How to find a cheap car hire deal in Zagreb
Searching for a cheap rental car in Zagreb? This is where the booking magic happens. With prices averaging 72 € a day, we compare all the best deals so you can book faster, spend smarter, and hit the road happy.
Daily rental prices in Zagreb start from just 15 €.
Staying a little longer and want to explore beyond the usual highlights? 36 € is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
If you want to get the timing right, book around four weeks ahead to land the best price on a Zagreb car hire.
Find your perfect ride with Green Motion, AVIA Rent or OK Mobility. They're some of the most popular providers in the city.
The coverage Green Motion or another supplier offers for your Zagreb car hire can vary, so be sure to read the fine print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will apply a surcharge for it.
Choosing a one-way car hire can be your secret weapon for cheaper deals. Simply select 'Return car to a different location.' Providers sometimes need to move vehicles from one location to another, which means you can bag some excellent one-way prices on a car for rent in Zagreb.
Spend less on fuel by choosing a vehicle that offers a 'Fair fuel policy.' You collect the car with a full tank and drop it off full, so you only pay for what you use.
Travel without limits by searching for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can drive as far as you like without paying more.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll get the best value with this company. Prices average 98 € a day.
Offering daily rates of around 96 €, this provider comes in next.
The third option won't break the bank either. You'll pay roughly 58 € a day with this supplier.
The Economy rental category is a dependable choice if you're not sure what kind of wheels you need. It's also the most commonly booked car type in Zagreb.
Flying to Zagreb? Think about an airport pick-up
Start exploring Zagreb sooner by booking a car hire at Franjo Tudman Airport. The city centre is about 11 kilometres from this airport, which is a drive of around 20 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Zagreb
Small: Whether you're cruising narrow city streets or simply planning a quick trip, this car category offers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can expect easy handling and excellent mileage.
Medium: A reliable pick when you need something that's easy to drive but with a few more features. This category covers compact and intermediate models that come with a little extra leg space compared to smaller options.
Large: You've got the kids, the bags, the snacks, the works. Large vehicles have got the capacity to pack it all in without breaking a sweat. Ideal for long-distance journeys, this Zagreb car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: Get a higher ground clearance and an open view of the journey ahead in an SUV. Whether you're navigating rugged country lanes or cruising along uninterrupted highways, many offer all-wheel drive to help you take on any road.
Van: If you're searching for a car for rent in Zagreb that fits a small crowd (and their luggage), a van has space to spare. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're best suited for group excursions, business needs or moving.
Insurance and optional extras
Adding excess insurance to your Zagreb car hire lets you drive with confidence. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of theft or damage. Insurance policies can vary from one provider to another, so always compare your options.
Level up your ride with handy extras like a reverse camera or navigation unit. They can turn your drive into a smoother experience when you rent a car in Zagreb.
Good to know
Rental age requirements aren't always the same everywhere. Companies can set their own policies, and if you're a younger driver, you could face extra fees or restrictions. Check the specific rules for each supplier before booking your rental in Croatia.
Bringing the kids with you? Car seat rules differ from place to place, and the correct setup may depend on their weight, age and height. Confirm whether you need to add one to your Zagreb car hire booking.
Come prepared to avoid delays at pick-up. You'll typically need your physical driver's licence (no screenshots) plus another photo ID. Bring a credit card with enough balance for the deposit too. If extra documents are required, they'll be listed in your booking.
Get familiar with your rental. Adjust your seat and mirrors, find the lights and blinkers, and get a feel for its handling before you drive away. And importantly, stick to the right side of the road in Croatia.
Local speed limits may vary, but it's typically around 45kph in built-up areas and 125kph or so on highways. Always follow the posted signs.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Croatia is 0.05%. Because alcohol doesn't affect all people equally, the surest choice is to avoid drinks so you remain legal to drive.
Aim to travel outside heavy traffic periods for a smoother run. 8am is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
You'll be using the euro (EUR) on your trip here. In addition to your bank cards, consider having some cash handy for minor purchases.
Croatian is the language you'll hear most often in this country.
Best hotels in Zagreb for drivers
Spend less time looking for a parking spot and more time settling into the comfort of Hotel Calypso. Around 10 kilometres from central Zagreb, it comes with parking, ironing services and a restaurant.
Hotel Vila Tina makes travel simpler with valet parking and features such as room service and luggage storage. It's roughly 3 kilometres from the city centre.
Explore the full range of hotels in Zagreb and pick the stay that fits your itinerary. Filters make it easy to tailor your search to what you need — like 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' or 'Outdoor parking.' There's even an 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to find hotels with charging access.
After you've locked in a car hire deal in Zagreb and your hotel, the only thing left is to decide where to explore first. Begin your sightseeing at must-see attractions such as Park Maksimir, Basilica of The Sacred Heart of Jesus and Upper Town.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Zagreb
Around 48 kilometres southwest of central Zagreb, Karlovac deserves a place on your itinerary. Steer straight toward must-see sights like Christmas Market In Karlovac and Church of St. Nicholas.
You'll be well looked after at Boutique Hotel Korana Srakovcic and Hotel Amarilis, two reliable accommodation options with parking in Karlovac.
Alternatively, collect your cheap car hire in Zagreb and travel roughly 64 kilometres northeast to Varaždin. Featuring Sermage Palace and St. Nicholas Church, it's every bit as good as advertised.
Relax after a day of exploring Varaždin at Arbia Dorka Heritage Palace or Hotel Lagus. These hotels cater to guests with cars.
Extend your journey and road-trip it to Osijek, roughly 209 kilometres east of Zagreb. First, visit Waterfall Fortress, then follow it up with Croatian National Theatre in Osijek.
Catch up on sleep in Osijek at either Hotel Waldinger or Hotel Osijek. They've got a room waiting for you and a place for your wheels too.
