Do you need to rent a car in Dubrovnik at the last minute? It’s still possible to find a great option on short notice if you know where to look. This guide breaks down how last-minute car rentals work. We will provide practical tips to help you find fair prices, avoid common pitfalls, and book smartly. We’ll also explore Dubrovnik airport car rental options and share how to save money with trusted local providers.
Dubrovnik’s car hire availability fluctuates heavily with season and demand, which is important to factor into your Dubrovnik vacation. During the peak summer months, particularly July and August, tourist numbers are extremely high. During this period, rental car supply drops quickly, and prices rise as the pickup date approaches. In contrast, during the off-season, fleets are often underused, and agencies are more flexible.
Pickup location also matters. Dubrovnik Airport typically offers the widest selection of vehicles because most visitors arrive there, and rental desks operate longer hours. City centre offices typically have smaller fleets and shorter opening hours, especially outside peak seasons. While airport rentals are often the easiest option at short notice, prices are generally similar to city locations.
If you need a car at the last minute, avoid turning up without checking availability first. Use online booking tools, even on the same day, to the available vehicle types and pickup points.
Common last-minute booking mistakes to avoid include:
The key to a successful last-minute car hire is knowing where to search. Let’s break down the best places and methods for snagging a car in Dubrovnik last minute.
Choosing a Dubrovnik Airport car rental is often the fastest and most dependable option when booking at the last minute. The airport has a dedicated rental area with counters for major international brands and reputable local companies. Because rental firms base a large portion of their fleets at the airport, availability is usually better than in the city. If one provider has no cars left, another just a few steps away may still have options.
If you arrive without a reservation, walk-up rentals are possible, but they are rarely the best value. Counter prices are often higher than online rates. Even before you arrive at the arrivals hall, it is worth checking prices on your phone and making a quick online booking.
Another key advantage of the airport is longer operating hours. During busy periods, rental desks often stay open late to match incoming flights. Some companies offer round-the-clock pickups if arranged in advance. This is especially useful for late evening arrivals, when city offices are typically closed. Note that late pickup fees may apply, so confirm opening times and any additional charges if you are arriving late.
If you are already staying in the city, rental offices downtownmay be more convenient than returning to the airport. While Dubrovnik’s Old Town is pedestrian-only, several car hire locations operate in nearby modern areas.
City pickup locations can be a good option if you decide to rent a car later in your stay. If you did not need a vehicle on arrival, collecting one in town saves a trip to the airport. Travellers staying in Lapad, Babin Kuk, or near the port may even find an office within walking distance. Downtown branches can also be calmer than the airport, and in some cases, a local agency may still have availability when airport desks are sold out.
Most downtown rental locations are only a short drive from Old Town. Gruž and Lapad are typically about 10 minutes away by taxi or bus. Once you have a car, it is best to avoid driving into Old Town, where parking is scarce and expensive. Many travellers explore the historic centre on foot first and then rent a car when they are ready to begin road trips outside the city.
Car rental prices vary depending on vehicle type, transmission, timing, and the rental company. Here's how to to find a cheap car rental in Dubrovnik:
Car rentals are charged in 24-hour blocks, so exceeding that window by even a few hours can trigger an extra day’s charge. Adjusting pickup or return times to fit a full 24-hour period can avoid this. Prices can also vary by day of the week, and after-hours pickups or returns often come with additional fees.
Manual transmission cars are far cheaper and more widely available. Automatic vehicles are limited and usually come with a premium, especially during high season. Choosing a manual opens up more options and lowers daily costs.
Smaller cars are usually the best value for last-minute bookings. Economy and compact vehicles are generally more affordable, more fuel-efficient, and more readily available on short notice. They are also better suited to Dubrovnik’s narrow streets and limited parking. Unless you have specific space requirements, choose the smallest practical car to get the lowest price.
Local rental companies often offer better availability and competitive pricing. They may still have cars when larger providers are fully booked and can be more flexible with extras or conditions.
Only book the minimum rental period you actually need and review what is included in the price. Avoid unnecessary extensions and check whether insurance or additional drivers are included.
When booking a car on short notice, it is easy to miss important details in the rush. This is especially true when organising Dubrovnik holiday car hire. Rental scams are rare in Croatia, but last-minute renters are more likely to face hidden fees, confusing fuel rules, or unexpected insurance costs. Knowing what to check in advance can save both money and stress.
Common extra costs include one-way fees if you return the car in a different city, daily charges for additional drivers, and age-related surcharges for drivers under or over a certain age. Optional extras such as GPS units or child seats can also be expensive when added at the counter. Out-of-hours pickup or return may incur additional fees, so confirm operating times. Cleaning charges can apply if the car is returned excessively dirty.
Most rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy. This means you collect the car with a full tank and must return it full. Failing to do so usually results in high refuelling charges above local pump prices. Less common prepaid or full-to-empty policies are rarely good value unless you use nearly all the fuel. Always confirm the fuel type and keep your final fuel receipt until the return is complete.
Insurance is often where costs escalate quickly. Basic third-party cover is included by law, but collision cover usually comes with a high excess. Rental agents may encourage you to buy extra coverage to reduce this excess, which can significantly increase the daily rate. If you decline, expect a large deposit hold to be placed on your credit card. Make sure you understand the excess amount, deposit size, and whether alternative insurance is accepted.
A credit card in the main driver’s name is required. Deposits can be substantial, especially if you do not take additional insurance. Debit cards are often rejected or only accepted with strict conditions. Ensure your card has sufficient available credit and is valid for the entire rental period to avoid problems at pickup.
Renting a car in Dubrovnik at the last minute is possible, but success depends on being flexible and prepared. Availability and prices fluctuate sharply by season, with summer being the most challenging. To secure the best deal, stay flexible with times and car type, prioritise economy or manual vehicles, and compare local rental companies as well as international brands.
Reserve your Dubrovnik car rental with Final Rentals to lock in the best deals. With Final Rentals, booking a car is fast and simple. Select Dubrovnik Airport as 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.
