Planning your next adventure to Croatia? With its stunning coastline, charming old towns, and growing number of low-cost flights, it’s easier than ever to explore this gem of the Adriatic. Whether you’re landing at Zagreb Airport, heading to the coast via Split, or arriving in Dubrovnik, knowing the main airports in Croatia and the best ways to reach your destination can save you time and money. In this ultimate Croatia airport guide, we’ll break down all major airports, transportation options like shuttle buses, car rentals, and taxis, and tips to make your arrival smooth and stress-free in 2025.
Zagreb Airport (ZAG)
Nearest city: Zagreb
As the capital and largest city of Croatia, Zagreb has become a place that attracts both local residents and tourists from all over the world. The bustling atmosphere, rich cultural heritage and historical importance, and business centralization have made it an inevitable destination for many. Zagreb Airport is called Franjo Tuđman Airport and is the largest and main airport in Croatia. It is also known as Pleso Airport, which was the former name of the airport. It is located approximately 10 kilometers southeast of the city center, and the arrival at the port as well as the departure from the port to Zagreb is convenient with several transportation options.
Bus:
The "Pleso Prijevoz" bus lines at the airport provide a fast and direct line to the Zagreb Bus Station, from which you can easily get to any location. The ride costs €8, and the lines run all day, every 30-45 minutes. In addition, Zagreb airport is also connected to Rijeka, and the bus leaves from the airport at 3:30 p.m.
Except for the Pleso company, Zagreb is also recognizable by ZET lines, whose direct line 290 runs between Kvaternikov Square and Velika Gorica, and you can find the timetable on the official ZET website.
For those who still want customized time-flexible and faster transportation, they can choose GoOpti transfers. Booking is effortless, and you can book your transfer in advance. You can choose between private and shared transfer, and shared transportation services are a cost-effective option for those looking to save on transportation costs.
If you are more inclined to taxi transport or you need a private car for your vacation, taxi and rent-a-car services are available at the airport. The practicality and availability of cars are ensured by many rent-a-car companies such as Alamo, Avis, Hertz, Avant, Last Minute, Dollar Car Rental, Nova Rent a Car, Avia, Oryx, Carwiz, and others.
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)
Nearest city: Dubrovnik
This sea jewel in the very south of Croatia, which is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage, is best connected with Ruđer Bošković Airport, better known as Dubrovnik Airport. The airport is located in Čilipi, about 22 kilometers south of the city, and is well connected to Dubrovnik and the surrounding areas.
Shuttle Bus Platanus:
The official Shuttle Bus Platanus adjusts its schedules to the arrivals and departures of aircraft, which is an extremely practical solution for all airline passengers. The bus leaves 30 minutes after the plane lands, and the ticket can be purchased at three locations, depending on whether you are traveling from or to the airport:
- Dubrovnik bus station
- Platanus company sales points (Dubrovnik airport, Žičara)
- Online shopping
The shuttle bus makes only two stops on its way to Dubrovnik, saving time and making it easier to reach your goal. The first stop after taking off from the airport is usually the Gruž Bus Station, and then it goes towards the entrance to the Old Town of Dubrovnik (Vrata od Ploča), which allows passengers easy access to the historical part of the city. The price of a one-way ticket costs €10, and a return ticket costs €14.
Public Urban Transport Libertas:
Dubrovnik public transport Libertas is also an excellent transfer option from the airport. Libertas buses connect the airport with various parts of the city and the surrounding areas. Lines 11, 27, and 38 run to the airport, and the price of a one-way ticket is €2.
For those who prefer independence and flexibility, you will find several car rental agencies at the airport. Although more expensive, but practical and fast option for getting to a certain destination is taxi transport. In Croatia, you can reach the well-known Uber as well as many local taxi services.
Split Airport (SPU)
Nearest city: Split
The Split airport (Saint Jerome) is undoubtedly very significant in the summer. This airport is the main destination of Dalmatia and a key air hub on the Adriatic coast. The airport is located in Kaštela, approximately 24 kilometers west of Split, the second largest city in Croatia, and only 6 km from Trogir. Split Airport hosts numerous low-budget airlines such as Ryanair, Vueling, and EasyJet, which enable fast and convenient travel. In addition to guests coming directly to the city of Split, Split airport is also suitable for anyone traveling to nearby northern coastal cities such as Trogir, Marina, Seget, Vinišće, Rogoznica, Primošten and Šibenik, which is an hour's drive from Split. South of Split are the towns of Stobreč, Podstrana, Jasenice, and the city of Omiš.
Arriving at the airport as well as leaving the airport is a challenge. However, like the aforementioned airports, Split Airport also has a convenient and safe solution:
In addition to Zagreb, the Pleso shuttle bus operates in four other Croatian cities: Rijeka, Osijek, Zadar, and Split. Pleso provides transportation to the city center and the opposite for only €8, offering a reliable and cost-effective way of transportation. Also, a practical option is the local Promet-Split line, which has a network of city and suburban lines and is great for all travelers who do not go exclusively to the city. Passengers going to the island or returning from the island can take a ferry or taxi boat to the ferry port, next to which there is also a bus station. In the high season, from mid-June to mid-September, there is also a fast boat line from Hvar and Bol to Resnik pier, which is only a 5-minute drive from the airport.
Pula Airport (PUY)
Nearest city: Pula
Pula Airport can be described as the Gate of Istria. Located only 6 kilometers from the city center of Pula, this airport provides easy access to the entire Istrian peninsula. The city itself is known for its well-preserved Roman architecture, the starting and ending point of which is the recognizable and well-known amphitheater.
If you are planning a trip to Istria via Pula Airport, getting to this destination is very easy. For those arriving by car, here are detailed directions for several directions:
If you are coming from Rijeka or Trieste by car, or if you are leaving from the center of Pula, head towards the Istrian "Y" and follow the signs to Pula Airport. For those coming from the eastern side of the peninsula, it is necessary to start from the town of Lovran towards Pula turning onto the road towards Pula Airport after passing the village of Loborika, which is roughly five kilometers from the town.
When you have already landed in the port, there is a shuttle bus at your disposal that operates on three routes:
1. Pula Airport – Pula Bus Station
2. Pula Bus Station – Pula Airport
3. Pula Airport – Rovinj Bus Station
The bus departs 30 minutes after the plane lands, and the price to Pula is only €6, which is a very favorable option, and the trip to Rovinj costs slightly more, €25. From last season, it is also possible to pay by card.
Like every major airport in Croatia, Pula airport has several car rental options that you can find in the 'Arrivals' section, but we recommend that you reserve your car in time so as not to waste time. Sixt, Enterprise, Firefly, Goldcar, Avia, and Hertz are just some of the many companies that offer car rental services.
If none of this suits you, there are taxis available at the airport near the bus terminal that will take you immediately to the desired location, and the price depends on that.
You can research the airlines that fly to the airport on the official website of the port.
If you are planning your trip to Istria or magical Pula soon, we recommend that you explore our beautiful villas in Istria that will enhance the whole experience.
Rijeka Airport (ZLR)
Although the name itself suggests that this airport is located in the city of Rijeka, Rijeka airport is actually located on the island of Krk, 1 km east of the town of Omišalj, and is also known as Krk I. The island of Krk is connected to the mainland by a bridge, so after landing in this port, you don't have to worry about ferry lines.
Shuttle bus:
Rijeka Airport also takes care of its passengers and offers an organized shuttle service on the following routes:
1. Rijeka Airport - Rijeka (both directions): one-way ticket price is €10.00
2. Rijeka - Kraljevica Airport (both directions): one-way ticket price is €5.50
3. Rijeka - Omišalj Airport (both directions): one-way ticket price is €4.00
In addition, shuttle bus transportation offers van transfers to other locations and the schedule may be found on the link. Additionally, you can select exclusive lodging from our selection of villas in Kvarner and on the island of Krk.
Transport partners to Rijeka airport are Croatia Airlines, Eurowings, Transavia, TradeAir, Lufthansa, Condor, EasyJet, and Ryanair.
Taxi transport from and to the airport is provided by 19 taxi companies that you can find here, and car rental by 10 rent-a-car companies: ABC rent-a-car, ACTIVE, AIR rent-a-car, CARPE DIEM, ENTERPRISE, Express, LAST MINUTE rent-a-car, SIXT, TRANSENERGO and NOVA GRATIA.
Zadar Airport (ZAD)
Did you know that two years ago Zadar Airport was nominated for the best airport in the world for up to 5 million passengers? Low-cost airlines, cheap flights, and attractive destinations have made this airport one of the 5 main air routes in Croatia. In addition to the arrival of foreign guests in Croatia, the coastal local population is happy to book flights to foreign destinations.
Passengers traveling to Croatia via Zadar Airport can enjoy a carefree journey with a range of options
Shuttle Bus:
Shuttle Pleso transportation connects the airport with the city of Zadar and the surrounding areas and is a fast, safe, and affordable option. During the high season, you can reach the islands of Pag and Novalja for only €25, and lines are also open for the areas of Petrčane and Borik where you can book accommodation in our villas La Thea, Acacia and La Tina. The timetable is adapted to the arrivals and departures of flights, providing passengers with convenient transportation to their destinations. In addition to the shuttle, public transportation is also available, the schedule of which is as follows:
To the airport:
Peninsula (Center) → Zadar bus station → Gaženica ferry port (killing point near CRODUX gas station) → Zadar airport.
From the airport:
Zadar Airport → Gaženica Ferry Port (station above the passenger terminal building) → Zadar Bus Station → Poluotok (Center).
Transportation with luggage included costs €4.65.
Taxi:
Taxi services are available in front of the main entrance to the terminal, providing fast and direct transportation to desired destinations.
Rent a car:
If you want to explore the surroundings at your own pace, renowned rent-a-car companies offer a wide selection of vehicles, adapted to the different needs and wishes of travelers. Contact them before your arrival to avoid last-minute stress.
The Croatian coast has been hosting travelers from all over the world for many years, and its crystal clear sea and natural beauty are synonymous with a dream summer destination. With a large number of flights from various European cities and a network of accessible routes, Croatian airports connect passengers with their desired destinations. Well-organized transport and the variety of transport services allow access to all locations. Whether you're exploring the historic streets of Zagreb, wandering the ancient walls of Dubrovnik, soaking up the sun in Split, or discovering the Roman history of Pula, airports in Croatia are the gateway to unforgettable experiences. Plan your trip and discover the beauties of the Adriatic.
