Things to Do in Biograd na Moru, Hrvatska

Biograd na Moru is a charming coastal town located in the heart of Dalmatia, Croatia, perfectly positioned between Zadar and Šibenik. This historic settlement, once the medieval capital of Croatian kings, now serves as a popular family-friendly resort destination known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to stunning national parks. The town seamlessly blends rich cultural heritage with modern tourism infrastructure, offering visitors ancient churches, archaeological sites, and a picturesque marina alongside contemporary hotels and restaurants. What sets Biograd na Moru apart is its strategic location as a gateway to some of Croatia's most spectacular natural attractions, including Kornati National Park and Krka National Park. The town's two main beaches, Dražica and Soline, are particularly beloved by families for their shallow, warm waters and excellent facilities. With its relaxed atmosphere, reasonable prices compared to other Dalmatian destinations, and abundance of outdoor activities, Biograd na Moru offers an authentic Croatian coastal experience without the overwhelming crowds found in more famous destinations.

Top Things to Do in Biograd na Moru

Kornati National Park Island Hopping

Explore the breathtaking Kornati archipelago, consisting of 89 mostly uninhabited islands and islets known for their stark beauty and crystal-clear waters. This UNESCO-protected area offers some of the most pristine marine environments in the Mediterranean, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and photography. Most tours include stops at several islands, traditional Dalmatian lunch, and opportunities to explore hidden coves and dramatic cliff formations.

Booking Tip: Full-day boat tours cost €40-60 per person and typically run from April to October. Book directly with local operators at Biograd marina for better prices, and choose tours that include lunch and snorkeling equipment. Avoid overcrowded tours by selecting smaller boats with maximum 20-30 passengers.

Krka National Park Waterfalls Tour

Visit the magnificent Krka National Park, famous for its series of seven cascading waterfalls and the opportunity to swim near the stunning Skradinski Buk waterfall. The park features well-maintained wooden walkways that wind through lush vegetation and alongside rushing waters, leading to viewpoints of the spectacular falls. The park also houses a traditional watermill and the small island of Visovac with its 15th-century monastery.

Booking Tip: Park entrance fees are €20-30 depending on season, with additional €20-30 for organized transport from Biograd. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially in summer. Many operators offer combined tours with Šibenik city tour for €50-70 per person including transportation and entrance fees.

Sea Kayaking Adventures

Paddle along the stunning Adriatic coastline and explore hidden bays, sea caves, and secluded beaches that are inaccessible by land. Kayaking tours often include stops at the nearby Pašman Island or exploration of the Biograd archipelago's smaller islands. These excursions provide excellent opportunities for swimming in pristine waters, snorkeling, and enjoying the peaceful marine environment away from crowded beaches.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost €35-50 per person including equipment and guide, while full-day adventures range €60-80. Book with certified operators who provide safety briefings and quality equipment. Best conditions are typically in morning hours with calmer seas, and no previous experience is usually required.

Cycling Through Dalmatian Countryside

Discover the authentic rural side of Dalmatia on guided cycling tours through olive groves, vineyards, and traditional stone villages in the hinterland behind Biograd. These tours often include visits to local farms, wine tastings, and stops at viewpoints offering panoramic views of the Adriatic islands. The relatively flat terrain and well-marked trails make this activity suitable for cyclists of various skill levels.

Booking Tip: Half-day cycling tours cost €25-40 per person including bike rental and guide, while full-day tours with wine tasting are €50-70. Rent quality mountain or hybrid bikes from local shops for €15-20 per day if exploring independently. Spring and fall offer the best weather conditions for cycling.

Traditional Fishing Experience

Join local fishermen for an authentic Adriatic fishing experience, learning traditional techniques while enjoying the peaceful morning or evening hours on the water. These excursions typically include instruction on using traditional nets and lines, and often conclude with preparing and sharing the catch in a traditional Dalmatian style. Participants gain insight into the local maritime culture and enjoy stunning sunrise or sunset views over the islands.

Booking Tip: Fishing trips cost €40-60 per person for 3-4 hours including equipment and fish preparation. Morning trips (starting at 5-6 AM) are generally more productive than evening ones. Book with local fishermen through your accommodation or at the marina for the most authentic experience, and confirm if fish cleaning and cooking are included.

Getting There

Biograd na Moru is easily accessible by car, bus, or boat from major Croatian cities and international destinations. The nearest airport is Zadar Airport, located just 25 kilometers away, with regular shuttle bus connections and taxi services costing around €25-30. By car, the town is connected via the A1 highway, making it a 3-hour drive from Zagreb, 1 hour from Split, and 30 minutes from Zadar. Regular bus services operate from Zagreb (4 hours), Split (1.5 hours), and other coastal cities, with tickets costing €15-25. During summer months, ferry connections are available from various Adriatic ports, and many visitors arrive by private yacht or chartered boat at the well-equipped marina.

Getting Around

Biograd na Moru is a compact town that can easily be explored on foot, with most attractions, beaches, and restaurants within walking distance of each other. The town center, marina, and main beaches are all connected by a pleasant waterfront promenade perfect for evening strolls. For exploring the surrounding area, rental cars are available from €25-40 per day, while scooters and bicycles can be rented for €15-25 per day from numerous local operators. Local buses connect Biograd with nearby towns like Pakoštane and Turanj, though services are limited. Taxis are available but relatively expensive for longer distances, making car rental the preferred option for visiting national parks and exploring the broader region.

Where to Stay

Biograd Old Town

Dražica Beach Area

Soline Beach District

Marina and Waterfront

Pakoštane Vicinity

Turanj Village

Food & Dining

Biograd na Moru's dining scene centers around fresh Adriatic seafood and traditional Dalmatian cuisine, with numerous konobas (taverns) serving locally caught fish, octopus, and shellfish prepared in olive oil, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs. The waterfront promenade features several upscale restaurants with sea views, while the old town hides charming family-run establishments offering homemade pasta, risotto, and grilled specialties. Don't miss trying local delicacies like peka (slow-cooked meat or seafood under a bell-shaped lid), fresh oysters from nearby Nin, and Maraschino liqueur from Zadar. Many restaurants offer excellent value lunch menus, and the local market provides fresh produce, cheese, and prosciutto perfect for picnics. Prices are generally reasonable, with excellent seafood dinners available for €15-25 per person.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Biograd na Moru is from May to September, with July and August offering the warmest weather and liveliest atmosphere, though these months also bring the highest prices and largest crowds. June and September provide the perfect balance of warm weather (22-26°C), comfortable sea temperatures, and fewer tourists, making them ideal for both beach activities and sightseeing. Spring (April-May) and early fall (October) are excellent for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking, with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, though some tourist facilities may have limited hours. Winter months are quiet with many restaurants and hotels closed, but offer a peaceful atmosphere and significantly lower accommodation prices for those seeking a tranquil retreat.

Insider Tips

Visit the local market on Saturday mornings for the freshest produce and authentic atmosphere, and try the homemade cheese and olive oil from local producers

Book accommodation well in advance for July and August, but consider visiting in June or September for 30-40% lower prices and better availability at restaurants and attractions

Take advantage of Biograd's location by using it as a base for day trips to multiple national parks, Zadar's historic center, and the island of Pag, all within 1-2 hours' drive

Things to Do in Biograd na Moru