All-inclusive car rental in Split
An all-inclusive rental in Split includes full insurance with zero excess - the base for central Dalmatia, from Diocletian’s Palace to Krka National Park and the coastal road south.
Split, built around the Roman Diocletian’s Palace, is the heart of the Dalmatian coast. A car opens up the waterfalls of Krka National Park, the Cetina valley and the spectacular coastal road towards Dubrovnik, plus ferry links to islands like Hvar and Brač.
A Cardamar all-inclusive rental includes comprehensive zero-excess cover, unlimited mileage and free cancellation, with pick-up at Split Airport.
Good to know before you drive in Split
| Pick-up point | Split Airport (SPU) |
|---|---|
| Best day trips | Krka NP, Trogir, Cetina valley |
| Coastal road | Scenic but winding - allow time |
| Islands | Ferries to Hvar, Brač (book ahead in summer) |
Central Dalmatia by car
Krka National Park, with its swimmable waterfalls, is about an hour north, and the UNESCO town of Trogir sits just past the airport. The Adriatic coastal road is breathtaking but narrow and busy in summer, so allow more time than the distance suggests.
Because tight medieval lanes and busy car parks make minor scrapes common, the zero-excess cover in an all-inclusive booking is genuinely worthwhile here.
Practical tips
Split’s old town within the palace walls is pedestrian - park outside and walk in. Car ferries to the islands fill up in summer, so arrive early or book ahead.
The A1 motorway inland is tolled and fast; the coastal road is slower but scenic. The all-inclusive price includes full insurance, unlimited mileage and airport fees.
Picking up your car at Split Airport
Split Airport (SPU) at Kaštela is about 25 minutes from the city along the coast, with the rental area near the terminal, so collection is quick. It gets very busy in summer, so completing the online check-in beforehand helps you beat the queues.
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 Split 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.
Split car rental - FAQ
Can I take a rental car to the islands from Split?
Yes, on the car ferries, but check that your booking permits it and arrive early in peak season.
How far is Krka National Park?
About an hour north of Split - a popular day trip with swimmable waterfalls.
Is the coastal road difficult?
It is winding and busy in summer; drive calmly, and zero-excess cover removes the worry of a minor knock.
What documents do I need to rent a car in Split?
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.