Travelling across the border from Serbia to Croatia by Road
The relationship between Croatia and Serbia
Croatia and Serbia share a complex history, one marked by periods of war and peace. Both were once part of the former Yugoslavia. When that country imploded in the early 1990s, a series of conflicts across the region led to strained relations, which can be fragile to this day. Nevertheless, the two countries persevere in their efforts to establish and maintain diplomatic and cooperative relations.
The roads and toll system in Croatia
Croatia boasts a modern, sophisticated road network. An efficient system of motorways connects settlements and attractions across the country.
Toll roads make up most major highways and are managed by HAC. Road users must purchase a Vignette to legally use the road, which can be purchased at vignettecroatia.com. These enable automated toll collections and payments, making for efficient travel. Prices are based on vehicle type and distance travelled.
Cross-border cooperation on the Serbian-Croatian border
Efforts to strengthen cross-border cooperation are in effect, relating to border management, law enforcement, and infrastructure development. An example is the recent construction of the Bajakovo - Batrovci crossing station. Overall, they aim to facilitate a smooth, safe, and compliant crossing experience.
Border control procedures
Border control officials verify travel documents and ensure compliance with regulations regarding customs and immigration. You should be prepared to show your valid passport, including a Schengen visa if you are not an EU citizen. Familiarise yourself with requirements before setting off for the border. The waiting times at the Croatian and Serbian border are long compared to for example the waiting times at border crossings between Slovenia & Italy. As EU citizens we are not used to immigration checks inside Europe so familiarize yourself with the rules before you travel between Croatia and Serbia.
A little about Croatia as a destination
Since admission into the European Union, and later the Schengen Agreement, Croatia has grown as a tourist destination. Travellers from across the globe flock to the country, particularly in summer. Croatia boasts a magnificent coastline, thousands of historical and cultural sites, and breathtaking natural beauty. Croats are very hospitable and take great pride in their colourful culture and cuisine.
Choosing the right Croatia-Serbia border crossing
There are 8 Serbia-Croatia border crossing points, of which the Bajakovo - Batrovci is the busiest. When travelling between the two countries, to ensure the most economical route, consider the following:
- Starting point
- Destination
- Which border crossing separates the two points
- Traffic at that border crossing?
- Law enforcement checkpoints.
Use online resources to plot your route and answer the questions above to determine the best route for your Serbia to Croatia border crossing.
All Croatia to Serbia Crossing Points from North to South
There are eight international border crossing points between Serbia and Croatia. Each of these crossings is located on a specific road, identified by its Serbian, Croatian, and European designation. Here are the border crossings:
Bezdan - Batina: E75 / D213
- Popular nearby: Osijek is the cultural centre of NE Croatia. Gornje Podunavlje National Reserve Sombor, Serbia, is 25 km away.
- Webcam: None
Bogojevo - Erdut: E73 / D214
- Popular nearby: Osijek is 33 km away. In Serbia, nearby Bogojevo is a quaint historical village.
- Webcam:
Backa Palanka - Ilok: E75 / D212
- Popular nearby: Danube River cruises from either side of the border.
- Webcam:
Nestin - Ilok: D519
- Popular nearby: Drive along the bank of the Danube River to Novi Sad and the Petrovaradin Fortress
- Webcam: None
Sid - Tovarnik: D46/120
- Popular nearby: Croatia’s largest town, Vinkovci, is 35 km away. Sid is 112 km from Belgrade.
- Webcam:
Sot - Principovac 1: D519
- Popular nearby: There are numerous parks and nature reserves in the area.
- Webcam: None
Ljuba - Principovac 2: D51
- Popular nearby: As above
- Webcam: None
Bajakovo - Batrovci: E70 / A3
- Location: SE Croatia/NW Serbia
- Popular nearby: Spačvanska Šuma Nature Park - Croatia. Belgrade is 120 km away and this is the shortest route from the border.
- Webcam:
Using the Internet to help plan your trips
Before setting off for Croatia, you can find a wealth of information to help plan your journey. From maps to tourist guides, government portals, accommodation providers and more. They can significantly reduce costs and save you time better spent enjoying your holiday.
Road user tips when travelling in Croatia
- Familiarise yourself with local traffic laws.
- The speed limit on highways is 130 km/h. On secondary roads, it is 90 km/h, while in urban areas it is 50 km/h.
- Drivers must switch on headlights at all times.
- Seatbelts and appropriate child-restraint devices are mandatory.
- Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited. Use a hands-free kit.
- Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The blood-alcohol limit is 0,05%.
- Keep up-to-date on road and weather conditions on your planned route.
Travelling from Serbia to Croatia should be a painless experience, although the traffic can get congested during peak travel seasons. By planning, carrying the correct documentation, and abiding by the instructions of officials, your journey should become a safe and scenic adventure.
