Illustration of Dubrovnik with the old town city walls, a round tower and terracotta rooftops above the Adriatic

All-inclusive car rental in Dubrovnik

In short

An all-inclusive rental in Dubrovnik includes full insurance with zero excess - useful along the scenic southern coast, with the Pelješac peninsula and Montenegro within reach.

Dubrovnik’s walled old town is the jewel of the south, but a car lets you explore beyond it: the wine and oysters of the Pelješac peninsula, the Konavle valley and even Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor across the border.

A Cardamar all-inclusive rental includes comprehensive zero-excess cover, unlimited mileage and free cancellation, with pick-up at Dubrovnik Airport.

Good to know before you drive in Dubrovnik

Pick-up pointDubrovnik Airport (DBV)
Old townPedestrian - park outside the walls
Best tripsPelješac, Konavle, Montenegro
RoadsWinding coastal route

Around Dubrovnik by car

The Pelješac peninsula, reached via the new Pelješac Bridge (which keeps you within Croatia), is famous for wine and oysters - about an hour north. South, the Konavle valley and the Montenegrin border lead to the stunning Bay of Kotor.

For Montenegro, confirm cross-border cover with your supplier. Zero-excess cover is reassuring on the narrow coastal roads.

Practical tips

Dubrovnik’s old town is car-free - park outside the walls (spaces are limited and pricey in summer) and walk in. A car is most useful for day trips rather than the city itself.

The all-inclusive price already includes full insurance, unlimited mileage and airport fees.

Picking up your car at Dubrovnik Airport

Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) at Čilipi is about 20 minutes south of the old town, with the rental desks near arrivals, so you are quickly on the road. The airport is busy in peak season, so completing the online check-in beforehand helps you skip most of the desk.

Bring your driving licence, passport or ID and the lead driver’s card; an International Driving Permit is recommended alongside a non-EU licence, and there is no deposit to block at most pick-up points.

All-inclusive vs. a cheap basic rate plus counter insurance

Two cars on the same lot in Dubrovnik can advertise very different prices. The gap is almost always insurance: an all-inclusive rate settles it up front, while a "basic" rate leaves you to buy excess cover at the desk. Here is what each really means.

All-inclusive (Cardamar) Basic rate + counter insurance
Damage & theft excess €0 – fully covered High excess (often €800–2,000) blocked on your card
When you insure Before you travel, at a fixed price At the desk, under time pressure, price varies
Tyres, glass & undercarriage Included Usually excluded or charged extra
Deposit / card hold None or low at most stations Large hold blocked for the whole trip
Cancellation Free cancellation Often non-refundable
What you pay in total Known the moment you book Can climb sharply at the counter

A basic rate can look cheaper online, but once you add proper excess cover at the desk it usually costs more than an all-inclusive booking - with none of the certainty.

Dubrovnik car rental - FAQ

Do I still cross Bosnia to reach Dubrovnik?

Not necessarily - the Pelješac Bridge now allows an all-Croatia route. If you take the old coastal road or head to Montenegro, confirm cross-border cover with your supplier.

Where do I park for the old town?

Outside the walls - parking is limited and expensive in summer, so arrive early and walk in.

Can I drive to Montenegro?

Yes, the Bay of Kotor is a popular day trip, but confirm cross-border insurance with the supplier first.

What documents do I need to rent a car in Dubrovnik?

Your driving licence, a passport or national ID, and where required a card in the lead driver’s name. An International Driving Permit is recommended alongside a non-EU licence; online check-in beforehand speeds up collection.

Can I add a child seat or extra driver in Dubrovnik?

Yes - add child seats and additional drivers when you book so they are confirmed in advance and ready at the desk.