Car Rental Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)

Why Rent a Car at Dubrovnik Airport?

Dubrovnik Airport handled nearly 3 million passengers in 2024 and is Croatia’s third-busiest airport after Zagreb and Split, according to the official Dubrovnik Airport statistics.

Picking up a rental car directly at the airport is popular for several reasons:

• Direct access to the D8 coastal highway — the drive into Dubrovnik usually takes around 30 minutes, though summer traffic can increase journey times.

• Convenient arrival transfer — collecting a car immediately avoids the need for airport shuttle transfers into the city.

• Easy day trips across southern Dalmatia and nearby Balkan destinations — travellers can comfortably reach Cavtat, the Pelješac Peninsula, Montenegro and Mostar by road. Additional permission and insurance documentation may be required for cross-border travel.

Travellers arriving late at night or spending several days in Dubrovnik before driving can also collect vehicles later from city offices in Lapad or Gruž.

Where Do You Actually Pick Up Your Car at DBV?

Rental car pickup at Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) can vary depending on the supplier. While some companies operate directly from counters inside the arrivals terminal, others use nearby rental centres or shuttle lots close to the airport.

Several major international brands — including Enterprise, Europcar and their partner brands — typically operate from desks inside or adjacent to the main terminal area. Other suppliers, including Sixt, Nova Rent a Car, Carwiz and Green Motion, may direct customers to nearby rental collection areas a short walk from the terminal.

Some smaller local suppliers operate entirely through Meet & Greet services or shuttle transfers to nearby lots around Čilipi and the Konavle area.

The practical takeaway: always check the supplier’s pickup instructions before flying, especially if arriving late at night or during the busy summer season. Even when rentals are listed as “airport pickup,” collection points may involve a short walk or shuttle transfer rather than a desk directly inside the terminal.

Which Car Rental Companies Operate at Dubrovnik Airport?

Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) is served by a large mix of international and Croatian rental companies, giving travellers a wide range of pricing and vehicle options.

Commonly available international brands include:

• Sixt — One of the largest international operators in Croatia, with strong airport coverage and a broad premium fleet.

• Enterprise Hrvatska — Operates at Dubrovnik Airport alongside affiliated brands including Alamo and National.

• Hertz Croatia — Major international supplier with airport and city coverage across Croatia.

• Europcar — European rental company operating together with Keddy by Europcar.

• Avis — Established international brand serving Dubrovnik Airport and surrounding areas.

Popular Croatian and regional suppliers include:

• Nova Rent a Car — Croatian company recognised multiple times at the World Travel Awards.

• Easy Rent Dubrovnik — Local Dubrovnik-based supplier focused on economy and regional rentals.

• M.A.C.K. Rent a Car — Croatian provider known for broad domestic coverage and one-way rentals.

• Avax Rent a Car — Dubrovnik-based operator serving southern Dalmatia and cross-border road trips.

Some suppliers operate directly from airport desks, while others use nearby rental centres or shuttle collection points. Before arrival, always check the pickup instructions included with your booking confirmation.

What Car Types Can You Rent at DBV?

Dubrovnik Airport offers everything from small city cars to larger family vans, though smaller vehicles are usually the easiest option for navigating coastal roads and parking near Dubrovnik.

Economy / City Cars — Models such as the Fiat Panda or VW Up are among the cheapest options and work well for couples or travellers staying mainly around Dubrovnik. Off-season prices can sometimes start from around €13 per day.

Compact Cars — Vehicles such as the VW Polo or Renault Clio are a popular middle ground, offering more comfort for coastal drives while remaining easy to park in Dubrovnik and nearby towns.

Mid-Size Cars — Cars such as the VW Golf or Toyota Corolla suit longer road trips and travellers carrying more luggage.

SUVs — Compact SUVs including the Suzuki Vitara or Toyota Yaris Cross are popular for longer journeys across southern Dalmatia, Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina, especially for travellers wanting additional luggage space or automatic transmission options.

Automatic and 7–9 Seater Rentals — Manual cars dominate Croatian fleets, so automatic vehicles are more limited and usually cost extra, particularly during summer. Larger people-carriers and minibuses are widely available for families and groups travelling together.

How Much Does Car Rental at Dubrovnik Airport Cost?

Rental prices at Dubrovnik Airport vary heavily depending on season, vehicle type and how far in advance you book. The ranges below reflect typical market pricing at DBV:

August is Dubrovnik Airport’s busiest month, with passenger traffic rising dramatically during the summer tourism season. Availability becomes much tighter between June and September, especially for automatic cars, SUVs and larger family vehicles, so booking several months ahead is strongly recommended.

Shoulder-season travel in April, May and October usually offers the best balance between pricing, weather and vehicle availability. Last-minute deals are sometimes possible during the quieter autumn and winter months, though summer bookings rarely become cheaper close to arrival dates.

How Does the DBV Pickup and Return Process Work?

Step 1 — Collect the vehicle
After clearing customs at Dubrovnik Airport, follow the signs to the rental desks or nearby rental collection area. Some suppliers operate directly from the terminal, while others use nearby shuttle lots or rental centres a short walk from the airport building.

Step 2 — Bring the required documents
Most suppliers require:

• A valid driving licence

• An International Driving Permit (IDP) if the licence is not written in the Latin alphabet

• A credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit

• Passport or ID

• Booking confirmation

Many companies also require the licence to have been held for at least 1–2 years.

Step 3 — Inspect the vehicle carefully
Before leaving the airport, inspect the car thoroughly with the rental agent. Photograph all sides of the vehicle, including wheels and the roof, and make sure any existing damage is recorded on the contract. Time-stamped photos can help avoid disputes later.

Step 4 — Drive towards Dubrovnik
Most drivers leave the airport via the D8 Adriatic coastal road towards Dubrovnik. The journey to the Old Town usually takes around 30 minutes outside peak traffic periods.

Returning the car
Most suppliers use designated airport return lots near the rental collection area. Drivers are normally expected to return the vehicle with the agreed fuel level before handing over the keys for a final inspection. Many companies also offer after-hours returns through secure key-drop systems.

Car Rental Dubrovnik Airport: Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a car at Dubrovnik Airport?
Economy rentals at Dubrovnik Airport can start from around €13 per day during the quieter winter months, while summer prices are significantly higher. Mid-size cars and SUVs usually cost more, especially during July and August when demand is strongest.

Are car rental desks on-site at Dubrovnik Airport?
Yes. Dubrovnik Airport offers both terminal rental desks and nearby rental collection areas within walking distance of the arrivals building. Some suppliers also operate shuttle or Meet & Greet services from nearby airport lots.

What time do car rental desks open at Dubrovnik Airport?
Most rental suppliers align their operating hours with scheduled flight arrivals and departures. Many desks open early in the morning and remain active until late evening during summer. Some companies also offer after-hours pickup or return services for an additional fee.

Can I return my rental car at Dubrovnik Airport after hours?
Yes. Many suppliers provide after-hours returns through secure key-drop systems. Travellers should photograph the vehicle thoroughly before leaving it and follow the supplier’s return instructions carefully.

Do I need a credit card to rent a car at DBV?
Most international suppliers require a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit. Some local Croatian companies may accept debit cards or reduced-deposit rentals on selected economy vehicles, though conditions vary.

Can I drop off my Dubrovnik Airport rental at Split or Zagreb?
Yes. One-way rentals between Dubrovnik, Split, Zagreb and other Croatian cities are widely available. Additional fees usually apply depending on the route and supplier. Since the opening of the Pelješac Bridge in 2022, drivers can travel between Dubrovnik and Split entirely within Croatian territory without crossing through Bosnia & Herzegovina.

How far is Dubrovnik Airport from the Old Town?
Dubrovnik Airport is located near Čilipi village around 20 km southeast of Dubrovnik Old Town. The drive typically takes around 30 minutes outside peak summer traffic. Airport shuttle buses also operate between the airport and the city.

Which car rental supplier is best at Dubrovnik Airport?
The best choice depends on your priorities. International brands such as Sixt, Hertz, Europcar, Avis and Enterprise usually offer larger fleets and broader coverage across Croatia, while Croatian companies such as Nova Rent a Car, M.A.C.K. and Easy Rent may provide more competitive local pricing or regional flexibility.