Croatia – The Best Places for a Family Vacation?
June 14, 2024
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June 18, 2024Summer is coming... You know what that means, right? The time to escape from everyday stress and enjoy the best period of the year is approaching. But if you are looking for the safest and fastest way to the Adriatic coast, keep reading.
Year after year, traveling by car is increasingly becoming the first choice for most Croatian tourists.
Wondering why? First and foremost, because of the quality of Croatian roads.
Here's an interesting fact you probably don't know: the condition and quality of Croatian roads are so good that they are considered among the best in the world!
In this blog, we will share everything you need to know about navigating them and why this summer, your trusty vehicle might be the key to the best vacation yet!
Regulations, rules, and required documentation
Drive responsibly (Source: Canva)
Before you set off driving on Croatian roads, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the driving regulations, rules, costs, and related details.
First, when traveling in Croatia, it's important to know that driving is on the right-hand side of the road, and wearing a seatbelt is legally mandatory for all passengers.
To operate a motor vehicle, you must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver’s license (issued in the Republic of Croatia or another European country, an international driver’s license, or a confirmation of a submitted application for a driver’s license).
The same rules apply for renting a car in Croatia—after all, having a valid driver’s license is the primary requirement for navigating Croatian roads. If your license isn’t written in Latin script, you’ll need to obtain an international driver’s license from the relevant embassy.
Additionally, always carry your ID card or passport with you.
When entering larger cities, follow traffic signs carefully. While similar to those in other European cities, it’s always good to pay extra attention to the current traffic infrastructure rather than relying solely on GPS...
One unique regulation in Croatia is that if you’re traveling between November and March, it’s mandatory by law to have your daytime lights on—other traffic rules are similar or identical to those in most other countries.
As mentioned, seatbelts are mandatory; using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless using a hands-free device, and child seats are required for all children under 135 cm.
Winter tires are mandatory from November 15 to April 15, though this rule does not apply in Dalmatia or Istria.
Speed limits vary depending on the type of road—on highways, the limit is 130 km/h, while on other public roads, limits range from 50 to 80 km/h.
To ensure the safety of all passengers and other road users, we recommend adhering to speed limits, reducing speed as needed, adjusting for weather conditions, and taking regular breaks on long drives to maintain energy and focus.
Most importantly, never drive under the influence or while tired!
Navigating Croatian roads
One of the advantages that make Croatia an exceptional tourist destination is its modern and high-quality roads. The country boasts a well-developed transportation infrastructure that connects every corner of Croatia, including its most famous tourist destinations.
The first Croatian highway is almost 50 years old and remains in excellent condition thanks to regular modernization and annual renovations.
Croatia serves as a positive example of how a country can integrate all its regions, regardless of its territory, geographical size, or shape.
This is why our country consistently ranks among the top 15 countries worldwide in the "quality of roads" category.
In just a few hours, you can travel from one part of the country to another effortlessly, all while enjoying some of the most beautiful panoramas!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
On the official website of the Croatian National Tourist Board, you can find and download a complete tourist and road map of Croatia, which will further assist you in planning a pleasant vacation.
Built for transport, but offering much more
A1 Motorway in Croatia (Source: Unsplash)
The highways in Croatia are modern and new, offering quick access to a wide range of destinations in minimal time.
There are exactly 11 highways covering 1,306 kilometers.
Just like the largest European cities, Zagreb is well-connected to all parts of the country.
The main routes include the A1 from Zagreb to Split and Dubrovnik, A5 from Zagreb to Osijek, A6 to Rijeka, and A8 to Istria.
If you use the highway, you’ll need to pay a toll.
Toll booths are located at highway entrances and exits, but this is the only road fee you’ll need to pay in Croatia.
Prices vary depending on the type of vehicle, destination, and date of travel.
For example, the toll from Zagreb to Split is approximately €24, from Zagreb to Rijeka €9.20, the Zagreb-Osijek route costs €16.10, while the drive to Dubrovnik, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, is €30 one-way.
Tolls are paid at the exit toll booth, so don’t discard the ticket you receive upon entering the highway, or you may face a significant fine!
For Croatian residents, waiting times can be significantly reduced by using an electronic toll collection device (ENC), which can be purchased at specific toll booths and recharged in person, via the HAC ENC app, or by SMS.
Additionally, since summer 2023, European visitors who are Telepass users can also use it to pay tolls on HAC highways.
All details about usage can be found on the official HAC website.
What about fuel?
On your way to your destination, you will come across many gas stations and rest stops. These stops vary in capacity and amenities.
While some are designed for a quick stop to stretch your legs, others are equipped with restaurants, bars, and even hostels.
At most gas stations, you can refuel with diesel and petrol, and prices vary depending on the type of fuel.
Croatia is a leader and innovator in the electric car industry, especially thanks to the company "Rimac Automobili".
If you’re considering traveling with an electric vehicle in Croatia, it’s important to note that Croatia offers over 200 Tesla charging stations located at various destinations, including two along the highway.
Traffic jams? Not a problem…
This is a bold statement from us, but it's not far from the truth. In addition to being in good condition, Croatian roads are very safe and comfortable for travel!
Major traffic jams are rare — weather conditions are favorable for driving most of the year, almost ideal (the exception being very windy days when certain sections might be closed), and with modern traffic infrastructure that complements stunning untouched nature, traveling through Croatia is an unforgettable experience, whether you're heading to the coast or the Croatian interior.
ADDITIONAL INFO
If something goes wrong or you get lost, don't hesitate to ask locals or call the Croatian Auto Club at 1987 (a free 24/7 hotline).
You’ve finally arrived! — Transportation and traffic in cities
Traffic at night (Source: Unsplash)
When you arrive at your destination, parking might become the main "challenge"—but don’t despair!
Many car rental agencies offer free parking at predefined locations, while in larger cities, you can park "almost anywhere," especially during the summer.
If you can’t find free parking, in major cities like Split or Zagreb, numerous public parking lots and garages are available with different hourly rates and options for multi-day parking tickets.
Taxi and transfer services to airports or ferry terminals operate regularly, with no sudden price hikes during the season.
You can also enjoy a worry-free cycling vacation in Croatia, as many locations feature bike rental agencies in tourist and frequently visited areas.
Split and Zagreb are among the best cities for cycling, with the number of cyclists and bike paths increasing each year!
Roads in larger cities are safe, so cycling through them shouldn’t be an issue.
However, as always, follow traffic rules.
For example, a solid line means overtaking is not allowed, while dashed lines indicate the opposite.
During peak season, we recommend avoiding driving in the early morning hours and between 3 PM and 5 PM due to increased road congestion.
Like the road network, ferry and air connections operate quite regularly, especially in the summer. Croatia is connected to over 1,200 islands, bays, and islets thanks to ferry and catamaran lines.
Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik have new or modernized airports, while the number of ferry and catamaran routes grows each year.
For a more "rustic," traditional travel style, we recommend the restored ferry route Jadrolinija connecting Rijeka and Dubrovnik.
Just make a reservation in advance to avoid unnecessary queues.
What if you want to rent a vehicle?
There are various options for renting cars, vans, and scooters in Croatia, and in many cases, you can pick up the rented vehicle directly at the airport.
All rental fees can be paid in cash (the euro is now the official currency) or by credit card.
As usual, the car is rented with a full tank and must be refilled upon return; crossing the border without prior notice is not allowed (as it incurs additional charges), and the vehicle must be returned in the same condition as it was received. Otherwise, you will need to cover the costs of any damage caused...
Old roads — feel the breeze of a thousand years of history
In just a few hours of traveling through Croatia, you'll encounter such a variety of tourist destinations and landscapes that you might feel like you're in a different country!
From the beautiful Mediterranean in the south, the Dinaric Alps and Velebit mountains, to the coastal destinations of Istria and the Kvarner Gulf—you’ll experience a unique biodiversity of vegetation and climate, thanks to Croatia’s specific geographical position, offering a mix of the Balkans, the Mediterranean, and Central Europe.
If you choose to travel via highway, you’ll mostly pass through the country’s interior, but it’s the fastest way to reach your destination.
If traveling from the south to continental Croatia or Zagreb via the A1 highway, you’ll have the chance to see Croatia’s “Niagara Falls” — Plitvice Lakes — and some of the many nature parks, such as Papuk, Žumberak, or Kopački Rit in the eastern part of the country.
On the other hand, if you’re planning to visit Istria and the Kvarner Gulf, taking the A6 highway and driving through the Učka Tunnel and Istrian Ypsilon (Epsilon) is a story of its own.
Apart from the Adriatic Highway, we recommend driving the “Dalmatina” — the section of the A1 highway connecting Croatia’s two largest cities, Zagreb and Split.
According to many, it’s also the most scenic part of the highway. After reaching Split, you’ll have about 100 kilometers left to Dubrovnik, accompanied by breathtaking landscapes.
Additionally, local roads can be a great choice if you want to avoid heavy summer traffic.
If you have the time and want to capture the best selfie of the summer, we recommend driving the “Adriatic Road”, built in the 1960s.
While the journey itself may take a bit longer, you’ll have the chance to see stunning nature and various parts of the country.
Known locally as the “Old Road,” it’s free to drive on and is especially popular with motorcyclists due to the Riviera views and panoramas you’ll witness along the way.
It’s also important to note that you should be cautious while driving, as the road is narrow with sharper curves than in other regions. However, it offers the most beautiful views of the sea and hidden gems along the Adriatic coast.
So many options, so many opportunities!
In conclusion, we can confidently say that traveling by car is a great choice if you're looking for a safe and carefree summer vacation in Croatia. There are plenty of options to suit both your preferences and budget.
If you want to reach your destination as quickly as possible, then driving on the highway is your best option.
On the other hand, alternative routes like the Adriatic Highway or "Dalmatina" are affordable tourist routes where you'll have the chance to see the most beautiful parts of our country.
In addition to nature, you'll gain insight into the rich cultural heritage that has been preserved and passed down for centuries.
The roads are fairly new, well-lit, and marked with traffic signals, so the journey won't be too exhausting for you and your fellow travelers.
Maritime transport (Source: Unsplash)
Did you know?
If you stayed in our accommodation last year and plan to return, get ready for additional savings!
Book your holiday for next year by the end of this year and enjoy a full refund of 100%—yes, we’ll cover the cost of one full tank of fuel and tolls from your vacation in Croatia last year.
Even if you book by March 31 of the current year, you can still receive a generous refund of 50%.
