Croatia
A1 Zagreb - Split • AdriaticCroatia Motorway Tolls and the 2027 Free-Flow System
Current distance tolls and ENC in 2026; nationwide free-flow electronic tolling from 1 March 2027
New free-flow toll system launches 1 March 2027
Croatia currently uses distance-based tolls at toll booths and ENC. From 1 March 2027, the new nationwide free-flow electronic toll system will use licence-plate registration and ENC without stopping at barriers. VignetteGO plans to add Croatia to its portfolio from the official launch. Registration or purchase for the 2027 system is not available here yet.
Verified on 12 July 2026 against official Croatian Government and HAC information.
View the current VignetteGO portfolio →Croatian motorway tolls in 2026
In 2026, Croatia does not use a classic time-based motorway vignette. Passenger cars pay distance-based motorway tolls at toll plazas or use the existing ENC electronic payment device.
Croatia has a modern highway network leading to the Adriatic Sea. A1 connects Zagreb with Split and the Dalmatian coast.
A new nationwide free-flow electronic toll system is scheduled to replace barrier-based collection from 1 March 2027.
Confirmed launch: 1 March 2027
From 1 March 2027, the new ESNC/Crolibertas system is scheduled to operate across Croatia's motorway network without barriers or stopping.
This will remain a toll collection system based on motorway use, not a daily, weekly or monthly vignette.
How the future free-flow system will work
Light vehicles will be able to register their licence plate and a valid payment method in the electronic system, or use ENC.
VignetteGO plans to add Croatia from the official launch. Registration or purchase for the 2027 system is not available here yet.
Payment and compliance
In 2026, pay the current distance-based toll or use a valid ENC account. From launch in 2027, vehicles must be correctly registered in the new electronic system or use ENC before using tolled motorways.
Traveling to Other Countries
Czech Republic • Slovakia • Austria • Hungary • Slovenia • Romania • Bulgaria • Switzerland • Moldova
Croatia – Gateway to the Adriatic Sea
Croatia is one of the most popular summer destinations for Central European travelers. With over 1,200 islands, crystal-clear sea, and historic cities like Dubrovnik and Split, it attracts millions of tourists each year.
The highway network takes you directly to the most beautiful beaches of the Adriatic. The journey from Prague to Split takes approximately 9 hours and goes through Slovenia and along the coast.
Popular tourist regions
- Istria – The closest destination for Czech tourists. The romantic town of Rovinj, historic Pula with its Roman amphitheater, and excellent gastronomy with truffles and olive oil.
- Kvarner – The area around Rijeka and the islands of Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. Krk is the most accessible island – via a bridge without a ferry.
- Dalmatia – Iconic coastline with Split, Zadar, and the islands of Hvar, Brač, and Korčula. A combination of history, beaches, and nightlife.
- Dubrovnik – The pearl of the Adriatic in the very south of Croatia. Famous for its Game of Thrones backdrops and beautiful old town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
"Whoever seeks paradise on earth should visit Dubrovnik." – George Bernard Shaw
How the Croatian toll system works
Unlike some neighboring countries, Croatia uses a distance-based toll payment system. This means that instead of a classic time-based highway vignette, you pay at toll booths based on how far you travel.
How payment works
- Upon entering the highway, you take a toll ticket from the machine
- Upon exiting, you present the ticket and pay based on the distance traveled
- Payment is possible in cash, by card, or electronically via the ENC/ETC system
ENC is an electronic toll-payment device, not a time-based e-vignette. From 1 March 2027, licence-plate registration and ENC are scheduled to support free-flow travel without toll barriers.
Main highway routes in Croatia
The Croatian highway network is modern and of high quality. Most highways were built or modernized after 2000 and meet European standards.
🛣️ A1 Zagreb – Split – Dubrovnik
The main motorway from Zagreb toward Split and Ploče, with onward road connections serving Dubrovnik and the southern coast.
🛣️ A3 Zagreb – Slavonski Brod – Serbia
Connects Zagreb with eastern Croatia and the border with Serbia. An important transit route for traveling to the Balkans.
🛣️ A4 Zagreb – Varaždin – HU
Northern connection from Zagreb to Hungary via Varaždin. A popular route for Hungarian and Slovak tourists.
🛣️ A6/A7 Zagreb – Rijeka
Combination of highways to Rijeka and the islands of Kvarner. The fastest route from Ljubljana to the sea.
Tourist attractions along the highways
The Croatian highway network will take you to some of the most beautiful places in Central Europe. A combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and coastal atmosphere.
- Plitvice Lakes – National park with cascading lakes and waterfalls. UNESCO site and one of the most beautiful parks in Europe. Access from highway A1, exit Gornja Ploča.
- Dubrovnik – Historic city surrounded by walls. The backdrop of Game of Thrones, stunning views, and Mediterranean atmosphere. At the very south of highway A1.
- Split – The second largest city in Croatia with Diocletian's Palace. A vibrant port city and gateway to the islands of central Dalmatia.
- Rovinj – A romantic town on the Istrian coast. Narrow streets, a fishing harbor, and Italian influence in architecture and gastronomy.
- Hvar – The sunniest island in Croatia. Lavender fields, a historic town, and luxury resorts. Accessible by ferry from Split.
💡 Tip: Plan your stops in advance. During the summer season, some destinations can be very busy, and parking may be an issue.
Traveling from neighboring countries
Croatia borders several countries that also require a separate highway vignette or toll system. When planning your trip, don't forget all necessary documents.
🇸🇮 Through Slovenia
The most common route from the Czech Republic. Slovenia requires an e-vignette for passage through highways. The Obrežje/Bregana border crossing is the main entry into Croatia.
Slovenian highway vignette →🇭🇺 Through Hungary
An alternative route through Budapest and further south. Hungary has an e-matric system. Suitable for visiting Zagreb or eastern Croatia.
Hungarian e-matrica →History of the Croatian Highway System
The Croatian highway network has undergone dramatic development since 2000. Before that, most routes to the sea were along old roads through the mountains, which meant long and challenging travel.
The A1 was extended south in stages and is the main motorway from Zagreb toward Split and Ploče. Dubrovnik is reached via onward road connections; the A1 does not run uninterrupted all the way into Dubrovnik.
Key Milestones of the Croatian Highway Network
- 1971: Opening of the first section of the highway around Zagreb
- 2004: Completion of the A6 highway to Rijeka – the first fast connection to the sea
- 2005: Opening of the A1 highway to Split – revolutionizing travel to the sea
- 2013: Croatia joined the European Union, increasing cross-border motorway traffic
- 2022: Opening of the Pelješac Bridge – direct connection to Dubrovnik without passing through Bosnia
"The Pelješac Bridge is a symbol of Croatian unity and modern infrastructure."
Today, the Croatian highway network consists of more than 1,300 km of highways and is a key part of the European transport network TEN-T.
Overview of Toll Fees on Croatian Highways
In 2026, Croatian tolls are calculated according to the route used and vehicle category. Use the official HAC information or calculator for the current amount for your exact entry and exit.
Tolls depend on the route and vehicle category and may change. Check the current amount with the official Croatian motorway operator. Croatia uses EUR; toll plazas generally accept cards and euros.
Electronic Toll Collection System ENC
ENC (Elektronička naplata cestarine) is Croatia's established electronic toll-payment device. It is not a time-based vignette. Depending on the official account model, it can provide:
- Contactless payment in designated ENC lanes
- Discounts may apply according to the current official ENC account model
- Support for official prepaid and eligible post-paid models
- Use on the Croatian motorway sections and operators listed by HAC
Buy, activate or top up ENC only through current official HAC channels and authorised sales points. Check the operator's latest conditions before travelling.
Checks and Fines in Croatia
In 2026, toll payment is checked through the current toll-plaza and ENC system. From 1 March 2027, the new system is scheduled to use electronic registration, roadside equipment and automatic licence-plate recognition.
What happens if you lose your toll ticket?
- You will have to pay the maximum possible toll from the furthest entry onto the highway
- A processing fee may be charged
- Keep your ticket for the entire duration of your drive on the highway
Fines for Offenses
⚠️ Beware of these offenses:
- Unpaid toll: The due toll and additional statutory charges or penalties may apply
- Speeding: Separate traffic fines apply according to the offence and current Croatian law
- ENC misuse: Use only a valid device and the correct lane for your vehicle and account
Traffic rules and speed limits continue to apply independently of the toll system. Follow current road signs and official Croatian traffic information.
Practical Tips for Traveling to Croatia
Traveling to Croatia by car can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well. Here are proven tips from experienced travelers:
Avoid weekend peaks
Saturdays in the summer season are the worst. The turnover of tourists in apartments creates massive traffic. Travel on Friday evening or Sunday morning.
Have cash in EUR
As of 2023, Croatia is in the eurozone. Tolls, parking, and most services accept euros. Some smaller shops may still prefer cash.
Download the HAK app
The Croatian Automobile Club (HAK) offers an app with up-to-date information on traffic, waiting times at borders, and fuel prices.
Don't forget the highway toll stickers for transit countries
On your way to Croatia, you will likely pass through Austria and Slovenia – both countries require their own highway toll sticker.
Refuel in Croatia
Fuels in Croatia are usually cheaper than in Austria or Slovenia. It pays off to refuel after crossing the border.
Legal information and regulations
When traveling to Croatia, it is important to know the local traffic regulations, which may differ from those in the Czech Republic:
Basic road traffic rules
- Mandatory equipment: Reflective vest, warning triangle, first aid kit, spare bulbs
- Lights: Mandatory year-round in reduced visibility, recommended at all times
- Alcohol: Maximum 0.5 ‰, for professionals and drivers under 24 years 0.0 ‰
- Phone: Only hands-free, fines for holding a phone in hand
Croatia has been a member of the Schengen Area since 2023, which means free passage without border checks from Slovenia. However, you still need to carry a valid identification document.
Travel to the Croatian islands
Croatia has more than 1,200 islands, of which about 50 are inhabited. Traveling to the islands by car requires planning:
Krk: Accessible by bridge without a ferry. The separate Krk Bridge toll was abolished on 15 June 2020.
Cres: Ferry from the island of Krk (Valbiska-Merag) or from Brestova on the mainland.
Hvar: Ferry from Split (Stari Grad) or from Drvenik (Sučuraj). Book in advance during the season!
Brač: The closest island from Split. The ferry runs every hour, the journey takes about 50 minutes.
Korčula: Ferry from Orebic or from Split. The birthplace of Marco Polo.
💡 Tip: During the summer season, book ferries in advance through the Jadrolinija website. Queues can be several hours long!
The best time to visit Croatia
Croatia is an attractive destination year-round, but each season has its advantages and disadvantages:
Summer (June-August): Peak season. Best weather for swimming, but also the most tourists, highest prices, and queues for everything.
Spring (April-May): Ideal for an active holiday. Pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists, lower prices. The sea may still be cold.
Autumn (September-October): Still warm sea, significantly fewer people. Grape and olive harvests, gastronomic festivals.
Winter (November-March): Off-season, many facilities closed. Ideal for visiting cities like Zagreb or Dubrovnik without crowds.
Frequently asked questions about traveling to Croatia
Is there a classic highway vignette in Croatia? ▼
No. In 2026, Croatia uses a distance-based toll system with toll plazas and ENC. The new nationwide free-flow electronic toll system is scheduled to start on 1 March 2027; it is not a time-based vignette.
How much does it cost to travel from Prague to Split? ▼
The amount depends on your entry, exit and vehicle category. Check the current official HAC toll information before travel instead of relying on an old fixed price.
How long does it take to get to the sea? ▼
From Prague to Split, expect 9-10 hours of driving without stops. To Istria (Rovinj, Pula) it takes about 7-8 hours. We recommend planning breaks and traveling at night or early morning due to queues at the borders in the season.
Do I need a highway sticker in Croatia? ▼
No, a physical sticker is not needed. Croatia operates on a toll system based on distance traveled. You pay at toll booths in cash, by card, or electronically via the ENC system.
Are there queues at toll booths in Croatia? ▼
In the summer season (July-August), there can be significant queues at toll booths, especially on weekends. The electronic ENC/ETC system allows for passage without waiting in dedicated lanes.
Summary: Everything about traveling to Croatia
Croatia is an ideal destination for a summer holiday by the sea. Here is an overview of the most important information for traveling by car:
- ✓ Toll system: Payment based on distance traveled at toll gates, not a time sticker
- ✓ Route from the Czech Republic: Most commonly through Austria and Slovenia (both countries require an e-vignette)
- ✓ Travel time: Prague-Split about 9-10 hours, Prague-Istria about 7-8 hours
Don't forget to secure highway stickers for transit countries – Slovenia and possibly Austria in advance. Buy them online and avoid queues at the borders!
Croatia is coming to the VignetteGO portfolio
Croatia will be added to the VignetteGO portfolio when the new system officially launches on 1 March 2027.
View the current VignetteGO portfolio