Renting a Car in Split Croatia: What to Know in 2023

LOOKING INTO SPLIT CROATIA CAR RENTAL?

You’ve come to the right place, as I live in Croatia, and I’m going to walk you through the process of renting a car in Split Croatia.

I’ve rented cars in five cities in Croatia, so I’m here to demystify everything for you. By the end of the article, you’re going to feel comfortable with the entire Croatia car rental process.

First and foremost, most travelers want to know about the best place to rent a car in Split. When I rent a car in Croatia, I recommend and always use Discover Cars, and you’ll see why in this article.

Here's my comprehensive guide to renting a car in Split, Croatia. ✨

Main Guide | Additional Questions | Driving Tips | Final Thoughts

BEST CROATIA CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS

When booking your Croatia car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They search both international corporations and local Croatian companies, so you get the best deal.

↳ Book Now with Discover Cars

If you’ve been looking for info on renting a car in Split, you may have encountered conflicting information. There are official rules for how to rent a car in Croatia — and then there’s how things play out in the real world.

Don’t worry: We’re going to clear all that up in this article. You’re also going to get 10 Useful Croatia Driving Tips so you’re confident while driving a rental car in Croatia.

Additionally, we'll shed light on common Croatia car rental scams to help you avoid hidden fees. We'll discuss Croatian car insurance, a legal requirement for driving in Croatia.

Are you ready to dive into the details of renting a car in Split, Croatia? Let's get started! Towards the end of the article, be sure not to miss the frequently asked questions section, where we address common queries about car rentals in Croatia.

Renting A Car in Split Croatia With Discover Cars

I have been living in Croatia since 2018, and travel frequently within the country. What I am going to explain is my personal experience renting a car about 10 times, in five cities throughout Croatia.

When I book a Croatia car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars.

I use them because they have always had the best deals when I’ve searched, and they offer FREE cancellations up to 48 hours before your reservation. Here is the exact process I have followed to get my rental car:

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

1. Reserve Your Car Online with Discover Cars

Head to the Discover Cars website, and input your travel dates and preferred pick-up location. For more travelers, this will be the airport in the city you’re visiting, which is SPU Airport in Split.

⭐️ ONLY RENT FROM WELL-RATED PLACES

I advise you to filter by ratings because while everyone wants to get those sweet Croatia car rental deals, the cheapest place is rarely the best.

Personally, I don’t rent from locations with less than a 7 out of 10 Stars rating. It’s like the saying goes: You get what you pay for; for me, it’s not worth sacrificing some money for terrible customer service on my vacation.

▶ Check Rates & Availability With Discover Cars

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

2. Opt for Full Coverage with Discover Cars

I always opt for their Full Coverage when I rent with Discover Cars — and I’m not alone!

According to the Discover Cars site, 85% of customers use their Full Coverage Policy to enjoy peace of mind when renting in Split.

For about $7-10 USD per day, Discover Cars covers up to $3,250 USD of damage to the rental car.

This includes body repair work, dings, scratches, windows/glass, tires, towing, lost keys, and more.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

What’s covered with Discover Cars? (And what’s not covered?)

🤔 WILL CAR RENTAL COMPANIES ACCEPT THIS POLICY?

Legally, they have to, and personally, any company I have used has accepted this third party policy through Discover Cars.

This is just one reason I encourage you to rent from a well-rated company known for good customer service.

What has happened almost every time I’ve rented is that they will try to up-sell me to their insurance, which I decline. As mentioned, the Discover Cars policy does legally satisfy any Croatia car rental insurance requirements.

When you decline the car rental company’s insurance, they will hold about $2,700 USD on your credit card. When you bring the rental car back with no damage, they return your deposit in full.

If you bring the rental car back with damage, they will take it out of your deposit. From there, you’ll have to make a claim with Discover Cars, which is usually processed in 48 hours or less, according to their site.

As long as the damage is under $3,250 USD — which does cover a lot — Discover Cars will reimburse you under their Full Coverage Policy.

🤔 HOW DO I MAKE A CLAIM WITH DISCOVER CARS?

If you need to file a claim with Discover Cars, the process is easy.

You’ll find your login credentials in your booking confirmation email, which you can use to login via your laptop or the Discover Cars app (📲 Android; 🍎 Apple).

At just $7-10 USD per day, the Discover Cars Full Coverage Policy is far cheaper than any I’ve been offered through the car rental companies themselves.

With direct policies, they usually charge about $30 USD per day.

If you would rather get full coverage Croatian insurance from the company directly, you can also do that and still rent with Discover Cars to take advantage of their great rates and NO FEE cancellation policy.

🚨 DISCLAIMER: PLEASE READ THIS!

This information is my first-hand experience of renting cars about 10 times in five Croatian cities.

Unfortunately, I have no way of knowing how your rental process will play out, but I do hope this info was helpful for your Split Croatia trip.

If you need further clarification on Discover Cars, please contact the company directly.

You can also read Discover Cars reviews on TrustPilot, where they have a 4.6 out of 5 Star rating, and more than 100,000 reviews.

Renting A Car in Split Croatia FAQ

Is it safe to rent a car in Split Croatia?

Yes — For the vast majority of travelers, Split is one of the overall safest places in Croatia.

Is it safe to drive in Split?

Yes — For the most part, it is considered safe to drive in Split. As a large country, Croatia road trips are popular, and most drivers enjoy a problem-free trip.

That’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Split Croatia; they do. However, if you’re prepared (which you will be after you read this article), you should be perfectly safe renting a car in Split.

The one obvious caveat to the “safety” statement above is that you’ll be driving in another country, where you’re unfamiliar with driving laws and local customs.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

Should I rent a car in Split?

Car rentals in Split give you freedom — both so you can venture off the beaten path to the best Croatia hidden gems, and the ability to explore at your own pace.

With group tours in Split, you only have a limited amount of time to explore the sites. However, with your own rental, you set the schedule.

How are the roads in Split Croatia?

The road infrastructure in Croatia, including the road network around Split, is known for its quality and upkeep. Major highways and routes are generally in excellent condition, making travel between cities and tourist destinations smooth and convenient.

In and around Split, the roads are well-paved and well-marked, making navigation relatively easy. The city itself has a network of well-maintained streets, although some older areas may have narrower roads.

Don’t forget to get travel insurance for your trip! As always, I recommend Safety Wing for great prices and coverage abroad. It starts at only $45 USD per month and will have you covered with everything you may need during your trip! Check them out here.

For most travelers visiting Split and exploring the Adriatic coast, a mid-size or economy car is sufficient to get around comfortably. Croatia's roads are generally suitable for standard vehicles, and you won't typically require a larger vehicle unless you plan to venture into more rugged or off-road terrain.

It's important to adhere to local traffic laws and regulations while driving in Croatia and always have the necessary documents, including a valid driver's license and insurance. Additionally, keep in mind that some areas may have tolls, so it's advisable to have cash or a card for these tolls when using toll roads

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

What’s the best place to rent a car in Split?

The best place to rent a car in Split is Split International Airport (code: SPU) because it has such a large selection.

A Split Airport car rental is the most convenient, since you’re flying there anyway. You’ll find the most rental car companies there, with a wide range of vehicles to choose from.

While a car rental in Split Airport might be a bit more than an off-site agency, you spend more in taxis to get to off-site car rental locations than you save in rental costs.

It also saves you time to rent a car in Split Airport — and extra time is the most precious of all travel commodities.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

What’s the cheapest car rental company in Split?

I recommend and use Discover Cars. It compares local, national and international companies so you get the best rates. This is the company I have used to rent cars in Croatia — from coast to coast.

The best part? You can add their Full Coverage Policy for only about $7-10 USD per day. It is cheaper than any full coverage Croatian insurance I’ve ever seen through a rental company, and I always use it myself.

Oftentimes, I have found the cheapest Split car rental companies are EU Car Rental and Rent A Car — both of which you’ll find on Discover Cars.

However, remember to always check ratings before you book! You get what you pay for, so never go with a low-rated company. ▶︎ BOOK NOW

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

What’s the best car rental in Split Airport?

There’s no official best car rental at Split Airport. You’ll find all the major car rental companies there.

I love renting with Discover Cars because I can see reviews from recent customers. Also, their FREE cancellation policy gives me a lot of piece of mind in case my travel plans change.

How much does renting a car in Split cost?

Wondering, How much does it actually cost to rent a car in Split? Split car rental rates vary, but plan for about $30 USD per day for an economy car with full coverage insurance.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

5 Tips for renting a car at Split Airport

• Rent with a reputable company like Discover Cars, the company I recommend and have used myself about 10 times.
• Take photos and/or video of all scratches, dings and dents to the car’s exterior. You’ll want to do the same for the car’s interior, noting stains, rips in the fabric, etc. 
• Have all your emails accessible with any rental agreement booking information. If you want, you can print them out, though it’s not necessary.
• Some companies will not let you take the car if you don’t have Croatia car insurance, so be prepared with a backup plan.
• When returning your rental car at Split Airport, you’ll want to follow the signs saying “Iznajmljivanje Automobila” (Car Rentals), and then look for the sign of whichever company you rented from.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

What’s the best company for cheap car rentals in Split Croatia?

I recommend and use Discover Cars. I have used Discover Cars in cities all over the country, from Zagreb to Split at the coast and all the way to Dubrovnik — and never had an issue.

They compare local, national and international companies so you always get the best rates from any Split car rental services, even in the high season from November to March, when rates are highest.

↳ Book Now with Discover Cars

I’ve found the cheapest Split car rentals from Rent A Car, America Car Rental and EuropCar Split, which all have good reviews.

Based on many bad reviews, Fox Rent A Car seems to be the worst place to rent a car in Split, so don’t skimp on excellent service for a cheap car rental.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

How much does renting a car in Split cost?

Split car rental rates vary, but figure about $30 USD per day for an economy car with full coverage insurance.

As you read this article, you’ll discover why you can’t believe the first price you see quoted online, and discover all your options for Croatian car insurance, which will affect the price.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

Can I rent a car in Split?

As far as what’s required to rent a car in Croatia, there are only four things you need to have for a Split rental car: 1) valid driver’s license, 2) credit card, 3) to be of age (25 or older), and 4) Croatian insurance.

1. A VALID DRIVER’S LICENSE (OR IDP)

If you have a valid U.S. driver’s license, or one in a language that uses the Roman alphabet (this one), you can rent a car in Split with your country’s license.

Drivers from countries like Japan and China, which use the character alphabet, will need an International Driving Permit (IDP). 🚗💨 Need an IDP? Apply for one here.

2. A CREDIT CARD OR DEBIT CARD

When you rent a car in Split, they will swipe your credit or debit card to have on file in the event you damage the car. Different companies hold a different amount of money, but it’s usually about $1,000-3,000 USD.

Note: If you opt for full coverage insurance through the car rental company, they often don’t hold any money. This is usually about $30 USD per day.

When leaving a card on file for your Split car rental, opt for a credit over debit card.

When you use a debit for this, the money will be removed from your account (then returned when you return the car), but with the credit card, it’s just on hold.

3. YOU MUST BE 25 TO RENT A CAR IN CROATIA (BUT SOME PLACES TAKE 18-24)

As with the U.S., people ages 25 and older can rent a car in Split from any car company with no limitations.

Some companies also rent to drivers 21-24 years of age, though they have a $10-20 USD per day surcharge for underage drivers.

There are a very small minority of Split car rental locations that rent to 18- to 20-year-olds — but they are out there.

For drivers ages 18-24, you’ll need to call places directly to find a local Croatian rental company offering underage rentals.

You’ll also want to double check each company’s policy before booking, and ask them for all associated fees.

4. CROATIAN INSURANCE IS MANDATORY

You will need insurance to drive in Split, and all Croatia. There’s a whole section of this article that will explain everything you need to know about getting the best Croatian auto insurance, as it’s a big topic.

If you want to jump ahead, here’s the link to find out all about Croatian car insurance.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

What kind of Croatian cars are for rent?

For the most part, you’ll find the same makes and models you will in the United States and Canada. The most common types of rental cars in Split Croatia are Nissan, Chevrolet, Volkswagen and Kia.

Besides those, some common companies in Split that aren’t common in the Balkans include Peugeot and Renault, both French companies.

ARE MOST RENTAL CARS IN SPLIT AUTOMATIC OR STICK SHIFT?

About 99% are stick shift, unless you’re renting a specialty vehicle like a dune buggy or a luxury sports car.

When you book with Discover Cars, all cars are labeled as automatic or manual (stick shift), so you know what you’re getting.

What side of the road do they drive on in Split?

In Croatia, you’ll drive on the right side of the road; the same as the rest of Europe.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

What are the top Croatian car rental companies?

In Europe, there are several reputable car rental companies to choose from when planning your trip. Some of the well-known European car rental companies include Europcar, Sixt, Avis Europe, Hertz Europe, Enterprise Europe, and Budget Europe.

These companies have a strong presence in many European countries, offering a wide range of rental options for travelers.

If you prefer to support local European businesses, you can also explore smaller, regional car rental companies that operate in specific countries or regions within Europe.

When selecting a car rental company, it's essential to consider your specific travel needs, compare prices, and read customer reviews to ensure a smooth and satisfying rental experience.

Wherever you choose to rent cars in Split, make sure to read reviews about the company, and about that particular location.

WHAT’S THE EASIEST WAY TO BOOK A CAR RENTAL IN Split?

Using Discover Cars, which searches all local companies at the same time, is the fastest and easiest way to book a rental car in Split.

Using a search service means you get the best deal because Discover Cars shows you every available car, and their cost. When you search all the car rental companies at once, you know you’re getting the lowest price.

5 Tips for renting a car in Croatia

• Rent with a reputable company like Discover Cars, the company I recommend and have used myself about 10 times.
• Take photos and/or video of all scratches, dings and dents to the car’s exterior. You’ll want to do the same for the car’s interior, noting stains, rips in the fabric, etc. 
• Repeat the same process as above when you drop the car off.
• Have all your emails accessible with any rental agreement booking information. If you want, you can print them out, though it’s not necessary.
• Some companies will not let you take the car if you don’t have Croatia car insurance, so be prepared with a backup plan.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

Do I need Croatian car insurance?

Yes — You do need insurance for driving in Croatia; though Croatia travel insurance is optional.

While Split car rental companies aren’t legally allowed to make you buy insurance from them — the most you can do is argue with them, and at worst, they just won’t let you rent the car.

This has become especially true of people who try to use U.S. credit card insurance.

I rent cars in Croatia a few times each year, and have never had any issues using the Full Coverage Policy I have purchased through Discover Cars.

Legally, third party insurance is completely valid.

However, that’s not to say an agent won’t try to up-sell you their company’s insurance. They will! Some companies actually encourage employees to do so — which is why you want to read reviews before booking.

While Croatia car rental companies aren’t technically allowed to make you buy insurance from them, the most you can do is argue with them. As a worst case scenario, they just won’t let you rent the car.

For the least amount of headaches on your Split Croatia trip, buy insurance from the company you’re renting from.

If you get full coverage, you could essentially return it in any condition, and should not have to pay them a single cent.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

How much is Croatian car insurance?

Different companies price coverage differently, but in general, Personal Liability Insurance (the minimum coverage legally required) is about $15 USD per day. For full coverage insurance, plan to pay about $30 USD per day.

When I’m renting a car in Split Croatia, I always use Discover Cars. Their full coverage policies only cost about $7-10 USD per day. ▶︎ Book now with Discover Cars.

With just Personal Liability Insurance, you’ll usually have about a $2,000+ USD deductible.

The full coverage deductible is often $0, because you’re already fully covered (though Terms and Conditions can vary by company).

🤔 WHAT IS A DEDUCTIBLE WITH CAR INSURANCE?

If you aren’t familiar with what a deductible is, here’s a quick explanation.

If you have a $5,000 USD deductible, and you cause $5,250 in damages to the car, you will be responsible for paying the $5,000 deductible. The insurance will cover the remaining $250, after you cover the deductible amount.

As what you select will depend on your budget, do know that cheap Croatian car insurance is one of those “you get what you pay for” type of situations.

If you’re wondering what’s the best Croatian car insurance, that would be full coverage with no deductible.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

Can I buy Croatian auto insurance at the border?

No — There are no companies selling insurance at any Croatia border crossings in Europe. For this, I recommend Safety Wing, one of the top names in Croatian insurance.

In fact, you need to show proof of Croatian insurance to enter Croatia. No matter the border crossings you use, you do need car insurance to travel to Croatia before you drive across the border.

Head here to get your FREE quote from Safety Wing, a trusted name in Croatian car insurance for Americans and Canadians.

CAN I RENT A CAR IN CROATIA AND DRIVE TO THE REST OF EUROPEAN UNION?

Yes, you can rent a car in Croatia and drive to other European Union (EU) countries. Croatia is a member of the European Union, and as such, it allows for easy travel across EU borders.

When renting a car in Croatia and driving to other EU countries, you generally do not need to worry about customs checks or border controls within the Schengen Area (most EU countries are part of the Schengen Agreement).

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

What if I have Croatian car insurance through my credit card?

Some U.S. credit cards provide Collision Damage Waiver (CDW insurance) for their card holders. This is not the equivalent of Personal Liability Insurance, which you’re required to have by law.

Now, some car companies will let you take a rental car with just CDW insurance; some won’t.

This is just one more reason I always opt for Full Coverage when I rent with Discover Cars.

Their policy means I am fully covered in Croatia for any damages to the car up to $3000, and I won’t pay out of pocket.

The last time I rented a car, which was in Zagreb Croatia (notoriously more expensive than most Split Croatia rental agencies), I paid just $10 USD per day for a Discover Cars Full Coverage Policy.

BEST CROATIA CAR RENTAL COMPANY: DISCOVER CARS

When booking your Croatia car rental online, I recommend and use Discover Cars. They search both international corporations and local Croatian companies, so you get the best deal.

↳ Book Now with Discover Cars

🚨 HORROR STORIES OF USING CREDIT CARD INSURANCE IN CROATIA

I have been in Croatia long enough, and heard enough horror stories, that I always tell people not to rely on credit card insurance.

If you do opt for it, you’ll want to call the credit card company and double check their policies (even the fine print), so you know you’re comfortable with it.

Also, know that if anything happens to the car, you will have to pay for 100% of the damages out of pocket when you return the car. You’ll then file a claim with the credit card company, and hope they fully reimburse you 🤞

Spoiler: They don’t always do so.

PURCHASE THIRD PARTY CROATIA CAR INSURANCE

You can also buy a separate Croatian auto insurance policy from a Croatian insurance company or a reputable international insurance provider operating in Croatia.

🚙💨 Driving to Croatia with your own car? Get your FREE quote on Croatian Insurance from Safety Wing so you can cross the Italy-Croatia border without any issues or delays.

This is called Third Party Liability Insurance (sometimes called TPL insurance, or PLI insurance), it is 100% legal.

It is also enough to satisfy the Croatia Personal Liability Insurance requirement. Depending on where you’re renting, this can be the cheapest Croatia car insurance for drivers who need extra coverage.

PURCHASE GENERAL CROATIA TRAVEL INSURANCE — WITH A CAR INSURANCE ADD ON

Another option is to purchase a travel insurance policy for Croatia, and get an upgrade to include your Split Croatia rental car.

For this, purchase the Explorer Plan with World Nomads, one of the best Croatian travel insurance providers and top names in travel insurance.

Note: This is only offered on the Explorer Plan. ▶︎ Get your FREE quote now.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

What’s the Croatian Car Rental Scam?

What’s commonly known as a scam that’s specific to renting a car in Croatia, is a common practice at European car rental companies as well.

About six months before writing this article, I booked a rental car in another country online, and had to pay an extra $200 USD in fees, taxes and additional insurance costs when I picked up the car.

If this has also happened to you, you’re already familiar with the “Croatia car rental scam,” which isn’t unique to Croatia.

If you’re lucky enough to have never fallen victim, the “scam” in question is that most renters don’t read the fine print (who does?!) and aren’t aware of the fees, taxes, etc., that get tacked on.

For many, the price you end up paying is often double what you saw online when you booked the car.

How to avoid this common Croatia travel scam

When renting a car in Split, you may see rates as low as $5-10 USD per day — and if this seems too good to be true, it is.

This base cost doesn’t factor in a whole slew of fees, taxes and the legally-required Croatia car rental insurance, all of which you do have to pay for.

To avoid this most notorious of Croatia travel scams, simply double the price you see online listed as the base price for the car if you’re taking the minimum insurance. If you’re opting for full coverage, you may even want to triple it.

This new amount is closer to what you end up paying anyway — and now you won’t feel “scammed.”

✅ USE THIS FORMULA TO CALCULATE YOUR SPLIT CAR RENTAL COST

For a car listed online as $10 USD per day, assume you’ll actually pay $20 per day for this car with Croatia Personal Liability Insurance (minimum coverage), and $30 per day with full Croatian insurance coverage.

Annoying? Sure is — but this is just the way car rental companies seem to work.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

3 Other Split travel scams to look out for

1. NON-RESET PUMP SCAM

In Croatia, you don’t pump your own gas. When you get to the pump, there will be an attendant who pumps and takes your payment.

When you pull up, make sure the pump is zeroed out — meaning the pump is set to $0. Some attendants will even ask you to verify before they start pumping.

2. EXTRA INSURANCE SCAM

Unless you purchase Croatia car insurance from the rental agency directly, they will try to upsell you extra services and coverage.

There is no need to pay this extra insurance cost if you already have coverage — which I purchase when renting with Discover Cars, as it’s the cheapest I’ve seen.

3. QUICK CHANGE SCAM

This is a pretty standard bill swap, or wrong payment scam that can happen at a gas station in Croatia just as it can while shopping at a mall or market anywhere in the world.

If you’re paying in cash, count the bills one by one in front of the attendant, otherwise they can quickly change the bills with sleight of hand after you give them the money.

With this scam, they take your money and quickly swap out a $500 peso bill with a $20 peso bill, saying you gave them a $20 when it should have been a $500.

They hand you back the $20 and you hand them a $500, so they have essentially pocketed about $24 USD.

Note: This won’t ever happen to you if you pay with a credit card.

10 Croatia Driving Tips for Split Croatia

1. It’s illegal to use your cell phone while driving in Croatia

Not only is this unsafe, it is also illegal in Croatia.

In fact, having your phone in your hand is a ticketable offense, so don’t even hold your phone while driving. (Croatia Fun Fact: It’s also illegal to shave or put on make-up while driving.)

When packing for Croatia, don’t forget to don’t forget to bring this hands-free phone holder for the rental car.

2. Avoid driving at night in Croatia

When you live in Croatia long enough, you start to realize many people simply avoid driving at night, if they can.

If you do drive at night, stick to only main roads and paid highways, called cuota roads.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

3. Beware of topes (Speed bumps)

Croatian roads are notorious for their abundant amount of topes (speed bumps).

While some roads have yellow road signs alerting you to the topes, keep your eyes on the road at all times, because some topes don’t have a sign.

4. Download an offline map for driving in Croatia

Your cell signal will go in and out as you travel through rural areas of Croatia, so you’ll want to download an offline map from Google Maps or Maps.Me.

📲 Note: A Croatian SIM Card also comes in handy for a better signal!

While you’re at it, don’t forget to download some podcasts and songs.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

5. Croatia speed limit signs are in kilometers per hour

Split Croatia street signs are in kilometers per hour, not miles per hour. For those who are curious, 1 mile is 1.6 kilometers.

Rather than doing conversion math while driving, just make sure the speed limit sign number on the road matches your car’s speedometer number.

As you might imagine, the street signs and highway signs in Croatia are also in Croatian. Here are a few you’ll want to know:

• 🛑 Stani: Stop
• 🔄 Okretanje: Turn-around, which is where you make legal U-turns
• Ulaz: Entrance
• Izlaz: Exit
• 🅿️ Parkiralište: Parking
• Ograničeno: Restricted area
• 🚧 Zabranjen ulaz: Entry prohibited

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

6. Always use the autocesta roads (toll roads in Croatia)

In Croatia, there are slobodne ceste, or free roads, and autocesta, or paid toll roads.

For longer journeys and intercity travel, it's advisable to choose the toll roads. Although they incur a cost, they are better maintained and generally regarded as safer.

When driving in Croatia, remember to have cash on hand for toll payments. Only Euros are accepted, not U.S. dollars.

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

7. Croatia gas stations are not self-serve

When you stop for gas in Split, an attendant will pump it for you and take your payment.

Many of these people don’t actually work for the gas station, and live off tips. When they finish, it’s customary to tip them at least €1-2 EUR, or more for great customer service.

8. Window cleaners will approach you at stop lights

When you’re at a stop light in Croatia, you may be approached by someone wanting to clean your car windshield.

If you want them to, there’s no set amount to pay, but €1-2 EUR is a standard amount — and well worth it for a clean windshield.

9. Croatia traffic lights have an extra step

In Croatia, stop lights go from green to yellow, to flashing yellow for a few seconds, to finally, a red light. Some lights go from green to flashing green for a few seconds, to yellow, to finally, a red light.

🚦 Note: You are still legally supposed to stop at the yellow light, just like in the rest of Europe

RENTING A CAR IN SPLIT CROATIA

10. The rumors are true about Croatia cops taking bribes

If the cops pull you over — and they usually only will if you give them a reason to — they may expect a cash “payment” in exchange for not ticketing you.

The best ways to insure this doesn’t happen to you is to: 1) not speed, 2) not be on your phone, and 3) not break any other Croatia driving laws.

Now, I’m not in any way defending this practice, and what I am about to say might be controversial for some.

However, the easiest way to make this problem go away is by paying them 🤷‍♀️ The worst thing you can do is argue because they can take you to jail — and is that where you want to spend your Split vacation?

I would definitely suggest going on group tours in Split as one of the best ways to explore the city and nearby locations!

Final Thoughts: Renting A Car in Split Croatia

Driving in Split is generally considered safe, and renting a car in Split is a simple, hassle-free process.

For the sake of convenience, just pick your rental up at Split International Airport when you fly in, as it has plenty of international and local agencies on site.

One of the most important things to keep in mind for a Croatia car rental, is to rent with a reputable company like Discover Cars. I also recommend their Full Coverage Policy, which I always use.

If not, make sure you also purchase Croatian car insurance, as you’re not covered in any way through your U.S. policy.

I hope you enjoyed this comprehensive guide on how to rent a car in Split, Croatia!

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