Zagreb taxi drivers charging up to €85 for 5km journeys despite displayed fare rules

Zagreb

ZAGREB, 11 June 2026 – Significant differences in taxi fares continue to be seen across Zagreb, with some drivers legally permitted to charge up to €85 for journeys of just five kilometres, according to a report by Jutarnji list.

Under regulations introduced in May last year, taxi operators using taximeters must display the maximum fare they are allowed to charge on vehicle doors.

However, while the prices must be clearly displayed, there is currently no legal cap on the amount operators can set, provided it is listed on the vehicle.

The system has led to a wide range of advertised fares across the city and has sparked criticism from passengers and consumer groups. In some cases shared on social media, vehicles have displayed extremely high maximum fares for short journeys, including amounts running into thousands of euros.

As part of the Velika Škrtica series on Jutarnji list, journalist Dora Koretić visited Zagreb’s Main Railway Station and found some of the city’s highest-priced taxis.

Several vehicles displayed maximum fares of €85 for a five-kilometre journey, equivalent to €17 per kilometre. Another taxi listed a maximum fare of €78 for the same distance, while others displayed fares of up to €65, she said.

The station remains one of several locations where taximeter-based drivers regularly wait for passengers, often approaching travellers leaving the station.

Similar services can also be found near hospitals. At a taxi rank in Vinogradska Street, fares were lower than those observed at the railway station, although still considerably higher than those charged by some established operators.

The highest advertised fare there was €42.50 for five kilometres, while other vehicles displayed maximum charges of €31.50 and €25.

By comparison, drivers operating under the Zagrebački taksi brand displayed a maximum fare of €7.90 for five kilometres. Wizi, formerly known as Cammeo, listed a maximum fare of €7.80 for the same distance.

Taxi services booked through mobile applications operate under different requirements.

Current regulations oblige app-based operators to show passengers the total journey price and route before the ride begins, offering greater transparency regarding costs.

Meanwhile, Croatia’s Ministry of Transport has introduced additional measures aimed at strengthening oversight of the sector.

These include the introduction of dedicated TX registration plates for taxi vehicles and mandatory driver identification cards to verify that licensed individuals are providing services.

Authorities have also announced stricter penalties for irregularities. In addition to transport inspectors, municipal wardens, police officers and customs officials will be authorised to carry out checks and enforce compliance.

The new measures are intended to improve transparency and help passengers make informed decisions when choosing taxi services in Zagreb.