Krk is not only the largest island in Croatia, but also a magical destination full of beautiful bays, medieval towns and lots of untouched nature - and in my opinion the ideal destination to explore with a rental car. Many holidaymakers still travel the long and arduous route from Central Europe by car. That's why I asked myself which is better: traveling with your own car or a combination of flight and rental car? What do you have to consider when booking? And which are the most beautiful routes on the island? I have put together the most important information for you about renting a car on Krk.

Rijeka Airport, located on the nearby island of Krk, is pretty much the smallest airport I've ever seen. After landing, you walk across the tarmac and find yourself a short time later at the baggage claim area. You can't miss them because there is only one baggage carousel at Rijeka Airport. I was immediately impressed by this small, interesting airport.

And the situation is similar with the rental car stations: the number is manageable, as is the number of holidaymakers who rent a car on the island of Krk. You therefore have to do it yourself Vacation Don't wait long for your car in peak season.

It's better to explore Krk by flight and rental car

Most people travel with their own car. The journey would take me almost 18 hours Hamburg (travel report) took a long time - plus the wear and tear on your own car, fuel stops and probably an overnight stay somewhere in Austria because it takes 18 hours to drive in a row to get there Croatia but it's quite a strain. The flight took a total of less than five hours, including the journey to the airport, just over an hour of flight time and the legendary baggage claim. This is out of competition.

So I decided to rent a car during my two weeks on Krk. The pre-booked car, which I booked through a Croatian agent at the branch of a well-known German car rental company, only cost 270 euros for two weeks. A real bargain compared to the costs that would have been incurred with your own car. And the costs are definitely crucial when planning your trip.

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Why I always take a rental car

I like to travel individually and independently. When I'm on vacation, I don't want to have to rely on buses and trains - especially on Krk (travel report) There are neither trains nor too many buses. Without a car you are lost on the island. There are often not even cycle paths in the country, so you can't get around without a car - or a taxi. Driving means freedom on vacation.

That's why I prefer to rent a car when exploring a new region. With a rented car on site, I can choose my own itinerary, stop where and when I want, and take as much time as I need. I can plan my day flexibly and go at my own pace while sightseeing.

Discover the most beautiful bays on Krk flexibly with a rental car

I was also able to reach some exceptionally beautiful bathing bays, especially on Krk, that I would never have seen without a rental car. With a car in Vacation I can spontaneously change my plans if I discover something interesting or the weather changes. I also enjoy driving through the countryside and enjoying the view.

At Krk airport I received a small, brand new small car from a well-known manufacturer, which was also particularly economical - good for him Wallets and the environment. And with that I set off to discover Krk.

Explore the most beautiful places in Krk by rental car

My first impression of driving on Krk was a moderate disaster. The island is literally drowning in traffic. When I drove out of the airport area and wanted to turn left onto the main road that leads from the Krk Bridge to the island, it was just a nightmare. In summer, cars line up like an endless chain. You simply don't have a gap and you have to squeeze in somehow, otherwise you won't get in - all with the brand new rental car.

And unfortunately this impression was fully confirmed in the next 14 days. The traffic on the island of Krk is really heavy. Turning left was always a horror because there is a constant traffic jam on the main roads that leaves no gap. But well, you probably have to accept that if you want to discover one of the most beautiful islands in the Adriatic.

You can discover while driving on Krk

The island of Krk has an area of ​​around 400 square kilometers, making it the largest island in Croatia. When you drive across the island, you don't see much at first - there are green bushes to the left and right of the road that you can't see from the car. Only around Krk town does the country road become a little clearer and you can see the mountains and valleys that make up this beautiful island.

Just by driving on the country roads you get a first impression of the history of the island because ancient ruins can be found right on the side of the road. And if you take the trouble to look carefully at maps and drive along a few lonely dirt roads, you will discover really impressive ruins such as centuries-old churches, monasteries and ancient sites.

Good availability of parking spaces

But you don't necessarily have to go to the desert. Many sights can be easily discovered by car and are easily accessible. In Krk town there is the Romanesque cathedral, in the immediate vicinity of which there is a public parking lot. I was even able to park for free at the Franciscan monastery in Glavotok. And in the medieval towns of Vrbnik and Dobrinj, parking costs money - but at least you can easily find a space.

Rustic restaurants await you along the way everywhere on Krk

What's also very nice, by the way, is that if you're traveling by car, you'll almost inevitably pass some somewhat remote taverns. These are traditional restaurants with fantastic local cuisine, from lots of fresh fish and seafood to lamb and cheese, to pork on a spit, goulash and the traditional Surlice pasta. With a rental car you can easily reach all of these places and have a spontaneous time during your daily excursions. Of course, this works just as well with your own car.

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The most beautiful rental car routes on Krk

I can tell you this much in advance: If you are traveling to Krk with a rental car or your own car, you can drive around Krk in just a few hours. Although it is the largest island in Croatia, the island is only about 50 kilometers long and significantly less wide. If you don't make any stops, you can drive completely around the island in one to two hours - depending on the traffic situation. But of course that's not what the inventor intended. After all, you want to see as much of Krk as possible when you explore the island with your rental car.

For this reason, I have put together a few different car routes for you below that I took myself during my trip. It is important to remember that the routes are not set in stone. You can also connect the tour to Baska with Vrbnik instead of Krk and Punat. I would simply combine the locations of your rental car tours so that they are reasonably on the route. But as I said: The distances on Krk are not that great, so there are many possible combinations.

Car route 1: Krk – Punat – Stara Baska – Baska

My starting point for all rental car tours was Malinska. So I planned my routes accordingly from there. The first trip took me to the capital Krk. There I strolled through the historic streets of the old town and was very impressed by the small harbor with a beach, which is located directly outside the city walls.

After almost an hour and a half in Krk, I drove on to Punat and strolled along the impressive marina. There you can also visit the monastery island of Kosljun. And Punat also has a beautiful little old town. A place that I hadn't really considered before and that really surprised me positively with its sheltered location on the edge of the mountains.

It was now midday. And I drove from Punat to Stara Baska. In this case, for me the journey was really the destination, because you drive to Stara Baska on a beautiful mountain road. It's worth stopping now and enjoying the view. However, the last few kilometers to the port of Stara Baska the road becomes a real disaster. The place is very long and the busy road is only one lane.

Tour to Stara Baska very demanding

So you constantly have to avoid oncoming traffic - and often one of the drivers has to back up to let the other one pass. But the trip is worth it. There are a few nice restaurants at the port of Stara Baska where you can stop off after the car journey. I would recommend driving into town first and stopping at Oprna Bay on the way back, shortly after leaving town.

This is a beautiful and picturesque bay. However, it is difficult to find a parking space on the shoulder. And you have to walk a bit through the rough terrain to get to your new favorite bathing bay.

From Stara Baska we take the picturesque mountain road back to Punat. Along the way, pay attention to the view of the monastery island of Kosljun. You can have a wonderful view of it from the mountain. When you get back to the main road on the northern outskirts of Punat, you can either drive home and take the opportunity to shop at Lidl in Krk - in my opinion the best and cheapest supermarket on the island. Every time I passed it, I immediately stopped to shop. All other supermarkets were noticeably more expensive.

If you still have time, go to Baska

Or if you still have time, you can turn towards Baska in Punat. This is a popular seaside resort with a particularly long sandy beach and a picturesque old town. In theory you can relax, swim or hike. However, in high season the place is packed. You can barely get a parking space and the beach is so crowded that you'll have a hard time finding a place to lie down with your towel. But apart from that, Baska, the entire bay and the surrounding mountains are wonderfully suitable for outdoor activities.

Car route 2: Glavotok – Pinezici

If you want to get to know the island of Krk from its green and quiet side, this route is just right for you. It takes you to Glavotok and Pinezici, two beautiful villages in the west of the island. Glavotok is an idyllic place that is surrounded by a nature reserve and offers many hiking trails through untouched nature. So many hiking trails that I even wondered if I was getting lost in the middle of nowhere. Glovotok is one of the most beautiful areas to Hiking on Krk.

Enjoy untouched nature on the tour

You can enjoy the region's untouched nature, hike through the dense forest, marvel at the breathtaking cliffs or visit the historic Franciscan monastery, which dates back to the 15th century. The cute little monastery is not only an architectural delight, but also a place of spirituality and culture.

Inside you will find a valuable collection of works of art, a library with old books and a small church with a beautiful altar. And there is a small beach practically right in front of the door, which I used to enjoy a little cooling off during my rental car tour.

Glavotok is also a good starting point for trips to the neighboring islands of Cres and Losinj, which can be reached by ferry from the nearby town of Valbiska. These islands are known for their diverse flora and fauna, their picturesque fishing villages and their crystal clear bays. You can spend a relaxing day on the beach relatively spontaneously, flexibly and without much effort, try the local specialties or explore the numerous sights - such as the Museum of Apoxyomenos in Losinj, which exhibits an ancient bronze statue of an athlete.

My personal highlight were the small, beautiful bays near Pinezici

My personal highlight were the small, beautiful bays near Pinezici. I've even been there several times because it's so beautiful there. And the village itself is also worth a visit: it is located on the coast and offers a wonderful view of the sea and the island of Plavnik. Pinezici is an ideal place for families who want to spend a quiet vacation. There is a beautiful pebble beach with a playground, a campsite with modern facilities and several restaurants and cafes offering local delicacies.

Pinezici is also a good place for active holidaymakers who want to explore the surrounding area by bike or on foot. There are several hiking trails and bike paths that take you to the most beautiful corners of the island. Overall, the area is a bit more rural and you can – at least theoretically – retreat a little better there. Theoretically, because it is very crowded here in high season.

Car route 3: Vrbnik – Dobrinj – Klimno

In my opinion, Vrbnik is the most beautiful place on Krk. You definitely have to see this little town. Depending on where you are in your Krk holiday accommodation If you live there, you can start the route through the north-east of the island in Vrbnik or Klimno - and depending on your preference, you can also combine it with Punat and Baska.

In any case, this tour takes you through the heart of the island of Krk and shows the cultural and historical diversity. Vrbnik is a magical old town perched on a rock overlooking the sea. It is known for its wine, its folklore and its narrow streets, which are among the narrowest in Europe.

Here you can visit the Church of Saint John from the 14th century, the Folk Museum or the library with valuable manuscripts. From Vrbnik we continue to Dobrinj, another medieval town located on a hill a little further inland. Dobrinj has a charming old town with a church, a bell tower and an ethnographic museum. From here you can also enjoy the view of the Kvarner Bay.

Car route 4: Malinska – Njivice – Omisalj

This route runs along the north coast of the island of Krk and offers beautiful views of the sea and mountains. Malinska is one of the main holiday resorts on Krk where I stayed during my trip. The small town has a beautiful harbor, a long bay with many swimming areas and a lively promenade.

Here you can have fun, shop or eat. My highlight was the Rajska cesta, the Paradise Trail, which borders Malinska. If you are on your rental car tour, you should at least stop by this route briefly. There is also a parking lot there.

From Malinska we continue to Njivice, another seaside resort with a pebble beach and a pine forest. Here you can sunbathe, surf or cycle. The last stop on this route is Omisalj, one of the oldest settlements on the island of Krk. Omisalj has a picturesque old town with a Romanesque church, a castle and a museum. Here you can also see the cute little airport of Krk (Airport Rijeka), which is located nearby. And the impressive Krk Bridge is also nearby. The bridge that connects the island to the mainland is a sight in itself. Maybe you should take advantage of the opportunity and drive over in your rental car?

Perhaps the most important tip – download the parking ticket app bmove

Without the parking ticket app bmove I would have been screwed on Krk. I have to say that very clearly. You have to pay for parking almost everywhere - mostly at parking meters. So you always have to calculate how long you want to stay in one place. With the smartphone app for iOS and Android is that different. If you're at the beach and your parking ticket expires, you can easily renew it on your smartphone. A visit to the car is then not necessary.

This means you can draw your parking tickets much more precisely - and save a lot of money. Digitalization works better in Croatia than in Germany – bmove worked reliably for the entire two weeks. After the trip I wanted to use a parking app in Germany and was bitterly disappointed. Unfortunately it didn't work and I had to get the parking ticket manually from the machine.

How do I find a cheap and good rental car on Krk?

There are a few rental car providers on Krk – both local and international. You can book a rental car either online or directly on site - for example at Check24*. I recommend that you book online in advance so that you can compare the prices and conditions of different providers and find the best deal for you. Before the trip, I booked online with a local rental car agent who sold the cars of a large international rental car company.

So I got brand quality at an exceptionally low price. You can also ensure that the car you want is available, especially in high season or if you want a specific model. There are various portals that will help you with your search - for examplebilliger-mietwagen.de or rentalcars.com.

Where can I pick up and return my rental car on Krk?

The easiest way to get your rental car on Krk is at Krk airport. That's how I did it anyway. At the airport you will find several counters from different providers where you can sign your rental agreement and receive your key. You practically can't miss the switches.

How do I drive safely and relaxed with my rental car on Krk?

First of all, you should always carry your driver's license, passport, vehicle registration document and rental agreement with you. You must be able to show these documents if you are checked by the police or if you are involved in an accident. You should also, as far as possible, adhere to the traffic rules that apply in Croatia. The most important rules are (all information without guarantee):

1. The maximum speed is 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h outside of urban areas and 130 km/h on motorways.
2. The alcohol limit is 0,5 for normal drivers and 0 for novice and professional drivers. Under no circumstances should you drink and drive. Zero alcohol is safest.
3. Making phone calls while driving is only permitted with a hands-free device.
4. Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all occupants.
5. Carrying high-visibility vests, warning triangles and first-aid kits is mandatory.

All statements are without guarantee.

Where can I park my rental car on Krk?

If you drive your rental car on Krk, you will have to look for a parking space at some point - and that's not exactly fun in high season, as I can report from my own experience. This can vary in difficulty depending on the location and season. In the larger towns such as Krk, Malinska or Punat there are usually designated parking spaces that you can use for a fee.

The fee depends on the duration of your parking and the zone in which you park. You can either pay the fee at a parking ticket machine or send it via SMS to a specified number. You can also download the parking app bmove, like I did. If you have a printed parking ticket, make sure that you place your parking ticket clearly visible behind the windshield.

In smaller towns or in nature there are often no official parking spaces, only free spaces on the side of the road or in meadows. You can usually park there for free, but you should be careful not to obstruct or block anyone. Otherwise your rental car will probably be towed away. And that gets really expensive. Under no circumstances should you block exits - otherwise your car will probably be towed after your visit to the beach. You should also make sure that you do not park on private property or in a fire department driveway. If you are unsure whether you are allowed to park in a certain place, it is better to ask or look for another spot.

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Rental car on Krk – better than traveling with your own car?

Maybe it will help you decide: I can clearly answer this question with yes. Yes, the combination of flight and rental car is much more pleasant and comfortable than traveling with your own car. On the one hand, you get there much quicker and don't have the hassle of a journey of up to 20 hours - depending on the traffic situation. In addition, the costs are not much higher: I paid 250 euros for the flight and 270 euros for the rental car.

That's a total of 520 euros for two weeks. If you factor in the wear and tear on your own car, this option isn't much more expensive. Most people still prefer to travel in their own car. Below I have put together the most important advantages and disadvantages of each journey for you:

Advantages of arriving by car

• You save the costs of rental cars and insurance.

• You know your own car and perhaps feel safer and more comfortable in it.
• You have the freedom to set off at any time without having to organize a rental car.
• You can take more luggage with you because you don't have to worry about the aircraft's luggage restrictions.

Disadvantages of traveling by car

• Depending on the starting point, the journey can be very long and tiring.
• There is a risk of wear and tear and possible damage to your car due to the long journey. You could also stay stranded on the long route.
• The costs of fuel, tolls and any necessary repairs can add up. I saw a car repair shop on Krk where holidaymakers' vehicles were literally piled up.
• In the event of a breakdown or accident abroad, the process can become more complicated and expensive.

Advantages of traveling with a rental car

• You often drive a newer and well-maintained car that meets all current safety standards. I had a brand new car that had less than 10.000 kilometers on it.
• You can choose the model that best suits your travel needs (e.g. a smaller car for city trips or an SUV for off-road trips).
• In the event of a breakdown or accident, the rental car provider is usually responsible for replacement or repairs.
• You don't have to worry about wear and tear or loss of value on your car.

Disadvantages of traveling with a rental car:

• The costs can vary depending on the provider and the season and can be more expensive than traveling with your own car.
• You have to deal with the rental conditions and insurance options. I generally recommend booking before the trip including the largest possible insurance package (all-round worry-free option).
• You are often limited to a certain number of kilometers and have to pay extra if you exceed the limit. In addition, you often have to return the car with a full tank at the end.
• Depending on the provider and location, returning the rental car can be time-consuming.

Buy travel literature and travel insider tips

On my travel blog you will find many inspiring articles about different travel destinations around the world. But sometimes just reading articles isn't enough to prepare for a trip. That's why we've listed some travel books for you that will help you plan your trip even better and make you aware of undiscovered local treasures.

Exploring Krk with a rental car - the alternative to your own car?

My conclusion

I have a very clear opinion on this: take the plane and a rental car if you have a journey of more than fifteen hours. Depending on the traffic situation, it takes between 15 and 20 hours to get to Krk from Hamburg - and that's a really borderline long drive. You may need to make a stopover in Austria make. In addition, driving through Slovenia can be relatively strenuous because it takes place on country roads where the police are happy to stop you, as I know from experience.

My conclusion is therefore clear: On the one hand, you definitely need a car on Krk in order to get around in a somewhat relaxed manner. There is practically no public transport and you often won't find any footpaths or cycle paths - especially outside of town. With a rental car you can explore the relatively small island of Krk very extensively and flexibly. You can reach almost any area, park there relatively easily and then explore the respective region while hiking or walking. In addition, some beautiful bathing bays can practically only be reached by rental car.

Have you already been to Krk or are you planning a trip to the Croatian island? Do you often use a rental car? How do you like to get around on vacation? Share your experiences in the comments!

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