Split Airport is located in Kaštela, about 20 kilometres from Split and 6 kilometres from Trogir. If this is your first time in Croatia, Split is an ideal base for the Dalmatia coast because you can enjoy old-town sightseeing with beaches, waterfalls, and island days without changing hotels every night. Our guide will help you plan your car rental in Split. You’ll know when to book, what car type to choose, what documents you’ll be asked for, and more.
Split Airport offers convenient access to many car rental services. The airport itself does not rent vehicles, but numerous car rental companies operate on-site. Here are other benefits of choosing Split Airport as your pick-up location:
The biggest win is convenience. With a car rental in Split, you can land, walk to the desks, sign, and go. You can skip hunting for taxis, checking bus timetables, and dragging luggage through transfers. It also simplifies your first day if you’re staying outside Split (Kaštela, Trogir, or a villa inland).
You can visit coastal viewpoints, stop for a swim when the sea looks too good to ignore, and take detours when you spot a sign for a beach or a winery.
For families and groups, a car rental in Split often offers better value than multiple taxi rides plus tours. This is especially true when you factor in day trips and travel with bags, water, and beach equipment. And there’s a comfort factor too. You won't have to think about air-conditioning in summer and somewhere to keep your belongings.
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to booking a car rental at Split Airport (SPU). These tips will help you save money, avoid surprises, and drive with confidence.
Treat car rental booking like you treat flights. Do it early, especially for summer travel. Here are simple ways that work:
Split’s old town streets are narrow, but you may need a larger car for coastal trips and family gear. If you are planning a city break as a couple with light luggage, a mini or economy car is usually enough. These cars are easy to park and ideal for short stays, but boot space is limited.
A compact car offers a good balance between price and comfort. It works well if you plan to combine city driving with day trips along the coast. For families or travellers with several suitcases, an estate or wagon provides more luggage space. However, you should check height restrictions in some car parks, and fuel use is often higher.
An SUV or crossover can offer extra comfort and is useful for rural roads or longer drives. These vehicles usually cost more in summer, and parking in towns can be more difficult. If you are travelling in a group or with a large family, a people carrier or van may be the best choice. Availability is limited during peak season, so it is wise to reserve early.
If you drive an automatic at home, consider booking one in advance. In many European destinations, manual cars are more common, and automatic vehicles tend to sell out faster at popular airports.
Always assume you will be asked for documents at the counter, even if you checked in online. You will need your driving licence, and it must be the original and valid. Bring your passport or national ID card, as this is required when picking up your car rental in Split.
You must also present a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit. The deposit is blocked on a credit card. A debit card may be accepted for the rental charge, but the deposit must be paid by credit card.
Do you need an IDP? Legally, Croatia’s Ministry of the Interior states that, with a valid foreign licence, an international driving permit is not required, subject to reciprocity. Some rental companies may still ask for one depending on your citizenship or the format of your licence.
If you are arriving at Split Airport, you can expect very competitive prices, especially outside the peak summer season.
Small and compact cars are the most budget-friendly option and typically cost between €25 and €27 per day. These vehicles usually include air conditioning, unlimited mileage, space for five passengers, and room for two pieces of luggage. They are ideal for couples, solo travellers, or anyone planning to drive mainly within Split or along the nearby coast.
If you prefer more space or comfort, standard cars and compact SUVs are only slightly more expensive, averaging between €26 and €29 per day for the same rental period. Automatic transmission vehicles are available within this range as well, typically at the higher end of the price bracket. These categories are well-suited for longer drives across Dalmatia, including visits to national parks, coastal towns, and more remote beaches.
Larger vehicles naturally cost more. Standard automatic cars can cost around €88 per day, while seven-seater SUVs and vans generally range from about €140 to €160 per day. For eight-seater vans, prices can exceed €230 per day. These options are most suitable for families or groups travelling together who require additional passenger and luggage space.
Almost every car rental in Split includes unlimited mileage and allows free amendments, while the initial booking deposit is typically very low compared to the total rental cost.
Picking up your car rental in Split Airport saves time, simplifies your first day, and makes day trips easy. The best move is to compare the same car class, same fuel policy, same insurance level, then reserve early if you’re travelling in peak season. Once the paperwork is done, you can drive confidently, take breaks, and let the coast surprise you.
Rent a car at Split Airport with Final Rentals to enjoy transparent pricing and flexible booking options. Select your pickup location, enter your travel dates, and choose a vehicle for your trip. Book and manage your car rental at any time. Download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
Croatia’s Ministry of the Interior states that visitors can drive with a valid foreign driving licence. In those cases, an international driving permit is not required. However, some rental companies may still require an IDP/translation depending on your licence format or their policy.
If you plan to leave Split quickly (Trogir, islands, national parks), hiring at the airport is usually simpler because you can collect right after landing and avoid an extra transfer. If you’re staying in Split Old Town first, you may want to wait a day before picking up your Split car rental so you don’t have to deal with city parking.
Many Croatian motorways use a route-based system. You’re registered at entry (often via a ticket), and you pay at the exit according to the distance travelled and your vehicle category. For a smoother trip, keep a payment card handy and don’t lose your ticket.
