Posted by Where and how to park in Croatia depends on the city, coastal areas and national parks. Here is a general guide to parking in Croatia
Parking in the city center
Zones: Most cities (now even small towns) have colored zones (blue, green, red) that represent different price levels. The blue zones are usually the most expensive and are closest to the city center. Costs vary widely. Around 2 or 3 euros per hour in the expensive zones, 1-2 euros in the inexpensive zones is common. In Dubrovnik, much more (often 10 euros per hour).
Payment: You can pay at the parking meter in cash with coins (sometimes small bills), often by SMS or via a parking app. Look for signs indicating the specific payment method and zone. Usually in Croatian and English. Payment by credit card or debit card is also sometimes possible.
Time restriction: Pay attention to the time restriction, as in some zones parking is only allowed for a certain amount of time. For example, 30 minutes, 1 hour or 2 hours (maximum parking time).
Public parking garages
Location: In most major cities, such as Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik. There are fewer parking garages than in Germany.
Price: Usually more expensive, but safe and convenient parking, especially in busy areas. Usually pay at a machine, sometimes there is also an employee at a cash register.
Free street parking
Availability: Can be limited in popular areas, especially in the city center and popular tourist areas, there is hardly any free parking in Croatia.
Restrictions: Unauthorized parking is often quickly punished with a fine or towing, so look out for signs with parking regulations.
Parking on the beach
Paid parking: There are paid parking spaces at many popular beaches.
Free parking: Less common, but often further from the beach or in less touristy areas on less well-known beaches.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a spot in high season.
Parking Attractions
Designated parking: Many tourist attractions in Croatia have their own parking facilities, often for a fee.
On-street parking: Available, but may be limited and subject to local regulations.
Parking in National Parks in Croatia
Plitvice Lakes: There is a large parking lot.
Krka: There are several parking lots near the various entrances. Some offer a shuttle service to the park.
Tip: Check the official park website for exact parking options and prices. The major national parks charge an entrance fee. Parking is often included.
Tips Parking Croatia
Payment is usually made in cash at the machine. Sometimes also by card or at a nearby kiosk or similar. We always keep change in the car (50 cent coins, 1 euro, 2 euro) for parking fees.
Respect local regulations: Always obey parking signs and regulations to avoid fines or towing.
Park safely: In urban areas, use secure parking to avoid theft or damage. Especially if you plan to park overnight.
Plan ahead: Check online for parking options in advance, especially in popular destinations or during peak travel times.
Public transport: Consider using public transport or parking to avoid the stress of parking in crowded areas. Especially in Dubrovnik (see below)
Special case of parking in Dubrovnik
The city is very popular, some say Dubrovnik is the 2nd Venice. Every day in the season, many thousands of tourists come to the city by car. There are not so many parking spaces around the historic center of Dubrovnik.
The Croatian state has built many parking lots, and there are also extremely expensive private parking lots. Everyone, including the city of Dubrovnik and the state of Croatia, have realized that a lot of money can be made from tourists who are desperately looking for a parking space. Some parking lots in Dubrovnik are extremely expensive. Parking for a few hours can cost 50 euros or more. Many tourists are not even aware of this. The big bill only comes when they want to leave again.
Unfortunately, this kind of rip-off in Dubrovnik is not only found when parking, but also when entering sights, boat tours, eating, drinking… Always ask about the price beforehand!
In some other cities, such as the old town of Split, the rip-off in tourism is now heading in a similar direction.
See our articule: Parking in Dubrobnik
