Find exceptional hotels in Croatia's most captivating coastal city. From Roman ruins to Adriatic sunsets, discover the perfect base for your Zadar stay.
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About Hotels in Zadar
Zadar is one of the Adriatic's most beguiling destinations, where Roman forum stones meet the haunting tones of the Sea Organ, the golden light of the Sun Salutation draws crowds each evening, and the old town's Romanesque churches tell two thousand years of history. Add in fresh seafood at the Stari Grad konobas, day trips to the Kornati islands, and a thriving calendar of summer festivals, and Zadar rewards visitors at every turn.
Accommodation ranges from sleek modern hotels along the Borik waterfront to intimate boutique stays tucked within the old town's medieval walls. The historic peninsula is almost entirely pedestrianised, making it a pleasure to explore on foot, while local buses connect the broader city with ease.
Where to Stay in Zadar
Stari Grad (Old Town)
The first-timer's ideal base, set on Zadar's historic peninsula within walking distance of the Sea Organ, the Roman Forum, St Donatus Church, and the best waterfront restaurants. Atmosphere and convenience in equal measure.
Borik
Zadar's smartest resort enclave, a short bus ride north of the old town along a pine-shaded Adriatic shore. Home to the city's largest full-service hotels, a long pebble beach, and a relaxed, polished atmosphere well suited to those seeking comfort and space.
Kolovare
A lively, local neighbourhood immediately south of the old town walls, with its own popular beach, a good spread of cafes and restaurants, and a genuine everyday feel that suits independent travellers wanting to live like a resident.
Voštarnica
A quieter residential area set back from the waterfront, offering better value and a calm atmosphere. Well connected to the old town by bus and a straightforward walk, it suits visitors who prefer a peaceful base without paying a premium for sea views.
Airport and Transport Guide
Zadar is served by Zadar Airport (ZAD), located around 8 kilometres east of the old town, with seasonal connections to numerous European cities including direct flights from several UK airports. A public bus service operated by Liburnija connects the airport to the main Zadar bus station in the city centre, with a journey time of approximately 20 minutes. Late-evening arrivals are also catered for by licensed airport taxis waiting at the terminal.
Within Zadar, the city centre and old town peninsula are compact enough to explore almost entirely on foot. Local buses run by Liburnija cover the wider urban area and are inexpensive, with single tickets purchased on board. Taxis from the rank at the bus and ferry terminal typically start at around 15 to 20 Croatian kuna equivalent in euros (Croatia adopted the euro in 2023), with most short city journeys costing between €5 and €10. Ride-hailing apps have limited availability in Zadar, so licensed taxis or pre-arranged transfers remain the most reliable option.
Tips for Finding the Best Hotel Deal in Zadar
- Book at least 8 to 10 weeks ahead for summer stays, particularly around the Sea Organ festival season and the Garden Festival in July, when availability drops sharply.
- Neighbourhoods such as Brodarica and Višnjik sit just outside the old town walls and offer calmer surroundings, lower nightly rates, and easy walking or bus access to the centre.
- Look for hotels or apartments offering breakfast inclusion, as waterfront cafes in the old town charge a premium, making a good hotel breakfast both convenient and cost-effective.
- Opt for free cancellation rates when booking, as Zadar's peak summer demand can shift around Croatian public holidays and weather, making flexibility particularly valuable.
- Weekday stays from Tuesday to Thursday are generally cheaper than weekends throughout the summer season, with Friday and Saturday nights commanding noticeably higher rates.
- Booking refundable rates and monitoring prices in the weeks before arrival often pays off in Zadar, as last-minute drops occur outside peak July and August weeks.
When to Visit Zadar for Lower Prices
Winter (Low Season)
November to March is quiet, cool, and very affordable, with the old town largely free of tourist crowds. Mild Adriatic winters rarely bring severe cold. Mid-range accommodation often starts from around £40 to £70 per night, making it ideal for a relaxed city break.
Spring (Value Season)
April and May bring warming temperatures, blossoming coastal scenery, and prices well below summer peaks. The old town comes back to life without the July crowds, offering an excellent balance of pleasant weather, open attractions, and reasonable hotel rates.
Summer (High Season)
June to August is peak season, with warm Adriatic sunshine, a buzzing old town, and prices at their highest. July in particular sees maximum demand driven by festivals and beach visitors. Book well in advance and expect premium nightly rates throughout.
Autumn (Value Season)
September and October remain warm, the Adriatic is still swimmable, and crowds thin noticeably after August. Hotel prices begin falling from their summer highs while conditions remain excellent, making early autumn one of the most rewarding times to visit Zadar.
Popular Areas to Stay in Zadar
Old Town (Poluotok)
The historic peninsula holds the Sea Organ, Forum, and Cathedral of St Anastasia. Staying here puts every major sight on foot, though rooms at the waterfront command a premium.
Borik
A quiet, pine-shaded resort suburb northwest of the centre, popular with families. Purpose-built hotel complexes sit alongside beaches, making it ideal for a relaxed stay away from Old Town crowds.
Diklo
A calm residential and coastal strip north of Borik, rarely mentioned in first-timer guides. Pebble beaches and a slower pace attract returning visitors who prefer space over central convenience.
Brodarica
A quietly creative neighbourhood on the landward side of the city, closer to the ferry terminal and bus station. Good mid-range accommodation and a local atmosphere suit independent travellers well.