The A5 Motorway in Croatia
The A5 Motorway from Osijek and Đakovo
Locally known as the Slavonia Motorway, the A5 is a vital transport link in northeastern Croatia. The route connects the cities of Osijek and Đakovo, which is near the Sredanci interchange of the A3 motorway. The expressway is a vital part of the country’s transportation infrastructure, connecting the Slavonia region and the rest of the Croatian economy.
History of the A5 Motorway
In 1996, as part of the country’s broader infrastructure program, construction began on the A5. The road was built in sections, with the final link completed in 2009. It was designed according to the highest specifications of the European Union, incorporating the latest safety and structural standards. It has significantly improved the economy of the Slavonia region.
The Construction of the A5 Motorway
The A5 motorway was built over 13 years. It was funded by Croatia and the European Union. It was made to improve efficiency and travel times between Osijek, Đakovo, and the greater region. It is estimated to have cost 2.2 billion kuna (291,750,800 Euros in May 2023). Improvements will be financed by the toll system. To use the system efficiently, you can buy a vignette for Croatia online here.
Companies that built the A5 Motorway
The Croatian government retained the services of several local and international companies to build the A5. Frequent collaborator Strabag of Austria led the consortium. They were assisted by Osijek-Koteks, GP Krk and Konstruktor.
Length and Width of the A5
From Osijek to Đakovo, the motorway runs 59. kilometres. There are four exits. For most of its length, there are two lanes in either direction, with an emergency lane. In some sections, there is a third lane where the incline slows some traffic. The speed limit is 130 km/h, with some sections slower for safety. It is a toll road, and an electronic payment system improves efficiency and reduces congestion.
Attractions along the A5 Motorway
The A5 motorway’s route includes some interesting settlements and places of interest.
Interesting cities and towns along the A5
Osijek
Situated at the northern end of the A5, Osijek has a rich historical aspect. Visit the Tvrda Fortress, which dates to the 18th century.
Strizivojna
About halfway along the A5, you'll find this quaint settlement which is home to the St Anthony of Padua Church. Other well-preserved architecture from the early 18th century adds to the ambience.
Đakovo
Near the southern end of the A5 highway, the town’s neo-Gothic cathedral is home to an impressive art collection.
Places of Interest near the A5 Motorway
The following attractions can be found a short distance from the A5
Kopački Rit Nature Park
One of the largest wetlands in Europe is close to the town of Bilje. Nature lovers can explore the region on foot or in boats.
Baranja Wine Region
A short distance south of the A5, you’ll find the renowned Baranja wine estates. Numerous tours of the vineyards and wine-tasting experiences are on offer.
Valpovo
Visit this large town to see the Prandau-Normann Castle and ruins dating back to Roman times.
Major Intersections along the A5 Motorway
The only major motorway the A5 connects to is the A3 at the Sredanci interchange. The A3 connects with the capital, Zagreb in the west and the border crossing from Croatia into Bosnia and Herzegovina to the east.
Various State Roads the Intersect with the A5 Motorway
D7 State Road
Meets the A5 at Belišće junction. Goes to Našice and south to Slavonski Brod.
D34 State Road
Intersects with A5 at Đakovo junction. Important connection to the Slavonia agricultural regions.
D41 State Road
Near the southern end of the A5 highway, the town’s neo-Gothic cathedral is home to an impressive art collection.
D53 State Road
Joins the A5 at Osijek junction. Connects to Vukovar and the border crossing with Serbia.
Is a Vignette Required to Use the A5 Motorway?
To use the A5 motorway, drivers must be in possession of a road tax sticker called a vignette. These are displayed on the windshield. Vignettes can be purchased at authorised vendors, as well as most service stations and post offices. How much you will pay will depend on your vehicle’s category and the distance to be travelled on the motorway.
Plans are underway to extend the A5 from Osijek to the Hungarian border, with the project due for completion in late 2023. The A5 motorway has already positively impacted the Slavonian region’s commercial and tourism sectors. With ample service stations, rest stops, and 24/7 roadside assistance, it is very user-friendly. Funds generated by the ENC toll system will no doubt ensure the route remains a well-maintained and efficient link to the region and beyond.
Road users are well catered for with ample rest stops, service stations, and support services. With funds generated by the ENC toll system, it will no doubt continue to provide drivers with a well-maintained and efficient link to the region and beyond.
