Where to stay in Zadar – the best accommodation in Zadar, Croatia

Zadar is easily one of the most exciting towns in Croatia and offers the perfect blend of history, culture, gorgeous beaches, fantastic nightlife, and is surrounded by incredible natural beauty and breathtaking national parks.

While the old city center is small and walkable and a popular base for first-time visitors to Zadar, there are plenty of other neighborhoods that offer unique experiences and accommodations for different types of travelers.

In this guide, I break down the different areas of Zadar and provide a curated selection of the best accommodation options. This will help you find the perfect place to stay during your visit to Zadar, regardless of your budget or travel style.

This guide to accommodation in Zadar will walk you through:

1. A geographical breakdown of the best areas to stay in and near Zadar
2. All the info you need to make an informed decision on the best area for you
3. A selection of the best accommodation options for each area, budget, and type of accommodation

What you need to know before choosing your Zadar accommodation

Zadar is a picturesque destination that really has it all – from rich history and vibrant culture to awe-inspiring art installations and exciting day trips. There are just so many things to see and do here, that you’ll certainly need a few days in Zadar!

But there are a few things you should consider when choosing a place to stay.

There is more to Zadar than its old town

Having visited Zadar multiple times, I can say with confidence that this city is a treasure trove of unique activities and sights. The ancient Roman ruins, medieval churches, and charming Old Town are just the beginning. The city also boasts a wealth of modern art installations, including the famous Sea Organ and Sun Salutation.

Venture beyond the Old Town, and you’ll discover a wealth of natural beauty waiting to be explored. The stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking islands are all within easy reach, offering visitors the chance to soak up the Mediterranean sun and indulge in a range of water-based activities. From hiking in Paklenica National Park to swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Dugi Otok island, the possibilities are endless.

Think about accessibility and your travel style

When choosing accommodation in Zadar, it’s important to consider the city’s unique layout and limited car traffic. The Old Town is small and pedestrian-friendly, so if you’re traveling by car, be sure to select a lodging that offers parking. Keep in mind that some areas are only accessible by foot, so you may need to carry your luggage over cobblestone streets and stairs.

If you’re looking to explore the city’s nature and beaches, staying outside of the Old Town may be a better option. Not only will you have easy access to beautiful beaches right at your doorstep, but you’ll also avoid the drawbacks of staying in a crowded area. Despite being outside the Old Town, the historic city center is still easily reachable and can be explored in just a day. By selecting accommodation outside of the Old Town, you’ll have the best of both worlds – easy access to the city center and the opportunity to explore the stunning natural surroundings.

How many days in Zadar?

Three days is the perfect amount of time to explore Zadar as you’ll have the opportunity to discover the charming Zadar old town and venture out to explore some of the nearby national parks and islands.

While the old town of Zadar can be combed through in just a few hours, I’d recommend spending at least one night here so you’ll be able to enjoy the sunsets, lively bar scene, and maybe even a boat tour or national park.

You’ll also need a couple more days if you’d like to enjoy the beach or visit more of the nearby national parks.

Where to stay in Zadar – best areas

Here’s a quick breakdown of the best areas to stay in Zadar:

• Zadar Old Town is the historic center of Zadar and is predominately a pedestrian area. You’ll be very close to all the sights but might struggle with parking and carrying your bags across cobblestone streets.
• Zadar New Town located on the mainland, east from the Old Town peninsula, the modern town of Zadar is a great alternative with easy parking options and within walking access to the historic city center and beach
• Kolovare is the main public beach in Zadar and the perfect spot for you if you’d like the beach vibes while still staying close to the city center. This area also offers great nightlife.
• Diklo & Kozino are popular beach destinations slightly north of Zadar city center. They’re best suited for families and budget travelers.
• Petrcane / Punta Skala is about 15min drive north of Zadar and is an idyllic beach escape for the ultimate luxury retreat.

Refer to this map of Zadar attractions to find the things mentioned below.

Best accommodation in Zadar – best hotels and holiday homes

Here’s an in-depth guide to the best accommodation options for each area of Zadar. I’ll give you options for every budget and accommodation type.

Where to stay in Zadar Old Town

Best for: first time stays, those who travel light, history, nightlife

Located on a small peninsula, the old town of Zadar offers stunning views of the sea and a charming mix of Roman ruins, medieval churches, and modern art installations. The old town is perfect if it’s your first time in Zadar, you’re on a time crunch or like to be close to the action.

While the old town may be ancient, it’s far from sleepy, with a bustling bar and restaurant scene that adds to its vibrant energy that often turns evenings into the early morning hours.

Where to stay in Zadar New Town

Best for: budget stays, public transport, accessibility

The commercial center of Zadar city is located to the east of the Old Town and is just a stone’s throw away from Zadar’s popular attractions. You’ll be close enough to the action should you seek it, but far enough away from the touristy Old Town to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.

The New Town boasts a fashionable promenade with residential and public palaces, trendy bars, restaurants, and cultural institutions. By choosing to stay in the new part of town you’ll also have the benefit of public transport and better accessibility and parking options.

Where to stay in Kolovare

Best for: accessibility, beach, nightlife

For generations, Kolovare beach has been a beloved sea escape for Zadar residents and continues to offer convenience and fun. It offers a tranquil spot for relaxation and swimming during the day and turns into a lively entertainment area as the sunsets.

Surrounded by shops, hotels, beachfront restaurants, live music venues, and buzzing bars, Kolovare is the perfect destination for those seeking a vibrant nightlife and easy access to the old town.

Where to stay in Petrcane

Best for: beach, relax, pampering

Petrcane are a small fisherman village about 15min north of Zadar Old Town known for incedible beaches and pristine waters. The Punta Skala peninsula has been turned into a beautiful resort where Mediterranean gardens and luxurious hotel complexes coexist seamlessly.

This is the ultimate destination for a relaxing beach retreat, where time doesn’t matter, and the stress and tension in your neck and shoulders vanish, allowing you to once again appreciate life’s simple pleasures.

Where to stay Diklo and Kozino

Best for: beach holidays, families, budget stays

Diklo and Kozino are popular family-friendly beach destinations located north of Zadar’s city center. Diklo pebble beach is known for its shallow and with warm water with sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent.

Since this area is a bit further from the city center it is more affordable and less crowded. The waterfront here i a great place to go for an evening walk and enjoy a delicious fish dinner with a view. There are also several beach bars and restaurants to enjoy.

Getting to Zadar and around

Zadar is serviced by Zadar international airport. Other airports in the vicinity include Split, Zagreb, and Rijeka. The best way to travel between the airport and the city is with a cab that will get you straight to your accommodation. I recommend you book this private transfer in advance to save money on cabs.

Zadar also has a well-connected central bus station, making it easy to get here by bus from other towns in the country.

The historic center is mostly closed to traffic so the best way of getting around is on foot. You can however rent an e-scooter or e-bike, which are especially handy if you’re staying outside the old city walls.

Book your airport shuttle

Where to eat and drink in Zadar

Proto Food&More boasts friendly and knowledgeable staff, a calming and unpretentious setting, and serves traditional Croatian/Dalmatian dishes in generous portions at affordable prices. The menu is quite diverse, featuring a range of dishes from meat to seafood, gnocchi, risotto, and even burgers.

Bistro Gourmet Kalelarga offers authentic local cuisine, with a well-curated wine list, and the charming outdoor terrace provides a great atmosphere to enjoy your meal. They also have a special seasonal menu, and they’re best known for dishes featuring asparagus during the early spring. In addition, the restaurant’s bakery serves fresh pastries and coffee, making it an ideal spot for breakfast.

At Foša restaurant, seafood is the star of the menu, with both raw and cooked options available. You can enjoy your meal in the lovely outdoor area near the Land Gate and there’s a great wine list, featuring some fantastic Dalmatian options.

Best time to visit Zadar

The best time to visit Zadar is in late spring or early autumn when the weather is sunny, the temperatures are pleasantly warm and the tourist crowds are manageable.

As a rule of thumb, I would advise you to avoid Croatia in the peak of summer (July & August). It just gets too hot, too crowded, and too expensive.

Planning a trip to Croatia?

Croatia is a stunning country with countless gorgeous islands, charming roman towns, beautiful nature, and delicious food. To help you plan your trip I’ve prepared a series of Croatia travel guides. And for an easy plug & play solution make sure to check out my Croatia itinerary (coming soon).