My friend John, who was planning to meet me in Zagreb in mid-October, is struggling with cancer and not able to travel with me. Is there any risk to my traveling alone, probably with a rental car round trip Zagreb and places on the Istria Peninsula? If safe generally, any places I should avoid? Any advice in general to stay safe in these areas in Croatia? Much appreciated.
Posted by
Madison, WI, USA
101 posts
I haven't been to Croatia yet (also going in September), but just wanted to send best wishes to John and to cheer you on for going on the trip solo! I hope you have a wonderful time!
Posted by
Bay Area, California
1409 posts
I, too, wish John well.
I have not been to Croatia, but it's always on my radar. In fact, I have done quite a bit of research on it. It seems to me that Croatia in general is very safe. Of course, you always have to watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas. Also, don't leave anything visible in your car. Always place your belongings in the covered trunk.
Happy travels!
Posted by
OP
15 posts
Hi Layni, Thank you. I attended the UW-Madison in the 70's and now I'm almost 72. I still have an older sister, nephew and grand-nephew living there. I hope you have a fabulous trip in Croatia. John and I also planned to fly to Sicily for a self-drive tour, so I'll be doing that alone too, unless I can think of another friend and they say yes. Nancy
Posted by
OP
15 posts
Thank you, Barkinpak. Yes, and I like RS's tip to buy a local newspaper and leave it on the dashboard. Nancy
Posted by
Lynnwood, Washington
8346 posts
You aren’t elderly! Have a great trip.
Posted by
Vienna, Austria
5372 posts
Istria is exceptionally safe. We go there every year.
Posted by
157 posts
I am older than you, but not by much andam scheduled to go to Zagreb and the Istrian Peninsula for 3 weeks in November. Will travel strictly by bus, have my apts all rented and confirmed, watched as many youtube videos on all aspects of croatian life and cities and towns I will visit. Have bus options noted and am envisioning a delightful trip. Enjoy yours.
Posted by
Noblesville, Indiana, USA
1361 posts
For what it's worth back in the summer of 2017 we drove in the Rovinj area, including the nearby hill towns, and always felt safe.
Posted by
OP
15 posts
Thanks to each of you for your comments!
Posted by
Eden, Utah
31 posts
Hi Nancy - I have been researching rental car options for a trip next spring and found that there are age restrictions in many countries, including Croatia. There is a chart on this link... https://www.autoeurope.com/travel-tips/rental-car-age-requirements/
Posted by
OP
15 posts
Thanks, EmpresSki. I saw that too recently when I reserved a car with SIXT Rent A Car. The fine print conveyed that I'll be charged an extra 12 euros a day because I'm over 70! That's $21.60 a day, pretty outrageous, I think.
Posted by
OP
15 posts
EmpresSki, I did not see that chart and you've prompted me to email SIXT for a confirmation that I'm allowed to drive in Croatia and confirm extra charges. So, thanks!