Car Rental in Split, Croatia

Where to drive

• Krka National Park: Drive approximately 1 hour (90 km) north to witness the breathtaking waterfalls and lush landscapes of Krka National Park.
• Trogir: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this charming island town is just a short 30-minute drive (30 km) west of Split, perfect for a half-day excursion.
• Makarska Riviera: Head south for approximately 1 hour (60 km) to discover the beautiful beaches and picturesque towns along the Makarska Riviera, ideal for a scenic coastal drive.
• Omiš and Cetina River: Drive east for about 40 minutes (25 km) to Omiš, known for its pirate history and opportunities for rafting or zip-lining on the Cetina River.
• Šibenik: Explore the historic city of Šibenik, home to the magnificent St. James Cathedral, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (85 km) north of Split.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Croatia, you generally need a valid national driving license, held for at least 2 years, a passport or national ID card, and a major credit card in the main driver's name. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is often required or strongly recommended for non-EU license holders. The minimum age to rent is usually 21, though some categories may require drivers to be 25, and young driver surcharges often apply for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Split fluctuate significantly throughout the year, primarily driven by seasonal demand. Economy cars might start from around 20-30 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles can range from 70 EUR to over 150 EUR daily. Expect prices to surge by 100-200% during the peak summer months compared to the quiet winter period.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Croatia, speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside urban areas, and 130 km/h on motorways. Headlights must be on at all times during winter (last Sunday in October to last Sunday in March) and always during bad visibility. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, but 0.00% for drivers under 24 or professional drivers. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 5 must use an appropriate child seat, while those between 5 and 12 must use a booster seat if under 150 cm tall.

Parking

Parking in Split can be challenging, especially in the old town. Most central parking is paid, often managed by zones with varying hourly rates. Look for designated parking garages or lots slightly outside the immediate city center for better availability and potentially lower prices. Payment is typically via parking meters (cash/card) or mobile apps. Free parking is rare in central areas but can be found in residential zones further from the core.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Split and along major routes in Croatia. You'll find unleaded petrol (Eurosuper 95, 98, 100) and diesel (Eurodiesel). Prices are comparable to other EU countries and are subject to weekly changes, generally around 1.50-1.70 EUR per liter for both petrol and diesel. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's wise to have some cash for smaller, more remote stations.

Which car to choose

For navigating Split's narrow streets and accessing smaller coastal towns, an economy or compact car is highly recommended due to ease of parking and maneuverability. If you plan extensive trips into the Dinaric Alps or prefer more comfort for longer distances, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV would be suitable. Automatic transmission is increasingly popular and can make driving easier on hilly terrain, though manual cars are more common and often cheaper.

Frequently asked questions