Best Car Rental in Croatia

Known for its pebbled beaches, crystal clear waters, and historic old towns with ancient Roman ruins, Croatia is undeniably one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.

Renting a car in Croatia allows you to explore major cities and coastal towns at your own pace. Plus, you can even plan day trips to nearby European countries.

Many rental car companies offer services here, but it’s important to research to find the best rental deals. Choosing a good Croatian car rental company can make your trip easy and fun.

So, before you pack your bags for Croatia, know your options and some valuable tips on renting a car in this stunning Mediterranean country.

Yes, driving in Croatia and the Balkans is generally safe. The crime rate in Croatia is very low, at 0.81 per 100k population, so you don’t have to worry too much about safety.

But remember, like in any country, some people in the big cities can get angry while driving. You might see some road rage or even fist fights. But as long as you follow the rules and drive defensively, you should be okay.

Driving along the coastal roads is especially peaceful, but stick to the speed limit. Remember to get an international driving license for Croatia if you plan to drive around. This is super important, especially when driving in the city centers.

Renting a car in Croatia is not that expensive. Cheap car rentals can start from as low as $14 per day for small cars, though the prices may vary based on the rental company or the time of the year. If you plan to stay for a while, a long-term car rental might be a good option for you.

It’s important to note that most car rental companies in Croatia require a credit card for payment.

Remember that choosing the cheapest car rental companies doesn’t always mean getting the best deal. Sometimes, there might be additional costs like a young driver surcharge or extra fees, which are not included in the introductory price.

Luxury car rental is also available if you want to drive in style. However, do remember that these cars can cost significantly more. One-way car rentals are also an option if you plan to start and end your journey in different cities.

Remember, a last-minute car rental can cost slightly more than a pre-booked one. It’s always better to book your rental car in advance to avoid additional costs.

Here’s an estimate of car types and their prices in Croatia for you to consider:

• Small vehicles: $14 – $50
• Medium vehicles: $55 – $100
• Large vehicles: $100 – $153
• Luxury cars: Generally, over $200, but prices can vary
• One-way car rental: Additional charges depending on the distance

Explore Croatia Rental Cars for the best deals, and remember to check what’s included in your rental cost.

You need to know a few legal things about renting a car in Croatia.

First, you must be at least 18 years old to rent a car here, but this may change based on your desired vehicle.

Some car rental companies might charge you extra if you’ve had your driver’s license for less than a year or are under 25. So, checking this before you book your rental vehicle is always a good idea.

Everyone in the car must wear seatbelts – it’s the law here. So whether you’re exploring a bustling Croatian city or the peaceful coastal roads, keep everyone safe and buckle up!

Although an international driving permit (IDP) is not always needed, it can be handy. Some rental companies and policemen may ask for it, so it’s wise to carry one just to be safe. You must also have a valid driver’s license from your home country.

In addition, if you’re planning to drive your rental vehicle outside Croatia, you should get a green card. This is an international insurance certificate that proves your car is insured.

Now, you want to rent or hire trustworthy companies with great customer satisfaction. Here’s a list of some of the best car rental companies in Croatia:

Sixt Croatia, an international car rental service, accepts all credit cards from globally recognized companies. With their pay-later option, you can secure your booking and cancel at no cost if your plans change.

They strictly do not accept cash, debit, or prepaid cards for payments. With their average car rental duration accommodating most travel plans, Sixt Croatia offers flexible rental options customized to your needs.

With eight rental offices across Croatia, Oryx simplifies the online rental booking process. The company prides itself on flexible service designed around your needs and upholds the highest hygiene and safety standards.

As Croatia’s most awarded rent-a-car company, Oryx provides its customers with a remarkable vehicle rental experience.

Nova offers various vehicles, from mini to electric, for pleasure and business. It is particularly convenient for travelers arriving at Dubrovnik Airport. However, do factor in additional costs for child seats if you’re traveling with young ones.

With Nova’s commitment to customer satisfaction, it has become a preferred choice for car rental services among tourists and locals.

Vetura is a national car rental company with the most robust and extensive network of rental offices in Istria. Operating since 1991, it offers 24-hour service, ensuring that help is always available. Because of its vast network and reliable services, Vetura has emerged as a top choice for vehicle rentals in Istria.

Enterprise offers various rental options, from mini to luxury cars, to cater to your needs. They also have pickup trucks in their vehicle fleet.

With an easy online rental booking system and conveniently located rental offices, Enterprise ensures customers a seamless car rental experience. Be sure to weigh the duration of your stay against their average car rental durations for the best deal.

Most, if not all, car rental companies provide basic insurance for their vehicles. This insurance usually covers damages or loss of the rented car and sometimes even other people’s property or medical expenses.

However, the level of insurance required might vary depending on the type of car, where you’re going to drive it, and other factors.

For instance, you might need additional cross-border insurance to take your rental car outside Croatia. It’s always good to check with your rental company about this.

In some cases, you might want to consider additional insurance coverage. This could be useful if the primary insurance doesn’t cover certain things, like windshield or tire damage.

Remember, different insurance companies offer different coverage options, so it’s best to compare them before you decide. It might seem like a lot of work, but choosing the best car insurance in Croatia can give you peace of mind on your trip.

To further help you choose the right car rental provider, here are some factors to consider:

Price is often the first thing people look at when renting a car. Keep in mind that the cheapest option isn’t always the best. You should also look at what you’re getting for your money. Is insurance included? What about extras like a GPS or child seats? Always read the fine print before you book.

Check if the company offers the type of car you want. You might need a bigger car if you’lre traveling with a lot of luggage or people. If you’re worried about the environment, see if they offer hybrid or electric vehicles.

Good customer service can make your trip much easier. Check if the company has good reviews and if they’re known for dealing with issues quickly. You should also see if they offer 24/7 support if you have any problems.

If you’re flying into Croatia, picking up your car at the airport can be convenient. But check where you can drop it off. Some companies might have different locations where you can return the vehicle, which can be handy if traveling around the country.

As mentioned above, check what kind of insurance is included and if you need to get any extra. Remember to read the terms and conditions carefully.

Don’t just hop into your rental car and hit the road in Croatia. Here are some tips to help you have a smooth and safe driving experience:

• Always have enough gas in your vehicle. The average gas price may differ from your home country, and gas stations may not be as frequent in some parts of Croatia, especially in rural areas.
• Be aware of the road conditions. Croatia has a mix of modern highways, scenic roads, and older roads, especially in rural areas. It’s a good idea to check local reports or ask locals about current conditions before going on long road trips.
• Toll roads are common in Croatia, particularly on highways and bridges. Make sure you have enough local currency to pay these tolls. Some major ones accept credit cards, too.
• Croatia has plenty of scenic roads. Taking these routes can make your road trips even more enjoyable. Just remember to adhere to the speed limits and driving regulations.
• When driving to the capital city or major airports, plan and leave extra time. Traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
• In Croatia, driving is on the right-hand side of the road. This may differ from your home country, so always remember to keep to the right.
• Pay attention to speed limits, especially in built-up areas. Speeding is taken seriously in Croatia, and fines can be high.
• Ask your rental company for a driving guide for Croatia. This can give you important information about local rules and regulations and emergency contacts.
• Lastly, always ensure you have the relevant maps, whether paper or digital, so you can easily navigate the country.

Before we end, let’s take a look at some must-visit places in Croatia:

• Historic City of Dubrovnik: Known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic,’ Dubrovnik is a stunning historic city you must visit. It’s famous for its old town, stunning architecture, and the city walls. It’s also known for being a filming location for popular TV series such as Game of Thrones.
• National Parks: Croatia is home to eight amazing national parks. Each park offers unique natural beauty, from the stunning waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes to the untouched wilderness of Northern Velebit.
• Historic Towns: Many historic towns in Croatia are worth a visit. Some include Pula with its Roman amphitheater, the stunning coastal town of Rovinj, and the medieval hilltop town of Motovun.
• Split: Another historic city famous for the Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s also known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches.
• Zagreb: The capital city of Croatia, Zagreb, is rich in culture and history. Visit the historic upper town, Gradec, and Kaptol, and enjoy the city’s many museums and art galleries.
• Istria: Known for its truffles, wine, and stunning coastlines, Istria is a must-visit for food lovers and beach-goers alike. Don’t forget to visit the charming hilltop towns of Grožnjan and Motovun.

Renting a car is the best way to explore Croatia and its hidden gems. Just remember to choose a reputable rental company, read the terms and conditions, and familiarize yourself with driving rules in the country. With proper preparation and a sense of adventure, you’ll have an unforgettable road trip experience in beautiful Croatia.