If you’re travelling to Croatia by car, you’re probably wondering how motorway tolls work. Many drivers still ask whether they need a motorway vignette or how tolls are paid.
The good news is that the system is very straightforward. Croatia does not use motorway vignettes. Instead, you only pay for the section of motorway you actually use.
Do I Need a Motorway Vignette in Croatia?
No.
Unlike Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Austria or Hungary, Croatia does not require a motorway vignette. Instead, the country’s motorways operate on a distance-based toll system, meaning you only pay for the part of the motorway you drive on.
How Does the Croatian Toll System Work?
Most Croatian motorways operate using a closed toll system.
When entering the motorway, you take a ticket at the toll booth. Keep this ticket with you throughout your journey. When leaving the motorway, you either hand the ticket to the toll booth operator or insert it into the machine, which calculates the toll based on the distance travelled.
The system works much like a parking garage—you only pay for what you use.
How Can I Pay the Toll?
At most toll stations you can pay by:
- Credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro and others)
- Cash (euros)
- ENC electronic toll system
Paying by card is the fastest and most popular option for international visitors.
What Is ENC?
ENC (Electronic Toll Collection) is a small electronic device placed on your vehicle’s windscreen.
When driving through designated ENC lanes, the toll is charged automatically, allowing drivers to pass without stopping at the payment booth.
Besides saving time, ENC also offers discounted toll rates, making it an excellent option for travellers who visit Croatia regularly.
Do I Pay on Every Road?
No.
Tolls only apply to motorways and a few specific toll facilities. Most national and regional roads are completely free to use.
If you choose to avoid the motorway network, you won’t pay any tolls.
What Determines the Toll Price?
The toll depends on:
- the distance travelled,
- the vehicle category,
- the motorway section used.
Passenger cars fall into the standard category, while vans, buses and heavy goods vehicles pay higher tolls.
What Happens If You Lose Your Ticket?
If you lose your motorway ticket during your journey, the motorway operator may charge you the maximum possible tollfor that motorway section.
For this reason, it’s important to keep your ticket in a safe place until you leave the motorway.
Are Any Changes Planned?
Yes.
Croatia is currently preparing a new contactless toll collection system called Crolibertas.
Once introduced, drivers will no longer need to stop at toll booths. The system will use licence plate recognition cameras together with electronic devices similar to today’s ENC units.
However, throughout the 2026 tourist season, the current toll booth system remains in operation.
The new Crolibertas system is currently expected to launch in March 2027.
Tips for Driving in Croatia
If you’re travelling during the busy summer season:
- Have your payment card ready before reaching the toll booth.
- Keep your motorway ticket safe throughout your journey.
- Expect heavier traffic on Saturdays during peak season.
- If you travel to Croatia several times a year, consider purchasing an ENC device.
Following these simple tips will help you enjoy a smooth and stress-free journey on Croatian motorways.
Stay in Our Apartment and Enjoy a Relaxing Holiday
Planning a road trip to Croatia? Stay in our apartment and enjoy everything the beautiful Pirovac and Murter region has to offer. With easy motorway access, crystal-clear beaches, charming coastal towns and unforgettable sunsets, your holiday begins the moment you arrive.
Sources
Hrvatske Autoceste (HAC) – Toll rates and payment methods
https://www.hac.hr/en/toll
Croatia – Motorway toll guide 2026
https://www.tolls.eu/croatia
Croatia has no vignette – How tolls work
https://ontheroadcroatia.com/croatia-vignette-toll-2026/
Croatia by Car 2026 – Crolibertas update
https://www.radesko.com/en/blog/croatia-by-car-2026-route-guide-tolls-and-crolibertas-update