Car rental in Zadar

In Zadar, a short walk can take you past ancient historical monuments and modern attractions. If you want to uncover all the secrets of this city, choose car rental in Zadar.

Having your own vehicle allows you to easily reach places where public transport doesn’t go and where taxi fares are too high. Some of the most interesting destinations, such as Paklenica National Park or the ancient town of Nin, are only 30–40 minutes away.

Imagine swimming at Bilotinjak or Sabunike beach in the morning and strolling among Roman ruins in the afternoon. Renting a car frees you from bus schedules and tourist groups. Plus, it’s much cheaper than taking several taxi rides a day!

Where to Rent a Car in Zadar: Why People Choose Localrent

When looking for a car rental in Zadar, you’ll see many options, but the terms vary widely. Localrent simplifies the search: the website only features verified local companies, and booking takes just 5 minutes. Here's why it's worth renting a car through Localrent:

1. Only 15–20% prepayment — the rest is paid upon pickup.
2. Fixed cost — the final price is shown in the voucher with no hidden fees or taxes.
3. Modern fleet — most cars are less than 5 years old.
4. Convenient filters — select cars by brand, transmission type, deposit amount, insurance, or number of seats.
5. Wide selection — from compact hatchbacks to family minivans and luxury class, all in one place.

With Localrent, you don't need to waste time comparing rental companies: the platform has already selected reliable partners with fair prices.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Zadar

To rent a car in Zadar, you will need:

• Passport — to confirm your identity;
• Driver's license — must include Latin characters;
• Bank card — to reserve the car online.

Rental conditions:

• Minimum 20 years old and 1 year of driving experience — limited car options;
• From 22 years and 3+ years of experience — almost the entire fleet is available.

Important note: the terms may vary even for the same car models from different providers. For example, one hatchback may be available from age 20, another from 22. Therefore:

1. Always check the car's info card — it specifies the exact age and experience requirements;
2. Use filters on Localrent — enter your age and experience to see suitable options only.

This way, you’ll avoid surprises and choose a car that’s right for you.

Driving Features and Traffic Rules in Zadar

Driving through Croatia, you will quickly notice the local character — both in the landscapes and in the driving style. Here's what you need to know to feel confident.

Toll Roads

When entering a motorway, for example, towards Zagreb or Split, take a ticket. Upon exit, give it to the operator and pay the fee with cash or card. Some bridges and tunnels are also tolled — keep coins or a card handy.

Speed Limits

Standard speed limits in Zadar: 50 km/h in town, 90 km/h outside town, 110 km/h on expressways, 130 km/h on motorways. Watch the signs — on some sections the speed limit may be lower.

Local drivers often exceed speed limits. We do not recommend following their example. If someone is tailgating, honking, or flashing lights, just pull over at a safe spot and let them pass.

Local Driving Style

Croatian drivers are assertive: they may overtake on blind curves, honk if they think you’re slow, or greet friends with a honk. Don’t take it personally — stay calm and:

1. Keep to the right lane if not overtaking;
2. Don’t block the left lane on highways;
3. Watch out for motorcyclists and pedestrians in town — they can appear suddenly.

From November 1 to March 31, low beam or daytime running lights must be on at all times. In tunnels and low visibility, lights must always be on.

Fuel Stations in Zadar

All gas stations have staff, but you fill the tank yourself. After fueling, go to the shop to pay at the register.

Most stations have a small shop where you can buy water, snacks, coffee, toiletries, and car products — from washer fluid to wiper blades.

Fuel prices are slightly higher on highways than in the city. To save money, fuel up in Zadar before hitting the road.

Parking in Zadar

The city is divided into 4 zones with different rates. The closer to the center — the peninsula — the higher the price:

1. Zone 0 is for residents only. Others can park for a maximum of 1 hour with a fee.
2. Zones 1–4: paid parking with no time limit. Prices vary — zone 1 is most expensive, zone 4 is cheapest.

Parking fees also depend on the season: from May 1 to September 30, higher rates apply.

You can park cheaply at shopping malls. For example, City Galleria near the center has a paid garage that's cheaper than street parking. Zadar also has many covered garages with plenty of spaces even during peak tourist season.

Payment options:

• At a parking meter;
• Via an app, e.g., Bmove;
• Via SMS — a Croatian SIM card is required.

Outside peak tourist months, you can find free parking not far from the center. For example, many spots on Stjepana Radića Street, starting at the City Bridge. You can also park for free at the entrance to the peninsula at coordinates 44.109147, 15.231604. There are often spots near Zadar General Hospital — it’s close to the center.

Do not park in areas with yellow markings — it’s prohibited.

Booking a Car in Zadar: Step-by-Step Guide

Don’t want to spend half a day looking for a rental? Here’s how to book a car on Localrent in 10 minutes:

1. Enter your rental dates and use filters to search;
2. Choose a car, open its card and read about its specs, insurance type, driver requirements, and payment options;
3. Click “Continue.” Select pick-up/drop-off time and place, fill in driver info, and contact details;
4. Pay the advance — only 15–20% on Localrent;
5. Booking confirmation will arrive by email.

Upon pickup, inspect the car: take photos of scratches, dents, and the interior. Ensure all issues are listed in the inspection form. Sign the agreement, pay the balance, and get your keys.

Top Places to Visit While Vacationing in Zadar

With a rental car in Zadar, you can swim under waterfalls, climb mountains, and dive into history — all in one day. Top 5 must-visit spots:

1. Krka National Park: A vast green area with turquoise lakes where you can swim. Walk the wooden trails to Skradinski Buk waterfall — the park's main attraction.
2. Nin: An ancient town with Croatia’s narrowest streets and the golden Queen’s Beach. It’s an open-air museum and home to the legendary Solana Nin salt. See 120 artificial pools where seawater evaporates in five natural stages. There's also a salt production museum.
3. Vrana Lake: Croatia’s largest lake, home to hundreds of bird species. A boardwalk surrounds the lake with informational stands. Bikes are available for rent.
4. Biograd na Moru: A cozy town with a promenade where Kornati National Park tours start. Visit the local museum and relax on San Antonio sandy beach.
5. Primošten: A picturesque peninsula with vineyards and an old town surrounded by a fortress wall. Climb the bell tower of St. George’s Church — the view of red-tiled roofs and sea is stunning.

All roads to these places are paved, suitable even for small cars. You can also stop by roadside konobas — they’re everywhere, serving delicious and affordable meals!

Where to Pick Up a Rental Car in Zadar

You can pick up a rental car at three main locations: Zadar Airport, the city office of the rental company, or directly at your address, e.g., your hotel.

Each car in Zadar has its own set of pick-up points, depending on the rental provider. For example, one car might only be available at the airport, another at the city office and via delivery, and a third — at all three locations.

Tips and Advice: What to Know Before Renting a Car in Zadar

Here are some useful tips that will help you with car rental in Zadar:

1. Not all vehicles are allowed to cross the border. Contact Localrent support before booking if you plan to visit Montenegro or Bosnia and Herzegovina — we’ll help you choose a suitable car.
2. Trips to the islands, such as Pag or Ugljan, by ferry are possible but require coordination with the rental company. If you plan to visit the islands and want to take the car with you, get in touch with us before booking and we’ll help you reserve the right vehicle.
3. If you’re traveling alone or as a couple, choose a compact car. Popular models include the Fiat 500, Toyota Yaris, and Volkswagen Up. These cars are easier to park and to drive through narrow streets. Their power is also more than enough for trips outside the city.

With these hacks, car rental in Zadar won’t be a headache but rather part of the adventure. All that’s left is to pick your route and feel the wind in your hair on the roads of Croatia.

FAQ About Car Rental in Zadar