How to Travel Croatia Without a Car – Best Routes & Tips
Croatia is a breathtaking destination with its coastal towns, historic cities, and stunning national parks. But what if you don’t drive?
Good news: You can explore Croatia without a car.
Thanks to well-connected ferries, buses, and rideshare services, non-drivers can travel comfortably and efficiently.
What This Guide Covers
- How to travel Croatia without a car
- Best routes and transportation options
- Budget-friendly travel tips
Whether you’re a solo traveler, backpacker, or simply prefer a car-free adventure, this guide will help you navigate Croatia with ease.
Can You Travel Croatia Without a Car?
Yes, traveling Croatia without a car is completely possible.
While many tourists choose to rent a car, Croatia’s public transport system makes it easy to move between cities and islands.
The best ways to get around Croatia without a car are:
- Ferries – Essential for traveling between coastal cities and islands
- Buses – Reliable and budget-friendly for inland travel
- Uber & Bolt – Convenient for short trips within cities
Not having a rental car means no parking stress, no extra rental fees, and a more relaxing journey.
Best Routes for Traveling Croatia Without a Car
🚆 Recommended Car-Free Itinerary (11 Days, 12 Nights)
Dubrovnik (3 nights) → Hvar (2 nights) → Split (3 nights, day trip to Primosten) → Plitvice Lakes (1 night) → Zagreb (1 night)
Why This Route Works Well
- Easy ferry and bus connections
- A mix of coastal beauty, historic cities, and natural landscapes
- Minimal long-distance travel to reduce fatigue
Transport & Travel Time
| Route | Transport | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Dubrovnik → Hvar | Ferry (Krilo) | 3 hours |
| Hvar → Split | Ferry (Krilo) | 1 hour |
| Split → Plitvice Lakes | Bus (Getbybus) | 3.5 hours |
| Plitvice Lakes → Zagreb | Bus (Getbybus) | 2 hours |
This route ensures you experience the best of Croatia without a car while keeping travel time manageable.
How to Get Around Croatia Without a Car
1. Using Uber & Bolt for City Travel
- Uber and Bolt are available in Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb
- Bolt is sometimes cheaper than Uber
- Uber sign-up discount code:
1bbukh3a2kym
2. Ferries for Island Hopping
- Krilo (Kapetan Luka) ferries are the best option for coastal travel
- Ferry booking site: Krilo Official Website
- Large luggage is allowed, but always check for schedule changes via email
3. Buses for Long-Distance Travel
- Croatia’s bus system is more reliable than trains
- Getbybus is the best option → Getbybus Official Website
- Flixbus is another alternative, but prices vary
Bus Travel Tips
- Cancel up to 48 hours before departure (20% cancellation fee)
- Choose a window seat for scenic views
By using these options, traveling Croatia without a car is easy and cost-effective.
Estimated Travel Costs for a Car-Free Trip
| Expense | Estimated Cost (per person) |
|---|---|
| Flights (round trip) | ~$1,000 (Turkish Airlines, via Istanbul) |
| Accommodation (Airbnb) | ~$450 (11 nights) |
| Transportation (ferry + bus) | ~$110 |
| Food & Daily Expenses | ~$900 |
| Tours & Shopping | ~$200–$400 |
| Total (11 nights, 12 days) | ~$2,500 – $2,800 |
How to Save Money While Traveling Croatia Without a Car
- Use Travel Wallet & Wise for better exchange rates
- Euros are widely accepted – no need to exchange Croatian kuna
- Book accommodations near ferry terminals and bus stations for convenience
Best Accommodation for a Car-Free Croatia Trip
- Dubrovnik – Stay near the Old Town for easy walking access
- Hvar – Book a hotel close to the harbor
- Split – Stay near the Riva Promenade for better connectivity
- Plitvice Lakes – Spend one night near the national park
- Zagreb – Pick a hotel in the city center for shopping and sightseeing
📌 Accommodation Tips
- Choose places within walking distance of major attractions
- Read reviews before booking
FAQs About Traveling Croatia Without a Car
1. Is Croatia pedestrian-friendly?
Yes. Major cities and islands have great public transport options.
2. How can I travel from Dubrovnik to Hvar without a car?
Take the Krilo ferry – a three-hour journey.
3. Can I use Uber in Croatia?
Yes. Uber and Bolt are available in major cities. Uber discount code: 1bbukh3a2kym
4. Do I need to exchange currency?
Not really. Croatia now accepts Euros in most places.
5. When is the best time to visit Croatia?
May is perfect for sightseeing, but sea temperatures may still be too cold for swimming.
Final Thoughts on Traveling Croatia Without a Car
Croatia is a beautiful and accessible destination for non-drivers.
With ferries, buses, and ride-hailing services, getting around is simple and stress-free.
If you’re planning to explore Croatia without a car, this itinerary and guide will help you make the most of your trip.
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