Croatia is one of Europe most popular summer destinations, famous for its stunning Adriatic coastline, crystal-clear waters, historic cities like Dubrovnik and Split, and beautiful islands. Driving to Croatia opens up incredible possibilities—from the ancient walls of Dubrovnik to the party beaches of Zrće, the waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes to charming Istria. This guide explains everything about Croatia highway toll system in 2026, including the ENC electronic system, digital vignette options, and practical tips for your Croatian road trip.
🇭🇷 Croatian Toll System Explained
Unlike most Central European countries that use time-based vignettes, Croatia has traditionally operated a distance-based toll system with physical toll booths. You take a ticket when entering the motorway and pay based on the distance traveled when you exit. However, Croatia now also offers digital vignette options (E-Vinjeta) for certain motorway sections, providing more flexibility for travelers.
The Croatian motorway network is managed by HAC (Hrvatske Autoceste) and AZM (Autocesta Zagreb-Macelj). Since January 2023, Croatia has adopted the Euro (EUR) as its currency, making payments easier for EU visitors.
📋 Croatian Toll Payment Options
Option 1: Traditional Toll Booths (Most Common)
Take a ticket at the entrance, pay at the exit. Payment accepted:
- Cash: EUR (no need for Croatian Kuna anymore)
- Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard widely accepted
- ENC Device: Electronic payment (see below)
Option 2: ENC Electronic Device
ENC (Elektronička Naplata Cestarine) is Croatia electronic toll collection system. Benefits:
- Faster passage through dedicated ENC lanes
- Potential discounts on toll fees
- No need to stop at toll booths
- Available for purchase at toll plazas and service areas
The ENC device costs a small deposit and can be topped up with credit. For frequent visitors, it is highly recommended.
Option 3: Digital Vignette (E-Vinjeta)
Croatia now offers E-Vinjeta (electronic vignettes) for certain motorway sections, allowing you to bypass toll booths entirely. Available at VignetteGo.
💰 Croatian Motorway Toll Prices 2026
Croatian tolls are distance-based, so the cost depends on your route. Here are approximate prices for common routes (Category I – regular cars):
| Route | Distance | Approx. Toll |
|---|---|---|
| Zagreb – Split | ~400 km | ~EUR 25 |
| Zagreb – Rijeka | ~170 km | ~EUR 8 |
| Zagreb – Zadar | ~280 km | ~EUR 17 |
| Split – Dubrovnik | ~220 km | ~EUR 12 |
| Zagreb – Dubrovnik | ~600 km | ~EUR 35 |
| Ljubljana – Zagreb | ~140 km | ~EUR 7 |
Note: Prices are indicative. Actual tolls may vary slightly based on specific entry/exit points and vehicle category.
🛣️ Croatian Motorway Network
Croatia has an excellent motorway network connecting major cities and the coast. Here are the main routes:
A1 – The Dalmatian Motorway
The most important tourist route, connecting Zagreb to Split and continuing toward Dubrovnik. This stunning motorway runs parallel to the Adriatic coast, offering access to all major coastal destinations. Total length: approximately 550 km. Features several impressive bridges and tunnels through the Dinaric Alps.
A2 – Zagreb to Macelj (Slovenia Border)
Connects Zagreb to Slovenia, continuing to Ljubljana and beyond. The main route for travelers coming from Central Europe. Length: approximately 60 km in Croatia.
A3 – Bregana to Lipovac
East-west route connecting the Slovenian border (Bregana) through Zagreb to the Serbian border (Lipovac). Part of the European E70 corridor. Length: approximately 300 km.
A4 – Zagreb to Goričan (Hungary Border)
Connects Zagreb to Hungary, the main route for travelers coming from Budapest. Length: approximately 97 km.
A6 – Rijeka Bypass
Connects the A1 at Bosiljevo to Rijeka and the Istrian peninsula. Essential for reaching Istria from Zagreb.
A7/A8/A9 – Istrian Y
Network of motorways serving the Istrian peninsula, connecting Rijeka to Pula and other Istrian destinations. Generally lower traffic than the A1.
🗺️ Popular Croatian Road Trip Routes
Zagreb to Split (A1 Dalmatian Motorway)
Distance: ~400 km | Duration: 4-4.5 hours | Toll: ~EUR 25
The classic Croatian road trip route. The A1 is a modern, well-maintained motorway with excellent service areas. Consider stopping at the Plitvice Lakes National Park (exit Gornja Ploča)—one of Croatia most beautiful natural attractions.
Zagreb to Dubrovnik
Distance: ~600 km | Duration: 5.5-6 hours | Toll: ~EUR 35
The ultimate Croatian road trip, ending at the stunning walled city of Dubrovnik. Note that this route briefly passes through Bosnia and Herzegovina at the Neum corridor (no toll, but carry passport). Alternatively, take the Pelješac Bridge to stay entirely in Croatia.
Ljubljana (Slovenia) to Zagreb
Distance: ~140 km | Duration: 1.5-2 hours | Toll: ~EUR 7 (Croatia) + Slovenian vignette
The main route from Central Europe. You will need a Slovenian E-Vinjeta for the Slovenian portion of the journey.
Istrian Coast Tour
Route: Rijeka → Opatija → Pula → Rovinj → Poreč → back to Rijeka
Explore the beautiful Istrian peninsula with its Italian-influenced cuisine, hilltop villages, and charming coastal towns. Less crowded than the Dalmatian coast.
💡 Croatia Driving Tips for 2026
Currency
Since January 2023, Croatia uses the Euro (EUR). No need to exchange money if you are coming from another Eurozone country. Credit cards are widely accepted.
Speed Limits
- Motorways: 130 km/h
- National roads: 90 km/h
- Urban areas: 50 km/h
Summer Traffic
Warning: The A1 to the coast experiences extremely heavy traffic during July and August, especially on Saturdays (changeover day for weekly rentals). Travel early morning or late evening to avoid the worst congestion.
Required Equipment
- Warning triangle
- Reflective vest
- First aid kit
- Headlights on at all times while driving
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a vignette or pay at toll booths in Croatia?
You can use either system. Traditional toll booths work on a distance-based pay-as-you-go basis. Alternatively, digital vignettes (E-Vinjeta) are now available for certain sections.
Can I drive to Dubrovnik without leaving Croatia?
Yes! Since the opening of the Pelješac Bridge in 2022, you can now drive from Split to Dubrovnik without crossing through Bosnia-Herzegovina Neum corridor.
Is the ENC device worth it?
For frequent visitors or those staying multiple weeks, yes. For a single trip, toll booths or digital vignettes are more practical.
🏖️ Why Visit Croatia?
- Stunning Coastline: Over 1,000 islands and crystal-clear Adriatic waters
- Historic Cities: Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar—UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Game of Thrones Locations: Dubrovnik served as Kings Landing
- Plitvice Lakes: Spectacular national park with cascading waterfalls
- Istria: Italian-influenced cuisine, truffle hunting, hilltop villages
- Party Scene: Zrće Beach is the “Croatian Ibiza”
📍 Conclusion
Croatia offers some of Europe most rewarding road trips, from the dramatic A1 motorway to the winding coastal roads and charming Istrian villages. Whether you prefer traditional toll booths, the ENC electronic system, or the new digital vignette options, getting around Croatia by car is straightforward.
To reach Croatia from Central Europe, you will likely pass through Slovenia or Hungary. Get all your vignettes in one place at VignetteGo.
Enjoy the Croatian coast! 🇭🇷🏖️
Related Guides: Slovenia E-Vinjeta | Hungary E-Matrica | All European Vignettes
