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Route breakdown

One-Way Car Rental from Zagreb to Split

Zagreb to Split is Croatia’s main north-south route, connecting the capital with the country’s second-largest city and the gateway to central Dalmatia. Most travellers make this journey by plane or bus, but driving gives you more freedom to stop along the way. You can visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, explore Karlovac or Zadar, or stop whenever you find a great view of the Dinaric Mountains.

The drive runs mostly on the A1 motorway for most of the journey. It is a modern toll road that has made the trip much easier, reducing what was once a full-day journey to around four hours by car. Picking up in Zagreb and dropping off in Split is a standard one-way rental, offered by all major car rental companies in Croatia for a small drop-off fee.

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Pick-up points

Zagreb Airport. Also Zagreb Downtown, Main Bus Station, Main Train Station, or Hotel.

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Drop-off points

Split Airport. Also Split Downtown, Marina, Main Train Station, Port, or Hotel.

Drive planner

Zagreb Airport (ZAG) to Split Airport (SPU) Route Breakdown

Everything you need to know about driving between Croatia’s capital and its second-biggest city, following the A1 motorway route covering around 400 km in total.

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Zagreb Airport (ZAG) – Velika Gorica

Pick up your rental car at Zagreb Airport, around 17 km southeast of the city centre. From the airport, drive north toward Zagreb and then join the A1 motorway south. Depending on your rental branch, you may also be able to connect directly to the motorway.

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A1 Motorway – Karlovac to Gorski Kotar

The A1 is a modern and well-maintained motorway with tolls, so keep a card or some cash ready for the toll booths. The road passes through hilly and forested areas. During winter, especially between November and March, the higher parts of the motorway can experience snow, so check the road conditions before travelling.

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Plitvice Lakes National Park (Optional Detour)

Plitvice is a short drive from the A1 and can be reached from the nearby motorway exits. It is one of Croatia’s most popular natural attractions, famous for its turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and wooden boardwalk trails. Allow some extra travel time if you want to visit, as the park requires a detour from the main route rather than being directly along the motorway.

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Zadar & Šibenik Area

Back on the A1, the motorway runs closer to the coast as you pass the Zadar and Šibenik exits. Both towns are easy to reach for a short break, with historic old towns and sea views if you want to stretch your legs before continuing south.

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Trogir

Close to the end of the journey, Trogir’s UNESCO-listed historic centre occupies a small island between the mainland and Čiovo. Its old town is easy to explore on foot in an hour or two, making it a good final stop before reaching Split.

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Split Airport (SPU)

Finish your journey at Split Airport, around 25 km west of Split city centre. Drop off the car here for a flight onward, or continue to the city centre branch if you plan to explore Split before flying out.

Drive time

3.5–4 hrs (A1) • 5–6 hrs (D1)

A1 motorway tolls

~€24–27 one way

Route options

A1 motorway or D1 old road

D1 is scenic and toll-free

Fuel est. (economy car)

~€40–50 one way

Border crossings

0

Route stays entirely within Croatia

Jan-Mar
Low
Apr–May
Mild
Jun
Mild
Jul–Aug
Peak
Sep–Oct
Mild
Nov–Dec
Low

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May–June and September–October offer the best mix of warm weather, open roads, and competitive pricing.

Choose your route

Should You Take the A1 Motorway or the D1 Old Road?

Both routes connect Zagreb Airport and Split Airport. The A1 motorway is the modern and direct option, while the D1 follows the older inland road through central Croatia. Your choice depends on how much time you have, whether you want to pay tolls, and whether you’re planning any stops along the way.

A1 – Fastest option

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3.5–4 hrs without stops

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Motorway tolls apply (~€24–27 one way)

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Modern, well-maintained road with two lanes each way

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Offers access to Plitvice Lakes via a detour, with Zadar and Šibenik accessible from motorway exits.

Best for catching flights or travellers short on time

D8 – Scenic coastal route

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Around 5–6 hrs – typically 1.5–2 hrs longer than the A1

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No tolls on the D1

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Runs through Karlovac, Slunj, Gračac, Knin, and Sinj

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Slower, single-lane sections through mountain terrain, with lower speed limits

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Ideal for a longer, more scenic drive or reaching Plitvice Lakes directly

Vehicle Guide

Which car category suits the Dubrovnik–Split drive?

The A1 and D8 are both well-paved modern roads – this is not terrain that requires anything special. The deciding factor is where you plan to park along the way.

  • Family Trip
  • Solo drive
  • Business Travel
  • Long Stay
  • Coastal Road Trips
  • Eco-Travel

Family Trip: Personalised rental options for families planning trip to Croatia with kids and luggage

Van/Minivan

7-9 seats

Ideal for family journeys and seating everyone comfortably

  • Long drives
  • Maximum space

From €42 /day

Automatic SUV

5 seats

Best for long beyond city routes and handling different terrains

  • Easy coastal drives
  • Long distance travel

From €22 /day

Full-size cars

2-5 seats

Comfortable city and long coastal drives for groups of 3-4 adults

  • Practicality
  • Comfort on long drives

From €64 /day

Tips for this trip

If traveling with kids, book child seats during online booking and pay at pickup.

For coastal drives, a few suppliers also offer roof racks for extra luggage or sports equipment.

Minivans are generally allowed on car ferry crossings to most inhabited Croatian islands.

Solo drive: Ideal for solo adventures below options lean toward smaller, efficient cars

Convertible

2-4 seats

Open top on Croatia’s Adriatic coastline & enjoy scenic views

  • Fun road trips
  • Coastal vacations

From €62 /day

Compact Automatic

5 seats

Easily plan multi city trips with reduced stress on steep roads

  • Ample space
  • Fuel efficient

From €36 /day

Electric Economy Cars

4-5 seats

Smart & sustainable choice for solo city travel

  • Quiet driving

From €48 /day

Tips for this trip

Dubrovnik Old Town is pedestrian-only. Use nearby paid parking for the rental car, then walk in.

For island hopping or scenic coastal driving, compact cars are overall best choice.

Convertibles can be limited on islands (like Hvar) and during peak season, making early booking crucial.

Business Travel: For the right balance between comfort, cost, and professionalism choose from the versatile options below.

Luxury car

4-5 seats

High budget premium options for corporate needs

  • Prestige
  • Savvy look

From €65 /day

Automatic Sedans

4-5 seats

Classic business travel vehicle combining comfort + efficiency

  • Professional

From €48 /day

Standard Cars

4-5 seats

Balance of comfort & space makes them best for business trip

  • No-risk choice

From €32 /day

Tips for this trip

VAT invoices/receipts for business expense claims are generally provided by suppliers upon request.

High-end options are best found at major airport hubs like Zagreb (ZAG), Split (SPU), and Dubrovnik (DBV).

Opt for premium insurance coverage to reduce liability for damages.

Long Stay: For trips spanning 21 days or more across Croatia, here’s a breakdown of best options.

Monthly rental

Select any vehicle

An affordable option with lower per day prices than daily rentals

  • Best price

From €16 /day

Long Term Car Rental

Varied vehicle options

For substantial savings rent for 3+ weeks

  • Flexible

From €22 /day

Automatic Car

4-9 seats

Most reliable for trips on mountainous terrain & coastal hills

  • Comfortable
  • Easy parking

From €34 /day

Tips for this trip

Costs are lower in the off-season (Nov-Mar) than in the high season (July-Aug).

Unlimited mileage is included with most long term rentals extending flexibility and convenience.

For early returns, no refunds (partial or full) will be provided for long term rentals.

Coastal Road Trips: Review our breakdown of the best categories for coastal drives in Croatia.

Convertible

2-4 seats

Ideal for enjoying top-down views of the Mediterranean coastline

  • Fun road trips
  • Open top views

From €62 /day

One Way Rentals

Select any car

Pick up in one city, return in another for enhanced flexibility

  • Time-saving

From €25 /day

Compact SUV

5 seats

Perfect for coastal trips: elevated views & extra space

  • Better visibility
  • Comfort for long distances

From €35 /day

Tips for this trip

One way routes are subject to a fee which is generally upward of €100.

For driving between Split and Dubrovnik skip the Neum Corridor in Bosnia and travel via the Pelješac Bridge to avoid border crossing woes.

If your coastal trip is on a motorway, expect to pay tolls, which typically range from €10 to €30.

Eco-Travel: Choose from 3 matching low-emission and eco-friendly options suited for sustainable travel.

Electric Car

4-5 seats

Modern eco friendly EVs to enjoy a greener way of driving

  • Cost savings

From €55 /day

Hybrid

4-5 seats

Great alternative to traditional gasoline vehicles for long drives

  • Reduced fuel costs

From €35 /day

Small Compact

4-5 seats

These hit the right spot for island hopping & coastal drives

  • Low cost
  • Efficient

From €34 /day

Tips for this trip

EV charging stations are widely available across all major hubs, including Dubrovnik, Split, Zagreb and Zadar.

Utilize apps like Chargemap and PlugShare to check real-time availability, charger type, and user reviews for charging points.

Charging stations might be limited on islands – for island hopping trips hybrids are a safer choice.

Stops along the way

Must-See Stops on the Zagreb–Split Coastal Drive

Taking the A1 motorway doesn’t mean you have to skip the sights. These stops are close to the route and can easily be included in a one-way drive from Zagreb to Split.

Karlovac

Often called the “town of four rivers, ” Karlovac is where the Kupa, Korana, Dobra, and Mrežnica rivers meet. Its star-shaped old town was built as a 16th-century military fortress and is easy to explore on foot. The riverbanks are also a pleasant place to stop, stretch your legs, and take a break early in the journey.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice is a short detour from the A1 and is home to sixteen terraced lakes linked by waterfalls and wooden boardwalks. It is one of Croatia’s most visited natural attractions. Allow half a day to explore the walking trails rather than treating it as a quick stop.

Zadar

The old town here is located on a peninsula and combines Roman ruins with modern attractions. The Sea Organ uses the movement of the waves to create sounds, and the Sun Salutation is a large circle of solar panels that lights up after dark. Its location makes Zadar a convenient midpoint for taking a longer break during the drive.

Trogir

Explore the UNESCO-listed old town of Trogir, built on a small island and connected to the mainland by bridges. Its narrow medieval streets and the Kamerlengo Fortress make it a good final stop before your onward journey to Split or car return.

Costs & fees

One-Way Drop Fee by Supplier (Zagreb-Split)

One-way rentals may incur a drop-off fee when you return the car to a different location. Amounts vary significantly by supplier, location, vehicle, and travel dates. Filter by one-way fee when comparing to avoid surprises.

Rental SupplierEstimated one-way feeNotes
Enterprise€80–€150Among the lower one-way fees from a major international brand
Sixt€80–€150Mid-range fee for a well-known global brand
Europcar€80–€150Notably higher fee among major international brands
Hertz€250–€300Highest one-way fee in this comparison
Avis€65–€200Lowest one-way fee among major international brands
Budget€65–€200Cheapest option among local Croatian operators
Dollar / Thrifty€80–€175Popular local operator, mid-range one-way fee
National€80–€150Budget-friendly local pick, slightly above Active
CARWIZ€100–€120Highest one-way fee among local operators
Avant Car€100–€110One of Croatia’s larger local chains, priced above average

Before you drive

One-way rental pre-departure checklist

What to confirm before leaving the desk:

Written confirmation for one-way drop-off fee

The exact one-way drop-off fee, whether charged per day or as a flat rate, should be clearly listed on your rental agreement. A verbal confirmation alone is not enough and cannot be relied on as proof in case of a dispute.

Winter equipment requirement confirmed (Nov–Apr)

The A1 motorway between Zagreb and Maslenica is an official winter road section. If you are driving between mid-November and mid-April, confirm that the car has the required winter tyres or that snow chains are provided. This is a legal requirement, not an optional extra.

Vehicle inspection documented

Take photos of all existing scratches, dents, and other damage before leaving the supplier branch, especially underneath the bumpers. Make sure all existing damage is recorded on the rental agreement so you can avoid disputes or incorrect damage claims later.

Drop-off location and address confirmed

Check the exact address and opening hours of the supplier office in Split where you will return the car, whether it is at the airport or in the city. Knowing this in advance can save time and make the end of your journey easier.

Fuel policy & toll payment understood

Most car rentals in Croatia use a full-to-full fuel policy, so confirm the policy before you collect the car. Also check whether you need to pay the A1 motorway tolls yourself or whether the rental includes an electronic toll device (ENC).

After-hours return procedure confirmed

Confirm and arrange the service well in advance if you need to return the car in Split after the supplier’s opening hours. Follow the supplier’s exact return instructions to avoid delays or unexpected additional charges.

One Way Car Rental from Zagreb

Without backtracking, pick up the hired vehicle from your preferred location in Dubrovnik and return it to another city in Croatia with complete freedom and flexibility.

Your help hub

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Pricing & Costs
  • Pickup, Return & Booking
  • Requirements, Insurance & Driving
  • Travel & Vehicle Options

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How much does it cost to book a one-way car rental from Zagreb to Split?

Booking prices vary by season, supplier, and individual traveller preferences. In addition to the daily rate, one-way deals may also incur an additional drop-off fee for returning the car to a different location than where it was picked up. This is usually charged as a flat fee per rental and is based on your chosen car type, supplier, and one-way route.

SeasonDaily rate (economy–compact)
Off-season (Nov–Mar)€15–30/day
Shoulder (Apr–May / Sep–Oct)€20–45/day
Early summer (June)€35–60/day
Peak (Jul–Aug)€50–90/day

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Are tolls included in the rental price?

No. Motorway tolls are paid separately from the rental cost and are the driver’s responsibility unless the supplier explicitly includes an electronic toll device (ENC) in the agreement. The A1 motorway between Zagreb and Split is a tolled route. A one-way toll for a standard passenger car here can cost around €26.

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How much deposit is required for a one-way rental?

The security deposit is a pre-authorisation hold the supplier places on your credit card at pickup in Zagreb. The deposit is not a charge, and the amount depends on the insurance level you choose. The hold is released in full, as long as the car is returned undamaged and with no traffic fines in Split.

Insurance levelTypical deposit hold
Standard CDW (with excess)€800–1,500
SCDW / reduced excess€200–500
Full cover / premium package€0–200

It can take 7–21 business days for the refund to be processed in your account, depending on your bank and how many other deposits the supplier has to release before your turn.

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Where can I pick up a car hire in Zagreb?

Most suppliers offer several pickup points in Zagreb, including the ZAG Airport, the city centre, the main bus station, and the main train station. Some also offer hotel delivery for an extra fee. Travellers flying in usually collect vehicles from an on-airport supplier. You can also choose a city centre pickup for a cheaper option or if you are already staying in Zagreb the night before.

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Can I return a one-way rental in Split after hours?

After-hours rental drop-off service depends on the supplier and location. Most suppliers at major locations offer it for an added fee and require advance notice. Confirm the service is available with your preferred supplier at the required location before booking.

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How far in advance should I book?

Early booking is based on when, where, and which type of car you need in Croatia.

Travel periodRecommended lead time
November–MarchA few days to 1 week
April–May1–2 weeks
June3–4 weeks
July–August6–10 weeks
September2–3 weeks
October1–2 weeks

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Do I need a credit card to rent a car from Zagreb to Split?

A credit card is required for the security deposit hold rather than for payment itself. The card must be in the name of the primary driver listed on the rental agreement. A few select suppliers may accept debit card deposits, but with a higher deposit amount and additional insurance.

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What documents do I need to rent a car in Croatia?

The required documentation for all standard rentals in Croatia is given below.

  • Full driving licence held for at least 1–2 years, depending on the supplier
  • Passport or national ID
  • Valid credit card in the primary driver’s name for the security deposit hold
  • Rental Confirmation Voucher

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Can I travel cross-border into Bosnia or Slovenia with the rental car?

Yes, cross-border travel with a rental car from any Croatian location to neighbouring countries is possible with prior written authorisation from the supplier. A cross-border fee usually applies, along with a Green Card (international insurance certificate).

CountryGenerally permitted?Cross-border Fee Green Card required?
SloveniaYes (EU)€0–30; often included on longer rentalsNo (EU)
Bosnia & HerzegovinaYes (most suppliers)~€50–100Yes

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Do I need additional insurance for a one-way rental?

Most rental cars in Croatia come with Third Party Liability, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), and Theft Protection. But the standard cover may still leave you with an excess (minimum amount you must pay in case of vehicle damage).

CoverIncluded in base rental?What it does
Third Party LiabilityYesCovers damage or injury to others
CDW (Collision Damage Waiver)Yes – with excessLimits your liability for vehicle damage, up to the excess
Theft ProtectionYes – with excessLimits liability if the car is stolen
SCDW (Super CDW)Optional add-onReduces or removes the CDW excess
Wheels, Undercarriage, GlassNot includedCovers tyre punctures, windscreen chips, glass damage

Standard CDW typically does not cover tyre damage, windscreen chips, glass breakage, or undercarriage damage on Croatian roads.

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How long does it take to drive from Zagreb to Split?

A drive of about 400 km from Zagreb to Split takes around 3.5–4 hours on the A1 motorway without stops. Travel time varies mainly by season and time of day.

Time of travelTypical drive timeNotes
Off-peak (Nov–Apr)3.5–4 hrsQuiet roads; check winter tyre rules
Shoulder (May–Jun, Sep–Oct)3.5–4 hrsLight to moderate traffic
Peak (Jul–Aug), weekdays4–4.5 hrsSome congestion near toll booths
Peak (Jul–Aug), weekends4.5–5+ hrsHeaviest congestion, especially entering Split

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What is the best time to rent a car from Zagreb to Split?

The right time to hire a car depends on your booking preferences, such as better prices, weather, or quieter roads.

PeriodWeatherRoad trafficRental pricing
Nov–MarCold; winter tyres required (Zagreb–Maslenica section)LightLowest
Apr–MayMild, improvingLight–moderateLow
JunWarmModerateRising
Jul–AugHot, peak summerHeavyHighest
Sep–OctWarm, pleasantLight–moderateModerate, dropping

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Can I rent an SUV one-way from Zagreb to Split?

Yes. SUVs are available for one-way rental, though availability is more limited than in economy or compact categories. SUVs are large-sized vehicles and are priced higher than standard vehicle segments. You must book well ahead if you need to book in this category, especially in peak season. A higher one-way fee may also apply.

Josip Stjepan
Editorial Contributor

Car Rental Croatia

Josip Stjepan – Croatia Travel & Car Rental Specialist

Josip spent a decade coordinating vehicle logistics for Jadrolinija’s ferry network, matching rental cars to sailing schedules for Hvar, Brač, and Korčula. The job gave him insider insights into where exactly rental companies quietly pass costs onto tourists. Drawing from his extensive knowledge of Croatia’s ferry network, coastal routes, and driving conditions, he helps travellers compare rental options, plan efficient itineraries, understand toll roads, avoid unnecessary fees, and prepare for cross-border travel.

How this content is created:

  • Based on real ferry and route data
  • Reviewed by a local Split-based specialist
  • Updated regularly for seasonal pricing changes

Last Reviewed: September 2026