What you should know before you rent a car
Practical information
Where is best to rent a car in Croatia?
A country filled with natural beauty and urban escapes, stunning beaches and movie-worthy locations (a number of locations across Croatia have been featured in TV shows such as Game Of Thrones), Croatia is a country on the rise. Located in southeastern Europe, Croatia is bordered by Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. It also boasts a long coastline along the Adriatic Sea – perfect for road trips with breathtaking ocean views! For those wishing to explore the country by rental car, its capital city of Zagreb is a great place to start. Cars can be rented from Zagreb Airport, the country's largest international airport. Alternatively, Split Airport and Dubrovnik Airport are great places from which to rent a car upon arrival in Croatia. Visitors can choose from car rental companies including Rhodium, Global Rent a Car, Goldcar Rental, Gertz and Thrifty for their road trip around Croatia. Alternative modes of transport in Croatia include a rail service which connects a number of the country's main destinations; some of the principle train stations along the route include Zagreb and Split. However, the rail network is primarily focused on inland Croatia and as such, travelers hoping to explore the coast would be better off renting a car.
What are the driving rules in Croatia?
Choosing to explore Croatia by car is a great way to experience the country to the fullest. Following the rules of the road will ensure your trip is not only enjoyable, but safe as well – so here are some of the most important things to be aware of when driving in Croatia. The speed limit varies from 30 km/h in urban areas, to 130 km/h on the motorway. However, pay attention to speed limits displayed on traffic signs to be sure. Driving is on the right. Visiting Croatia during the winter months? Dipped headlights must be kept on while driving. The blood alcohol limit in Croatia is 50mg/100ml. However, drivers involved in an accident must show a blood alcohol limit of zero. Therefore, when driving in Croatia, it is best not to drink at all before driving. Parking in Croatia is generally safe and easy. As a rule, white lines on the curb indicate paid parking is allowed (there should also be a "P" on the curb, so check for this if unsure).
Road trips in Croatia
The best way to experience Croatia in all is stunning beauty is by car. With the freedom of going where you want, when you want, the sights of Croatia are at your fingertips. From coastal roads to inland drives, these are three great road trips to take in Croatia.
From Zagreb to the Plitvice Lakes
Historic architecture, friendly cafes, delicious food, interesting museums - the Croatian capital of Zagreb has it all. Found in northwestern Croatia, the city's rich heritage and old-world charm attracts visitors from across the world. Once you've visited St. Mark's Church, the Art Pavillion museum, Zagreb Cathedral, and everything else the city has to offer, it's time to hit the road. A two-hour drive from bustling Zagreb, one of Croatia's most beautiful national parks awaits. Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to 16 terraced lakes, as well as plenty of hiking trails. Parking is available, making this an easy road trip from Zagreb.
From Dubrovnik to Split
In the south of Croatia, the city of Dubrovnik offers history combined with sweeping sea views. Its coastal location and impressive walled Old Town are just two of the reasons visitors flock to this city in growing numbers. Another is its fame as King's Landing in the TV series Game of Thrones. After exploring some of the sights (the Walls of Dubrovnik, the nearby island of Korčula, and Dubrovnik Cathedral are just some of those not to miss), it's time to head to Split, located little more than three hours up the Dalmatian coast. Popular for its beaches, it is also a great place from which to go island hopping to some of the country's most beautiful offshore destinations.
Between Zadar and Pula
Two of Croatia's most popular coastal cities, Zadar and Pula are popular for their beaches, seafood, and history. In Zadar, the Old Town is a popular attraction, with Venetian gates and ruins found throughout. Meanwhile, Pula's Roman ruins – such as the Pula Arena – are not to be missed, while relaxation can be enjoyed on one of the city's beaches - such as Valkane Beach or Histria Beach. The two cities are just a four and a half hour drive from each other, with the road taking travelers alongside the Adriatic Sea.
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