All-inclusive car rental in Pula
An all-inclusive rental in Pula includes full insurance with zero excess - the base for the Istrian peninsula, from the Roman arena to Rovinj and the truffle hill towns.
Pula, with its remarkably preserved Roman amphitheatre, anchors the Istrian peninsula - Croatia’s gourmet corner. A car brings the harbour town of Rovinj, the truffle country around Motovun and the Brijuni islands within easy reach.
A Cardamar all-inclusive rental includes comprehensive zero-excess cover, unlimited mileage and free cancellation, with pick-up at Pula Airport.
Good to know before you drive in Pula
| Pick-up point | Pula Airport (PUY) |
|---|---|
| Highlights | Roman arena, Rovinj, Motovun |
| Foodie Istria | Truffles, olive oil, wine |
| Best months | May–June, September |
Istria by car
Rovinj, perhaps the prettiest town on the Adriatic, is about 40 minutes north, while the hilltop towns of Motovun and Grožnjan in the green interior are the heart of truffle country. The whole peninsula is compact and made for leisurely driving.
On the narrow hill-town lanes and coastal roads, zero-excess cover removes the worry of a minor knock.
Practical tips
Old-town centres like Rovinj and Pula are largely pedestrian - park outside and walk in. The Istrian “Y” motorway links the peninsula quickly.
The all-inclusive price already includes full insurance, unlimited mileage and airport fees.
Picking up your car at Pula Airport
Pula Airport (PUY) is close to the city, with the rental area near the terminal, so collection is quick and you are soon on the Istrian “Y” for Rovinj and the hill towns. 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 Pula 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.
Pula car rental - FAQ
Is Istria good for a driving holiday?
Very - it is compact, scenic and full of coastal towns and hilltop villages, ideal for relaxed day drives.
How far is Rovinj from Pula?
About 40 minutes north - an easy and beautiful day trip.
Is zero-excess cover worth it in Istria?
Yes - narrow hill-town lanes and busy car parks make minor scrapes likely, and zero excess means you are not liable.
What documents do I need to rent a car in Pula?
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.
Are Croatia’s motorways tolled?
Yes - the main motorways (such as the A1 along the coast and the Istrian “Y”) are tolled, paid by card at the barriers. Coastal and national roads are toll-free if you prefer the scenic route.