Rental cars, insurance and recommendations for Europe Trip (Austria, Slovenia and Croatia)

[Love This Community]

Hello,

We are planning a 2 week trip to Austria, Slovenia and Croatia. Trying to leverage public transportation where possible but also would like to have the flexibility of having a rental car without breaking the bank. I researched some options an Sixt, Hertz, Avis seem to operate in these countries however, picking up in one country and dropping off in another seems to add ~$600 fee. Has anyone travelled to these countries? if yes, could you please share your recommendations on the transportation options. Would it make sense to rent in each country separately? Also, would appreciate any insights into the rental car insurance options. I haven't rented a car outside the US. TIA!

LTC

 

[Stormy Kromer]

All I can add is do not rely on your personal auto policy. Standard policies coverage territory only extends to US, its territories and Canada.

 

[Surewhitey]

We have rented out of Frankfurt, Germany and drove to France, Switzerland, Austria and returned it to Munich. Fidelity card provided my insurance from what I recall. You also have to pay for "permits" (vignette) in Switzerland and Austria if you don't rent the car in their country... France didn't require one & depends on the country.

We try to make our trips start & end at least in the same country if we get a car.

We're about to go to Zurich, Switzerland and drive to the Dolomites & Lauterbrunnen.

 

[MuirWannabe]

We are going in April. Will be doing a Budget car rental and driving around Croatia and Slovenia. Definitely somewhat expensive. Extra fees for crossing borders plus differing pickup and drop off locations. I think it’s something like $1300 for 3 weeks.

 

[audreyh1]

The only Europe rental we’ve done has been through Auto Europe which is a consolidator geared towards US travelers. It was same country but we dropped off at a different city.

These days if you request an automatic transmission you’ll most likely get a hybrid.

 

[Drake3287]

The number one place for American's to rent car's for Europe travel is www.autoeurope.com plus they offer all the insurance you might need. Another tip from using them many times, once you book a car keep a track of the price dropping. If and when it does just call them up and have them rebook you at the lower rate. I've had the car rates go down on every one of my bookings. Super easy.