Where to Stay in Zadar
A regional guide to accommodation across the country
Find Hotels Across Zadar
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Regions of Zadar
Each region offers a distinct character and accommodation scene. Find the one that matches your travel plans.
The historic peninsula offers the most atmospheric accommodation in converted palaces and heritage buildings. Staying here puts you within walking distance of major sights, restaurants, and the famous Sea Organ and Sun Salutation installations. Stone streets and limited vehicle access create a pedestrian-friendly environment.
This resort area northwest of the Old Town features Zadar's largest hotels, camping sites, and holiday complexes. Pine forests meet pebble beaches, creating a classic Croatian coastal resort atmosphere. It's ideal for families and those prioritizing beach access over historic ambiance.
These residential neighborhoods extend along the coast north of Borik, offering a more local feel with numerous private apartments and smaller hotels. The area provides good beach access while being less touristy than central areas, with local markets and authentic konobas nearby.
The Kolovare area sits between the Old Town and Borik, offering a middle ground with its popular city beach, promenade, and mix of accommodation types. It combines convenience to the historic center with beach proximity and good transport connections.
The modern commercial district east and south of the Old Town offers practical accommodation near shopping centers, the bus station, and main roads. While lacking historic charm, it provides good value and easy access to both the Old Town and regional destinations.
Located 15km north of Zadar, Nin and surrounding villages offer a quieter alternative with sandy beaches (rare in Croatia), lagoons, and historic sites. This area appeals to those wanting a small-town atmosphere while remaining close enough to Zadar for day trips.
These small coastal villages 10-12km northwest of Zadar offer peaceful settings with pebble beaches and clear waters. They provide a village atmosphere with easy access to Zadar via regular bus service or short drives.
This town 28km south of Zadar serves as an alternative base with its own historic quarter, marinas, and proximity to Kornati National Park. It offers a less crowded experience while maintaining good connections to Zadar and the islands.
Accommodation Landscape
What to expect from accommodation options across Zadar
International chains have limited presence in Zadar, with most branded hotels belonging to regional groups like Falkensteiner and Maistra. The Falkensteiner properties in Borik represent the main upscale chain presence. Most hotels are independently owned or part of small Croatian hospitality groups, giving the city a distinctly local character rather than standardized international feel.
Private accommodation dominates Zadar's lodging landscape, with thousands of licensed apartments (apartmani) and rooms (sobe) available through both online platforms and direct booking. Family-run pensions (pansioni) and guesthouses offer personal service and local insights. Many properties are managed by owners who live on-site or nearby, providing authentic Croatian hospitality. Small boutique hotels in renovated historic buildings have emerged as a growing segment, often featuring 5-15 rooms with unique design elements.
Zadar offers accommodation in converted Venetian palaces and medieval townhouses within the Old Town walls, where stone architecture and historic details create distinctive atmospheres. Several properties occupy buildings dating to the 15th-17th centuries. Lighthouse accommodation is available on nearby islands for truly unique stays. Camping remains popular along the coast, with both traditional campgrounds and glamping options. Agrotourism properties in the rural hinterland provide farm stays with local food experiences, though these require a car to access.
Booking Tips for Zadar
Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation
July and August accommodation in Zadar, especially in the Old Town and Borik resort area, books up months in advance. Reserve 3-6 months ahead for peak season travel to secure better rates and wider selection. Many properties require minimum stays of 3-7 nights during high season, and some apartments may only accept Saturday-to-Saturday bookings.
Private apartments offer excellent value, especially for families and longer stays, often including kitchens and more space than hotels at lower prices. Look for properties with official registration numbers and verified reviews. Many owners speak limited English, so communication through booking platforms can be easier than direct contact.
Zadar's Old Town is compact and walkable, but some listings advertised as 'Zadar' may be in surrounding villages requiring a car or bus. Verify exact locations on maps and check proximity to your priorities—beach, Old Town, or transport links. Properties near the bus station offer convenience but less atmosphere than Old Town locations.
Croatian accommodation uses a star system that may not align with international expectations—a three-star property may be quite basic. Read recent reviews carefully and check photos. Air conditioning is not universal in budget properties, which matters greatly in July-August. Many older buildings have steep stairs and no elevators.
While major platforms list many properties, some owners prefer direct bookings through their own websites or email to avoid commission fees, sometimes offering 5-10% discounts. The Zadar Tourist Board website maintains lists of registered accommodation. For longer stays, negotiating directly with owners can yield better rates.
When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability across Zadar
For July-August travel, book 3-6 months in advance to secure preferred locations and reasonable rates. Popular Old Town boutique hotels and well-reviewed apartments fill up quickly. Expect minimum stay requirements (typically 3-7 nights) and potentially higher cancellation penalties. Prices peak in August.
May, June, and September offer more flexibility, though booking 1-3 months ahead is still wise for better properties. Rates are 20-40% lower than peak summer, and minimum stay requirements are often waived. Many properties offer better cancellation terms during these months.
October through April sees lowest prices and greatest availability, with some properties offering rates 50% below summer peaks. Many smaller guesthouses and apartments close entirely November-March, but hotels and larger properties remain open. Booking 2-4 weeks ahead is usually sufficient, and last-minute deals are common.
Book 2-3 months ahead for summer travel (June-September), 4-6 weeks for shoulder seasons (April-May, October), and 2-3 weeks for winter. Direct booking with owners may yield better rates for longer stays. Consider flexible cancellation policies given Croatia's weather variability in shoulder seasons.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information for Zadar