A Stress-Free Guide to Refueling Your Rental Car in Croatia
Gearing Up in Croatia: A Stress-Free Guide to Refueling Your Rental Car
The keys are in your hand, the Adriatic coastline is calling, and a Croatian road trip of a lifetime awaits. From the ancient city walls of Dubrovnik to the stunning waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes, driving is the ultimate way to experience the country's diverse beauty. But for many international visitors, one small, unfamiliar task can cause a flicker of anxiety: refueling the rental car.
What are the pumps like? What are the fuels called? Do you pay inside or outside? Relax. Refueling in Croatia is a simple cultural difference, not a major obstacle. This guide will walk you through the entire process step-by-step, ensuring your first stop at a Croatian gas station is as smooth and scenic as the coastal roads themselves.
From Empty to Full: The Croatian Gas Station Experience
Finding a Station and What to Expect
Gas stations, known as benzinska postaja, are plentiful throughout Croatia. You'll encounter several major chains, with INA, Tifon, and Crodux being the most common.
Key Difference:
There's a key difference between stations on the motorway (autocesta) and those in towns. Highway stations are typically open 24/7, offering amenities like cafes and clean restrooms, but their fuel prices are slightly higher. Stations in towns and smaller villages are more economical but may have limited hours, often closing in the evening and on Sundays or public holidays.
The most important thing to know is that nearly all gas stations in Croatia are self-service (Samoposluga). You will be expected to pump the fuel yourself. Don't worry—it's a straightforward process.
Decoding the Pump: Choosing the Right Fuel
CRITICAL WARNING:
Always confirm your car's fuel type before you even approach a pump. Check your rental agreement paperwork, and more importantly, look for the sticker inside the car's fuel flap or on the fuel cap itself. It will clearly state "Eurosuper 95" or "Diesel." When in doubt, double-check. When still in doubt, call your rental agency. Never guess.
This is the most critical part of the process. Putting the wrong fuel in a rental car can be a costly and trip-ruining mistake.
The Refueling Process: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
The standard procedure is to pay after you fill up. Once you've replaced the nozzle and closed your fuel cap, go inside the station building to the cashier (Blagajna). Payment is in Euros (€). All major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) and cash are widely accepted.
GGasoline/Petrol
Eurosuper 95
Also labeled as: Bezolovni 95
• Standard unleaded gasoline
• For standard passenger cars
• Most common and correct choice
DDiesel
Eurodizel
• For many European cars
• For SUVs and larger vehicles
• Never put in gasoline cars
The Refueling Process: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Step 1: Before You Go
Confirm your vehicle's fuel type. This is your number one priority. Check your rental agreement paperwork and look for the sticker inside the car's fuel flap or on the fuel cap itself.
Step 2: At the Pump
Park your car next to a pump with the fuel tank on the correct side. Turn off the engine completely. Take a moment to note your pump number (Broj pumpe), which is clearly displayed on the pump itself.
Step 3: Filling Up
Open your car's fuel cap. Unhook the correct nozzle—double-checking the color (green for gasoline, black for diesel) and the name on the pump. Insert the nozzle firmly and squeeze the handle. The pump will make a distinct "click" and shut off once the tank is full.
Step 4: Paying for Your Fuel
Go inside the station building to the cashier (Blagajna). Confidently state your pump number. Payment is in Euros (€). All major credit and debit cards and cash are widely accepted.
Fuel Options at a Glance: Petrol vs. Diesel in Croatia
| Fuel Type | Name on Croatian Pump | Nozzle Color | Typically Used For | Crucial Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol / Gasoline | Eurosuper 95 (or Bezolovni 95) | Green | Standard passenger cars and hatchbacks | "Bezolovni" means "unleaded" |
| Diesel | Eurodizel | Black | Many European cars, SUVs, and larger vehicles | Never put this in a gasoline car |
Key Takeaways for a Smooth Refueling Experience
Before leaving the rental car lot, open the fuel door and identify the sticker indicating the correct fuel. It will say 'Diesel' or 'Eurosuper 95.' This is your ultimate source of truth.
Be prepared to pump the fuel yourself. Attendants who offer full service are extremely rare and should not be expected.
After filling your tank, you must go inside to the cashier (Blagajna) to pay. Telling the cashier your pump number (Broj pumpe) is the first step of the transaction.
Use the universal color-coding of the pump nozzles as your final safety check before you squeeze the handle. It's a simple visual cue that can prevent a major mistake.
Croatia officially uses the Euro. Gas stations readily accept major credit and debit cards, but it's always wise to carry some cash as a backup, especially when driving in more remote areas.
Drive with Confidence: Your Croatian Road Trip Awaits
You are now fully equipped with the knowledge to refuel your car in Croatia like a local. What may have seemed like a daunting task is just a simple, five-minute pit stop. By knowing the right terms and following these easy steps, you can keep your focus where it belongs: on the incredible landscapes, charming towns, and the open road ahead.
Pro Tip:
Before you drive away from the rental lot, take a photo of the fuel type sticker inside the fuel door—it's the best travel tip you'll get. Now, drive on and enjoy every moment of your adventure.