Most Important Driving Rules

Planning a voyage in Croatia can be best experienced when you choose to drive using a rental car. Like in every country, there are specific rules and regulations to follow to ensure that you are a responsible driver on foreign roads. In this case, understanding the Croatia driving rules is essential.

The Croatia driving rules stipulate that the legal age for driving is 18 years old. However, to rent a car, you should be at least 21 years old. If you are under 21 years old and still wish to rent a car, be aware that additional charges will apply. These specific Croatia driving rules ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

Keep your driving licenses with you

One of the basic items in driving is to have a valid driving license, as this proves that you are capable of driving on a highway. Hitting the road without a license to drive is a severe offense. You can face severe charges and penalties. Moreover, it will get you in trouble with the car rental company, and they might not even allow the rental. Thus, it is important to always carry your native drivers license if you want to drive without issues with your car rental in Croatia.

Foreign nationals who plan to rent a car must first check on the car rental places in Croatia that require an International Driving Permit. Some only need a valid driving license. However, getting an IDP is still recommended to be more secure and confident on the road. You can get an IDP within the day or in less than an hour from us. You only have to fill out your essential details on our application page and supply the necessary documents.

Driving intoxicated is strictly prohibited

Zero tolerance for drivers who are below 24 years of age under the influence of alcohol is strictly implemented in Croatia. Maintaining a BAC level of 0% is a must for young drivers. Professional adult drivers are strictly advised not to exceed a BAC limit of 0.5%. Anyone who will get caught driving intoxicated will face severe punishment by the law.

If a patrol officer calls out a foreign driver due to drunk driving, the driver should be willing to take a BAC level test. 

Follow the allotted speed limit on the road

Croatia has implemented speed limits per area. Every driver should obediently follow the speed limits recommended. In urban sections, the speed limit should not exceed 50 kph. For open roads, the driver must not go beyond 80 kph. In motorways, a maximum of 130 kph is only allowed.

Mandatory Seatbelt Law

All passengers inside a vehicle are obliged to wear their seatbelts at all times while on the road. This is a precautionary measure in case of a road accident. It is to reduce severe injuries in case of an emergency.

Child Car Seat

When traveling with children under 5 years of age, they must be seated in a child car seat. Other children should be seated in a child restraint. Use a booster seat if needed.

Using mobile phone while driving is not allowed

It is important to give your full focus on the road as you are not the only one driving on the road. Dividing your attention will only cause you trouble. Handheld devices are not allowed to use. In such a case you really need to make a call, use a hand free system instead.

Drive on the Right Side of the Road

Most of the European countries use the right side of the road to drive. Same in Croatia, locals generally drive on the right. This rule is not new among American citizens, but they tend to get confused for other nationals. Here’s a tip, if you happen to get in trouble about which side is for driving, always remember the “fright right.” If you feel the fright not knowing the proper way, make your passenger scream “fright right.” It will set your mind correctly.

Use Proper Headlights

As the end of October comes until March-end, dipped headlights are mandated during daylight. Headlights should also be in use at night, especially if the visibility is less than 100 meters..

Installing winter tires are highly suggested

From November until March, all vehicles should use winter tires. Since the road will be filled with ice, and it will be slippery. By using heavy-duty tires will ensure the car’s safety while mounting up on such icy pathways.

Top Destinations in Croatia

Croatia is a country located in the Balkans. It is one of the best tourist destinations in Europe, globally preferred by many international drivers to explore. Historic sites, ancient ruins, impressive fortresses comprise the country. 

Pula

History lovers are typically the main target of this iconic destination in the country. Pula is a city that has an amphitheater where fans of gladiator fights gather to watch an extreme battle. It has been ruled by several government leaders over the past centuries until this country has presently owned it. This remarkable site is famously recognized for its abundance of Roman ruins and a great mix of cultures.

This historical arena is famous and one of the largest amphitheaters on the globe. Moreover, the Pula Film Festival is also held within this city. The best time to visit the Pula city is in July. You may also visit the Brijuni National Park and farming villages for more outdoor fun activities and adventure. There's a lot to discover within Pula, so drive to the location now by following these driving directions.

Zlatni Rat Beach

Looking at the picturesque image of this precious gem, you will see how unique its landform is. Zlatni Rat Beach is known as Croatia’s most photographed beach. Featuring its mesmerizing pebbles and a 500 stretch along the coast, there’s no reason not to visit this gorgeous site in the south area of Brac. Swimming on this beach is best from June to September. Also, people can access the site during the bathing season, around May to October.

The Town of Korcula

Covered with medieval walls and towers, the Town of Korcula is situated on a small peninsula in South Dalmatia. This historical gem is filled with aristocratic stone buildings, and it is built under Venetian rule. Another great highlight of this place is the Marco Polo House, which is known as the birthplace of the prominent 13th-century explorer.

The best thing to do on this site is catching the exciting performance of the moreska sword dance. It is a traditional dance intended for tourists. To make the experience more unique, you may visit Korcula every day if you are going from Split or in Dubrovnik. You best enjoy everything this town offers if you come down to this town during summer.

Diocletian’s Palace

The second major city of Croatia, Split, lies in the majestic Diocletian’s Palace's amazing ancient Roman walls. It is crafted by the Roman Emperor Diocletian, who retired in AD 305. The marvelous palace doesn’t actually seem like a palace as it is more like a fortress in the picture. Within its magnificent walls, there is the stunning Peristyle; it is an arcaded courtyard. You can also find the Cathedral of St. Dominus.

An exciting way of exploring this spot is by visiting at night, as you will be fascinated by the illuminated ruins. In the daylight, you can get to attend concerts and entertainment events. There is also Old Town, which is a pedestrian-only zone. It is a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site.

On this trip, you are bound to cross the borders of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This means that you must have the international driver’s license for Croatia and green card. Patrol officers on those checkpoints will ask you to present those documents. 

Mljet National Park

Mljet National Park is widely surrounded by dense woodland. It sits in the center of two interconnected turquoise saltwater lakes. One of those highlights is the islet capped by a 12th-century Benedictine monastery. Accessing the iconic spot is possible by a taxi-boat.

Nature enthusiasts are mostly attracted to the park as it has lots of interesting paths to explore in the woodland. The best activities to do in this gem are mountain biking, swimming, and kayaking. Lodging areas on the island are only one, but during summer, residents rent their rooms. There are also several campgrounds if you like going on a camping adventure. Remember to bring your IDP along with you as you head on driving going to this park.

Euphrasian Basilica

Exercise your faith by having a little sacred trip in Euphrasian Basilica. It is a World Heritage Site and among Europe's mesmerizing examples of Byzantine art. Remarkable features of the basilica are the astonishing mosaics of the 6th century in the apse of the church. While looking over the mosaics showcases how clever the details it has—observing how a set of 12 female saints perfectly balances Jesus and His 12 Apostles.

Visiting this consecrated place will ask you to head over at 9 AM. The church closes at 4 PM every Monday and Friday. Advisable months of visit are June to November.