Zagreb International Airport - Location and Terminals
Zagreb Airport (Franjo Tudman International Airport) is located 17 kilometres southeast of Zagreb city centre in the Velika Gorica area. As Croatia's busiest airport, it serves as the main gateway for international and domestic flights. The airport features a modern passenger terminal opened in 2017, with car rental desks conveniently located in the arrivals hall immediately after baggage claim. This makes Zagreb International Airport an efficient starting point for your Croatian road trip.
Car rental in Zagreb airport operates daily from early morning until late evening, accommodating flight arrivals throughout the day. The rental car parking area is located directly adjacent to the terminal building, typically within a 2-3 minute walk from the pickup desks. Clear signage guides you from the arrivals hall to the car hire counters and then to the vehicle collection point.
How to Rent a Car at Zagreb Airport Without Deposit
Car rental Zagreb airport without deposit follows a straightforward booking process. First, enter your pickup date, time, and return details in the search form above. The system displays available vehicles from local suppliers offering no deposit options. Select your preferred car type - economy, compact, SUV, or minivan - and review the rental conditions.
During online booking, you pay the rental fee in advance by card. At Zagreb airport pickup, you collect your vehicle without paying an additional security deposit. The minimum driver age for car hire Zagreb international airport is typically 21 years, though some vehicle categories may require drivers to be 25 or older. You must present a valid driving licence held for at least one year, a credit or debit card in the driver's name, and your booking confirmation.
The no deposit structure means you are not required to have a large amount held on your card at the rental desk. This cash-friendly approach makes car rental in Zagreb airport accessible for travellers who prefer to manage their budget without blocked funds. Check your booking voucher for the specific payment terms and any additional requirements from your selected supplier.
Pickup Process at Franjo Tudman Airport
After collecting your luggage at Zagreb International Airport, follow signs to the arrivals hall where car rental desks are clearly marked. Present your documents - driving licence, booking voucher, and payment card. The rental agent verifies your reservation and explains the vehicle condition, fuel policy (typically full-to-full), and return procedures.
Staff will walk you to the car park area or provide directions to your vehicle. Inspect the car carefully before departure, noting any existing damage on the inspection form. The agent explains where to return the vehicle - usually the same parking area - and confirms the operating hours for drop-off. Most suppliers at Zagreb airport offer 24-hour key drop facilities for out-of-hours returns.
Zagreb Airport Car Rental Information
| Airport Code | ZAG (Franjo Tudman International Airport) |
| Distance to City Centre | 17 km southeast of Zagreb |
| Rental Desk Location | Arrivals hall after baggage claim |
| Minimum Driver Age | 21 years (25 for some categories) |
| Required Documents | Driving licence, booking voucher, payment card |
| Fuel Policy | Full-to-full (most suppliers) |
| No Deposit Available | Yes - selected vehicles |
| Country Page | Car Rental Croatia |
| City Page | Car Rental Zagreb |
Driving from Zagreb Airport - Routes and Distances
From Zagreb Airport, the E70/A3 motorway provides direct access to Zagreb city centre in approximately 20-25 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The route is well-signposted, with clear directions to the city and onwards to other Croatian destinations. If travelling to the coast, you can reach Rijeka in about 2 hours via the A6 motorway, or continue to Split in approximately 4 hours on the A1.
Key driving distances from Zagreb International Airport include: Zagreb city centre (17 km, 25 minutes), Plitvice Lakes National Park (140 km, 1 hour 45 minutes), Rijeka (160 km, 2 hours), Zadar (285 km, 3 hours), and Split (410 km, 4 hours). The motorway network in Croatia is modern and well-maintained, with tolls payable on most highways. Keep cash or a credit card ready for toll booths, which accept both payment methods.
Croatian traffic rules require headlights on at all times, even during daylight hours. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, and 130 km/h on motorways. Winter tyres are mandatory from November to April in certain regions, particularly if travelling to mountainous areas. Car rental Zagreb airport vehicles are equipped according to the season.
Vehicle Types Available at Zagreb Airport
Rent a car Zagreb airport offers a wide selection of vehicle categories to suit different travel needs. Economy and compact cars are popular for city driving and fuel efficiency, ideal for exploring Zagreb and nearby towns. These vehicles typically accommodate four passengers with moderate luggage space, perfect for couples or small families on a city break.
If planning to visit Plitvice Lakes, Istria, or the Dalmatian coast, consider a larger vehicle. Mid-size sedans and estate cars provide additional boot space for luggage while maintaining good fuel economy on longer motorway journeys. For families or groups, 7-seater minivans offer comfortable seating and ample storage, essential for multi-day coastal road trips.
Four-wheel-drive SUVs are available for travellers planning winter visits or exploring rural mountain regions. While Croatia's main roads are excellent year-round, an SUV provides confidence on secondary routes and in winter conditions. Luxury vehicles can be booked for business travel or special occasions, offering premium comfort and advanced features.