Planning a Croatia vacation by car: everything you need to know
A driving holiday in Croatia is without a doubt an excellent way to discover the countryside of this country while enjoying the freedom to create your own itinerary. Before you set off, however, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure your trip is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Here are not only some advantages of a car holiday, but also useful tips that you should consider when traveling by car to Croatia:
The advantages of a car holiday in Croatia
- In terms of flexibility, you can set your own schedule and visit the places that interest you the most.
- In terms of comfort, you have the option of simply leaving your luggage in the car and not having to carry it around with you all the time.
- As for adventure, you can get off the beaten path and explore places that aren't on the typical tourist route. In addition, the many small roads in Croatia will lead you to hidden pearls.
What should be considered when traveling by car in Croatia?
your route
Your journey begins in Germany. After that, you can choose between two popular routes. The first takes you via the A10 Tauernautobahn in Austria and then through the Slovenian capital of Ljubljana. Alternatively, the second route runs via the Pyhrnautobahn A9 in Austria and further through the eastern Slovenian town of Maribor.
Tolls
During your journey you will also have to pay tolls. These are due in Austria, as well as in Slovenia and Croatia. Especially in Croatia, the toll is calculated according to the distance actually driven. As an example, the route from Zagreb via Split to Dubrovnik costs around 30 euros.
Traffic rules
In Croatia you have to observe a speed limit of 130 km/h on motorways. However, you are only allowed to drive 50 km/h within built-up areas, while outside of them you can drive 90 km/h and even 110 km/h on expressways. It is also important that you do not forget to take your driver's license and vehicle registration document with you.
Currency
The euro has been the official currency in Croatia since 2023.
Entry requirements
All you need is a valid identity card or a corresponding identity document from another EU country.
Pets
Would you like to take your pet with you? No problem! But remember to have an EU pet passport with you. And your pet must be microchipped.
Travel planning tips
- Do your research before you travel: Find out about traffic and weather conditions in advance. Traffic jams on the Croatian motorways are not uncommon during the peak travel season. And in strong winds, bridges and roads can be closed.
- Plan breaks: Long car journeys can be exhausting. Plan regular breaks to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Pack wisely: make optimal use of the space in your car. Only pack what you really need. Don't forget to take a first aid kit, safety vest and warning triangle with you.
- Stay flexible: A car vacation gives you the opportunity to be spontaneous. If you particularly like a place, you can stay longer. If the weather doesn't cooperate, you can change your plans.
With these tips you are well prepared for your car holiday in Croatia. Bon Voyage!
Questions and answers on what to consider when traveling by car in Croatia
I am planning my Croatia vacation by car. What safety equipment should I take with me?
In Croatia, a warning triangle, a safety vest for every occupant and a first-aid kit are mandatory. So don't forget to pack those important items.
Do I have to take out special car insurance for my Croatia vacation by car?
Before you leave, check whether your car insurance is also valid abroad. Sometimes it makes sense to take out additional international health insurance.
What do I have to consider if I take my dog with me on vacation in Croatia by car?
Your pet needs an EU pet passport and must be chipped. There are also certain entry requirements for pets that must be observed.
Are there certain traffic rules in Croatia that I should be aware of when planning my Croatia vacation by car?
Yes, there are some specific traffic rules. For example, in Croatia, different speed limits apply depending on the type of road.
I have heard that tolls may apply. How high are these costs if I spend my Croatia vacation by car?
Tolls in Croatia are calculated based on the distance traveled. For a typical route from Zagreb to Dubrovnik, the toll costs around 30 euros.
I'm going on vacation to Croatia by car. Can I pay with euros in Croatia?
Yes, Croatia adopted the euro in early 2023. So you can easily pay with euros.
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Text Croatia vacation by car what to consider: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
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