are best explored by car.
A rental car gives you:
- Freedom to travel at your own pace
- Access to hidden beaches and villages
- Easy day trips from major cities
- Flexibility to create your own itinerary
- The opportunity to explore beyond tourist hotspots
For many travellers, renting a car is the single best way to experience Croatia.
Compare rental car prices before you book
Finding the right rental car can save you both time and money.
Compare rental car prices across Croatia
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Compare prices from multiple suppliers, find the best deals, and choose the perfect vehicle for your trip.
Do you need an International Driving Permit?
Visitors from the UK, EU, USA, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can usually drive in Croatia using their valid home-country driving licence.
However, some rental companies may require an International Driving Permit (IDP), so it's always worth checking before you travel.
Which side of the road do they drive on?
In Croatia, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road.
If you're visiting from the UK, allow yourself a little extra time to adjust, particularly at roundabouts and junctions.
Croatia speed limits
Urban Areas - 50 km/h
Outside Built-up Areas - 90 km/h
Main Roads - 110 km/h
Motorways - 130 km/h
Speed cameras are common throughout Croatia and fines can be issued for speeding.
Road conditions in Croatia
Croatia has some of the best roads in Southeast Europe.
- Motorways (Autoceste)
Croatia's motorway network is modern, safe, and easy to navigate.
Popular routes include:
- Zagreb to Split
- Zagreb to Rijeka
- Zagreb to Zadar
- Zagreb to Osijek
Motorways are generally smooth and well maintained.
- Coastal Roads
The famous Adriatic Coastal Road is one of Europe's most scenic drives.
Expect:
- Incredible sea views
- Mountain backdrops
- Small coastal towns
- Frequent photo opportunities
Allow extra travel time because you'll likely want to stop often.
Understanding Croatian Tolls
Most major motorways in Croatia are toll roads.
You'll usually receive a ticket when entering the motorway and pay when exiting.
Payment options include:
- Cash
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Toll costs vary depending on distance travelled.
Example journeys:
- Zagreb to Zadar
- Zagreb to Split
- Zagreb to Rijeka
All require motorway toll payments.
Parking in Croatia
- Cities
Parking is generally paid in city centres.
Most cities operate colour-coded parking zones with different rates.
Always check local signage carefully.
- Coastal Towns
Popular destinations such as:
- Dubrovnik
- Split
- Rovinj
- Zadar
It can become very busy during summer.
Arriving early helps secure better parking spaces.
Fuel Stations
Fuel stations are easy to find throughout Croatia.
Common providers include:
- INA
- Petrol
- Shell
Most stations accept credit cards and offer convenience stores.
Should you choose a Manual or Automatic Car?
Manual vehicles are typically cheaper and more widely available.
Choose an automatic if:
- You're unfamiliar with driving on the right
- You're planning lots of city driving
- You simply prefer automatic transmission
Book early if you need an automatic, especially during summer.
Driving from Dubrovnik to Split
One of Croatia's most popular road trips.
Highlights include:
- Makarska Riviera
- Brela
- Omiš
- Coastal viewpoints
- Hidden beaches
Approximate driving time:
3-4 hours (without stops)
Most travellers spend the entire day exploring.
Driving Around Istria
The Istrian Peninsula is perfect for a relaxed road trip.
Must-see stops include:
Rovinj
Pula
Motovun
Grožnjan
Poreč
The roads are excellent and distances between towns are short.
Driving to Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia's biggest attractions.
Approximate drive times:
- Zagreb: 2 hours
- Zadar: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Split: 3 hours
Having your own rental car allows you to arrive before tour buses and enjoy a quieter experience.
Essential Croatian Driving Rules
- Seat belts
Mandatory for all passengers.
- Mobile Phones
Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is prohibited.
- Headlights
Daytime running lights are required during certain periods of the year.
- Drink Driving
Croatia has strict drink-driving laws.
What rental car should you choose
- Small Economy Car
Best for:
- Couples
- Budget travellers
- City driving
- Compact SUV
Best for:
- Families
- Road trips
- Extra luggage
- Estate Car
Best for:
- Longer holidays
- Multiple suitcases
- Comfort on long drives
Suggested Croatia Road trip Route
Day 1-2: Zagreb
- Explore Croatia's capital city.
Day 3: Plitvice Lakes
- Drive through Croatia's beautiful interior.
Day 4-5: Zadar
- Historic old town and stunning coastline.
Day 6-7: Split
- Island hopping and historic attractions.
Day 8-10: Dubrovnik
- Finish your journey in Croatia's most famous city.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Booking a rental car at the last minute
- Not checking fuel policies
- Ignoring toll costs
- Driving through Old Town pedestrian zones
- Forgetting to reserve an automatic vehicle early
- Rushing coastal road trips
Final Thoughts
Croatia is one of the easiest and most rewarding countries in Europe to explore by car. Modern roads, stunning scenery, charming coastal towns, and incredible national parks make it a dream destination for road-trippers.
Whether you're driving the Adriatic Coast, exploring Istria, or chasing waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes, a rental car gives you the freedom to experience Croatia beyond the typical tourist route.
Ready to start your Croatian road trip?
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