Where to Stay in Zadar
Croatia
|Pop. 67K
|4 neighbourhoods covered
|Updated March 2026
Photo: Alexander Popov / Unsplash
Quick Answer: Best Area to Stay
For most visitors, Old Town is the best neighbourhood to stay in Zadar. A historic labyrinth of Roman ruins, Venetian architecture, and lively modern life. Ideal for first-timers, culture, foodies. Budget travellers can get by on EUR 50/day.
Areas to Avoid in Zadar
Safety rated "Very safe". See which areas need extra caution and where to stay instead.
Best Neighbourhoods at a Glance
| Neighbourhood | Vibe | Budget | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Town | A historic labyrinth of Roman ruins, Venetian architecture, and lively modern life. | Luxury | first-timers, culture | Generally very safe during the day; rema... |
| Borik | A relaxed, resort-focused area with beaches and family-friendly amenities. | Mid-range | families, beach lovers | Very safe for families and individuals d... |
| Arbanasi | A charming, historic fishing village feel with local character and seaside promenades. | Mid-range | foodies, culture | Safe day and night due to its residentia... |
| Diklo | A peaceful residential area with upscale villas and pleasant coastal paths. | Luxury | luxury, couples | Very safe day and night, characterized b... |
Old Town
LuxuryA historic labyrinth of Roman ruins, Venetian architecture, and lively modern life.
Generally very safe during the day; remains safe at night with good lighting and...
Borik
Mid-rangeA relaxed, resort-focused area with beaches and family-friendly amenities.
Very safe for families and individuals day and night, with well-lit areas and to...
Arbanasi
Mid-rangeA charming, historic fishing village feel with local character and seaside promenades.
Safe day and night due to its residential nature and local community presence.
Diklo
LuxuryA peaceful residential area with upscale villas and pleasant coastal paths.
Very safe day and night, characterized by private residences and a calm atmosphe...
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Zadar
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Old Town
A historic labyrinth of Roman ruins, Venetian architecture, and lively modern life.
Our top picks in Old Town
Offers a private beach and sea-view rooms just outside the main old town hustle.
Book NowStylish boutique hotel located directly on the main street of the Old Town.
Book NowA unique heritage hotel blending art, history, and modern comfort.
Book NowArbanasi
A charming, historic fishing village feel with local character and seaside promenades.
Our top picks in Arbanasi
Borik
A relaxed, resort-focused area with beaches and family-friendly amenities.
Our top picks in Borik
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Things to Do in Zadar
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Zadar at a Glance
4 categories
Top Tips for Zadar
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Visit the Land Gate (Kopnena Vrata) early in the morning or late in the evening to appreciate its grandeur without the crowds.
Getting Around
Purchase bus tickets from kiosks or shops before boarding for a slightly lower price than buying directly from the driver.
Watch Out For
Overpriced tourist menus in prime Old Town locations.
Solo Female Travel
Zadar is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially at night in less crowded areas.
Hidden Gems in Zadar
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Church of St. Donatus
This pre-Romanesque church is a symbol of Zadar and houses an impressive collection of early medieval religious art and artifacts. Its unique circular design is a rare architectural gem.
Punta Bajlo
FREEA beautiful, often overlooked park along the coast, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with stunning sea views. Locals come here to relax and escape the summer heat.
Stomorica Street
FREEWander down this charming, narrow street in the Old Town, lined with historic buildings, artisan shops, and small cafes. It offers a glimpse into Zadar's medieval past away from the main squares.
Market of Zadar (Tržnica)
FREEExperience the vibrant local life at this open-air market, where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, olive oil, and handmade crafts. It's a great place to soak in the authentic Zadar atmosphere and sample regional specialties.
Ledana Lounge Bar
Located in the historic city walls, this stylish bar offers a sophisticated ambiance with a fantastic outdoor terrace. It's a popular spot for locals to enjoy cocktails and live music during the summer months.
Museum of Ancient Glass
Discover the fascinating history of glassmaking in the Roman Empire at this unique museum, housed in a beautiful 19th-century palace. It displays an exceptional collection of Roman glassware found in Zadar and its surroundings.
Things to Do in Zadar
Popular tours, activities, and experiences you can book in advance
🚶Walking Tour
Explore the city on foot with a local guide
🍽️Food Tour
Taste the best local dishes and street food
🚐Day Trip
Discover stunning destinations just outside the city
🏛️Museum & Culture
Skip-the-line access to top museums and galleries
🚌Hop-on Hop-off Bus
See all the highlights from an open-top bus
⛵Boat Tour
See the city skyline from the water
👨🍳Cooking Class
Learn to cook authentic local recipes
🌙Night Tour
Experience the city after dark with a guided tour
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Top-rated Zadar tours and activities
Skip-the-line tickets, guided walking tours, food experiences, and day trips. Reserve now, pay later; free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
What It Costs in Zadar
Daily budget per person in EUR
💡69% cheaper than London
EUR 50/day
EUR 120/day
EUR 300/day
Where to Stay in Zadar
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Sea Organ5 min
- Greeting to the Sun7 min
- People's Square3 min
Pros
- +Atmospheric and beautiful
- +Abundance of restaurants and bars
- +Central to major sights
Cons
- -Can be very crowded, especially in peak season
- -Accommodation can be more expensive
Top stays in Old Town
Hotel Kolovare
$$Offers a private beach and sea-view rooms just outside the main old town hustle.
Art Hotel Kalelargarta
$$$Stylish boutique hotel located directly on the main street of the Old Town.
Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel
$$$A unique heritage hotel blending art, history, and modern comfort.
Hotel Iadera (Falkensteiner)
$$$Luxury resort experience with a large spa and wellness center, located a short drive from the Old Town.
Best for
Walk to
- Borik Beach5 min
- Puntamika Beach10 min
Pros
- +Direct beach access
- +Quieter than the Old Town
- +Good for families
Cons
- -Further from Old Town attractions
- -Fewer dining and nightlife options within the neighborhood
Top stays in Borik
Falkensteiner Premium Mobile Homes Zadar
$$Offers mobile homes and apartments with access to resort amenities and beaches.
Hotel Donat (Falkensteiner)
$$All-inclusive hotel option with direct access to the sea and pools.
Hotel Pinija
$$Located on a peninsula with beautiful sea views and its own beach.
Best for
Walk to
- Diklo Beach15 min
- Old Town20 min
Pros
- +Authentic local atmosphere
- +Excellent seafood restaurants
- +Pleasant seaside walks
Cons
- -Limited direct tourist infrastructure
- -Can feel a bit removed from the main tourist hub
Best for
Walk to
- Diklo Beach5 min
- Borik15 min
Pros
- +Quiet and upscale
- +Beautiful sea views
- +Good for longer stays
Cons
- -Limited public transport to Old Town
- -Fewer amenities directly in the neighborhood
Areas to be cautious
- Industrial outskirts/less developed areas: These areas lack tourist amenities, can be less appealing visually, and may have poorer infrastructure.
Insider tip: Visit the Land Gate (Kopnena Vrata) early in the morning or late in the evening to appreciate its grandeur without the crowds.
Where to Stay in Zadar
Compare hotel deals across the best neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Stay in Old Town
A historic labyrinth of Roman ruins, Venetian architecture, and lively modern life.
Stay in Borik
A relaxed, resort-focused area with beaches and family-friendly amenities.
Stay in Arbanasi
A charming, historic fishing village feel with local character and seaside promenades.
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Places to Stay in Zadar
Be the first to list your property in Zadar. Reach thousands of travellers looking for accommodation, with no commissions.
List Your PropertySafety in Zadar
Very safeSolo Female Travel
Zadar is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Exercise standard precautions, especially at night in less crowded areas.
At Night
The Old Town is well-lit and has a lively atmosphere, making it safe. Residential areas are also quiet and safe.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overpriced tourist menus in prime Old Town locations.
- 2Occasional petty theft in crowded areas.
Compare hotel deals in Zadar
See today's prices across hundreds of hotels. Free cancellation on most bookings, so you can lock in a great rate risk-free.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Travel Insurance for Zadar
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Stay Connected in Croatia
Skip expensive roaming. Get an eSIM for Croatia and have data the moment you land.
Get an eSIMGetting Around Zadar
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Bus line 927 runs frequently (approx. every 30-60 mins) to the main bus station, costing around 5-8 EUR and taking 20-30 mins. Taxis cost approx. 25-35 EUR.
🎫
Day Pass
A 1-day bus pass costs around 3 EUR.
Single: A single bus ride costs approximately 1 EUR if bought on board, less if purchased in advance.
🚶
Walkability
Very WalkableUber
📶
WiFi
Good30-50 Mbps
Public Transport
Zadar has a local bus network (Liburnija) covering the city and surrounding areas. The Old Town is largely pedestrianized.
Ride-share
Uber operates in Zadar; typical short rides cost around 5-10 EUR.
Transport Tip
Purchase bus tickets from kiosks or shops before boarding for a slightly lower price than buying directly from the driver.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many cafes, restaurants, and public squares offer free Wi-Fi. The Old Town has a city-wide free Wi-Fi network (check signage).
Coworking
Limited dedicated coworking spaces; some cafes are popular with digital nomads. Daily costs for a dedicated space would be around 15-25 EUR if available.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: May, Jun, Oct
Plan Your Perfect Zadar Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.
Hotels & Accommodation in Zadar
Browse and compare hotels, apartments, and hostels on the interactive map below.
Powered by Stay22. We may earn a commission from bookings made through this map.
Ready to book in Zadar?
Compare prices across thousands of hotels on Expedia. Bundle with flights for extra savings.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Found your hotel in Zadar?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
Compare hotel deals in Zadar
Search thousands of hotels on Expedia. Bundle with flights for extra savings.
We earn a small commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.
Who Is Zadar Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Offers immediate immersion into Zadar's historical core and main attractions.
Families with Young Children
Provides beach access, resorts with family amenities, and a more relaxed environment.
Culture Enthusiasts
Packed with Roman ruins, churches, museums, and historical architecture.
Couples Seeking Romance
Its atmospheric alleys, sunset views, and dining options create a romantic setting.
Budget Backpackers
Offers more affordable apartment and room rentals slightly outside the main tourist center.
Luxury Travelers
Features upscale villas and a serene environment with beautiful sea views.
About Zadar
Zadar (US: ZAH-dar, Croatian: [zâdar] ), historically known as Zara (from Venetian and Italian, pronounced [ˈdzaːra]; see also other names), is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia. It is situated on the Adriatic Sea, at the northwestern part of Ravni Kotari region. Zadar serves as the seat of Zadar County and of the wider northern Dalmatian region.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zadar
Is Zadar safe for tourists?
What is the average hotel price in Zadar?
What area should I stay in Zadar?
When is the best time to visit Zadar?
How do I get around Zadar?
Get the Full Zadar Guide
Neighbourhood picks, hidden gems, and deals for Zadar straight to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Zadar Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel
