If you’re planning a trip to Croatia in 2024 and need a car to get around, you’ve come to the right place! Here, we will provide all the essential information for renting and driving a car in Croatia—from tips on getting the best rental offers to road safety rules. So, buckle up and get ready for a stress-free adventure across this beautiful country!
Car Rental Companies & Services
Zagreb car rental offers a variety of services, such as pick-up and drop-off from any airport location, and provides additional services like unlimited mileage, insurance and GPS navigation systems. Different types of vehicles are available such as economy cars, mid-sized sedans, family vans, luxury cars and sports utility vehicles. Prices usually vary according to the type of car you select and the length of your rental period.
It is important that you are aware of traffic regulations and safety requirements like speed limits (usually 130 km/h on highways) and required documents. In addition to your passport or valid identification card (for EU citizens) you may need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). You must be at least 18 years old in order to drive any vehicle. To ensure a safe journey on the road it is best to drive defensively at all times.
Driving Regulations in Croatia
Locals and visiting tourists alike must adhere to the country’s regulations. Knowing and abiding by these rules can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring the country.
For those aged 17, a valid US driver’s license is all that is required to drive in Croatia. Those over 18 will need their driver’s license from their home country along with an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by the Automobile Association (AA) or a similar local equivalent organization.
In Croatia, all cars must be driven on the right-hand side of the road, while keeping to speed limits that are indicated by signs along highways and roads of all types in urban areas. Speed limits vary depending on road conditions as follows:
- Motorways/freeways: 110 km/h (68mph)
- National roads: 90 km/h (56mph)
- Urban areas: 50 km/h (31 mph) unless otherwise indicated with lower speed advised.
Car lights must be used year round during daylight hours as well as at night when visibility is poor or when raining heavily. It’s also necessary for vehicles to display two reflective warning triangles when parked or broken down on motorways, highways or dual carriageways.
Finally, it’s important to note that Croatian law requires all drivers must carry proof of insurance at all times when driving any vehicle in Croatia; this includes both third party liability coverage and collision damage waiver insurance policies if available from your car hire company.
Places to Visit with a Rental Car
It is a beautiful and diverse country, with plenty to explore via car rental. From the hustle and bustle of the capital city, Zagreb, to picturesque islands, beaches and lush green national parks – there is something here for everyone.
Head south to Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known as “The Pearl of The Adriatic”. Enjoy spectacular views of the Old Town or take a drive along the winding roads that lead you to some of Croatia’s finest beaches.
Enjoy a stroll around Plitvice Lakes National Park and take in stunning scenery set amongst snow-capped mountains, lakes and waterfalls.
If you’re looking for rural beauty away from popular tour hotspots, head north to the Lika region. Highly regarded as the best region for hiking (especially in springtime), Lika boasts some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes. Drive along unspoiled winding roads to find pastoral villages where time has seemingly stood still and untouched nature reserves. Of course, this immense beauty wouldn’t be complete without some amazing historical spots like Udbina Monastery built in 1871 or Suvaja Hills & Vinodol Dolomite which attracts rock climbers due its unique geological Trebinje vertical profile.
No matter where your drive takes you during your stay in this country, this guide will help ensure you get there safely and enjoy every minute of it!
Insurance & Roadside Assistance
In Croatia during 2024, car rental companies will typically offer a range of insurance and roadside assistance options to minimize the financial repercussions and hassle resulting from common driving contingencies. Tourists driving vehicles should ensure they have sufficient coverage for unforeseen events.
Insurance: Standard coverage choices may include:
- Third-party liability insurance – This provides financial protection for third parties if an accident is caused by the car’s driver.
- Personal accident insurance – This offers protection from medical expenses or death resulting from road accidents involving any rented vehicle you are driving.
- Vehicle Insurance – Comprehensive cover includes theft and damage to your rented vehicle as well as cover against fire, vandalism and collisions, with various degrees of excess to choose from.
Roadside Assistance: Additional roadside assistance generally includes services such as fuel delivery, tow truck assistance and a 24/7 hotline for assistance if your rental breaks down. Take your time to assess all travel required prior to opting for superior services such as these.
Finishing Up: Returning the Car & Wrapping Up Your Trip
At the end of your trip, you’ll need to return the car to the rental agency at a designated drop-off location. Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time to thoroughly inspect and test everything before leaving – and check that you’ve returned all accessories you received with the vehicle. Review your rental agreement before leaving, in case there are different drop-off procedures or fees that you should be aware of.
Once you get to the drop-off location, simply follow the instructions provided by your rental company. Before handing over your keys, make sure they’ve completed an inspection of the vehicle – most companies require it and will provide a copy of their findings in case you have any questions later on.
Finally, fill up any fuel tanks that were less than full when you picked up the car (to avoid additional charges) and deduct it from your bill when possible. Then, collect all your belongings from inside and outside of the car before handing over your keys for good!