Cheap Car Rental Dubrovnik Port –
Save up to 70% with Local Expert Tips

4.5/5

Based on 440 verified customer reviews

Car Rental Companies

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.

Ferry crossing is not permitted for all car types. Confirm with supplier before booking.

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.

Dubrovnik Port Overview

About Dubrovnik Port, Croatia

Locally known as Luka Gruž, Dubrovnik Port is the city’s main passenger port. It is in Gruž Bay, about 3 km from the Old Town. The terminal handles ferry and catamaran connections to the Elafiti Islands, Mljet, Korčula and Lastovo. There are also seasonal services to Hvar, Brač and Split, and to Bari in Italy.

Most things you need are close to the terminal. A Jadrolinija office, banks, ATMs, parking, and a supermarket are nearby. The main bus station is next door. City buses reach the Old Town in about 10 minutes. Car rental offices are nearby too. Each boat company can use its own pier, so always check the boarding point on your ticket. Allow extra time to find parking and check in, as boats to the islands are quite popular in summer.

Full Name: Luka Gruž Dubrovnik (Dubrovnik Ferry Port)

Address: Obala Stjepana Radića 40, 20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia

Distance to Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) ~22 km / ~25–30 min drive

Nearby Transport: Main bus station, city bus stops, taxi rank

Official Website: Dubrovnik Port Authority

Flexible Island Travel

Rent a Car at Dubrovnik Port to Explore Southern Dalmatia

Travellers often reach Dubrovnik Port after a day or more on the islands. Several Elafiti Islands have few or no cars, so the mainland is the best place to collect a rental car once you are back. From the port, the coast road takes you to Trsteno Arboretum in about twenty minutes, Cavtat in about thirty, and the oyster town of Ston in about fifty. These three make for good day trips for most travellers.

A car also frees you from timetables. You can leave when you like, stop at a beach or village that catches your eye, and get back to your hotel without waiting for a bus. The Old Town is closed to most cars, so the port is a simple place to start your journey. Our platform shows offers from Croatian and international suppliers side by side. Choose the car size and extras that fit your plans, from a small city car for two to a larger vehicle for a group.

Dubrovnik Port Car Rental

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 arrive.

~300–500 m

Dubrovnik Port to City Centre

~24 km

Dubrovnik Port

€15–35/day

Car Rental Price

2–4 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 Dubrovnik Port

🚫

Keep out of the Old Town traffic zone

Cars cannot enter the Old Town. A wider area around it is also closed to most visitors’ cars in the busy season. Park outside the zone and walk in.

📹

Watch your speed on the coast road

Speed limits are enforced and drop to 50 km/h in towns and villages. Take extra care on the bends of the road to Cavtat and Trsteno.

⛴️

Expect busy roads near the port

Traffic can slow down when ferries arrive or leave, and on days when cruise ships are in port. The port’s website lists cruise arrivals.

⛽

Fill up before you go to a car ferry

Car ferries to Mljet leave from Prapratno on the Pelješac peninsula, not from Dubrovnik Port. Fill the tank first and check that your rental terms allow ferries.

Ⓜ️

Manual cars are the norm

Most rental cars in Croatia have a manual gearbox. If you want an automatic, book early. There are fewer, and they can cost more.

🅿️

Park outside the zone when visiting the Old Town

Leave the car at the port and take a city bus, about 10 minutes. Or use the Ilijina Glavica garage and walk down to Pile Gate.

Local Knowledge · Rental Car Guide

Parking zones for Dubrovnik visitors

Typical rates across all 8 zone types – from €1/hr harbour parking to €199/day at the Old Town walls. Click any zone to see full details.

🅿️

Dubrovnik Airport parking (DBV)

On-site airport parking – 19 km south of Old Town

Short stays

Pickup/drop-off

€2–4

per hour

~€15–25

per day

Details & Features

📌

Location

19 km from Old Town – not practical for city visits

💶

Rate

~€2–4/hr; ~€15–25/day depending on lot

👍

Best for

Short airport pickup/drop-off or 1–2 night storage

Practical Info

📑

Rental Note

Return your car here – not a city parking solution

🚫

Restriction risk

None – airport zone is completely separate

🚍

Transfer to the city

Airport bus ~30–40 min, €10–12 to Old Town

🅿️

Pile Gate & Buža Parking

Zone 0

immediately beside Old Town city walls

2-hr max stay

Camera zone

€6–10

per hour (peak)

Up to €199

per day (May–Sep)

Details & Features

🚶

Walk to walls

Under 2 minutes on foot

⏰

Max stay

2-hour limit strictly enforced

📸

Enforcement

Camera-enforced – fines automatic

Practical Info

📑

June 2025

Now inside controlled traffic zone – permit required

💶

Daily Rate

Up to €199/day in peak season

🚗

For rental cars

Not recommended – highest cost & risk

🅿️

Ilijina Glavica Public Garage

Zone 1

Zagrebačka ulica · underground garage · 711 spaces

Escalator to Pile

24 hr

€7

per hour (high season)

~€80

per day (high season)

Details & Features

📌

Access to Old Town

Free escalator → Pile Gate, ~10 min walk

💶

Capacity

711 spaces – fills by 9 am in Jul–Aug

👍

Pre-booking

Recommended via BestParking in summer

Practical Info

⏰

Hours

Open 24 hours, 365 days a year

🚫

Restriction zone

Outside controlled zone – no permit needed

👍

Best for

Half-day and full-day Old Town visits

🅿️

Central City Street Parking

Zone 2

Vukovarska ulica and commercial district

15 min walk

24/7 CCTV

€3

per hour

~€24

per day

Details & Features

📌

Walk to Old Town

15 minutes on foot

💶

Security

24/7 CCTV surveillance

👍

Key address

Dubrovnik Center Parking, Vukovarska 22

Practical Info

🚍

Bus option

City bus connections available nearby

🚫

Restriction risk

Low – outside controlled zone boundary

👍

Best for

City centre visits, moderate budget

🅿️

Gruž Harbour / Suburban Parking

Zone 3

Obala Stjepana Radića, next to ferry terminal

Bus €1.50

Ferry access

€1.30

per hour (from)

~€17–30

per day (all-in)

Details & Features

📌

Bus to Old Town

City bus €1.50 per journey

🚢

Ferry access

Walk to ferries for Hvar, Korčula, Elaphiti

👍

Best value

Lowest all-day cost for rental car visitors

Practical Info

🚫

Restriction risk

Zero – no cameras, no controlled zone

✅

Availability

Open 24/7 – easier to find a space than Zone 1

👍

Best for

Full-day stays, ferries, multi-day rental parking

🅿️

Park & Ride / Outer Lots

Zone 4

Dubec and outer Dubrovnik areas

Free shuttle

Zero restriction

Free–€1

per hour

~€3–10

per day · shuttle included

Details & Features

🅿️

Shuttle

Free or low-cost shuttle to Old Town included

💶

Cheapest overall

~€3–10/day all-in – lowest cost available

🚫

Restriction risk

Zero – fully outside all controlled zones

Practical Info

👍

Best for

Long stays, multi-day, budget travellers

📌

Location

Furthest from Old Town – add 20–30 min travel

📑

Note

Shuttle frequency varies – check schedule in advance

🅿️

Hotel & Private Garages

Varies by property – always confirm before booking

Overnight

Charged separately

~€15–40

per night (typically)

Details & Features

❗

Important

Many hotels charge parking separately – confirm when booking

💶

Typical Rate

€15–40/night depending on hotel star rating

🚫

Restriction zone

Some Old Town hotels have approved access – verify with hotel

Practical Info

👍

Advantage

Most secure – often covered or guarded overnight

💳

Rates vary

Old Town-adjacent hotels charge highest parking rates

📅

Pre-booking

Essential in peak season – spaces are very limited

🅿️

Best Parking & Private Operators

Various locations – advance booking strongly recommended in peak season

Pre-book

Reserved spot

€3–8

per hour

~€20–60

per day (location-dependent)

Details & Features

📅

Pre-booking

Essential in peak season – best prices secured early

🛡️

Security

Usually monitored, often covered or gated lots

🅿️

Find spaces

BestParking.eu, ParkMe, local operators

Practical Info

💶

Rate range

Wide – €20/day suburban to €60/day near Old Town

👍

Best for

Guaranteed reserved spot for multi-day stays

⚠️

Caution

Verify exact location and walking distance before booking

ℹ

Pay by:

🅿️ Parking Meters

📱 Bmove App

🎫 Tisak kiosk

💬 SMS text

Dubrovnik Port · By Car

Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik Port by Rental Car

Most trips from Gruž start on the coast road, either north towards Trsteno and Ston or south towards Cavtat and Konavle. Collecting your car at the port gets you moving straight away, without crossing the city or waiting for a bus.

Your matches for

Beach & Swim

⛱️

Bačvice Beach

A hidden beach below the Konavle cliffs, reached by a steep path from the road. Expect clear water and dramatic rock walls, but no facilities. Not suitable for small children or anyone who finds steep paths difficult.

  • Cliff Setting
  • Clear Water
  • Car Access

~38 km

🏖️

Župa Dubrovačka Beaches

A string of pebble beaches southeast of the city, including Srebreno and Mlini. They are an easy drive and a relaxed alternative to the city beaches.

  • Pebble Beach
  • Easy Drive
  • Local Atmosphere

~15 km

🌊

Cavtat Beaches

Pebble and rock beaches around Cavtat’s pine-covered peninsula, with calm water and shaded walking paths.

  • Calm Water
  • Pine Shade
  • Easy Access

~24 km

💡

Your matches for

Eat & Relax

🐟

Ston & Mali Ston Oysters

Mali Ston Bay is known for oysters and mussels, served fresh at waterside restaurants. The old salt pans in Ston make a short stop nearby.

  • Oysters
  • Mussels
  • Salt Pans

~50 km

🏘️

Čilipi Village Konobas

A quiet village near the airport with traditional konobas (family-run taverns) serving local Dalmatian dishes. A relaxed lunch stop away from the busy Old Town.

  • Konoba Dining
  • Local Dishes
  • Village Atmosphere

~22 km

🌊

Konavle Valley Wineries

Family wineries and farm restaurants in a green valley southeast of the city. Try local wines, homemade rakija, and slow farm lunches.

  • Winery Visits
  • Farm Dining
  • Local Wine

~35 km

💡

Your matches for

Views & Photos

⛰️

Mount Srđ

The classic Dubrovnik view, with the Old Town, city walls, and Adriatic laid out below. A narrow, winding road leads to Fort Imperial and the viewing area at the top.

  • Old Town Panorama
  • Fort Imperial
  • Short Drive

~7 km

🛣️

Adriatic Highway South (Cavtat Road)

The coastal road south of the city has sea views for most of the drive. Stop wherever the view catches your eye.

  • Coastal Drive
  • Sea Views
  • Photo Stops

~24 km

🏞️

Adriatic Highway North (Slano)

The coastal road north passes small bays and views across the Elafiti Islands, and reaches the quiet town of Slano.

  • Coastal Drive
  • Island Views
  • Quiet Bays

~35 km

💡

Your matches for

History & Explore

🏛️

Trsteno Arboretum

A garden from the late 15th century, created around a noble family’s summer home. Walk shaded paths and see the old stone aqueduct. It also appeared in Game of Thrones.

  • Renaissance Garden
  • Historic Aqueduct
  • Game of Thrones

~15 km

🏰

Ston Walls

Some of the longest defensive walls in Europe, about 5.5 km, linking Ston and Mali Ston across the hillside. Walk a section for views of the salt pans and the bay.

  • Medieval Walls
  • Salt Pans
  • Bay Views

~50km

🏘️

Sokol Grad

A medieval hilltop fortress in Konavle that once guarded the edge of the Dubrovnik Republic. Inside is a small museum, and the views over the valley are wide and open.

  • Medieval Fortress
  • Small Museum
  • Valley Views

~45 km

💡

Your matches for

Hidden Gems

🏰

Mlini Harbour

A small harbour village in Župa Dubrovačka, with a quiet beach and local cafés. A slower-paced stop close to the city.

  • Quiet Harbour
  • Calm Beach
  • Local Cafés

~17 km

🏞️

Ljuta River Watermills

Old stone watermills on the Ljuta River in Konavle, once used to grind flour for the Dubrovnik Republic. Enjoy clear water, green banks, and riverside restaurants nearby.

  • Historic Mills
  • River Setting
  • Riverside Dining

~43 km

🌊

Molunat

A small fishing village at the far south of Croatia, with quiet bays and clear water for snorkelling. A calm place to swim away from busy beaches.

  • Fishing Village
  • Snorkelling
  • Quiet Bays

~45 km

💡

Your matches for

Quick & Easy

🏖️

Mount Srđ

The biggest reward for the shortest drive. Park at the top and the whole city is below you.

  • Short Drive
  • Great Views
  • Easy Parking

~7 km

🛣️

Trsteno Arboretum

An easy half-morning trip along the coast road, ending with shaded garden paths and sea views.

  • Half Morning
  • Sea Views
  • Shaded Paths

~15 km

🏞️

Cavtat

A coastal road leads to a harbour promenade, a seafood lunch, and a historic old town, all in one easy stop.

  • Harbour Walk
  • Seafood Lunch
  • Easy Access

~24 km

💡

Popular Routes

One-Way Car Rental from Dubrovnik

The flexibility to return the rented vehicle to a location other than the pick-up can make planning journeys easier. Without worrying about backtracking plan routes with flexibility, and if needed, the following popular domestic routes can definitely aid in inspiration for planning:

Explore beyond Croatia

Cross-Border Car Rental from Dubrovnik

While not every cross-border trip is the same, driving a hired vehicle from Croatia to neighbouring countries is relatively easy and hassle-free if you know 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 440 verified customer reviews

  • Hassle-free rental

    Verified

    Excellent nearly new car. Very easy pickup and return. The staff member was well informed and clearly explained what we needed to know about the car and trip. Good value for money. Customer support was also very friendly. Straightforward, hassle-free, and I would recommend booking based on our experience.

    Collette Eastwood
  • Smooth handover

    Verified

    We are very satisfied with your attentive and friendly welcome and with the car. Everything was perfect. The staff were very friendly, the car was clean, and check-in and check-out were easy. Thank you for everything from booking to pickup to return.

    Willy Ynam
  • Great value

    Verified

    Friendly staff, car in great condition, everything went smoothly. Polite and friendly reception with good service and a positive attitude. It was much cheaper to book here than the platforms I’ve booked before because extras were optional. The car was provided with Europcar. Overall, very good.

    George Simpson
  • Effortless pickup & drop-off

    Verified

    This was the easiest rental car drop-off service I have ever had. Fabulous service at both pickup and return. Mack car rental service was truly outstanding. The key pickup and car location were easy to find and well marked. Cheers to a great service and fair pricing.

    Patrick Mcguire
  • Great car

    Verified

    The desk service was wonderful and the car was almost brand new, but the child seats were a bit worn off. Great navigation system, easy drop-off, and helpful staff. It took a while to understand the automatic unlocking. A fun week long trip across four different cities without any issues. Will gladly book again.

    Haiden Clayton
  • Flexible return

    Verified

    Very friendly English-speaking staff, fast pickup, convenient out-of-hours drop-off, and a nice office. I would choose them again, though their directions to the car park were confusing. No fuss other than finding the office; everything was straightforward as it should be.

    Stephane Malherbe
  • Spacious car

    Verified

    Great service. Receiving the car took longer than expected, but staff were helpful and professional. I am very satisfied with the customer friendliness and commitment of the lady at the supplier counter. The car was very spacious and high like we needed for our travel plans.

    Cécile Duchemin
  • Fast pickup

    Verified

    Absolutely perfect. Found the car at a good price and booked just as easily. Pickup was speedy, and Green Motion provided very friendly and professional service. Drop-off was quick and easy. I will definitely use you again.

    Souleymane Compaore
  • Excellent service

    Verified

    We received good service and a new car. Great price, friendly staff at the desk, an amazing upgrade, and very efficient and easy drop-off. I will use it again next time for a family trip. Thanks.

    Harald Gjøsæter
  • Helpful staff

    Verified

    The staff were very helpful at return and explained everything clearly. Car drop-off was very easy. Signage and return directions were confusing and additional insurance was offered. A positive experience altogether.

    Peter Bailey

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 & Availability
  • Pricing & Requirements
  • Pickup & Drop-off
  • Ferry & Cross-Border Travel

📅

Do I need to book a rental car in advance at Dubrovnik Port?

Yes. Booking ahead is the safest choice. Dubrovnik is busy from April to October, and July and August are the peak months. Cars at the port can sell out in summer, and automatics and larger vehicles go first. Booking early also gives you more choice and helps you match your pickup time to your ferry.

Travel periodWhen to book
Jul–AugAs early as you can
May–Jun and Sep–OctA few weeks ahead
Nov–AprA week or two ahead

🚗

Can I rent a car directly at Dubrovnik Ferry Port?

Yes. Gruž Port / Ferry Terminal is one of the preferred pickup points for many travellers arriving by ferry or cruise. Car rental offices operate in the port area. Your booking voucher shows the exact desk or meeting point. You can try to rent without a booking, but cars can run out in summer. It is better to reserve first.

Pickup pointBest for
Gruž Port / Ferry TerminalArriving by ferry or cruise
Dubrovnik Bus StationArriving by coach
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)Collecting a car right after landing
Dubrovnik DowntownCity stays and sightseeing
Dubrovnik Hotel DeliveryHaving the car brought to your hotel

🏬

Are car rental offices within walking distance of Dubrovnik Port?

Yes, but not all of them. Some car rental supplier branches operate at or near the terminal. Others are a short drive away. You can find the exact address and directions to the pickup location in your booking confirmation voucher before you travel. The main bus station is next to the terminal at an easy walking distance.

💶

How much does it cost to rent a car at Dubrovnik Port?

The daily rate depends on the season, the car size and how early you book. Prices are highest in July and August and usually lowest in November. You can view live prices by searching for deals using your travel dates in our booking form. Some extras are charged as a flat amount per rental, not per day.

Cost itemTypical amount
Daily rate (economy–compact)Varies by season and car
Young driver surcharge (under 25)Around €5–10 per day
After-hours pickup or returnAround €25–40
Cross-border authorisation (Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina)€50–90 per rental
Extra driverDaily fee or flat charge, depending on supplier

💳

Can I rent a car at Dubrovnik Port without a credit card?

Usually not. Suppliers ask for a credit card to hold the security deposit. The card is for the deposit, not for the payment. A few suppliers accept a debit card, but they may ask for a higher deposit and extra insurance.

CardAccepted?
Credit card in the main driver’s nameYes
Debit cardOnly with some suppliers, often with a higher deposit
Card in another person’s nameNo

⛴️

Can I pick up a rental car immediately after arriving by ferry?

Yes, if the supplier’s desk is open when you arrive. Large ferries can take a while to unload, so allow time to get off the boat and reach the desk. Have your documents ready so the handover is quick.

What to bringDetails
Valid driver’s licenceHeld for at least 1–2 years, depending on supplier
Passport or IDFor the main driver
Credit cardIn the main driver’s name, for the deposit
Booking voucherTo confirm your booking at the desk
International Driving PermitOnly if your licence is not in the Latin alphabet

⛴️

What happens if my ferry arrives late and I’m late for car rental pickup?

Contact the supplier as soon as you know. Use the phone number on your booking voucher and give your new arrival time. Many suppliers will wait a short time. The length of the wait varies, so check your rental terms. If you arrive after the desk closes, the car may be released, and your booking may be treated as a no-show.

What to doWhy it helps
Call the supplier earlyThey can hold the car or plan a late handover
Share your new arrival timeThey know when to expect you
Ask about after-hours pickupYou may still collect the car that night

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Can I arrange an after-hours car rental pickup or return at Dubrovnik Port?

Sometimes. Some suppliers offer after-hours service, but only on request and only if you arrange it in advance. It usually comes with an added fee of around €25–40. Not every supplier at the port offers after-hours service. Make sure you check service availability before booking.

Your situationWhat to do
Arriving during desk hoursCollect the car as normal
Arriving outside desk hoursRequest after-hours service in advance
Desk is closed, and nothing is arrangedYou may have to wait until the desk opens

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Can I pick up a rental car at Dubrovnik Port and return it at Dubrovnik Airport?

Yes. Both locations are in Dubrovnik, so it is a simple same-city return. Some suppliers add a one-way or airport fee, so check the supplier’s terms before you book. The airport is about 20 km from the port, around 25–30 minutes by car.

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Can I take a rental car from Dubrovnik Port on a ferry to the islands?

Sometimes. Not every supplier allows you to take rental cars on ferries, so ask before you book. Only some boats carry cars. Fill the tank before you go. That way, you won’t have to look for fuel on the island.

RouteLeaves fromCars allowed?
Dubrovnik – Šipan (car ferry, line 831)Gruž (Dubrovnik Port)Yes, to Šipan only
Dubrovnik – Koločep, Lopud, Šipan (passenger boat, line 807)GružNo, foot passengers only
Catamarans to Mljet, Korčula, Lastovo, Hvar, Brač, SplitGružNo
Mljet (car ferry, line 832)Prapratno, on the Pelješac peninsulaYes
Korčula (car ferry)Orebić, on the Pelješac peninsulaYes

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Can I drive a rental car from Dubrovnik Port to Bosnia and Herzegovina or Montenegro?

Usually yes, but only with the supplier’s prior authorisation. You must arrange it before you leave Dubrovnik, because it cannot be added at the desk. A cross-border fee applies, and you will need a Green Card. Take a passport for every passenger.

CountryPermitted?Extra costKey requirement
MontenegroGenerally yes€50–90 per rentalPrior authorisation and Green Card
Bosnia and HerzegovinaWith many suppliers, not all€50–90 per rentalPrior authorisation and Green Card

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Can I return my rental car to Dubrovnik Port before boarding a ferry?

Yes, if the supplier offers the Dubrovnik Port / Ferry Terminal as a drop-off point. Return the car early enough to finish the check-in and walk to your boat. Check the desk’s opening hours, because some boats leave very early or late.

FerryWhen to arrive
Bari ferry (international)Check-in opens about 2 hours before departure
Island boats and catamaransAt least 30–45 minutes before departure
Josip Stjepan
Editorial Contributor

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: November 2026