Where to stay in Zadar -Accommodation Guide

Finding the perfect place to stay in Zadar is part art, part science (and, let’s be honest, part luck—unless you book ahead).

I’ve swapped concrete hotel blocks for quirky apartments, sampled swanky spas in Punta Skala, and occasionally survived Old Town’s late-night revelry echoing outside my airbnb shutters.

The good news? Zadar fits all travel moods, from UNESCO-time-warp Old Town to wallet-friendly beach escapes and dreamy resort bubbles.

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No matter your style, this Zadar accommodation guide will help you dodge the tourist traps and zero in on a spot that truly fits your trip.

Get ready to find your ideal base. But don’t dither: Zadar’s best stays vanish quickly once the sun comes out.

Where to Stay in Zadar – Best (and Worst) Areas

Picking where to stay in Zadar can make or break your trip—trust me, I’ve had both the “out-the-door-into-history” magic and the “miles-from-anything” regret.

You’ll want Old Town if it’s your first visit. There’s nothing like opening a creaky window to morning bells and sea salt in the air, then wandering Roman alleys for your pastry fix.

If you’re dragging along kids, a suitcases, or both, areas like Borik or Kolovare offer easier parking, beaches within flip-flop distance, and a lot more room to breathe (plus, you won’t need to carry a pram up three flights of medieval stairs).

Let’s break it down by vibe, value, and logistics.

Best Areas to Stay in Zadar

Alternative Areas to stay in Zadar

4. Diklo & Kozino (Quiet, budget, local vibe, long stays)

For longer visits, peace, or stretching your kuna, these two neighborhoods merge into a quiet, laid-back stretch just north of Borik. It’s simple, affordable, neighborly—sunsets here linger.

5. Arbanasi (Romantic, peaceful, couples)

Under-the-radar and utterly charming, Arbanasi is built for slow mornings, church bells, local cafés, and couples who want authenticity and real Dalmatian smiles. It’s close enough to stroll to Old Town, yet worlds quieter.

6. Kolovare (Beachfront, relaxed – bonus close to town)

Kolovare brings you the best of both worlds: long, pebbled beachfront, swimming at sunrise, and a straight walk into central Zadar. Great for families and anyone who wants sea and city, no compromises.

7. Petrcane & Punta Skala (Resort-life, pampering, spa)

If your goal is deep-tissue massages, infinity pools, and not moving far from your sunbed, base yourself here. Advanced bookings are your friend—these resorts fill fast (thank you, European summer).

Area	Best For	Price Range	Accommodation Types	Walkability	Vibe	Accessibility & Parking
Old Town	First-timers, history, food, nightlife	$$–$$$$	Boutique hotels, apartments	★★★★★	Lively, historic	No parking, pedestrianized
New Town	Drivers, local vibe, good value	$–$$$	Modern hotels, apartments	★★★☆☆	Local, practical	Best parking, easy transit
Borik	Families, cars, fun, beaches	$$–$$$	Family hotels, resorts, apts	★★★☆☆	Beachy, active	Easy parking, popular in summer
Diklo & Kozino	Budget, chill, long-term	$–$$	Guesthouses, apartments, simple hotels	★★★☆☆	Local, slow, sea views	On-street or easy parking
Arbanasi	Couples, off-the-path, chill	$$–$$$	Boutique apts, studios	★★☆☆☆	Tranquil, authentic	Walk or taxi to center
Kolovare	Fast beach access, city	$$–$$$	Beachfront hotels, apts	★★★★☆	Laid-back, walkable	Close to bus/train, parking options
Petrcane, Punta Skala	Pampering, spa, all-inclusive	$$–$$$$	Resorts, villas, spa hotels	★★☆☆☆	Resorty, exclusive	Car needed, ample parking

Unsafe Areas to Avoid in Zadar

Zadar is remarkably safe, even for solo travelers late at night. The only true hazard? Getting hopelessly lost after a craft-beer flight in Old Town or sleepwalking into a gelato shop for the third time in one evening.

Just stick to normal street smarts, especially around the main bus/train station after midnight, and you’re golden.

Best Accommodation in Zadar

Zadar’s accommodation scene is as layered as its Roman walls. Whether you’re the type to chase the sunrise with strong coffee or the last notes of sea organ serenades, there’s a spot here for you.

I’ve stayed in everything—from heritage hotels with centuries under their beams to sleek, wallet-friendly apartments. If you crave local market buzz, crave-the-cobbled-street romance, or just a splash pool and a sunbed, you’re covered.

Pro tip: In peak summer, the best hotels and beach apartments are gone before you can say “Maraschino.” If something catches your eye, book it now and don’t count on a last-minute miracle!

Old Town (Poluotok) – best for city breaks, history & first-timers

The Old Town is Zadar in HD: Roman columns in your morning stroll, café chatter echoing through ancient alleys, and those famously golden sunsets right by the Sea Organ—all packed in a pedestrian maze. If you want to eat, drink, and wander like a local, this is the core of it all.

Parking? A lost cause. Pack light, you’ll thank yourself after tackling a few staircases and cobbled streets.

I always tell even my “car addicted” friends to spend at least one night here. The city lights hit differently when the day trips leave, trust me.

Old Town does get busy in July and August, but if you can swing a spring or early autumn visit, you’ll get that perfect blend of buzz and elbow room. Book your spot here before it vanishes—this neighborhood always tops out first.

Best Hotels in Old Town

Best Holiday Homes & Apartments in Old Town

Zadar New Town – best for modern stays, parking & local life

If you want the feel of “real” Zadar, close to everything but away from the Old Town rush, New Town is where I personally gravitate—especially when I need actual parking and room to breathe. You’ll get all the essentials: bustling local markets, bakeries that open early, and plenty of everyday Croatian life right outside your door.

Most buildings here are modern, so you’ll have lifts, balconies, blackout shutters, and (usually) air conditioning that actually works in summer. The walk to the Old Town is easy—about 10–15 minutes—so you’re never far from the historic action if you want it.

I find New Town especially appealing for longer stays, road trips, or business—those times when you need comfort, contemporary amenities, and a local grocery store more than a medieval bell tower view.

The further you stay from the walls, the bigger and better value your room will likely be. Transit connections are excellent—bus stops are everywhere—so day trips and beach outings are simple.

Just bear in mind: You won’t get the Instagrammable cobblestone charm here, but you will see the city as locals do—plus have change left over for another round at the bakery.

Where to stay in Zadar New Town

If you value bright spaces, good WiFi, parking, and quick access to everything, these are my go-tos. Book ahead—options with parking and balconies are gobbled up fast in peak season!

For a Zadar visit that feels easy, connected, and a little more “local,” New Town is hard to beat. If you spot an open spot at one of the above, lock it in early—New Town’s best addresses rarely last long come summer.

Borik – best for families, beach fun & all-inclusives

Ask any Zadar local where to go for kid-friendly beachside fun, and Borik is the top answer. Just north of the Old Town, Borik is where families spread out, swimmers hit the water parks, and hotel guests pile plates high at all-you-can-eat buffets.

It’s the city’s resort central—imagine sandy stretches packed with sun loungers, pools shaded by pines, and that rare Dalmatian bonus: parking without a headache.

In summer, the rhythm here beats to splashing, sunset cocktails and kids running barefoot between slides and gelato stands.

Best Places to Stay in Borik

If you can picture sandy feet, satisfied kids, and cold drinks at sunset—Borik should top your Zadar accommodation shortlist. Just don’t wait too long to book.

Diklo & Kozino – best for budget, long stays & peaceful beaches

Looking for Zadar’s best mix of quiet, easy pricing, and sea breeze? Head for Diklo and Kozino. This is where locals actually live, and—unlike the tourist-packed center—you can almost always score a parking spot right at your front gate.

These two neighborhoods string along the coast to the northwest, and I usually recommend them for longer stays, families, or anyone craving some downtime by the water with a side of “real life.”

Most accommodation is low-key: apartments with kitchenettes, simple guesthouses, the odd small hotel. If you’re working remotely, hosting kids, or just want elbow room with Adriatic views, Diklo and Kozino have your name on them.

It’s not ancient town charm, and you’ll need to hop a bus or taxi to the Roman Forum. But that’s the tradeoff for sunset tranquility, quiet beaches, and local konobas around the corner.

Don’t expect sandy stretches—they’re mostly pebbly coves and piers. But you’ll never fight for a sunbed.

Top Stays in Diklo & Kozino

Want a Zadar experience that feels local, unrushed, and affordable? Pick Diklo or Kozino, and secure your spot while the best rooms are still up for grabs.

Arbanasi – best for couples, peace & authenticity

It’s easy to miss Arbanasi on your first trip to Zadar as most guidebooks barely mention it. But if you’re the kind of traveler who thinks sunrise walks and historic gardens trump tourist crowds, you’ll fit right in here.

Arbanasi sits quietly at the city’s southern edge, trading the Old Town buzz for leafy streets, local bakeries, and sunset church bells. You’ll wake to birdsong, not mopeds.

Couples love it for the privacy and slower pace. There’s real Dalmatian everyday life woven through its little cafés and uncrowded beaches. And don’t worry if you want to dip into the city scene—Kolovare Beach and Old Town are an easy stroll or quick taxi ride away.

Top Picks in Arbanasi

Book early in Arbanasi: These gems fill fast during summer lull. For couples and anyone chasing a peaceful base, it’s worth planning ahead to snag your favorite.

Kolovare – best for city-meets-beach & active stays

Hotel-lined stretch with easy access to both pebble beach and Old Town. Perfect for those who want relaxation plus convenience.

Kolovare is where you hit pause. Just a short stroll from the Old Town, but with the Adriatic lapping practically at your feet, this area gives you the best of both city life and laid-back mornings on the sand.

It’s ideal if you’re a sunrise swimmer, a sunset stroller, or just craving pocket-friendly stays near the sea. It’s also one of the few spots in Zadar where you can pop out for groceries, a dip, or a lazy bar lunch—without needing to plan ahead or fight for parking.

Walking the waterfront here is a ritual. Locals, travelers, and even the odd hotelier’s cat seem to agree: Kolovare’s calm manages to hold its own, even in the heights of July.

Top Hotels in Kolovare

Petrcane & Punta Skala – for pampering, resorts, spa escapes

If your Zadar wish list starts with infinity pools, polished spa suites, and days that blend seamlessly from beach to wellness, Petrcane and Punta Skala should be at the top.

This is resort territory, pure and simple: think acres of manicured grounds, sea breezes, and every possible comfort.

It’s where I go when I want a proper splurge or just need some real R&R. That said, you’re never too far from Zadar’s Old Town if the cobbled streets call your name, but I’d be lying if I said you’ll want to leave these plush sanctuaries much at all.

Top Choices in Petrcane & Punta Skala

If you’re ready to trade in sightseeing for sun loungers, book one of Petrcane’s standout resorts now and settle in for the ultimate Zadar escape.

Where to Eat and Drink in Zadar

Zadar’s food scene runs the gamut from bakery-café breakfasts in hidden alleyways to sunset aperitifs beside the sea and just-caught squid grilled at dockside taverns. If you’re like me, you’ll want to sample at least three neighborhoods in search of the city’s next perfect bite—or bottle.

Here’s where to focus your appetite:

• Bistro Gourmet Kalelarga for a classic Old Town breakfast or cakes. This is Zadar’s daytime hub for locals and visitors, with stellar pastries, coffee, plus a Croatian wine list that overdelivers for the price.
• Proto Food&More if you want affordable, home-style Dalmatian favorites. It looks touristy outside, but trust me: the octopus peka and slow-cooked lamb taste like a family Sunday lunch.
• Foša for a seafood splurge—especially at sunset. Easily the town’s top fine-dining spot (book ahead). Order whatever is just-caught and don’t skip the wine pairing, especially if you love a crisp Pošip.
• Marina Restaurant if only the best will do. Reserve for a special night out—think white tablecloths, perfect steaks and pastas, and knockout Adriatic views.
• Beach Bar Bamboo (Borik) for sand-between-your-toes cocktails. Laid-back, kid-friendly and right on the water, so parents get a proper coffee while the kids run wild.
• Vina Poljak for a glass of Dalmatian wine with sea views in Kozino. Not a restaurant, but the best spot to wind down before heading “home.”
• Karma Restaurant & Bar (Arbanasi/Kolovare) for romantic dinners, seafood or vegan plates. Try the mussels, stay for a sunset mojito.
• Kuzina Grill & Pizza for hearty local meat platters and a reliably lively crowd. Casual, no-frills—exactly how you want it after a swim.
• Tequila Sunrise Caffe for your aperitivo hour. Retro vibes, garden seating, and friendly local faces.

Read next: One day in Zadar – Two ways to spend 24h in Zadar, Croatia

FAQ

What is the best area to stay in Zadar for first-time visitors?

Almost always Old Town. You’ll be surrounded by centuries of history, with every major sight and plenty of buzz just steps away. The atmosphere after dark is something you can’t get anywhere else in the city.

Best for families?

Borik is the top pick—think easy parking, splash parks, family-friendly resorts, and beachfront fun for everyone. Bonus: plenty of kid-approved dining right on the promenade.

Where is best for long stays or digital nomads?

Diklo & Kozino. More space, laid-back residential neighborhoods, affordable rentals, and fewer tourists. The area has a relaxed local rhythm perfect if you want decent WiFi, a sea view, and stress-free parking.

Best for couples?

Arbanasi offers calm, leafy walks, golden sunsets, and real Dalmatian neighborhood character. If you’re after romance—without a tourist swarm—this is where you’ll likely find it.

Is Zadar good value?

Absolutely. Zadar’s a hidden bargain compared to Split or Dubrovnik—especially outside peak summer or in easygoing neighborhoods like Diklo. Your wallet will thank you.

Can I get around without a car?

Definitely. If you stay central (Old Town, Kolovare, Arbanasi) you can reach just about everywhere on foot. Pack a light bag if you’re arriving or leaving via the Old Town—historic streets mean some bumps and stairs.

What’s the best way to get around outer Zadar?

Local buses cover all the lines you’ll need, but for flexibility I recommend you rent an e-bike or e-scooter for stress-free hops between beaches, headline sights, and hidden gems. Taxis are fast and affordable if you’re carrying baggage or groceries.

Rent an e-bike for the day or grab an e-scooter and zip around with ease.

How do I get to Zadar?

The fastest way: fly direct to Zadar Airport (seasonal routes run from much of Europe between April and October). For easy, seamless airport transfers into the city center or your hotel, I always recommend booking ahead—slots go quick on busy weekends.

Arrange an airport transfer for stress-free arrival and departure..