Renting a car in Split, Croatia is essential to many visitors’ travel plans due to the city’s excellent location and convenience for exploring the wider Dalmatian region.
The availability of automatic cars, different fuel policies, and various car rental agencies make this service highly accessible. Split Airport, one of the busiest airports in Croatia, is often the first point of contact for travelers looking to rent a car, and knowing the ins and outs of this process can save time and money.
With rental prices fluctuating depending on seasonality and factors such as drop-off fees and insurance, this guide covers everything you need to know for a smooth experience when renting a car in Split, Croatia.
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Do I need a car in Split?
In Split, a car is unnecessary for exploring the city’s historic center, including Diocletian’s Palace and Split Old Town, as these areas are pedestrian-friendly. However, renting a car is convenient if you visit nearby destinations like Trogir and Klis Fortress or take a road trip along the Dalmatian Coast.
Car hire in Split Croatia is highly recommended for travelers exploring outside the city, especially if you plan to visit Krka National Park, Dubrovnik, or Plitvice Lakes.
When is the best time to rent a car in Split?
- Day trips: A rental car is helpful for day trips to destinations like Makarska, Dubrovnik, or Šibenik.
- Island hopping: A car rental helps you reach remote beaches on Hvar and Brac islands if you plan a ferry trip to these islands.
- Exploring Multiple Destinations: For travelers arriving in Split with plans to visit various locations across Croatia, renting a car upon arrival at Split Airport is the most convenient option.
What are the basic requirements for renting a car in Split, Croatia?
You must meet several basic requirements to rent a car in Split, Croatia. According to the Croatian National Traffic Authority, the legal driving age is 18, but most rental agencies require renters to be at least 22, and sometimes even 25, for specific car categories.
A valid driver’s license from your home country is also required, and an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is needed if your license is not in the Latin alphabet.
Most rental companies will also ask for a credit card deposit for security purposes, and many recommend booking rental insurance or a collision damage waiver (CDW) to avoid high liability charges.
Do you need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) to rent a car in Croatia?
While many countries’ driver’s licenses are accepted, an International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is needed if your license is not in the Latin alphabet.
However, an International Driver’s Permit is convenient and costs little to obtain, and it’s recommended that you get one if you are a non-EU citizen traveling to Croatia. The IDP is recognized by Croatian authorities and car rental companies, ensuring there are no issues with local traffic regulations.
Is a credit card mandatory for renting a car?
Yes, most rental agencies in Split require a credit card deposit as security. This standard practice in Croatia allows rental companies to charge for damages, fines, or additional services after the car is returned.
The deposit amount varies depending on the car type and insurance options selected but typically ranges from €500 to €1,000 unless you purchase full coverage insurance.
What Documents Do I Need to Rent a Car in Split Croatia?
You need a valid driver’s license, passport, and a credit card. You must also show a booking confirmation, especially in high season when Split Airport rental services usually have no cars for walk-in customers.
Which car rental agencies operate in Split?
Split has a mix of international and local car rental companies. Major agencies such as Hertz, Europcar, and Sixt are available at Split Airport and downtown locations. Local companies like Nova Rent a Car also offer excellent customer care and competitive pricing, often lower than international brands.
Are there differences between local and international agencies?
Local rental agencies in Split, such as Nova Rent a Car, Uni Rent, and Oryx, tend to offer more affordable rates and better customer service, but international companies provide better insurance packages and a wider selection of vehicles. Nova Rent a Car and Alamo are well-known for their extensive fleet and superior customer service.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Split?
The average cost of car rental in Split ranges from €20 to €130 per day, depending on the type of car, season, how far in advance you book a rental car and the duration.
On average, daily rental rates range from €20-€60 for economy cars, €25-€80 for medium cars, while luxury cars cost up to €80-€140 per day. During the peak tourist season from June to August, prices rise two to three times compared to the off-season.
Additional factors such as insurance coverage and cross-border travel permissions also impact the total cost.
Are There Any Discounts for Early Bookings?
Yes, major rental companies like Sixt and Avis provide early booking discounts, especially for summer trips to Croatia. Booking months in advance potentially saves you up to 50%.
Many companies in Split provide flexible booking options, allowing free cancellations up to 48 hours before pick-up. Discounts are also standard in the off-peak season, where larger vehicles are available for the price of a mini car.
What is included in the rental price?
Most rental prices in Split cover basic insurance, VAT, and (un)limited mileage (depending on the rate), but extras like GPS, child seats, and additional driver fees are charged separately. Cross-border insurance, ferry fees, pick-up/drop-off outside office hours, and returning the car to a different location also incur extra charges.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection are often offered but may not cover all damages, leading to potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Is it cheaper to rent a car at the airport or in the city?
Renting a car at Split Airport (SPU) is generally more convenient and sometimes more expensive for walk-in customers. However, online portals keep the same rates for car hire at Split Airport and the city-center rentals.
Local agencies like Nova Rent often have competitive prices, especially on short-term bookings.
What Insurance Options Are Available for Car Rentals in Split?
Insurance is one of the most important factors when renting a car in Split. Rental companies offer various insurance packages, from basic third-party liability to comprehensive full coverage. The Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is the most common option and limits your liability in case of an accident.
What is included in the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)?
The CDW limits the amount you must pay if the rental car is damaged. For example, if you rent a Ford Focus from Sixt, the CDW can reduce your financial liability from the vehicle’s total value to €500.
Should I Opt for Full Insurance Coverage?
Full insurance coverage is advisable, particularly for first-time visitors to Croatia. Full coverage often includes a Super Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), Collision Damage Reduction (CDR), Personal Accident Coverage (PAC), and Wheels, Underside, and Glass (WUG), significantly reducing your financial responsibility in the event of an accident. Companies like Allianz, Nova, and Hertz offer comprehensive plans.
Expect to pay around €15 a day for the full insurance coverage.
What if I already have my insurance through a credit card or a third-party company?
You still need to pay the excess amount to the rental car company in Croatia, even if you have Collision Damage Waiver coverage through your credit card or a third-party insurance provider. Afterwards, you claim this amount from your insurance.
Is a Deposit Required for Insurance?
Yes, most car rental companies hold a deposit on your credit card to cover potential damages, especially if you choose not to purchase full insurance. Depending on the vehicle and insurance plan, this deposit can range from €200-€1,500. Some companies, like Nova Rent a Car, don’t take a deposit from a credit card if you purchase their Premium coverage.
Where Can I Pick Up and Drop Off a Rental Car in Split?
Most rental cars in Split are picked up at Split Airport (SPU) or various city center locations. Hertz, Sixt, and Avis are conveniently located at the airport and city center. Returning the car is usually done at the exact location, though one-way rentals are available for an additional fee.
What Is the Best Pickup Location in Split?
The best pickup location is Split Airport, especially for international travelers. All major rental companies, such as Hertz, Enterprise, and Sixt, as well as local car hire companies like Nova Rent a Car and Oryx, operate at the airport. City center offices are convenient for those already in the city.
Can I Drop Off My Car at a Different Location?
Yes, one-way rentals are available but typically come with an additional charge, ranging from €200-€300 depending on the company. For example, dropping off a rental car in Dubrovnik after picking it up in Split will incur a higher fee than returning it within Split.
Returning the car to different branch locations within the same city, such as the airport and downtown, is free. International one-way rentals are also offered but depend on availability.
Are there hidden fees when renting a car in Split?
Yes, there are several hidden fees associated with car rentals in Split, including ferry surcharge, extra driver fees, cross-border fees, and winterization for those hiring a car in Split in winter. Hertz and Avis typically charge €10 for each additional driver and €20-€50 for cross-border travel to countries like Bosnia or Montenegro.
What is the ferry/island surcharge?
The ferry/island surcharge is a fee added when renting a car for a ferry trip in Croatia. Some car rental companies in Croatia, such as Hertz, charge an additional €2 daily, while others like Nova Rent a Car, charge a one-time fee of €25.
Can I drive a rental car from Split to other countries?
Yes, you can drive a rental car from Split to neighboring countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, or Slovenia, but you need to inform the rental company in advance.
Europcar and Sixt both allow cross-border rentals, but a cross-border fee of €20 for EU countries and €50 for Bosnia or Montenegro typically applies. Additionally, you need a Green Card to prove you have valid insurance coverage for driving in other countries. A Green Card is provided with a vehicle.
What documents do I need for cross-border travel?
- Passport
- Car rental agreement
- Green Card (International Insurance)
What Are the Rules for Driving to Bosnia and Herzegovina?
The Peljesac Bridge, completed and opened to traffic in 2022, eliminates the need to travel through Neum, Bosnia and Herzegovina, when journeying between Split and Dubrovnik.
However, taking this route and making a brief transit through Bosnia doesn’t require paying an additional border crossing fee. However, if you plan to explore other regions of Bosnia, you will be required to pay the cross-border fee.
Are There Additional Charges for Cross-Border Rentals?
Yes, cross-border fees typically range from €20-€50, depending on the rental company and the countries you plan to visit. It is important to inform the rental agency beforehand to avoid penalties.
Are There Age Restrictions for Renting a Car in Split?
The minimum age to rent a car in Split is generally 22, but some rental companies set it higher at 25 for premium vehicles. Drivers under 25 are subject to a young driver surcharge, typically an additional €7-€10 per day.
Is There an Upper Age Limit for Renting a Car in Split, Croatia?
While there is no official upper age limit for renting a car in Split, some companies restrict rentals to individuals over 70. The senior driver surcharge applies for people over 70, and amounts to €7-€10 per day, depending on the company.
What Is the Fuel Policy for Rental Cars in Split?
The full-to-full fuel policy is standard with most car rental companies in Split. This means you pick up the car with a full tank and must return it with a full tank. Failing to do so will result in fuel charges, typically higher than local fuel prices.
What happens if I return the car with less fuel?
If you return the car with less fuel than required, the rental company will charge you for the missing fuel, typically at a higher rate than local petrol stations. Avis and Sixt often add a service charge of €20-€30 on top of the fuel cost.
Can I Prepay for Fuel?
Some companies, including Nova, Avis, and Budget, offer the option to prepay for a full tank at the time of rental. While this is convenient, refueling the car before returning it is usually more cost-effective.
What Are the Fuel Prices in Croatia?
Fuel prices in Croatia typically range from €1.35-€1.60 per liter, depending on the fuel type and current global prices. Diesel is generally cheaper than gasoline. Croatian Petrol Stations like INA and Petrol are the most commonly used by rental car drivers.
What Types of Cars Are Available for Rent in Split?
The most common types of rental cars available in Split include economy cars, compact vehicles, SUVs, and luxury cars. Economy cars like the Toyota Yaris are ideal for driving around the city and for budget-conscious travelers. An SUV like the Renault Kadjar might be more appropriate if you plan to explore Croatia’s rural areas or embark on a longer road trip.
What Are the Most Popular Car Models for Rental in Split?
The most popular car models for rental in Split include the Volkswagen Golf, Renault Clio, and Opel Astra. These cars are favored for fuel efficiency and compact size, making them suitable for city driving and road trips along the Adriatic Coastal Road.
Can I Rent an Automatic Car in Split?
In Croatia, manual transmission cars are more commonly used, but all major rental companies also provide automatic vehicles. However, automatic transmission cars are more expensive than manual ones. Expect to pay an additional €15 per day compared to manual models of the same vehicle type. Since automatic cars are in high demand, it is advisable to book in advance.
What are the best cars for families?
For families, rental agencies typically offer minivans like the Volkswagen Touran or SUVs that comfortably seat up to five or seven passengers. These vehicles provide ample space for luggage and child seats and are available for an additional daily fee.
Can I rent a car with a child car seat?
Yes, all car rental agencies in Split offer child car seats for an extra cost of around €8-€15 per day. It’s recommended to book these in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Can I rent an electric car in Split?
Yes, it is possible to rent an electric car (EV) in Split, though availability is more limited compared to traditional fuel-powered vehicles. Hybrid cars are more common and available for rent.
Nova Rent a Car and other major rental agencies offer electric cars, with models like the VW ID.4 or Hyundai Ioniq being available at selected locations. Renting an electric car is a great choice for environmentally-conscious travelers, and charging stations are increasingly available in the city and along major highways.
What should I know about renting an electric car in Split?
- Charging infrastructure: Split has multiple public EV charging stations, with locations at major parking areas, shopping malls, and along the Dalmatian Coast.
- Rental cost: Renting an electric car is generally more expensive, with daily rates averaging €130-€160 depending on the model.
- Range: Most electric cars offered have a range of 300-500 kilometers, which is sufficient for most day trips around Split and its surroundings.
How much does it cost to charge electric vehicles in Croatia?
Hrvatski Telekom operates half of the public charging stations in Croatia, with rates for DC fast chargers ranging from €0.31 to €0.80. Other providers include ELEN, which offers prices between €0.36/kWh and €0.85/kWh depending on the charging speed and season, and MOL’s Plugee, which provides the lowest rates at €0.45/kWh for registered users.
Shopping centers in Split like City Center One and Kaufland offer free EV charging stations.
What Is the Best Way to Book a Rental Car in Split?
The best way to book a rental car in Split is through rental comparison websites like Rentalcars.com or Kayak, which allow you to compare prices from multiple providers. Booking in advance, especially during peak tourist season, ensures availability and better rates.
Are Last-Minute Rentals Available in Split?
Yes, last-minute car rentals in Split are available, but the selection is limited, especially during the high season. Booking in advance is highly recommended to secure better prices and a wider choice of vehicles. Last-minute rentals during summer can be significantly more expensive, with limited availability of economy vehicles.
What are the parking options in Split?
Parking in Split, particularly in the Old Town area, can be difficult, especially during summer. There are several public parking lots and paid street parking options, with fees ranging from €1 to €3 per hour, depending on the location. The most convenient parking lots near the Old Town are Split Riva, Central Train Station, and Veli Varos neighborhood.
Are there any free parking spots?
Yes, free parking is available in certain areas of Split, usually on the outskirts. However, these spots are often far from major tourist sites and require a 20-30-minute walk to reach the city center.
What are the parking fees in Split?
Parking fees in Split depend on the location. In the city center, prices range from €1 to €3 per hour, while parking outside the city center costs around €0.50 to €0.80 per hour. Parking near Split Airport amounts to €1.50 per hour. Some hotels offer complimentary parking for guests.
Is it safe to drive in Split and the surrounding areas?
Driving in Split and the surrounding areas is generally safe, with well-maintained roads. However, the Adriatic Coastal Road is narrow and winding, especially between Split and Dubrovnik, requiring extra caution from drivers. Speed limits in Croatia are strictly enforced, and speed cameras are standard.
Those who choose driving in Croatia are rewarded with stunning coastal vistas and charming landscapes.
What are the local traffic laws in Croatia?
The speed limit in urban areas is typically 50 km/h, while on national roads, the limit is 90 km/h. On highways, the speed limit is 130 km/h. According to Croatian law, all passengers must wear seatbelts, and using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless a hands-free device is used.
Are There Tolls on Croatian Highways?
Yes, most Croatian multilane motorways, marked with the letter A, have toll charges. For example, the drive from Split to Dubrovnik on the A1 motorway costs €7.30 in tolls. Payment is made in cash or by card at the toll booths.
What are the best scenic drives around Split?
Some of the most popular scenic drives around Split include the Adriatic Highway, which offers stunning views of the Dalmatian coastline, and the routes to nearby attractions like Krka National Park and Trogir. The islands of Hvar and Brac also offer scenic drives. Renting a car allows travelers to easily explore these destinations at their own pace.
How can I reach Hvar from Split by car?
A day trip from Split to Hvar is a popular option for travelers interested in combining scenic driving with an island escape. You can explore Hvar Island after taking the ferry from Split to Stari Grad on Hvar, which operates regularly year-round.
The ferry departs from the Split Ferry Port, and we advise you to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially in the high season. For a step-by-step guide on how to get there, visit our article on how to reach Split to Hvar.
What are the best day trips from Split by car?
Top day trips from Split by car include visits to Krka National Park, the historic town of Trogir, Makarska Riviera, and the coastal city of Šibenik. For those willing to drive further, Dubrovnik, Zadar, and Plitvice Lakes are accessible by car and offer plenty of historical and natural attractions.
How can I reach Dubrovnik from Split by car?
The scenic coastal drive from Split to Dubrovnik takes around three to four hours and follows the Adriatic Highway. The route offers several opportunities to stop at coastal towns like Makarska and Ston, famous for its oyster farms.
Driving this route allows you to experience Croatian history and natural beauty. For further details on the best way to travel between these two cities, you can explore our detailed guide on how to reach Dubrovnik from Split.
What are the best places to stay in Split with free parking?
Several accommodations in Split offer free parking, which is ideal for travelers planning to rent a car and explore the city and surrounding areas by road.
Hotels and guesthouses in the Meje and Žnjan neighborhoods often provide complimentary parking, as these areas are slightly outside the busy city center.
Some recommended places include Hotel Sia, Hotel Time, and Radisson Blu Resort, offering free parking and easy access to the Adriatic Highway. For more options and detailed recommendations, visit our guide on where to stay in Split, Croatia.
