Car Rental in Dubrovnik

Where to drive

• Konavle Valley: Drive south to the picturesque Konavle Valley, known for its vineyards, traditional mills, and horseback riding. It's approximately a 30-minute drive (20 km) from Dubrovnik.
• Pelješac Peninsula: Head north to the Pelješac Peninsula, famous for its world-class wineries and oyster farms in Ston. The drive to Ston is about 1 hour (60 km).
• Cavtat: Visit the charming coastal town of Cavtat, a quieter alternative to Dubrovnik with beautiful promenades and ancient ruins. It's just a 20-minute drive (18 km) south.
• Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina: Take a day trip to the historic city of Mostar, famous for its iconic Old Bridge (Stari Most). This cross-border trip is approximately 2.5 hours (140 km) each way, requiring passport and green card insurance.
• Trsteno Arboretum: Explore the stunning Trsteno Arboretum, one of the oldest arboretums in the world, featuring exotic plants and a beautiful coastal view. It's about a 25-minute drive (20 km) north of Dubrovnik.
• Mljet National Park: While not directly accessible by car, you can drive to Prapratno on the Pelješac Peninsula (approx. 1 hour, 60 km) and take a car ferry to Sobra on Mljet Island, then drive to the National Park.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Croatia, you generally need a valid driver's license (held for at least 2 years), a passport or national ID card, and a major credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. If your driver's license is not in a Latin alphabet or does not include a photo, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. The minimum age to rent is usually 21, though some companies may have a higher minimum age (e.g., 22 or 23) and often apply a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Dubrovnik can vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars might start from around 15-20 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium models can range from 50 EUR to well over 100 EUR daily. During the peak summer months, expect prices for all categories to increase substantially, sometimes by 200-300% or more, making early booking advisable.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Croatia, you drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads outside towns, and 130 km/h on motorways. Headlights must be on at all times, day or night, during autumn and winter (typically from the last Sunday in October to the last Sunday in March). Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 5 must be in a suitable child seat, while those between 5 and 12 must use a booster seat. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is 0.05% BAC, but for professional drivers and those under 24, it's 0.00%.

Parking

Parking within Dubrovnik's Old Town is severely restricted and almost non-existent for visitors. You'll find several paid parking garages and lots outside the city walls, such as the public garage near the Buža Gate or the large lot at Gradac Park. These can be quite expensive, especially during peak season, with hourly rates typically ranging from 5 to 10 EUR, or more. Free parking is rare and usually requires walking a considerable distance. Consider parking further out and using public transport or walking into the city center.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available in and around Dubrovnik and along main routes throughout Croatia. Most stations offer Eurosuper 95 (unleaded petrol) and Eurodiesel (diesel). Prices are regulated and generally comparable to Western European levels, typically around 1.50 to 1.70 EUR per liter for both petrol and diesel in 2026, though this can fluctuate. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to have some local currency (Euros) for smaller, independent stations.

Which car to choose

For navigating Dubrovnik's narrow and often steep streets, especially if you plan to venture into smaller villages, an economy or compact car is highly recommended. Their smaller size makes parking and maneuvering much easier. If you plan extensive road trips along the coast or into the mountains, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV can offer more comfort and better handling on winding roads. Manual transmission is common, but automatics are widely available, though often at a higher price and should be booked well in advance.

Frequently asked questions