Compare cheap car hire at Zadar Airport with practical details on rental desks, pickup areas, driving routes and seasonal prices.
Zadar Airport (ZAD) is located about 8km east of Zadar city centre on Croatia’s Adriatic coast. It’s a popular arrival point for travellers heading to northern Dalmatia, national parks and coastal resorts.
Hiring a car at the airport gives you the flexibility to explore Croatia’s coastline, islands and inland areas at your own pace.
Direct Flights from Ireland
Zadar Airport has seasonal direct flights from Ireland, mainly during the summer.
- Dublin → Zadar (Ryanair seasonal service)
The flight time from Dublin is approximately 3 hours.
Where to Pick Up Your Rental Car
Car hire desks at Zadar Airport are located inside the arrivals area of the terminal building. After baggage reclaim, follow signs for car rental to find the main counters.
Vehicles are collected from the designated car rental parking area directly outside the terminal, within a short walking distance.
Airport information is available on the official Zadar Airport website.
Car Rental Companies at Zadar Airport
A range of international and local rental providers operate at the airport.
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Europcar
- Sixt
- Enterprise
All companies provide on-airport pickup with vehicles parked nearby.
Typical Car Hire Prices in Zadar
| Season | Economy | Family Car | Larger Vehicle |
|---|---|---|---|
| April – May | €30 – €60 | €60 – €100 | €100 – €160 |
| June | €40 – €85 | €85 – €130 | €130 – €190 |
| July – August | €55 – €110 | €110 – €170 | €170 – €240 |
| September | €40 – €85 | €85 – €140 | €140 – €200 |
| October | €30 – €65 | €65 – €110 | €110 – €170 |
What to Drive in Zadar and Dalmatia
Compact Cars
Small cars are ideal for city driving and coastal routes with limited parking.
Family Cars
Comfortable for longer journeys along the Adriatic coast.
Estate Cars
Useful for carrying luggage when travelling between multiple destinations.
People Carriers
- 7 Seater vehicles – suitable for families travelling together
- 8 Seater vehicles – useful for groups sharing one vehicle
Driving from Zadar Airport
The airport connects easily to the D424 road and A1 motorway, providing access across Croatia.
- Zadar city centre – about 15 minutes
- Šibenik – around 1 hour
- Split – roughly 1 hour 45 minutes
- Plitvice Lakes National Park – about 1 hour 30 minutes
The A1 motorway runs along much of Croatia’s coastline and connects key destinations.
Travellers exploring Croatia often compare different arrival points depending on their itinerary. You can also check rental options at Split Airport or continue south toward Dubrovnik.
Driving Conditions in Croatia
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Roads are generally in excellent condition, particularly main routes and motorways.
Motorways in Croatia are toll roads, with payments made when exiting the motorway.
Further travel advice is available on the official Croatia tourism website.
Places to Visit by Car from Zadar
With a rental car, you can explore a wide range of locations across northern Dalmatia.
- Plitvice Lakes – UNESCO-listed national park with waterfalls
- Krka National Park – waterfalls and walking trails
- Šibenik – historic coastal city
- Pag Island – known for beaches and unique landscapes
Many visitors use Zadar as a starting point for exploring Croatia’s coastline and national parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the car hire desks at Zadar Airport?
The desks are located inside the arrivals area of the terminal building.
Are there direct flights from Ireland to Zadar?
Yes, seasonal flights operate from Dublin during the summer.
Is it worth renting a car in Zadar?
Yes, especially for exploring the coastline and national parks.
How far is Zadar Airport from the city?
The drive takes around 15 minutes.
Do I need a credit card to rent a car?
Yes, most rental companies require a credit card for the deposit.
Are automatic cars available?
Yes, although manual vehicles are more common.
Are Croatian roads easy to drive?
Yes, roads are generally modern and well maintained.
Can I rent a 7 Seater in Zadar?
Yes, 7 Seater vehicles are available for families and groups.
Are there toll roads in Croatia?
Yes, motorways operate a toll system.
How long does it take to drive to Split?
The journey usually takes around 1 hour 45 minutes.
