Do You Need a Car in Zagreb? A 2026 Transport Guide

Do You Really Need to Rent a Car in Zagreb?

Zagreb, Croatia's vibrant capital, is a city of charming cobblestone streets, sprawling parks, and Austro-Hungarian architecture. A common question for first-time visitors is about transportation: is a car a necessity or a nuisance? For the vast majority of travelers planning to explore the city itself, the answer is clear: a car is an unnecessary complication. The city is designed for pedestrians and is serviced by one of Europe's most efficient tram systems.

This guide provides a detailed breakdown of all your transport options in Zagreb, helping you decide if renting a car fits your specific travel plans for 2026.

Getting Around Zagreb Without a Car

Navigating Zagreb without a vehicle is not only possible but also the recommended way to experience the city's unique atmosphere. The core tourist areas are compact, and public transport is cheap, reliable, and extensive.

Walking: The Best Way to See the City Center

Zagreb's historic core is split into two main sections: the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and the Lower Town (Donji Grad). Both are best explored on foot.

• Upper Town (Gornji Grad): This is the medieval heart of Zagreb. You can easily walk between St. Mark's Church, the Croatian Parliament, the Museum of Broken Relationships, and the Stone Gate (Kamenita Vrata) in under 30 minutes. The narrow, winding streets are not car-friendly.
• Lower Town (Donji Grad): The 19th-century grid of the Lower Town is home to Ban Jelačić Square, Zagreb Cathedral, Zrinjevac Park, and numerous museums. The distance from the main square to the main railway station (Glavni kolodvor) is a pleasant 1-kilometer (15-minute) walk through beautiful parks.

Insider Tip: The Zagreb Funicular, one of the shortest in the world, connects the Lower and Upper Towns. A ride costs just €0.66 and takes 64 seconds, saving you a short but steep walk up the stairs.

Public Transportation (ZET): Trams and Buses

Zagreb's public transport system, known as ZET (Zagrebački električni tramvaj), is dominated by a network of iconic blue trams. It's the lifeblood of the city and the most efficient way to cover longer distances.

• Trams: The tram network is extensive, with 15 daytime and 4 nighttime lines. For tourists, key lines like 6 and 13 run directly through Ban Jelačić Square, connecting the bus and train stations to the city center.
• Buses: Buses supplement the tram network, primarily serving suburban areas and routes where trams cannot run.

Ticket Prices and Information (as of early 2026 estimates):

• 30-Minute Ticket: €0.53. Perfect for short, direct journeys.
• 60-Minute Ticket: €0.93.
• 90-Minute Ticket: €1.33.
• Daily Ticket (Dnevna karta): €3.98. Offers unlimited rides on all trams and buses for 24 hours from the first validation. This is the best value for a full day of sightseeing.

How to Buy Tickets: 1. Tisak Kiosks: These small newsstands are located at most major tram stops. This is the easiest method. 2. ZET App: Download the official ZET mobile app to purchase and validate digital tickets. 3. Onboard: You can buy a single-use ticket from the driver, but it's more expensive and you should have exact change.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services

For direct, door-to-door service, taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available and affordable in Zagreb.

• Services: Uber and Bolt are the most popular and often cheapest options. Traditional taxis like Radio Taxi Zagreb (call 1717) and Eko Taxi are also reliable.
• Estimated Costs:

Main Bus Station to Ban Jelačić Square (3 km): €5 - €7 Zagreb Airport (ZAG) to City Center (17 km): €25 - €35 * A short 10-minute ride within the city typically costs €4 - €6.

When a Car is Actually a Good Idea in Zagreb

While unnecessary for city exploration, there are specific scenarios where renting a car provides significant advantages.

Day Trips to Croatia's Countryside

This is the number one reason to rent a car. While many places are accessible by bus, a car gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace.

• Plitvice Lakes National Park: Located approximately 135 km south of Zagreb, Plitvice is a must-see. A car allows you to arrive early before the tour buses, stay as long as you like, and even visit nearby gems like the village of Rastoke. The drive takes about 2 hours.
• Samobor: This charming medieval town is just 25 km west of Zagreb. While buses run frequently, a car allows you to also visit the nearby Samobor Mountains (Samoborsko gorje) for hiking.
• Zagorje Region: North of Zagreb, this region is famous for its rolling hills, vineyards, and fairytale castles. A car is essential to hop between Trakošćan Castle (80 km), Veliki Tabor, and the Krapina Neanderthal Museum in a single day.
• Ljubljana, Slovenia: Slovenia's capital is a popular day trip, located just 140 km away. A car makes this 90-minute journey simple. Ensure your rental includes cross-border permission.

Other Scenarios

• Accommodation in Suburbs: If your hotel or Airbnb is located far from the center in a neighborhood like Novi Zagreb or Dubrava, a car can add convenience, though public transport is still a viable option.
• Travel with Limited Mobility or Young Children: The convenience of a car can be invaluable for families with strollers, car seats, or for travelers who find extensive walking difficult.

The Challenges of Driving and Parking in Zagreb

If you do decide to drive, be prepared for some challenges. Zagreb was not built for modern traffic, and navigating the center can be stressful.

Navigating and Traffic

• Tram Priority: Trams always have the right of way. Be vigilant, as tram tracks often run down the middle of the road.
• One-Way Streets: The city center is a maze of one-way streets that can be confusing for newcomers.
• Rush Hour: Traffic can be heavy from 7:30-9:30 and 16:00-18:00 on weekdays.

Parking in Zagreb: Zones and Garages

Parking is the biggest headache for drivers. The city uses a color-coded zone system for on-street parking.

• Zone I (Red): The very center. Cost: €1.60/hour. Maximum stay: 2 hours.
• Zone II (Yellow): Surrounds the center. Cost: €0.80/hour. Maximum stay: 3 hours.
• Zone III (Green): Further out. Cost: €0.40/hour. No time limit.

Payment is made via street meters (coins only) or by sending an SMS with your license plate number to the number displayed on the sign.

Insider Tip: Use Public Garages! For stress-free parking, use a public garage (`javna garaža`). They are safer and often cheaper for longer stays. The Tuškanac garage, just a 5-minute walk from Ilica street, is a local favorite. It costs around €0.80/hour with a daily maximum of approximately €8. Other central options include Petrinjska, Langov Trg, and Importanne Centar.

Car Rental in Zagreb: Costs and Logistics

• Location: You can rent a car at Zagreb Airport (ZAG), which has all major international and local agencies, or from various offices in the city center.
• Cost: Expect to pay between €35-€60 per day for a basic economy car during the shoulder season. Prices can increase by 30-50% in the peak summer months (July-August).
• Requirements: You will need a valid driver's license from your home country, a passport, and a credit card for the security deposit. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU license holders.

The Final Verdict for 2026

• For City-Focused Trips (3-4 days): Do not rent a car. You will save money and avoid the stress of traffic and parking. Embrace the walkability and the excellent tram system.

• For Trips Including Day Excursions: Consider a hybrid approach. Rely on public transport for your days in Zagreb, and then rent a car for just the 2-3 days you plan to explore the countryside. This gives you the best of both worlds.