Everything you need to know about Croatian roads: 2024 Guide

Check our comprehensive guide, we dive deep into everything you need to know about Croatian roads and traffic rules. From keeping up to date with road conditions and traffic rules to understanding the right of way, this blog post is your go-to resource for a smooth and safe road trip experience. Fasten your seatbelt, and let's explore the Croatian roads together.

Croatian roads guide:

• Is it easy to drive in Croatia?
• Is Croatia safe to drive?
• What side of the road does Croatia drive on?
• Live traffic flow and road conditions
• Croatia road map
• Croatia weather live
• Does Croatia have a highway?
• Alcohol road policies
• Speed limits in Croatia
• When is winter equipment mandatory?
• Headlights usage in Croatia
• Is it permitted to use the mobile phone?
• Is it required by law to wear a seatbelt in Croatia?
• Who has the right of way?
• Croatia Emergency Services Numbers
• What to do in case of a traffic accident in Croatia?

Is it easy to drive in Croatia?

Driving in Croatia is generally considered to be straightforward and enjoyable. Croatia has one of the best highways in Europe. The road infrastructure is well-maintained, and the country offers beautiful nature and sights to explore by car.

Is Croatia safe to drive?

Croatia is generally safe for driving. Keep in mind that Croatians are spirited people and can get a little angry, so follow the traffic rules, drive defensively and you should be fine. Croatians can also be very friendly, so if you need help navigating feel free to stop and ask locals, they will be happy to help you.

What side of the road does Croatia drive on?

Croatia drives on the right-hand side of the road. When planning to overtake a vehicle, be sure to do it on the left side. For drivers coming from countries that drive on the left-hand side, we do advise caution because it takes some time to adjust to Croatian right-hand driving.

Live traffic flow and road conditions

The best way to keep in touch with real-time information on live traffic flow and road conditions in Croatia is through HAK (Croatian Auto Club). You should also listen to their road updates on Croatian radio stations (set TP on vehicle radio). HAK keeps up-to-the-minute updates and informs regularly about potential delays, road closures, and traffic patterns.

Croatia road map

If planning to drive in Croatia and you need navigation, Google Maps will probably be good enough.

If you need a print version of the Croatian tourist and road map you can download it here (click on "Download brochure" on the Croatian National Tourist Board website).

Croatia weather live

Preparation is the key factor for every road trip, so make sure to check Croatia weather forecast before planning the trip. Croatia boasts a diverse climate, offering a medley of weather experiences throughout the year.

Experience warm summers along the stunning Adriatic coast, with temperatures ranging from 25-35°C (77-95°F) from June to August. Spring and autumn bring milder weather, perfect for exploring historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities.

Winters are generally mild along the coast, with temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F), while inland regions experience colder temperatures and occasional snowfall.

Does Croatia have a highway?

Croatia has a network of toll roads. Be aware of toll booths and prepare euros or a card to pay the toll. The highway speed limit in Croatia is 130 km/h. Even though Croatia has one of the best highways in Europe, it doesn't have a vignette, so you will have to pay for every time you enter and exit the highway. Here are some more details about Croatian highways and the the official Croatia highway price list.

Alcohol road policies

Don’t drink and drive, the law has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 25 which means that the blood alcohol level (BAC) limit is 0%. The BAC limit for drivers over 25 years old is 0.5%.

Speed limits in Croatia

These are the standard legal speed limits when driving in Croatia, which may be altered by signs:

• BUILT-UP AREAS: 50 km/h
• OPEN ROADS: 80 km/h
• MOTORWAYS / HIGHWAYS: 130 km/h

When is winter equipment mandatory?

Croatia does have areas where you can expect snow and ice, so winter equipment is mandatory from November to March (15.11. - 15.04.) only in continental Croatia. Winter equipment means you need to have either winter tires or snow chains.

Headlights usage in Croatia

From late October to the end of March, you should use dipped headlights throughout daylight hours (daytime running lights should be on from when winter time starts until when summer time starts). Additionally, headlights should be utilized during nighttime and whenever visibility drops below 100 meters.

Is it permitted to use the mobile phone while driving?

It is strictly prohibited to use a mobile phone while operating a vehicle unless equipped with a hands-free device. This regulation emphasizes the importance of ensuring drivers maintain full attention on the road for enhanced safety. If you ignore the rules, you will the 130,00 € fine.

Is it required by law to wear a seatbelt in Croatia?

It is a legal requirement that all passengers in the vehicle must wear seat belts at all times. Additionally, to ensure the well-being of young passengers, children under the age of 12 are prohibited from occupying the front seat. For children between 2 and 7 years old, the use of a suitable child seat is mandatory to provide the necessary restraint and protection, aligning with established safety standards.

Who has the right of way?

Generally, vehicles approaching an intersection should let through those already in it. At unmarked intersections, the vehicle on the right usually has the right of way. When turning, pedestrians in crosswalks have priority, and vehicles must let them pass.

On roundabouts, vehicles entering must yield to those already circulating. Emergency vehicles with activated sirens and lights always have the right of way, and drivers are obligated to clear the path for them.

Emergency Services Numbers

In Croatia, the emergency numbers for different services are the same:

• Emergency Medical Assistance (Ambulance): 112
• Fire Department: 112
• Police: 112

The universal emergency number 112 is operational in Croatia and can be dialed for any emergency. Whether you need medical assistance, the fire department, or police intervention, dialing 112 will connect you to the appropriate emergency service.

What to do in case of a traffic accident in Croatia?

The first and most important part is to ensure safety (if possible move vehicles to the side of the road and turn on blinking lights to alert other drivers).

If there are injuries, immediately call the Ambulance and Police by dialing 112.

If there is significant damage to the vehicle, call the police by dialing 112 and wait for them to arrive.

Exchange personal and insurance info with the other drivers involved, document the scene, and complete an accident report.

How to deal with accidents and damages when renting a car in Croatia? Report the accident to your car rental company as soon as possible and give them all the details.