Honestly, if you’re planning to explore Dalmatia beyond the usual tourist traps, Omiš is exactly the kind of place you want as a base. This little town sits where the Cetina River meets the Adriatic, about 25km southeast of Split. It’s got that real Croatian coastal vibe — not overly touristy, still local, but welcoming enough if you speak a bit of English or just point at menus.
Renting a car in Omiš gives you the freedom to properly explore this stretch of coast. The town itself is small enough to walk around in an afternoon, but here’s the thing — most of what makes this area special is scattered along the coast and in the mountains behind. Without wheels, you’re either stuck waiting for buses or paying through the nose for taxis.
Why Rent a Car in Omiš?
- Freedom to hit the beaches — The Riviera here has some gorgeous coves and beaches that public transport doesn’t reach. You’re looking at maybe 10-20 minutes drive to places that would be an hour or more on a bus.
- Day trips without the hassle — You can easily do Omiš as a base and head to Split, Makarska, or even Dubrovnik as day trips. The A1 highway runs right past, so Split airport is about 40 minutes away.
- The Cetina River — Kayaking, rafting, cliff jumping into crystal clear water. The Canyon is a 15-minute drive inland. Worth it.
- Mountain villages — The Dalmatian hinterland has some proper traditional villages that tourists rarely see. Stone houses, local konobas, zero crowds.
What to See and Do Around Omiš
Omiš town beach is decent — pebbly, clean, shallow water good for kids. But drive 10 minutes either way and you’ll find better.
- Duće Beach — About 3km west. Lovely pebble beach, more local feel. Good for families.
- Stanići — Just up the coast towards Makarska. Smaller coves, less crowded.
- Lokva Rogoznica — About 15km south. Quieter, more secluded. You’ll probably have the place to yourself in shoulder season.
- Fortress of Forteca — Perched above the old town. Views of the coast are unreal. Worth the climb.
- Krka Waterfalls — About an hour inland. National park, stunning falls. Get there early to beat the tour buses.
Driving Tips for Omiš
The coastal road (D8) runs through Omiš — two lanes, winding in places but generally good. The A1 highway is about 5km inland and takes you to Split (north) and Dubrovnik (south).
Parking in Omiš town centre is a pain during July-August. Large lot near the beach costs €10-15 per day in summer. Outside peak season you can usually find street parking.
- Built-up areas: 50km/h
- Outside built-up areas: 90km/h
- Highway: 130km/h (enforced)
- A1 toll Split to Dubrovnik direction: ~€20 each way
How to Book
- Enter your dates — pick-up and return in Omiš or Split airport
- Compare prices from Hertz, Europcar, Sixt and local agencies
- Choose your car — check what’s included
- Book online — instant confirmation, no hidden fees
What you see is what you pay. Includes collision damage waiver, theft protection, VAT, and 24/7 roadside assistance.
Related Locations
Renting a car in Croatia is the perfect way to explore this beautiful destination at your own pace. Whether you are arriving by plane at the local airport or driving from a neighboring region, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to create your own schedule and discover hidden gems.
The road network in and around Croatia is well-maintained and easy to navigate, with clear signage. Most rental companies have pickup locations at airports and city centers.
Renting a car in Croatia is the perfect way to explore this beautiful destination at your own pace. Whether you are arriving by plane at the local airport or driving from a neighboring region, having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to create your own schedule and discover hidden gems that public transportation simply cannot reach.
The road network in and around Croatia is well-maintained and easy to navigate, with clear signage in both local languages and English on major routes. Most rental companies have pickup locations at airports and city centers, making it convenient to collect your vehicle as soon as you arrive. We compare prices from all major suppliers to ensure you get the best deal on your car hire.
When driving in Croatia, remember that traffic rules may differ from your home country. Speed limits are strictly enforced, and fines can be substantial. Always carry your drivers licence, passport, and rental documents with you while driving. Most rental vehicles include comprehensive insurance, but it is worth checking the exact terms before you book.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an international driving licence for Croatia?
EU licence holders are fine in Croatia without extra documentation. Non-EU drivers should carry an International Driving Permit.
What is the minimum age to hire a car in Croatia?
Most suppliers require drivers to be at least 21. Drivers under 25 may face a young driver surcharge.
What is included in the car hire price?
All bookings through 365CarHire include collision damage waiver, theft protection, and third-party liability as standard.
Can I take a rental car on a ferry to Croatian islands?
Yes, you can take most rental cars on ferries to Croatian islands. Additional fees typically apply (around EUR 15-30 each way). Book in advance during summer.