Car Hire at Zadar Airport – Your Dalmatian Coast Starts Here
Zadar Airport (ZAD) is one of the most convenient entry points to the Dalmatian coast. It’s smaller and less chaotic than Split Airport, rental car pickup is fast, and you’re on the coast road within 20 minutes. We compare all major suppliers at Zadar Airport — Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Budget and local Croatian companies — to get you the best deal.
Why Pick Up at Zadar Airport?
- Faster, less crowded than Split Airport — quicker pickup process
- Central Dalmatia location — equal distance north (Istria) or south (Split, Dubrovnik)
- 15 minutes to Zadar city centre, Falkensteiner beaches nearby
- Access to Plitvice Lakes National Park in under 1.5 hours
- National Park Krka is 1 hour south
Where to Drive from Zadar Airport
- Zadar city (15 min) — Sea Organ, Roman ruins, sunsets rated best in the world by Alfred Hitchcock
- Plitvice Lakes (1.5 hrs) — UNESCO-listed waterfalls and lakes, Croatia’s most visited national park. Not accessible by public transport from the coast.
- Krka National Park (1 hr south) — swimming under waterfalls (check seasonal restrictions)
- Šibenik (1 hr south) — medieval fortress city, Cathedral of St James (UNESCO)
- Kornati islands ferry (from Biograd, 40 min) — stunning archipelago, snorkelling paradise
- Split (2 hrs south) — Diocletian’s Palace, best nightlife on the coast
- Lika region (inland, 1 hr) — unspoiled Croatian countryside, very few tourists
Driving Tips – Zadar Region
- The D8 coastal road is scenic but slow and very busy in July/August — use the A1 motorway for longer journeys
- Parking in Zadar old town is paid (blue zones) — arrive before 9am in summer
- Toll roads (A1 motorway) — pay by card or cash at booths
- Watch for cyclists and pedestrians on coastal roads
- Speed limits: 50 city / 90 regional / 130 motorway
What’s Included
- CDW, theft protection, third-party liability standard
- Roadside assistance included
- No hidden fees
How long does it take to collect a rental car at Zadar Airport?
Generally 15-25 minutes from landing to driving away. Zadar is a smaller airport than Split so queues are shorter. Peak summer (July-August) can be busier — booking in advance guarantees your vehicle is ready when you land.
Can I visit Plitvice Lakes from Zadar?
Yes — Plitvice is about 1.5 hours by car from Zadar Airport. It’s one of Croatia’s most spectacular sights and practically inaccessible without a car from the coast. Plan a full day — the park takes 4-6 hours to walk properly.
Can I take the rental car on Croatian island ferries?
Most rental companies allow vehicles on car ferries to Croatian islands. Additional fees may apply and you need to declare this at booking. Book ferry tickets in advance in summer — they fill up fast.
Is one-way rental available from Zadar Airport?
Yes. You can pick up at Zadar Airport and drop off in Split, Dubrovnik, Zagreb or other Croatian cities. One-way fees may apply. Great option if you’re doing a coast drive and flying out from a different airport.
