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Is there a car rental desk at Split Bus and Train Station?
Yes, plenty of rental offices are located within 200m of the bus and train platform exits. While there are no dedicated car rental desks inside the train/bus station premises, the train station and bus station are clustered together in the same waterfront precinct as the ferry terminal, making it easy to walk between suppliers’ car hire counters. This is the most convenient option for passengers arriving by long-distance coaches from Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Sarajevo, or Mostar, and by rail from Zagreb and Knin.
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What is the best car to rent in Split for driving the Dalmatian coast?
For a road trip along the Dalmatian coast starting from Split, the best overall choice would be a Compact or Medium-sized car (such as a Volkswagen Golf, Opel Astra, or similar hatchback). Compact cars offer the best balance of handling winding coastal roads, easy manoeuvrability/parking, and space for 3–4 people + luggage.
If you’re driving Hvar’s steep interior mountain road or the Makarska Riviera coastal road, choose a car with adequate power (like an SUV) for sustained hillclimbing.
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Should I rent an automatic car in Split?
While the main city is mostly flat or gently sloped, with no real steep driving concerns, several neighbourhoods like Marjan Hill, Meje, Manuš, and the approaches to Mosor above Split are built around several steep hillsides, which an automatic transmission will handle better. Renters travelling with multiple passengers and extra luggage, and not used to driving a stick on steep hill starts, should definitely consider renting an automatic.
The rental fleet in Croatia is predominantly manual. Availability of automatic car rentals is limited and sells out quickly during peak season (June-August). Book at least 6–8 weeks ahead for summer travel.
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Is after hours return service available for rental cars in Split?
For after-hours returns, confirm the key drop procedure with your supplier at the time of booking. An out-of-hours surcharge of approximately €32–50 typically applies. Returns are to the same desk you collected from – city centre, airport, ferry port or bus station as applicable.
Remember to photograph all panels and the dashboard fuel level before handing over keys. Keep all fuel receipts. This will help dispute any false missing-fuel claims later on.
