When thinking of Croatia, most travellers’ minds go straight to Split or Dubrovnik. But the historic city of Zadar is perfect for those after a more off-the-beaten-path experience. Zadar will greet you with its friendly locals, incredible coastlines, marvellous food and, quiet streets on the Dalmatian Coast.
Oh and don’t miss the sunsets! Zadar’s sunsets are etched in my mind as some of the most beautiful I’ve seen.
Most people tend to stay in the Old Town when visiting Zadar for the first time, but there are plenty of other great, diverse neighbourhoods. The best place to stay in Zadar completely depends on YOU and what you want to get out of your trip.
I’ve spent weeks exploring the windy old streets of Zadar (and beyond!) to uncover the best neighbourhoods to stay. Lucky for you, you’ll find everything I know within this ULTIMATE guide on where to stay in Zadar.
I’ve broken down the best areas to stay depending on your travel style and budget. You’ll find the best places to stay and things to do in each. You’ll be an expert in no time (you can thank me later, friend!)
So, let’s dive into Zadar!
Photo: Chris Lininger
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Wondering where to stay in this historic city? Take a look at the three best places in Zadar to stay in, I’ll take you through my absolute top picks for accommodation. Then we’ll dig into the neighbourhoods in a bit more detail.
Hotel Delfin | Best Hotel in Zadar
Hotel Delfin offers family rooms just steps from the beach. A public bus stops right outside and offers easy access to the city every half an hour.
Rooms have free Wi-Fi, air-con and a private bathroom. Some come with a private balcony and sea view.
Teatro Verdi Boutique Hotel | Best Luxury Hotel in Zadar
Teatro Verdi Boutique Hotel is LUSH. There’s free breakfast daily, as well as an onsite bar and restaurant which you can enjoy to your heart’s content. When you’re done with brekkie, you’ll be within walking distance of the wonderful Sea Organ.
The Sea Organ is a must-see attraction while you’re in this part of the world – the harmonic sound of the Adriatic Sea is just divine. Make the most of the Zadar city centre, everything you’ll want – a vino on the waterfront maybe..? – is within walking distance of Teatro Verdi Boutique Hotel.
Downtown Boutique Hostel | Best Hostel in Zadar
Stay right in the heart of the Old Town at this boutique hostel. Choose from private rooms or shared dorms. Perks include free Wi-Fi and free towels. Plus, you’ll get a free breakfast when you book a standard double room or a superior room.
If you love hostels, you should check out our list of the coolest hostels in Zadar!
Sea View Studio Apartment | Best Apartment in Zadar
The Old Town is the capital of cool, and this sea-view apartment is surely one of the coolest places to stay in Zadar. The two-sleeper studio is located on the fourth floor and offers amazing views of the Dalmatian Coast. Facilities include a kitchenette and a modern bathroom.
Zadar New Town
Zadar’s city center (New Town) can be found to the east of the Old Town near the main bus station. Just on the other side of Perivoj Vladimira Nazora, halfway between Old Town and Zadar’s popular beaches, it’s still close enough to the action should you seek it.
City Outskirts
If you’re Backpacking Croatia on a budget, your best bet is to stay outside of the Old Town and travel in when you need to. The countryside is the best area in Zadar to stay in as it offers a quieter, more scenic alternative while hardly being more than a 15-minute drive from the center.
Kolovare Beach
As Kolovare Beach is the main beach in Zadar, it’s no surprise that most of the buzzing bars and beachfront restaurants are located nearby. During the day, the beach is a wonderful spot for sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building.
Old Town
Thinking about where to stay in Zadar? You simply can’t beat staying in the heart of the Old Town. Hands down the best neighborhood in Zadar to stay in, the historic Old Town is brimming with Roman ruins, Byzantine churches, coastal promenades, and quirky cafes.
Diklo Beach
Similar to Kolovare Beach, Diklo Beach offers a quieter alternative to the north of Zadar. It offers a pebble beach and warm ocean that’s great for family vacations. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available should you need them.
Zadar is easily the coolest place to stay in Croatia. Home to a historic town centre, fascinating Roman and Venetian ruins, excellent nightlife, pretty beaches, and some of the best sunsets on the planet. You’re really in for a treat when you visit this stretch of the Dalmatian Coast.
Set on a small peninsula, there aren’t many major neighbourhoods in Zadar, the most important is, of course, the Old Town. One of the best areas to stay in Zadar, this where most first-time visitors stay. It offers easy access to the medieval churches, historic sites and eclectic bars of this energetic city.
However, you can find a similar experience closer to the beach when you stay in Kolovare. Enjoy lazy beach days with bustling beach bars open late into the night. Close enough to the Old Town and its late-night clubs, it’s a great choice for nightlife seekers.
Photo: Chris Lininger
When it comes to Zadar accommodation, more budget-friendly options can be found the further you head away from the city centre. The countryside offers a much more affordable location just a 15-minute drive from the center. If you’re Backpacking Croatia on a budget, your best bet is to stay outside of the Old Town and travel in when you need to.
Go up north and you’ll discover some family-friendly beachfront suburbs. Diklo Beach is a quieter alternative for a holistic family vacation. The benefit of a bus running into the Old Town every half-hour means you can tick the sightseeing off whenever you feel like it.
Zadar’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Let’s take a closer look at the five best neighbourhoods to stay in in Zadar. I’ll take you through these in detail and show you the sights from the wonderful Sea Organ, right along the coast of the Adriatic Sea.
1. Zadar New Town – Where to Stay in Zadar for Your First Time
Zadar’s city centre (New Town) can be found to the east of the Old Town near the main bus station. Just on the other side of Perivoj Vladimira Nazora, halfway between Old Town and Zadar’s popular beaches, it’s still close enough to the action. One of the benefits of staying in the city centre is that you’re outside of the touristy Old Town (which is not without its charms!).
Yet, you’re able to retreat back to somewhere quieter at the end of the day. The easy access to the beaches is another reason it’s the best neighbourhood to stay in Zadar.
As the city centre is right in the centre of the action with all of Zadar’s popular sights around you, you should expect to pay. To stay in this neighbourhood is to splash the cash a little bit. But, with everything so close by you can easily save on your travel costs!
Hotel Sky | Best Hotel in New Town
This three-star hotel is just 200 meters from a supermarket woohoo, plus the rooms offer city views, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Facilities include an on-site restaurant and a Continental breakfast is included. The staff at Hotel Sky are wonderful and habitually go above for their guests so enjoy your Zadar holiday and trust you’ll be well looked after.
Windward Hostel | Best Hostel in New Town
One of the best places in Zadar to stay, Winward Hostel offers private rooms and shared four or eight-bed dorms, just one and a half kilometres from the historic old town Zadar. Facilities include a common area, bicycle hire, a Full communal kitchen and airport transfers as well as bed linen, towels and Wi-Fi, all included.
IDASSA APARTMENT | Best Airbnb in New Town
Perfect for travelling couples who want easy access to the centre, this one-bedroom apartment is just 15 minutes from the main bus station. Inside, there’s a living room with a sofa bed, equipped kitchen, and free Wi-Fi. There’s also a garden with seasonal fruit and veg. Book five nights or more and receive free bicycles!
Things to See and Do in New Town
Photo: @mariajstorey
- Go for a stroll through Perivoj Vladimira Nazora, a pretty park inside the Old Town
- Spend the day on one of the nearby beaches, such as Kolovare Beach
- Browse City Galleria, home to a shopping mall and farmer’s market
- Take a walk along the promenade and see the historic Imperial Fountain
- Tuck into a local pizza at one of the many nearby pizzerias
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View on Osprey View on REI2. City Outskirts – Best Place to Stay in Zadar on a Budget
The countryside is the best area in Zadar to stay in as it offers a quieter, more scenic alternative while hardly being more than a 15-minute drive from the centre.
Are you wondering where to stay in Zadar for one night? There are plenty of hostels and hotels available in the surroundings where you can stay cheaply and get to and from the airport without a problem.
When you stay in the countryside, you have the option to either walk, cycle or take the bus to the centre. Depending on how far out you choose to be of course – the countryside is gorgeous and has some special local sights too. Public transport is reliable and affordable to get in and out of and around Zadar so you’ll be sweet!
Apartments Luce | Best Hotel in City Outskirts
This apartment in the Zadar County Region offers great value for money and plenty of space for families, sleeping up to four people. It consists of one bedroom, a living room with a sofa bed, BBQ facilities, a kitchen, and a garden. Perks include free Wi-Fi, free parking, and a free airport shuttle service.
Dandelion Boutique Hostel | Best Hostel in City Outskirts
Wondering where to stay in Zadar on a budget? Dandelion Boutique Hostel offers affordable rooms just 15 minutes from the Old Town and 1 km from the beach. Free parking is available.
Budget-conscious travellers will love that they can stock up on supplies from the supermarket across the street. Rooms come with a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
Apartment Aurora Zadar | Best Airbnb in City Outskirts
Enjoy the peace and quiet of the Zadar countryside when you stay at this three-bedroom home that sleeps six – epic Zadar accommodation. The historic Old Town Zadar is just a 5-minute drive away, or if you’re without a car, you can catch the bus. You’ll have access to a living area, a swimming pool, a hot tub, and an open terrace with BBQ facilities.
Things to See and Do in City Outskirts
- Cycle into the Old Town for a day of exploring
- Drive to Kolovare Beach for a day spent sunbathing, swimming and building sandcastles
- Take a walk through the nearby Musapstan Forest Park
- Take a day trip to explore the surrounding national and nature parks: Paklenica, Krka, Plitvice Lakes, Kornati and Vrana
- Bungee jump off the Maslenica Bridge
- Go river rafting on the Zrmanja River
3. Kolovare Beach – Best Area to Stay in Zadar For Nightlife
As Kolovare Beach is the main beach in Zadar, it’s no surprise that most of the buzzing bars and beachfront restaurants are located nearby. Trying to decide where to stay in Zadar for nightlife? If it’s more late-night partying you’re after, you’ll be close enough to the city centre and old town.
During the day, the beach is a wonderful spot for sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building. When the sun goes down, there are plenty of vibey cafes, restaurants and beach bars to enjoy a few drinks while watching the sunset. Which you should definitely do – the sunsets in Croatia are unreal!
The main bus station is right nearby but taxis are affordable. There are plenty of buzzing bars and live music venues to discover. Do keep in mind that the nightclubs are usually only open during the summer months though and plan your trip wisely.
Hotel Kolovare | Best Hotel in Kolovare Beach
This 4-star hotel offers affordable luxury just steps from the beach. Two swimming pools may tempt you to stay right here.
Rooms come with air-con, a balcony, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. Other facilities include a restaurant, bar, free parking, and free daily breakfast.
The Hostel | Best Hostel in Kolovare Beach
Stay close enough to hip and happening Kolovare Beach, just 10 minutes’ walk away. There are both private rooms and shared dorms to choose from. Perks include free Wi-Fi, free city maps and free Nescafe baby!
There’s a lovely garden for chilling out, and 24-hour reception for those late nights out. There is no curfew and this is a lovely clean hostel. There’s a supermarket nearby and the Old Town is within walking distance – it’s about 20 minutes walk.
Ivana’s Swimming Pool Apartment | Best Airbnb in Kolovare Beach
Choose comfort and affordability at this Airbnb, just a short walk from the beach and within walking distance of the Old Town. Sleeping two, it offers a living room with a TV, a big terrace, a swimming pool and a garden. You can borrow bikes from the host at this stay and the supermarket is just around the corner to source something to cook in the kitchen.
Things to See and Do in Kolovare Beach
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
- Hang out on the beach and work on your tan during the summer months
- People watch with a cocktail at one of the beachside cafes and bars
- Trip up to Old Town and experience the charm of Zadar on a traditional sailboat tour, visit Kukljica, Hidden Bay, and Kali. (and have unlimited wine) Sign me up!
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Grab an eSIM!4. Old Town – Coolest Place to Stay in Zadar
Thinking about where to stay in Zadar? You simply can’t beat staying in the heart of the Old Town.
Hands down the best neighbourhood in Zadar to stay in, the historic Old Town is brimming with Roman ruins, Byzantine churches, coastal promenades, and quirky cafes. Everything you need is within easy reach.
Hit the nearby beaches during the day and head to the trendy bars and late-night clubs when the sun goes down – the opportunities are endless!
While the Old Town is certainly the best neighbourhood in Zadar to stay in (it’s the place to be – and be seen), accommodation here does come with a higher price tag. There are some affordable options though if you know where to look (and you book far enough in advance).
Art Hotel Kalelarga | Best Hotel in Zadar Old Town
This luxury hotel is right in the heart of the historic old town of Zadar and is an epic option for Zadar accommodation. There’s all the treats you’d expect from a boutique hotel; free breakfast, an onsite bar and big, spacious rooms with lush beds. Art Hotel Kalelarga is definitely a must-stay when you visit Zadar, leave those cheap hotels behind if you have the capacity and treat yo’ self!
Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel and Dépendance | Another Great Hotel in Zadar Old Town
Opt for affordable luxury in the heart of the Old Town at Almayer Art Heritage Hotel. This four-star boutique hotel offers en-suite rooms, free Wi-Fi, a garden, and an on-site restaurant. Airport transfers can be arranged at an extra cost.
Plus, a wonderful breakfast is included each day of your stay at Almayer Heritage Hotel.
Downtown Boutique Hostel | Best Hostel in Zadar Old Town
Stay right in the heart of the Old Town at this boutique hostel. Guests can choose from private rooms or shared dorms with private or shared bathrooms. Perks include free Wi-Fi and free towels. Book a standard double room or a superior room and enjoy a free breakfast!
Sea View Studio Apartment | Best Apartment in Zadar Old Town
The Old Town is the capital of cool, and this sea-view apartment is easily one of the best places to stay in Zadar. The two-sleeper studio is located on the fourth floor and offers amazing views of the Dalmatian Coast. Facilities include a kitchenette and a modern bathroom.
Things to See and Do in the Old Town
Photo: Chris Lininger
- Walk to the tip of the peninsula to listen to the famous Sea Organ
- Admire the Byzantine St. Donatus’ Church
- Discover the stunning waterfalls and waterways of Plitvice Lakes National Park on a day trip from Zadar and stroll along the various nature trails along the lakes above the beautiful cascades.
- Uncover history as you stroll the foundations of the Roman forum and take a trip on the 3000-year-old Ferry!
- Join a free walking tour of Zadar – just give it a Google; there are loads!
- Visit St Mary’s Church which belongs to and is run by a Benedictine Monastery dating back to the 11th century. Browse the Permanent Exhibition of Religious Art which includes religious artefacts, ancient tapestries, and more
- Take in panoramic views of the Dalmatian coast from a boat trip and enjoy lunch on the Adriatic Sea
- Watch glass-blowing demonstrations at the Museum of Ancient Glass
5. Diklo Beach – Best Neighborhood in Zadar for Families to Stay In
Similar to Kolovare Beach, Diklo Beach offers a quieter alternative to the north of Zadar. It offers a pebble beach and warm ocean that’s great for family vacations. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available should you need them. Kids will love the tube and banana rides!
Due to its location 4 km away from the city centre, Diklo Beach offers much more affordable Zadar accommodation. Plus, fewer crowds which is great when all you’re looking for is a beach holiday. The Old Town is easy enough to get to by car should you want a day of exploring.
If you’re staying close by, a series of beach bars and restaurants makes it a great place to hang out even after the sun goes down. If you head even further north, you’ll find the residential neighborhood of Kozino which has some excellent family-friendly hotels and apartments.
Hotel Niko | Best Hotel Near Diklo Beach
This is one of the best hotels in Zadar – it’s just south of Diklo Beach which makes it a bit nearer to town. Hotel Niko is just a short walk from the Adriatic Sea and a 10-minute drive from the Zadar city centre so truly the best of both worlds. This Luxury hotel is a great one for couples and lovers on the road – do you see those mirrors?!
Hotel Delfin | Best Hotel in Diklo Beach
This 3-star hotel offers family rooms just a few steps from the beach. A public bus stops outside and offers easy access to the city centre every half-hour. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, air-con, and a private bathroom, and many have a balcony with a sea view.
Villa Triana | Best Hostel in Diklo Beach
Ideal for families, Villa Triana offers a choice of private rooms sleeping two to four guests. Located on Diklo Beach, it’s ideal for a summer vacation. Facilities include a pool and free Wi-Fi. A host of restaurants and cafes are available nearby. A free daily breakfast is included.
Seafront Beach House | Best Apartment in Diklo Beach
This incredible apartment right on the beach sleeps up to four guests. There’s one bedroom, a lounge with a fold-out bed, a kitchen, and a balcony and garden with sea views, sun beds and a hammock. Perks include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and a Smart TV, that aside, the hosts are so kind and the gorgeous Adriatic Sea is within walking distance!
Things to See and Do in Diklo Beach
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Pack a picnic and spend the day relaxing on Diklo and the many nearby beaches
- Browse the nearby stores for souvenirs
- Let off some steam with a banana boat ride or tube ride
- Rent a jet ski and spend the day on the water
- Take the bus into the Old Town for a day of exploring
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Zadar
Here’s what people usually ask about the areas of Zadar and where to stay.
What To Pack For Zadar
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
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What’s the deal with the Sea Organ?
Find the large white steps going down to the Adriatic Sea and you’ve found the Sea Organ. Similar to other structures in America and England, this instrument is played by the wind and the sea, sounding like whale sounds. The Zadar Sea Organ was completed in 2005 and is accompanied by another installation called Sun Salutation – an ethereal glass structure that captures sunlight.
Can you party in Kolovare Beach?
Each neighbourhood offers different sights of the city. Whether you’re wondering where to stay in Zadar with kids or where to stay in Zadar for nightlife, I’ve got you in this guide. But to answer the question, not really, stick to Old Town Zadar – Cafe Brazil near the Sea Organ is hot.
Where is the parking in Zadar?
There’s lots of parking in Zadar – it’s a very car-friendly city. The best bet, if you’re travelling with a car, is probably to get in touch with your accommodation and ask them about parking in Zadar.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Zadar
Zadar is a stunning port city with so much to offer, there’s no disputing that… However, as the city is rather small, it doesn’t matter too much where you stay as you can get around easily by car or public transport.
If I had to choose the best neighbourhood to stay in Zadar, I’d have to say the Old Town. Purely because all of the excitement of this Croatian city can be found within its walls, there’s buzzing bars, ancient ruins, and quirky cafes. My number one hotel would have to be Teatro Verdi Boutique Hotel – I love waking up slowly in a luxury hotel and meandering around…
… In my dreams!
Make sure you see the Sea Organ while you’re here – but your stay can be more budget-friendly (I feel that!). The Downtown Boutique Hostel is my top pick for budget travellers in Zadar, you’re still in the heart of the Old Town. This way you’ll have cash to splash on those quirky cafes and another month of travel!
I hope my Zadar neighbourhood guide has been helpful and wherever you stay in Zadar, I’m sure you’ll love it. It’s a special place with stunning scenery and beautiful people.
If you have any questions or you have any recommendations, please leave some feedback in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you!
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Croatia.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Zadar.
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- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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