Zadar Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Zadar.
Healthcare System
Croatia has a public healthcare system that provides good quality care. As an EU member state, Croatia participates in the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) scheme. Zadar has modern medical facilities including a general hospital, private clinics, and numerous pharmacies.
Hospitals
General Hospital Zadar (Bože Peričića 5) is the main public hospital with 24/7 emergency services. Private clinics like Poliklinika Sveti Nikola offer appointments and can handle most non-emergency medical needs. EU citizens with EHIC cards receive treatment at reduced costs in public facilities; others should have travel insurance.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (ljekarna/apoteka) are widely available throughout Zadar. At least one pharmacy maintains extended hours or 24-hour service (posted on pharmacy doors). Common medications are available, though some may require prescriptions that are easy to obtain elsewhere. Pharmacists are knowledgeable and often speak English. Bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications in original packaging.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is strongly recommended for non-EU citizens and advisable even for EU citizens to cover repatriation, private care, and services not covered by EHIC. Insurance is not legally required but essential for financial protection.
Healthcare Tips
- EU citizens should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to public healthcare at reduced rates
- Keep copies of prescriptions and bring medications in original packaging with labels
- Sun-related issues (sunburn, heat exhaustion) are the most common health problems - bring or purchase high-SPF sunscreen locally
- Tap water in Zadar is safe to drink and of good quality
- For minor issues, pharmacists can provide advice and over-the-counter medications without needing to see a doctor
- Private clinics offer faster service and English-speaking doctors if you have travel insurance coverage
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur primarily during high season (June-September) in crowded tourist areas. Thieves target distracted tourists, particularly at outdoor cafes, markets, and busy attractions. Theft from rental cars and unattended beach belongings is also reported.
Theft from parked cars, especially rental vehicles with foreign plates, is one of the more common crimes in Zadar. Thieves target vehicles parked overnight or at beaches and tourist sites, breaking windows to steal visible items.
The Adriatic sun is intense, especially June-August. Sunburn, heat exhaustion, and dehydration are common among tourists who underestimate the strength of the Mediterranean sun. Temperatures can exceed 35°C (95°F) in peak summer.
Rocky beaches and clear waters around Zadar harbor sea urchins. Stepping on sea urchins causes painful injuries with spines that can become embedded in skin. Jellyfish are occasionally present, though serious stings are rare.
Croatian driving can be aggressive, and coastal roads can be narrow and winding. Accidents involving tourists are not uncommon, particularly on the scenic coastal routes. Speed limits are often exceeded, and parking can be challenging.
Excessive alcohol consumption, particularly among young travelers, can lead to accidents, injuries, poor decisions, and becoming a target for theft. Zadar has a vibrant nightlife scene that can encourage overindulgence.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Some tourist-oriented restaurants may add items you didn't order to the bill, charge for bread or condiments that should be free, or apply tourist prices higher than locals pay. The bill may arrive without itemization, making it hard to verify charges.
Unlicensed taxis or drivers may quote inflated flat rates to tourists, take unnecessarily long routes, claim the meter is broken, or manipulate the meter. This is more common at the bus station, ferry terminal, and airport.
Private accommodation booked online may not match photos, or you may be redirected to a different property upon arrival claiming the original is unavailable. Some unlicensed apartments lack proper safety standards.
Currency exchange offices in tourist areas may advertise attractive rates but apply hidden fees or use confusing calculations. Some restaurants and shops offer to charge in your home currency at poor exchange rates (dynamic currency conversion).
Some boat tour operators may promise visits to specific islands or duration that don't materialize, charge extra fees for stops not mentioned initially, or provide lower quality service than advertised.
Rental operators may claim you damaged equipment (jet ski, boat, paddleboard) and demand excessive payment for pre-existing damage or normal wear and tear.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Beach and Water Safety
- Wear water shoes on rocky beaches to protect against sea urchins and sharp rocks
- Apply waterproof sunscreen frequently and seek shade during peak sun hours
- Never swim alone or under the influence of alcohol
- Respect red flag warnings and local advice about sea conditions
- Keep valuables locked in your accommodation, not on the beach
- Stay hydrated and take breaks from sun exposure regularly
- Be aware of boat traffic when swimming and stay in designated swimming areas
- Supervise children constantly around water
Old Town Navigation
- Wear comfortable, flat shoes as streets are cobblestone and can be slippery when wet
- The old town is pedestrian-only; plan parking outside the walls
- Streets are well-lit but can be confusing; use GPS or download offline maps
- Keep valuables secure in crowded areas, especially near major attractions
- Stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in quieter areas at night
- Many buildings are historic with uneven steps and no elevators
Money and Valuables
- Use ATMs from major banks located inside bank branches when possible
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave excess cash and cards in hotel safe
- Keep emergency cash and a backup card separate from your main wallet
- Be discreet when accessing money or checking valuables in public
- Photocopy important documents and store separately from originals
- Split money and cards between travel companions
Transportation Safety
- Use official taxi companies or ride-hailing apps rather than unmarked vehicles
- If renting a car, purchase comprehensive insurance and photograph the vehicle before departure
- Wear seatbelts at all times; child car seats are legally required
- Be extremely cautious when driving on coastal roads, especially at night
- Keep car doors locked and windows up in traffic or when parked
- Don't pick up hitchhikers or accept rides from strangers
- For ferry travel, arrive early and secure your vehicle properly
- Keep important documents with you, not in the vehicle
Accommodation Security
- Ensure accommodation has working locks and use them, even when inside
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuable electronics
- Verify the identity of anyone claiming to be hotel staff before opening your door
- Keep ground-floor windows and balcony doors locked when out or sleeping
- Don't advertise your room number or accommodation details publicly
- Check that smoke detectors are present and functional
- Know the location of emergency exits
- Keep emergency numbers and your accommodation address saved in your phone
Food and Drink Safety
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Zadar
- Choose restaurants with good reviews and steady local clientele
- Seafood should be fresh; avoid if it smells strongly or seems improperly stored
- Be cautious with alcohol in the heat as it can lead to rapid dehydration
- Check food safety practices at beach vendors and street food stalls
- If you have allergies, learn key phrases in Croatian or carry an allergy card
- Ice is generally safe in established restaurants and cafes
Communication
- Save emergency numbers in your phone in local format
- Download offline maps of Zadar before arrival
- Learn basic Croatian phrases for emergencies and courtesy
- Keep your accommodation address written in Croatian for taxi drivers
- Ensure your phone works in Croatia or purchase a local SIM card
- Share your itinerary with someone back home
- Know the location of your country's nearest embassy or consulate (likely in Zagreb)
Day Trips and Excursions
- Book tours through reputable operators with verified reviews
- Carry sufficient water, sun protection, and any necessary medications
- Inform your accommodation of your plans and expected return time
- Keep your phone charged and bring a portable battery
- Dress appropriately for activities (hiking boots, modest clothing for churches)
- Be aware that some areas have limited cell phone coverage
- Don't leave valuables in parked vehicles at trailheads or viewpoints
- Check weather forecasts before heading to national parks or islands
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Zadar is very safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. Croatia generally has a good safety record for women, and local culture is respectful. Harassment is uncommon, though some attention from locals in bars or nightlife areas may occur. Women travel freely and independently throughout the city without significant issues. Standard precautions apply, and women should feel comfortable exploring the city.
- Solo women travelers report feeling safe walking in the old town and tourist areas even at night
- Dress as you would in any European city; beachwear is for the beach, but dress codes are relaxed
- Be aware that some attention or compliments from local men may occur in nightlife areas, but aggressive behavior is rare
- Trust your instincts - if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Keep your phone charged and share your location with friends or family when out at night
- Solo dining is completely normal and accepted; women won't face judgment eating or drinking alone
- Avoid isolated areas late at night and stick to well-lit, populated streets
- If staying in private accommodation, read reviews from other solo female travelers
- The nightlife scene is generally safe, but watch your drinks and don't leave them unattended
- Local women are helpful and friendly if you need assistance or directions
- Using taxis or ride-hailing apps late at night is safe and recommended over walking alone in unfamiliar areas
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Croatia, and discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited by law. Same-sex civil unions are recognized since 2014, though same-sex marriage is not currently legal. Croatia has anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Zadar's tourist areas are generally accepting and safe for LGBTQ+ travelers
- Discretion with public displays of affection is advisable, as reactions may vary
- LGBTQ+ visitors report positive experiences in Zadar, though the scene is smaller than in Zagreb or Split
- Staff at hotels and tourist services are professional and welcoming to all guests
- While there are no dedicated LGBTQ+ venues in Zadar, mainstream bars and clubs are welcoming
- Zagreb (3 hours away) has a more developed LGBTQ+ scene if you're looking for specific venues
- Online LGBTQ+ travel communities can provide current information about friendly establishments
- Younger generations and those in tourism industry are generally more open and accepting
- Legal protections exist if you experience discrimination, though reporting may be challenging
- Overall, LGBTQ+ travelers can enjoy Zadar safely with reasonable discretion
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting Zadar and Croatia. While the destination is safe and has good healthcare, medical costs for non-EU citizens can be substantial, and evacuation or repatriation is extremely expensive. Insurance provides financial protection against trip cancellations, medical emergencies, theft, and unexpected events. Many activities popular in the Zadar area (boat trips, water sports, rental cars) carry risks that insurance can cover.
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