The Ultimate Guide to Hiring a Car in Split, Croatia
Introduction:
Split, a picturesque coastal city in Croatia, offers a wealth of cultural treasures, stunning landscapes, and historic sites to explore. While walking through the narrow streets of the old town is delightful, renting a car in Split can significantly enhance your travel experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about hiring a car with Rhinocarhire in Split. We'll cover the benefits of renting a car, distance to the nearest airport, tolls, road conditions, traffic, and recommended attractions with distances and routes.
Benefits of Hiring a Car in Split:
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Flexibility: Renting a car in Split gives you the freedom to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. You can visit off-the-beaten-path destinations and change your plans spontaneously.
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Convenience: Car rental agencies are readily available at Split Airport and throughout the city. With a rental car, you won't need to rely on public transportation or expensive taxis.
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Scenic Drives: Croatia's Dalmatian coast boasts some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in Europe. With a car, you can embark on road trips along the stunning Adriatic coastline or venture into the lush interior.
Distance from Split to the Nearest Airport:
Split Airport (SPU) is the closest airport to the city center, located approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) west of Split. The drive from the airport to the city center typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route is well-signposted, making it easy to find your way.
Tolls:
When traveling by car in Croatia, you may encounter toll roads. The main highway, A1, connects Split with other major cities like Zagreb and Dubrovnik. Tolls are payable at various toll booths along the route, and fees depend on the distance traveled. Ensure you have sufficient local currency (Kuna) or a credit card for toll payments.
Road Conditions:
Croatia maintains a well-developed road network, and the roads around Split are generally in good condition. However, if you plan to explore rural or less-traveled areas, be prepared for narrower roads and potential potholes, especially in more remote regions.
Traffic:
Traffic in Split can be congested, especially during the peak tourist season (June to August). To avoid traffic jams, plan your trips during off-peak hours or consider using alternative routes. Parking in the city center can also be challenging, so it's advisable to book accommodations with parking facilities or use public parking lots.
Recommended Attractions and Distances/Routes:
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Diocletian's Palace: Located in the heart of Split, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit. Parking can be challenging nearby, so consider parking in a designated lot and walking to the palace.
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Krka National Park: Approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of Split, Krka National Park features stunning waterfalls and hiking trails. Take the A1 highway and follow the signs to reach the park.
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Plitvice Lakes National Park: A bit farther from Split (approximately 250 kilometers or 155 miles), Plitvice Lakes is a natural wonder. Drive northeast on the A1 highway, and the park is well-signposted.
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Makarska Riviera: For beautiful beaches, drive south from Split along the scenic coastal road (D8) to reach the picturesque Makarska Riviera in about 1.5 hours.
Conclusion:
Hiring a car in Split offers immense benefits for exploring this enchanting region of Croatia. With the freedom to navigate at your own pace and access to nearby attractions, you can make the most of your visit to Split and the surrounding areas. Just remember to plan your routes, be aware of tolls, and consider the traffic conditions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. As this is a very popular destination, we advise pre-booking your rental car at least 4 weeks in advance when collecting from Split or Split airport to be able to receive the vehicle you require at the best price.