Cheap Car Rental Pula Airport –
Save upto 70% with Local Expert Tips

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Car Types

Best Deals found for Car Rentals in Croatia

A broad selection of rental cars ranging from economical to luxurious segments are made available by our partner suppliers to meet the diverse needs of customers.

*The prices above are subject to change without prior notice. Since costs vary by vehicle class, dates, supplier, and season, we recommend checking real-time rates to get the most accurate price.

Rentals for every journey

What Kind of Trip Are You Planning?

Select your journey type for tailored rental options

  • 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.

Airport Overview

About Pula Airport

Pula Airport is the only international gateway to the Istrian peninsula, sitting just 6 kilometres from the city centre. For most visitors, it marks the beginning and end of an Istrian trip. The single-level and relatively small terminal makes the experience of arriving here quite straightforward. Passport control, baggage claim, and the car rental desks are all within a few minutes of each other. Meaning that there is minimal standing between landing and being on the road.

Direct flights during the busiest summer season operate to and from the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, Scandinavia, and other destinations. Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2, Eurowings, and British Airways are notable carriers that serve PUY seasonally. Croatia Airlines and Lufthansa operate year-round for those arriving via Zagreb or Frankfurt.

Full Name: Pula Airport

Address: Valtursko polje 210, 52100 Pula, Croatia.

IATA Code: PUY

ICAO Code: LDPL

Official Website: airport-pula.hr/en/

Data & Insights

Make informed travel decisions with data-backed insights on car rental trends across Croatia.

  • Best Time to Book
  • How Early to Book Rental
  • Most Booked Car Models
  • Cheapest Car Rental Companies
  • Average Rental Duration

Which is the cheapest month to rent a car at Pula Airport?

Prices are lowest in January, when the average daily rental usually costs about €18. Costs are also relatively low during the winter months, like February, March, November, and December.

Cheapest Month

Price: €25

Most Expensive Month

Price: €52

How far in advance should you rent a car at Pula Airport?

Travellers can get lower-than-average car rental prices by booking at least 5-6 weeks before their travel schedule. Last-minute bookings are not only costly but also have limited options to choose from.

What are the most rented car models at Pula Airport?

The most rented car at Pula Airport is the Opel/Vauxhall Corsa (32%). Compact vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf and Volkswagen Polo are the next most popular affordable models.

Which companies have the most peak-season availability at Pula Airport?

Enterprise, Alamo, and Europcar offer the largest car fleets in different segments during the peak season (July and August). A collective share of about 20% of the overall availability is by local suppliers like Sicily By Car.

What is the average rental duration for travellers at Pula Airport?

Travellers renting cars at Pula Airport tend to keep them longer, often for a week or more, to explore the Istrian peninsula and nearby cross-border destinations like Slovenia and Italy.

*The car rental statistics above are based on the past six months of data from our website. As trends can differ depending on vehicle type, date, supplier, season, and pickup location, we recommend checking real-time deals for the most accurate information.

Start your Journey Right

Compare Affordable Car Rentals at Pula Airport (PUY)

Istria is best explored at your own pace, and a rental car is the only way to do that properly. From Pula Airport, you are minutes from Pula’s Roman core, under an hour from Rovinj, and within easy reach of Slovenia for a cross-border detour. Since most suppliers have desks inside the terminal, picking up your rental car is as easy and quick as possible. The shuttle may only take you to the city centre, but a personalised vehicle lets you explore everywhere else as soon as you leave the airport.

We make it easy for you to find the rental car you want and book it at the right price at Pula Airport. You can search across multiple local and international suppliers using a simplified booking form. Compare deals side by side, and book for a flexible travel duration. Book today in just three easy steps to enjoy free cancellation and the lowest possible rates across all car types.

Pula Airport Car Rental

Step by Step Guide

How to Pick up your Rental Car at Pula Airport (PUY)?

Most of the car rental desks at Pula Airport are located inside the arrivals hall. With pickup areas directly outside the terminal building, you can quickly access the A9 motorway and central Pula with ease.

In Terminal Counters

Land, clear passport control, and collect baggage

Pula Airport (PUY) has a single compact terminal, so navigation is simple. After deplaning, follow the signs to separate EU and non-EU passport control queues. Proceed to baggage claim, then follow the ‘Rent a Car’ signs toward the arrivals hall.

PUY is a small regional airport. Baggage claim is usually fast and takes about 15–25 minutes after landing. The single-terminal layout means you are not more than a few minutes from the rental desks.

Car Rental Centre Pick-Up

Locate your supplier’s rental desk

Suppliers like Sixt, Alamo, Enterprise, and Hertz have rental desks inside the arrivals hall of the terminal. A few counters are located just outside the terminal building. Refer to your rental confirmation voucher for the exact desk location of your supplier.

Some suppliers offer a Meet & Greet service instead, wherein a representative meets you in arrivals and shuttles you to an off-site branch. You can choose and confirm a preferred pickup type when booking.

At the counter

Present the necessary documents

At the counter, present your

  • original driving licence
  • passport or national ID
  • main driver’s credit card used at booking
  • rental confirmation voucher

Non-EU licenses, as well as those printed in a non-Latin script, must be accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP). Any additional drivers must also provide the required documentation at the counter.

After-hours pickups are always chargeable. The agent will verify your details before processing the security deposit hold on your credit card.

Vehicle Inspection

Inspect the car before leaving the pickup point

A staff member will accompany you to the vehicle and walk through any pre-existing damage marked on the condition sheet. Check all panels, tyres, windscreen, and interior yourself before signing. Note any damage not already recorded, however minor.

Take timestamped photos or a short video of the entire vehicle, including all four sides, the roof, and any pre-noted damage, before driving away. This protects you if a dispute arises on return.

Buckle up & begin your adventure

Exit the parking bay and head onto the E751

Follow the signboards from the rental lot to the airport exit. Turn left onto the E751 (formerly E66) toward Pula city centre – about a 6 km drive away. Or simply take the directions to the A9 motorway at the Pula junction to reach other destinations like Rovinj, Poreč, and Umag.

Pula city centre is a 10–15 min drive from the airport. Rovinj is ~40 min, Poreč ~55 min, and Rovinj’s beaches are accessible in under an hour from PUY.

Rental Car Return PUY

Return to the same rental lot at PUY

Drive from the E751 to the airport. Take the final ramp on the left side, closest to the terminal, and turn left into the rental car lot. Park the vehicle in the designated area, hand in keys and contract at the desk or key drop box, and retrieve your deposit release receipt.

PUY has a single shared return lot for all rental suppliers. After-hours returns are available – park in the marked area and use the supplier’s key drop box. The car is inspected the next business day, so photograph it on return as you did at pickup.

Airport

Pula Airport (PUY)

Rental centre

Desks inside the arrivals hall

Counter hours

07:00 – 22:00 (most suppliers)

After-hours pickup/drop-off available with some providers

Drive to Tvrđa (Old Town)

~15 min via D66

If your flight is delayed

In case of an expected delay in your flight, inform the supplier as soon as you can. Bookings are often held by most suppliers, provided they are notified of the delays in advance. Bookings for unnotified delays are usually marked as no show or cancelled. Confirm after-hours pickup availability and the related applicable fee when booking, in case you arrive after the supplier’s desk closing time.

Rental & Driving Guide

Everything you need to know before you hit the road

Local knowledge that saves time, money, and frustration – from the moment you land at PUY.

6 km

Airport to City

~15 min

Drive via D75

€25–40

Car Rental Fare

3–4 wks

Book Ahead

Car Rental Tips

Before you pick up the car

🕘

Best Time to Book

Avoid July and August peak pricing. January, March, November and December offer the lowest daily rates in Croatia.

Fuel & Mileage Policy

Always choose a “full to full” fuel policy with unlimited mileage — saves money on return and eliminates mileage concerns.

Benefit from Optional Add-ons

Enhance your trip with child seats, GPS, winter tyres, snow chains, WiFi or an additional driver at affordable extra cost.

📅

Book in Advance

Reserving early secures below-average rates and gives you access to a wider selection of vehicle categories.

🚔

Select the Right Car Category

Mostly city driving? An economy or compact car keeps fuel costs low and suits tighter budgets and narrow Croatian roads.

⚖️

Comparison is Key

Use our platform to compare prices, ratings, reviews and inclusions across leading suppliers to find the best fit for your budget.

Driving tips

On the road from PUY

🛣️

Take the D75 into the city

The D75 is a quick and direct run from PUY to central Pula – about 15 minutes. Pick up the A9 motorway for destinations further north in Istria.

⚠️

Go slowly into hilltop villages

Roads into Motovun, Grožnjan, and Roč are narrow and steep. Watch for cyclists, as Istria is a popular road cycling destination year-round.

🚔

Don’t drive into Pula’s old centre

Restricted zone, fines automatic. Park at the waterfront lots near the Arena (~€1.50/hr) and walk the rest.

🎟️

Vignette required for Slovenia

A Slovenian motorway vignette is mandatory if heading north across the border. Buy one at the first petrol station after crossing.

❄️

Keep headlights on in winter

Mandatory from 1 November to 31 March. May not be required in summer, but it remains a standard practice on Croatian roads.

📴

Hands-free phones only

Holding your phone while driving is illegal. Use a mount or Bluetooth from the moment you leave the lot.

Local Knowledge · Rental Car Guide

Parking zones for Pula visitors

Rates across all 8 parking types – from €0.50/hr off-season parking to €72/day peak summer lots. Click any zone for full details.

🅿️

Pula Airport Parking (PUY)

On-site – 6 km south-east of city centre

Short stays

Long-term lot A

Return drop-off

~€3/hr

peak season

No cap

daily rate

Details & Features

📌

Location

Lot A for long-term storage; Lot B for short stays, transfers and all rental operator returns.

💶

Peak rate (Apr–Oct)

€3/hr for first 4 hrs, then €0.50/hr. Charged per started hour with no daily cap.

👍

Best for

Flight-day drop-offs and multi-night airport stays before or after collecting a hire car.

Practical Info

📑

Rental car note

Lot B is where you return a car hire at the end of your trip

💳

Lost ticket fee

€240 peak / €111 off-season. Keep your parking ticket with you at all times.

🚍

Transfer to the city

Bus line 1 to Pula centre ~20 min, ~€2. Taxi to the centre ~€15–20.

🅿️

Residents Only

Zone 0

Old town core · blue kerb markings · no visitor access

No resident parking

permit holders only

Closed

for visitors

Permit

holders only

Details & Features

📌

Location

The innermost historic streets: Gradinski uspon, Castropola, Uspon na Kaštel, and 12 other named lanes.

💶

Visitor access

No payment method exists here. Parking is reserved exclusively for Zone 0 permit holders.

👍

Best for

Not applicable. Instead, use Zone 1 or Karolina as your nearest visitor option

Practical Info

📑

Rental car note

Never park a hire car in Zone 0. No payment method exists and fines apply.

🚫

Enforcement

Camera and warden enforcement. Penalty: €99 per violation under the 2026 tariff.

🔹

Blue markings here

Blue kerb paint in Zone 0 means residents only, not pay-and-display. Do not confuse the two.

🅿️

City Centre

Zone 1

Arena surrounds, Forum, Giardini, harbour, Riva

2-hr max

High demand

Short stops

€1.50/hr

street bays

€30/day

2 hr max stay

Details & Features

📌

Location

Streets around the Arena, Forum, Giardini, Riva, Kandlerova and Dobricheva.

💶

Paid Hours

Summer (Jun–Sep): 07:00–23:00 daily. Winter: Mon–Fri 07:00–20:00; Sat 07:00–14:00; Sun free.

👍

Best for

Quick visits to Arena, Forum or Old Town. Strictly 2 hours maximum per visit.

Practical Info

📑

Rental car note

Not practical for a full day. Use Karolina for longer centre stays.

🚫

Overstay penalty

€50 fine for exceeding the 2-hour limit. Wardens patrol frequently in peak season.

💳

Payment

Parking meters (cash/card), PayDo app, Aircash, QR code, SMS or online portal

🅿️

Inner Ring

Zone 2

Bus station, market, approach streets

No time cap

Good value

Half-day stays

€1/hr

street bays

€13.30/day

no time limit

Details & Features

📌

Location

Streets beyond Zone 1 – Zadarska, Teslina, Da Vincijeva, Kolodvorska and surrounding area.

💶

Paid Hours

Summer (Jun–Sep): 07:00–23:00. Winter: Mon–Fri 07:00–20:00; Sat 07:00–14:00; Sun free.

👍

Best for

Half-day or full-day visits – no time cap, reasonable walk to all main sights.

Practical Info

📑

Rental car note

Best street-parking value for a full day – lower rate, no time limit, good walk to centre.

🚫

Restriction risk

Low. No time cap in Zone 2. Watch for Zone 0 blue markings on adjacent Old Town streets.

💳

Payment

Meters, PayDo, Aircash, QR code, SMS or the online portal at pulaparking.hr/en.

🅿️

Peripheral Lots

Peripheral lots: Mandrač, Gregovica, Marsovo Polje 4

Large open lots

No time cap

Camper-friendly

€1.50–4/hr

vary by lot

€19.50–72/day

seasonal

Details & Features

📌

Location

Mandrač (Ul. Svetog Petra) · Gregovica near City Mall · Marsovo Polje 4 on the city edge.

💶

Rates

Mandrač: €3/hr & €72/day peak; €1.50/hr & €19.50/day off-season. Gregovica: €4/hr peak; €1/hr off-season.

👍

Best for

Large vehicles, camper vans, or overflow when Zone 2 bays are full. No time cap at any Zone 3 lot.

Practical Info

📑

Rental car note

Marsovo Polje 4 is useful for visitors with rental cars – no cap and a 10 min walk to the Arena.

🚫

Restriction risk

Low. Open lots, no time restrictions, well-signed. Gregovica has space even in peak season.

💳

Payment

Machines on site (cash and card). Weekly and seasonal passes are available at Mandrač.

🅿️

Karolina – Special Location

Karolina

Enclosed guarded lot · directly in front of the Pula Arena · ~700 spaces

No time cap

Guarded 24hr

EV charging

€1.50/hr

guarded lot

No time limit

24hr parking

Details & Features

📌

Location

Trg Portarata – 1 min walk to the Amphitheatre and 3 min to the Forum. Largest central lot.

Operating Hours

Summer (Jun–Sep): open 24 hours. Winter: Mon–Sat 07:00–17:00; Sundays free of charge.

👍

Best for

Anyone who needs more than 2 hours in the centre – the only unrestricted central parking option.

Practical Info

📑

Rental car note

Best city-centre option for rental cars. Staffed, secure, central and no time limit.

🔌

EV Charging

Electric vehicle charging points on site. Availability not guaranteed. Confirm on arrival.

💳

Payment

Staffed booth and machines. Cards and cash accepted. Busy in peak season, arrive before 10:00.

🅿️

Hotel Parking

Dedicated outdoor spot · street permit · shared lot

Pre-book essential

Often €10–25/day

Best overnight option

€0–25/day

varies by property

Overnight parking

pre-booked

Details & Features

📋

Types Available

Private garage, outdoor spot, resort lot, or temporary resident street permit.

Opening Hours

€10–25/day unless included free with accommodation booking.

👍

Best for

Multi-night stays where public parking exceeds accommodation parking costs.

Practical Info

📑

Rental car note

Some properties provide temporary permits for free Zone 1 or 2 overnight parking.

✔️

Confirm before arrival

Confirm parking availability, vehicle size limits, and cost before arrival, especially summer.

🔍

Where to look

Verudela and Stoja offer easier parking; central private garages are limited.

🅿️

Croatia Osiguranje

Underground multi-level · near main post office · short walk to Forum

Covered & secure

All-weather

Height limit 2.0–2.2m

~€1.20/hr

covered garage

~€18/day

daily cap

Details & Features

📋

Types Available

Private garage, outdoor spot, resort lot, or temporary resident street permit.

Opening Hours

€10–25/day unless included free with accommodation booking.

👍

Best for

Multi-night stays where public parking exceeds accommodation parking costs.

Practical Info

📑

Rental car note

Some properties provide temporary permits for free Zone 1 or 2 overnight parking.

✔️

Confirm before arrival

Confirm parking availability, vehicle size limits, and cost before arrival, especially summer.

🔍

Where to look

Verudela and Stoja offer easier parking; central private garages are limited.

Pay by:

🅿️ Parking Meters

📱 Bmove/Pula Parking App

💬 SMS text

🏪 Online Portal

PUY Airport · By Car

Where to go straight from the airport?

PUY is conveniently located with access to the entire Istrian peninsula and northern Adriatic coast, so you can drive away to any of the popular spots in under 30 minutes upon arrival.

Your matches for

Beach & Swim

🛶

Verudela Beaches

Easy first swim after landing. Rocky coves and clear Adriatic water. Beach bars and resorts nearby.

  • Beach Swim
  • Beach Bars
  • Snorkelling

12 km

🏖️

Pješčana Uvala

Calm bay with shallow water. Relaxed seaside cafés. Good for families.

  • Family Friendly
  • Calm Water
  • Seafront Dining

11 km

🌊

Hidrobaza Beach

Wide pebble beach near Štinjan. Sunset-friendly central Pula beaches with fewer crowds.

  • Sunset Views
  • Pebble Beach
  • Less Crowded

12 km

💡

Your matches for

Eat & Relax

Pula Old Town

Seafood restaurants. Roman atmosphere and wine bars around the Forum.

  • Seafood
  • Roman Sights
  • Wine Bars

8 km

🐟

Fažana

Harbourfront dining. Fresh seafood and a relaxed fishing village atmosphere.

  • Harbour Dining
  • Seafood

14 km

Premantura

Easygoing coastal village with taverns and cafés near Kamenjak.

  • Local Dining
  • Coastal Village

15 km

💡

Your matches for

Views & Photos

🗿

Pula Arena

One of the world’s best-preserved Roman amphitheatres. Iconic arrival stop

  • Roman Landmark
  • Photography
  • Historic Views

7 km

🏰

Kaštel Fortress

Elevated panoramic viewpoint above Pula old town and harbour

  • Panorama
  • Sunset Spot
  • Fortress Views

8 km

🏛️

Verudela Coast

Adriatic sunset views. Dramatic rocky coastline and scenic seaside walks.

  • Seas Views
  • Coastal Walks
  • Sunset Photos

14 km

Your matches for

History & Explore

🏠

Forum & Temple of Augustus

Roman-era square at the heart of Pula. Historic cafés and architecture

  • Roman History
    Architecture
  • City Centre

8 km

🏛️

Zerostrasse Tunnels

An underground wartime tunnel network beneath the city centre.

  • Military History
  • Underground Network
  • City Centre

8 km

Fažana Old Town

Small Venetian-style fishing town with colourful waterfront streets.

  • Underground Tunnels
  • WWII History

66 km

💡

Your matches for

Hidden Spots

🏊‍♂️

Štinjan Coastline

Quiet swimming spots and pine-lined coves away from central crowds.

  • Venetian Atmosphere
  • Harbour Walks
  • Old Town

11 km

🛶

Munte Beach (Premantura)

Relaxed local beach atmosphere before Cape Kamenjak.

  • Hidden Coves
  • Local Beaches
  • Quiet Area

16km

🏞️

Valovine Bay

Small hidden cove popular with locals. Calm water and less tourist traffic.

  • Local Favourite
  • Swim Spot
  • Fewer Crowds

10 km

💡

Your matches for

Quick & Easy

🛑

Pula Arena

Fastest iconic stop directly after arrival.

  • Quick Stop
  • Roman Landmark
  • Easy Access

7 km

🏪

Pula City Centre

Easy access to cafés, restaurants, and parking.

  • Cafés
  • Walking Area
  • Central Location

8 km

🚢

Fažana Harbour

Quick coastal atmosphere without a long drive.

  • Harbour Views
  • Easy Drive
  • Seaside Dining

14 km

💡

One Way Car Rental from Pula

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

Explore beyond Croatia

Cross Country Car Rental from Croatia

While not every cross-border trip is the same, driving the hired vehicle from Croatia to nearby EU countries is relatively easy and hassle-free when you have an idea what to expect in advance. For information about entry requirements, costs and rental rules, refer to the dedicated guides below:

  • Dubrovnik

    South Dalmatia
  • Split

    Central Dalmatia
  • Zagreb

    Northern Croatia
  • Pula

    Istria
  • Rijeka

    Kvarner Bay

Verified Reviews

Customer Reviews

Here are some of the testimonials from our satisfied customers which reflects the quality of our services.

4.8 out of 5

Based on 400+ reviews

  • B

    Value deal

    Verified

    Good deal for a nice clean car. Friendly helpful staff, but the airport pickup wait was longer than expected due to summer season crowd. The return was really fast. Booking recomended.

    18 June 2026
  • U

    Reliable service

    Verified

    In general I am satisfied with the booking. I rented from them last year too. The agent was courteous, professional, and fast. We will definitely rent through the company again.

    5 June 2026
  • P

    Well-maintained vehicles

    Verified

    The car was in good condition, the service was nice, and I highly recommend them.

    10 May 2026
  • J

    Great price

    Verified

    Super, many heartfelt thanks and good price.

    27 April 2026
  • J

    Outstanding customer service

    Verified

    Excellent service and very friendly staff, both at the desk and in the parking area. I have rented dozens of cars from Croatiarentalcars before. This time was even better than before. The reception people were fantastic, customer-friendly, engaged, and a reference for other rental companies. Well-deserved compliments.

    18 April 2026
  • Y

    Professional staff

    Verified

    It was very pleasant communicating with such friendly and helpful people as Marie and Jacob. They were really professional and gave us the keys within a few minutes without any waiting.

    15 April 2026
  • G

    Great overall experience

    Verified

    Everything was great except finding the supplier drop-off counter before our flight. We spent about 15 minutes going in circles. Overall it was great and I have no complaints.

    6 March 2026
  • H

    Affordable rental

    Verified

    The desk was quite busy on arrival but manageable, and drop-off was very busy. I doubted the company because I had not heard of it before. Renting through Croatiarentalcars was nice, reasonably priced, and easy. I will use them again.

    12 February 2026
  • W

    Clean cars

    Verified

    Quick pickup. The car was rather small, but it did what we needed. It was clean and almost new, and we had a good experience.

    10 January 2026
  • F

    Excellent service

    Verified

    The process was smooth and the vehicle excellent. The staff at the desk were friendly, professional and knowledgeable. It could not have been better.

    6 January 2026

Learn more about our reviews (We ask users to review the service provided after they have completed their rental. Only presenting a section of reviews here; the review scores are calculated by averaging the scores of the overall feedback collected.)

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Your help hub

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Booking & Pricing
  • Costs & Fuel Policy
  • Insurance
  • Pickup & Retuns
  • Cross-Border

💶

How much is the car rental price at Pula Airport?

Prices tend to change with season, vehicle type, supplier, and booking duration. Hiring an economy can cost €20–€40 per day during the shoulder season and over €70 per day in peak summer months.

Vehicle CategoryShoulder SeasonPeak Summer Season
Economy / Mini €20–€40/day€70+/day
Compact / Standard €35–€60/day€80–€120/day
SUVs €50–€90/day€120–€180/day
Luxury / Premium €100–€180/day€220–€350+/day

📅

How to book the cheapest car rentals at Pula Airport?

Booking from the mini and economy segments is the most straightforward way to find the cheapest car hire deals, starting usually at just EUR 7.27 per day. But an early booking can get you cheaper-than-average rates in other categories as well. Comparing multiple deals is also a great way to secure one that best matches your travel needs and budget.

🚗

Will I get the exact car rental model for booking at Pula Airport?

You may or may not receive the exact car shown online because rentals are listed as categories, such as economy, luxury, and SUV. So, a deal offering “Renault Clio or similar” simply indicates the type of car you would get after booking. When browsing deals using our booking form, look for the ✓ Guaranteed Car Model label to book a specific make or model.

Is a last-minute car rental booking possible at Pula Airport?

Yes. Same-day or last-minute deals at Pula Airport can be booked with companies like Europcar, Sixt, Goldcar, and Sicily by Car, but availability is subject to seasonal demand and rental duration. Booking at the very last moment leaves fewer options and comes at relatively high prices.

💳

Can I rent a car at Pula Airport without a credit card?

A valid credit card in the main driver’s name is generally required to book a rental car with the majority of suppliers to block a refundable security deposit at the time of pickup at PUY Airport. Cash payments are often discouraged. A couple of suppliers may accept debit card deposits, but the amount is significantly higher than the average €700–€1,300 held using credit cards.

↩️

Do I need to return a car with a full tank?

Yes, you will have to return a hired car with a full tank if you collected it full. A full-to-full fuel policy is the most common among suppliers, followed by a same-to-same policy. In any case, returning the vehicle with less or missing fuel may incur higher refuelling charges and service fees. You can refill the vehicle at the nearest gas station before dropping off at Pula Airport.

🛡️

When is the security deposit released after returning the car?

The deposit hold is typically refunded within 7–21 business days after you return the vehicle, though this can vary by supplier and your bank’s processing time. The refund is issued only after the car has been inspected and no damage or additional charges are found.

💵

Are there any extra charges when renting a car at Pula Airport?

In addition to the base rental rate, add-on fees may apply for additional drivers, GPS, or a child seat. A one-way drop-off fee for returning to a different location, young driver surcharges for travellers under 25, and airport surcharges may also add to the final booking price. You can review the full price breakdown on the booking summary page before confirming.

🛡️

Do I need full insurance for a car hire at Pula Airport?

Full insurance is optional, but it’s often recommended by seasoned travellers. Basic insurance is often included in most deals by default, but it may not be enough to cover potential costs related to the vehicle or third-party injuries. A full-protection policy is meant to avoid high out-of-pocket costs in such cases.

📄

What does the standard car rental insurance at Pula Airport include?

Collision Damage Waiver and Theft Protection are standard with most car hire deals. Third-party liability insurance is a legal requirement and covers damage or injury to other people or property. The basic insurance still usually leaves travellers responsible for an excess amount (ranging from €500 to €2,000).

💳

Can I use my credit card coverage instead of buying extra insurance for a car hire?

Some premium credit card policies do offer car rental coverage. But the terms vary widely and may not be accepted by all suppliers at Pula Airport. Make sure to get written confirmation from your credit card provider regarding policy coverage for Croatia if you plan to rely on it. Verify the required excess amount and whether your supplier accepts the policy in advance.

🚘

Where can I pick up a rental car at Pula Airport?

You can find several car hire desks in the Arrivals area and the main hall of the terminal building at Pula Airport. Some of the supplier counters are also located just outside the terminal, so travellers can pick up a vehicle directly at the airport. Shuttle service is also provided by suppliers operating from off-site branches.

💳

Is there a fee for late car rental returns at Pula Airport?

A small grace period of 30 minutes may be allowed for returning a car hire late, but suppliers generally charge an hourly fee of around €20–€50 for short delays. A full-day rental may be charged for longer delays.

📄

What documents do I need for car rental pickup at Pula Airport?

You should have the following set of documents when collecting a vehicle to avoid booking denial or cancellation:

  • Original Driver’s License
  • Passport/National ID Card
  • Valid credit card used at the time of booking in the main driver’s name
  • Rental Confirmation Voucher 
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if your domestic license is non-EU or in a non- Latin script.

↩️

Can I return the rental car outside of opening hours at Pula Airport?

Out-of-hours or after-hours return options may be available with some suppliers. You leave the vehicle in a designated area at PUY and return the keys in a secure box. The car is formally inspected on the next business day, so any damage reported after your departure will be noted and charged.

↔️

Can I drive my rental car from Pula Airport to other countries?

Yes. You can travel to a cross-border destination, but only after the rental company’s prior approval. Not all suppliers authorise crossing borders with a hired car, so you should confirm that before making a reservation.

Country / RegionTypically Allowed?
Slovenia, Italy✅ Usually yes
Bosnia & Montenegro⚠️ Permission + fee required
Serbia, North Macedonia⚠️ Supplier dependent
Albania, Kosovo, Turkey❌ Commonly restricted

🌍

Which countries can I travel to with a rental car from Pula Airport?

Rental companies often allow travel to other EU and EEA countries, as well as neighbouring Western Balkans destinations such as Slovenia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. But countries, including certain Eastern European and non-EU nations, may be restricted or require a separate cross-border permit and additional insurance. That is why prior written confirmation of approved destinations from the supplier is required when booking.

🛂

Do I need a Green Card for cross-border travel with a rental car from Pula Airport?

A Green Card (proof of insurance) may be required when crossing into certain non-EU countries from Croatia. Rental companies often provide one upon request for an extra fee of €20–€50 per trip when authorising cross-border travel.

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