Croatia’s motorway to soon connect to major European network

A5 Motorway (Photo: Divna Jaksic/Public domain)

Croatia is set to join the European motorway network this summer as the final stretch of the A5 motorway (Slavonika) nears completion.

The last five kilometres of Corridor 5c leading to the Hungarian border are expected to be finished by June, significantly improving connectivity with northern Europe.

A team from Dnevnik Nova TV tested the route from Osijek to Hungary, taking the A5 motorway and exiting at the Osijek toll station.

From there, they headed towards Hungary, crossing the Drava River and reaching Beli Manastir in just 12 minutes. The final stretch of five kilometres will soon provide a direct link to Hungary.

One of the most challenging parts of the project is the Karašica viaduct, which spans the river. Slaven Lovrić, one of the project’s contractors, confirmed that around 75% of the work is complete and that the motorway will be fully open in June.

The project is worth €46 million and is funded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development through a special loan. Once completed, Croatia will be fully connected to the European motorway network, making travel to northern Europe faster and more convenient.

From the Osijek toll station, it will take just 15 minutes to reach the Hungarian border, making cross-border travel smoother than ever.

However, reporter Tin Kovačić noted that shopping in Hungary may not be a big draw for Croatians, as only soft drinks are notably cheaper. Instead, Hungarians are more likely to visit Croatia.

The improved motorway access is also expected to boost tourism. Matej Perkušić, director of the Baranja Tourist Board, highlighted a 50% increase in Polish visitors compared to last year. He believes that the full motorway connection will make it easier for Polish and Scandinavian tourists to reach Croatia, further strengthening the country’s appeal as a travel destination.

With the completion of this key section, Croatia is taking another big step in improving its infrastructure and strengthening ties with the rest of Europe.