Pag Town sits in a wide sheltered bay on Pag Island in northern Dalmatia. Pale stone houses, calm water and stark hills create a very special setting. The historic core is compact but full of history, craft and flavour. You can walk from medieval lanes to a family beach in only a few minutes.
This Pag Town article helps you plan clear days with short moves. You will see what to do in Pag Town, how to explore Pag Island, and how to decide if this is the right base for your holiday.
Why visit Pag Town
Pag Town is the main settlement on Pag Island. It lies about an hour from Zadar by road. The town was laid out in the fifteenth century as a planned Renaissance town. Streets form a neat grid that opens onto one wide central square.
The location suits travellers who like small towns with a lived‑in feel. In summer the riva fills with people. Outside peak season the pace slows and you notice everyday life again. Fishing boats move across the bay. Bells ring from the parish church. Locals talk in shaded corners while lace makers work.
Pag Town holidays work best for visitors who want a softer rhythm; this is not a loud clubbing base. It is a place for stone streets, sea views, local food and one or two well chosen day trips.
Who Pag Town is best for
Pag Town suits several types of travellers:
Couples who like small historic centres and sunset walks
Families who want shallow water and easy beach access
Friends who enjoy food, wine and relaxed evenings
Road trippers who need a quiet but interesting overnight stop
If your main goal is nightlife at Zrće Beach, base near Novalja instead. You can still visit Pag Town for a calm afternoon or evening.
Pag Old Town and King Petar Krešimir Square
A planned Renaissance town
The present Pag Old Town replaced an earlier settlement further inland. The new town was built closer to the sea. It followed Renaissance ideas about space, order and light. You can still feel that logic when you walk the streets today.
A broad main street runs from the sea towards the heart of the historic centre. Lanes cross it at right angles. Buildings stand in pale stone, often with carved coats of arms over doorways.
King Petar Krešimir Square
The main square is King Petar Krešimir Square. It is bright, wide and open. Stone façades frame the views on every side. This is the formal centre of Pag Town and a good starting point for any visit.
Here you will see three key buildings:
The Church of the Assumption, also called the Parish Church of St Mary
The former Rector’s or Duke’s Palace
Remains of the Bishop’s Palace and other noble houses
Sit for a coffee and watch daily life. In the morning you may see children on school breaks. In the evening families stroll and meet friends.
Church of the Assumption and sacred art
The Church of the Assumption fronts the square with a simple stone façade. A Gothic portal and rose window add detail without excess. Inside, the church holds altars, paintings and a rich treasury.
Take a slow look at the details. You are standing in the heart of town history. Processions, baptisms and local festivals all pass this point.
Skrivanat Tower and the town walls
Only one defence tower still stands above Pag Town. Skrivanat Tower sits near the edge of the historic centre. It is a solid reminder that this calm town once needed strong walls.
Walk around the edges of the old town. You will notice fragments of the former walls and gates. Mix this with a simple Pag Town history walk across the main streets and lanes. The centre is small enough that you cannot get lost.
Pag lace, the Benedictine monastery and museums
Pag lace and living craft
Pag lace, together with the lace of Lepoglava and Hvar, is inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It is one of the island’s proudest symbols. Local women have made lace here for centuries. Patterns pass down through families and through the Benedictine convent. The lace is so special that it appears on national lists of protected heritage.
Lace pieces spread like white stars across the stone. You will see them on windowsills, tables and market stalls. Each one is stitched by hand. Many are made in the open air while the maker chats with friends.
Pag lace feels different from machine lace. The thread is tight and neat. Motifs repeat but always with small human variations. Buying one piece supports the craft and brings a light souvenir home.
Pag Lace Museum and gallery
To understand the story behind the craft, visit the Pag Lace Museum or gallery inside the Rector’s Palace. Displays show historic examples and explain how tools and patterns changed over time.
Give yourself time to look closely. You will see how patient work turns simple thread into dense designs. This is one of the most important Pag Town attractions for culture lovers.
Benedictine Monastery of St Margaret
The Benedictine Monastery of St Margaret stands inside the old town. For centuries the nuns here have kept lace patterns, recipes and traditions safe.
Step inside if it is open during your visit. You may see lace on display or for sale. You may also find baškotini, the local sweet bread that the nuns bake. These twice baked rings are a classic Pag snack. They taste best dipped in coffee or milk.
Museum of Salt and other small museums
The salt pans and warehouses around Pag Bay tell another part of the story. Pag Town grew rich from salt. The Museum of Salt explains how salt shaped local life and the island economy.
Other small museums and galleries appear in former noble houses or public buildings. They often host exhibitions on local art, costume or history. Ask at the tourist information office for current openings during your dates.
Pag Town beaches and the seafront
Prosika Beach: the main town beach
Prosika Beach sits across a short bridge from the old town. The sand and shingle stretch along the inner side of the bay. The water is shallow and usually calm.
This is the main Pag Town beach and the easiest place for a quick swim. It suits families with small children and anyone who wants services close by.
Prosika offers:
Shallow entry into the sea
Beach bars and snack places in season
A playground and simple sports areas
Views back towards the old town and hills
Arrive early in peak summer if you want shade. The beach can get busy during school holidays and hot weekends.
Beaches near Pag Town
If you prefer quieter coves, try beaches near Pag Town along the bay. Short drives bring you to spots with fewer people and a more natural feel.
One popular choice is Bošana Beach, north of the town. The road there follows the coast and gives wide views of sea and rock. The ground is stony, so bring water shoes.
You can also look for smaller unnamed beaches along Pag Bay. Many sit at the end of gravel tracks. Always respect private land and do not block any access roads.
Pag riva and waterfront promenade
Back on the old town side, the Pag riva runs along the waterfront. Boats tie up next to simple stone quays. Cafés set out chairs and tables.
Walk the waterfront promenade at different times of day. Early mornings feel calm. Evenings bring a soft buzz as people dress up and head out.
From the riva you see Prosika, the salt warehouses and the low spit that holds the town beach. The scene changes with light and weather. Sit for a drink and let the view do the work.
Food, wine and local products
Pag cheese and tastings
Pag cheese, or Paški sir, is a hard sheep’s cheese with a strong identity. The island’s sheep graze on low herbs and grass dusted with sea salt. This gives the milk a special taste.
Cheese makers then turn that milk into firm wheels of cheese. Young Pag cheese tastes milder. Aged Pag cheese becomes sharper and more complex.
In Pag Town you can:
Buy cheese in shops that specialise in local products
Arrange Pag cheese tasting plates in restaurants or konobe
Visit dairies elsewhere on the island as a day trip
Cheese pairs well with local olive oil and wine. It is an ideal food souvenir if you have space in your bag.
Pag lamb and local dishes
Pag lamb is another famous island product. The same salty grass that shapes the cheese also gives the meat a delicate flavour.
Look for lamb dishes on menus in Pag Town restaurants. You may see roast lamb, grilled chops or lamb baked under a metal lid with potatoes. Portions are often generous, so sharing is wise.
Beyond lamb, you can enjoy grilled fish, calamari, shellfish and simple pasta and risotto. Many dishes stay close to classic Dalmatian cooking. Fresh ingredients matter more than complex sauces.
Pag salt and the taste of the island
Salt has long been the backbone of the local economy. Large shallow pans near the town collect sea water. Sun and wind slowly pull the water away. Salt crystals remain.
Today you can visit the salt area and the Museum of Salt. You can also buy packs of Pag sea salt and delicate salt flower. These make light but meaningful gifts.
Salt shows up in the food too. You taste it in cheese, lamb and even in the air on windy days. It is part of the island identity.
Nature, walks and boat trips from Pag Town
Walking and cycling around Pag
Pag Island looks bare at first, with stone covering much of the surface. Yet there are many walking and cycling routes.
From Pag Town you can follow gentle paths along the edge of the bay. Short climbs lead to viewpoints above the houses. From there you see the town, the sea and the distant Velebit mountains.
More serious routes cross the interior of the island. They pass dry stone walls, small fields and lonely chapels. Always carry water, wear good shoes and respect the heat.
Cycling routes from Pag Town range from short loops to longer cross island rides. Ask at local rental shops or tourist information for maps and advice.
Pag Bay on the water
Calm water inside the bay suits beginner friendly water sports. In season you may find rentals or tours for kayaking and stand up paddle.
A slow paddle lets you see the town and rocks from a new angle. It also gives access to small corners of shore that are harder to reach on foot.
Boat trips from Pag Town often visit nearby coves, islets or parts of the outer coast. Some include swimming stops and simple lunches. Others focus more on views and a relaxed cruise.
Day trips across Pag Island
Pag Town can be a base for day trips around the island. Popular options include:
Novalja and Zrće Beach for a taste of the party scene
Lun olive groves with ancient trees and stone terraces
Kolan and Ĺ imuni for cheese, small villages and campsites
The wilder bays and cliffs near Metajna
You can also use Pag Town as a base for a wider road trip. The Pag Bridge connects the island to the mainland. From there you can visit Zadar, Nin and viewpoints in the Velebit foothills.
Where to stay in Pag Town
Old town and seafront stays
Where to stay in Pag Town depends on your travel style. The old town and seafront suit visitors who love atmosphere.
Here you will find stone built apartments on narrow streets. Some have small balconies or roof terraces. Others open straight onto lanes a few steps from cafés and shops.
Seafront apartments give direct views of the bay and the riva. You pay a little more for that view but gain a sense of place.
These areas work well for couples and solo travellers. Everything is close by. You can forget about the car for a few days.
Family friendly areas near the beach
Families often prefer accommodation near Prosika Beach or along the bay. Short walks to the sea make life easier with children.
Look for apartments, small hotels or holiday homes with parking and some outside space. Check that bedrooms have air conditioning for hot nights.
Ground floor units with terraces are handy for prams and beach gear. A supermarket nearby is a big plus for longer stays.
Camping and road trip bases
If you travel by campervan or love camping, Pag Island has several campsites. Some sit a short drive from the town.
Camping works well for flexible road trips. You can move between parts of the island when you like. You still keep Pag Town close for food, supplies and occasional evenings out.
Top Rated Hotels in Pag
- 🔍Hotel Plaza — 9.1 (1007 reviews)
Beachfront hotel on Pag’s seafront road, about 1.5 km from the old town. Rooms are modern and bright, many with sea views, and the outdoor pool overlooks the beach. Best for couples and families wanting a classic hotel stay right on the water.
Neighborhood/landmark: Marka Marulića, directly on Pag Bay.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, restaurant, bar, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, free private parking.
Why it stands out: One of Pag’s top-rated hotels with a rare beachfront pool.
- 🔍Boutique Hotel Intermezzo – Pag centre — 9.7 (412 reviews)
Stylish boutique hotel in the centre of Pag with spacious modern rooms and an exceptional breakfast. Calm atmosphere and contemporary design make it ideal for a relaxing stay. Best for couples who want an elegant base in the old town.
Neighborhood/landmark: Vukovarska ulica, steps from the main square and promenade.
Key facilities: free Wi-Fi, free private parking, bar, 24-hour front desk, bike hire, modern lounge areas.
Why it stands out: Highest-rated hotel in Pag with outstanding breakfast and central location.
- 🔍Family Hotel Pagus – All Inclusive — 8.0 (1076 reviews)
Large beachfront resort hotel directly on a pebbly beach, beside the town promenade. Rooms include balconies with sea or park views, and the all-inclusive service covers meals, snacks and selected drinks. Best for families who want pools, spa facilities and an easy beach setting.
Neighborhood/landmark: Pag Bay, next to the old town and Salt Museum.
Key facilities: indoor and outdoor pools, children’s pool, spa and wellness centre, fitness centre, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, on-site parking, restaurant and bar.
Why it stands out: One of the few fully all-inclusive beachfront hotels in Pag.
- 🔍Family Hotel Zanè — 8.6 (606 reviews)
Comfortable family hotel a few minutes’ walk from Pagus Beach. Rooms have air-conditioning and sea, garden or mountain views, with friendly staff and good breakfast noted by guests. Best for couples and families wanting a quieter hotel near the beach and centre.
Neighborhood/landmark: Šetalište grada Zanea, close to the seafront and Pagus Beach.
Key facilities: garden, terrace, restaurant, bar, free Wi-Fi, family rooms.
Why it stands out: Strong location and staff ratings with easy beach access.
- 🔍Rooms Villa Padre — 9.6 (223 reviews)
Renovated hotel-style guest house offering modern rooms and suites, many with balconies and views. Warm service and comfort make it a relaxing base within walking distance of beach and old town. Best for couples and families seeking hotel comfort in a small, friendly setting.
Neighborhood/landmark: About 500 m from Pagus Beach, near the main square.
Key facilities: free private parking, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, breakfast, daily housekeeping.
Why it stands out: Exceptional ratings and a perfect balance between town centre and beach access.
Top Rated Villas in Pag
- 🔍House Plaza near beach — 10.0 (12 reviews)
Self-catering holiday home a short walk from Prosika Beach. Modern interiors, air-conditioning and a quiet residential setting make it ideal for couples or small families wanting a comfortable base near both sea and town.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near Prosika Beach and close to Pag’s historic centre.
Key facilities: free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, self-catering unit, private parking.
Why it stands out: Perfect 10 score and excellent location near the main town beach.
- 🔍Villa Paro — 10.0 (7 reviews)
Modern villa with private pool, set within walking distance of Pagus Beach. Air-conditioned, fully equipped and suitable for families or small groups who want a villa atmosphere close to town.
Neighborhood/landmark: Around 6 minutes’ walk from Pagus Beach.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, self-catering accommodation.
Why it stands out: Combines a private pool with a walkable beach location and flawless guest reviews.
- 🔍Villa Pag Dubrava Relax with Pool — 10.0 (14 reviews)
Detached villa in the Dubrava/Bosana area with a private pool and panoramic sea views. Stylish interiors and a spacious outdoor area suit families and groups who want privacy and a peaceful setting.
Neighborhood/landmark: Dubrava/Bosana area, short drive from Pag town and Bosana Beach.
Key facilities: private pool, sea-view terrace, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, free private parking, bicycles available.
Why it stands out: A standout “wow” villa with exceptional reviews and beautiful sea-view surroundings.
- 🔍Casa di Pag by Pag tours — 9.8 (10 reviews)
Compact villa-style holiday home close to Prosika Beach, with terrace, Wi-Fi and air-conditioning. Well-suited for couples or small families who want a modern base near both the beach and old-town area.
Neighborhood/landmark: About 5 minutes’ walk from Prosika Beach.
Key facilities: terrace, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, self-catering facilities.
Why it stands out: Highly rated for location and comfort in a quiet but central area.
- 🔍Villa Belveder — 9.7 (27 reviews)
Popular villa complex near Pagus Beach with an outdoor pool, garden and balcony apartments. Comfortable, air-conditioned units suit families and groups who want relaxation close to the promenade.
Neighborhood/landmark: Around 5 minutes’ walk from Pagus Beach.
Key facilities: outdoor pool, garden, balcony/terrace units, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, private parking.
Why it stands out: Excellent long-term ratings with a pool and easy beach access.
Top Rated Apartments in Pag
- 🔍4REST VILA Pag — 9.1 (198 reviews)
Historic-style apartments in a renovated stone building in central Pag, just a few minutes’ walk from the waterfront. Units are modern and stylish, with kitchen, washing machine and city or sea views, plus access to a sun terrace and open-air bath. Best for couples or small groups who want character accommodation in the old town with easy beach access.
Neighborhood/landmark: Ulica Ivana Mršića, in one of the best-rated areas of Pag, around a 4-minute walk from Prosika Beach and close to the old-town lanes and harbor.
Key facilities: apartments with kitchen, terrace, city view, free Wi-Fi, free parking, family rooms, air-conditioning, pets allowed, BBQ facilities, room service, airport shuttle.
Why it stands out: Central historic setting with a high location score and solid reviews, making it one of Pag’s signature old-town apartment stays.
- 🔍Babic Apartments Pag — 10.0 (29 reviews)
Upscale beachfront apartments with a heated pool, sea and mountain views, and a private beach area. Units are very modern, with high-quality furniture, fully equipped kitchens and spacious terraces. Best for families or friends who want a luxury-feel apartment stay by the sea.
Neighborhood/landmark: Quiet bay near Bošana Beach, a short drive from Pag town.
Key facilities: heated outdoor pool, private beach area, bar, sea-view terrace or balcony, fully equipped kitchens, free Wi-Fi, free private parking, family rooms.
Why it stands out: Exceptionally high rating, with guests praising the design, hosts and infinity-style pool with sea views.
- 🔍Apartments Šešo Pag — 9.3 (8 reviews)
Air-conditioned one-bedroom apartment with living room and balcony in a quiet street a short walk from Prosika Beach and the centre. Clean, bright interiors with a full kitchen and sea, garden or city views. Best for couples or small families wanting a peaceful but central base with good value.
Neighborhood/landmark: Senjska ulica, about 850–900 m from Pag centre and less than 1 km from Prosika Beach.
Key facilities: kitchen, balcony and terrace, garden with outdoor fireplace and BBQ, pet-friendly, free Wi-Fi throughout, free private parking, family-friendly layout.
Why it stands out: Excellent cleanliness and staff scores, plus a quiet location close to both Prosika Beach and the old town.
- 🔍Apartmani Matošević, Pag-Košljun — 9.2 (13 reviews)
Beachfront apartments in the small settlement of Košljun, just south of Pag town. Modern, comfortable units, many with sea-view balconies and direct access to a quiet local beach, are ideal for guests who prefer a peaceful village feel rather than staying in town.
Neighborhood/landmark: Košljun area on Pag Island, with small beaches and coves within walking distance, a short drive from Pag town.
Key facilities: beachfront location, apartments with kitchen and balcony or terrace, free private parking, private check-in/check-out, free Wi-Fi, garden and BBQ area.
Why it stands out: Calm beachfront village setting with strong scores for cleanliness, comfort and friendly hosts.
- 🔍Apartman Branko Pag — 9.2 (39 reviews)
Recently renovated apartment house with garden and terrace, offering air-conditioned units with sea-view balconies. Each apartment has a well-equipped kitchen and modern bathroom, and guests highlight the warm hosts and quiet surroundings. Best for couples and small families looking for a relaxed, homely base near the beach.
Neighborhood/landmark: Residential area near Tartanovo Beach, a short drive from Pag town centre.
Key facilities: garden and terrace, balconies with sea or city views, fully equipped kitchens, free Wi-Fi throughout, free private on-site parking, air-conditioning, family rooms, private entrance.
Why it stands out: Superb ratings for hosts, comfort and location close to the beach, with very good value for families.
Top Rated Camping sites in Pag
- 🔍Camping Simuni — 9.3 (25 reviews)
Family-oriented campground in Šimuni on Pag Island, set a short walk from Vruljica Beach. Mobile homes come with kitchens, terraces and air-conditioning, plus several beaches and kids’ facilities on site. Best for families and active travelers who want a full-service seaside camp.
Neighborhood/landmark: Camping Village Ĺ imuni, near Vruljica Beach.
Key facilities: free parking, restaurant, bar, non-smoking rooms, family rooms.
Why it stands out: Big, well-run camp with multiple beaches, children’s entertainment and modern mobile homes. - 🔍Val Lodge Šimuni — 9.7 (9 reviews)
Upscale mobile home inside Camping Village Ĺ imuni, a short walk from Two Sailors Beach. The lodge is modern and well equipped, with a large terrace, outdoor kitchen and space for up to six guests. Best for families or two couples sharing who want comfort inside a lively camp.
Neighborhood/landmark: Camping Village Ĺ imuni, close to Two Sailors Beach and camp facilities.
Key facilities: free parking, free Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, spa and wellness centre, fitness centre, family rooms.
Why it stands out: One of the most luxurious mobile homes in Šimuni, with top scores for cleanliness, comfort and facilities. - 🔍Aminess Style Camping Avalona Pitches — 9.2 (143 reviews)
Large five-star camping resort in Povljana on the southern side of Pag Island, a short walk from Trokut Beach. Offers classic camping and premium pitches with access to pools, waterpark-style features, sports courts and several restaurants. Best for families, road-trippers and longer seaside stays.
Neighborhood/landmark: Povljana, near Trokut Beach, an easy drive from Pag town.
Key facilities: two swimming pools, free parking, free Wi-Fi, fitness centre, multiple restaurants, bar.
Why it stands out: Full-service resort campground with plenty of facilities and activities for both children and adults. - 🔍Mobile home LA ISLA BONITA, Terra Park SpiritoS — 9.4 (30 reviews)
Beachfront mobile home in Terra Park SpiritoS, Kolan, only a few steps from Sveti Duh Beach. Recently renovated, with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and a covered terrace. Best for families or small groups who want glamping comfort right by the sea.
Neighborhood/landmark: Terra Park SpiritoS campsite, Sveti Duh Beach area, Kolan, near Pag town.
Key facilities: free parking, free Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, non-smoking rooms, family rooms, beachfront setting.
Why it stands out: Modern, fully equipped mobile home with very high cleanliness and facilities scores in a prime seaside location. - 🔍Mobile Home Happy Family Šimuni — 9.9 (10 reviews)
Spacious mobile home in Camping Village Ĺ imuni, a short walk from Two Sailors Beach. It sleeps up to eight with multiple bedrooms and a large living area, ideal for larger families or two families travelling together. Best for groups who want lots of space within a lively camp.
Neighborhood/landmark: Camping Village Ĺ imuni, close to Two Sailors Beach and camp restaurants.
Key facilities: free parking, free Wi-Fi, bar, family rooms.
Why it stands out: Exceptionally high guest scores and a family-ready layout in a popular seaside campsite.
How to get to Pag Town and when to visit
Getting to Pag Town
Most visitors arrive by road. The two main approaches are:
Zadar to Pag Town over the Pag Bridge
Rijeka to Pag Town along the coastal routes and island roads
Buses connect Pag Town with Zadar and other centres, especially in summer. They are useful if you prefer not to drive. However, a car or motorbike gives much more freedom once you are on the island.
Weather and the best time to visit
Pag Town in summer is hot, sunny and lively. The sea is warm and the days are long. July and August bring the most visitors and the busiest beaches.
June and September offer slightly milder temperatures and a calmer feel. The sea still feels pleasant for swimming. Many travellers say this is the best time to visit Pag Town.
Spring and autumn are gentler again. These seasons suit walkers and cyclists who do not need every bar and beach service open. Winter is quiet and can be windy but shows another side of the island.
How long to stay
You can see the main Pag Town points of interest in one long day. A quick visit includes the old town, lace, the church and a swim.
A better plan is two or three nights. That gives time for:
One full day in the historic centre and at Prosika Beach
One day trip on the island or to the mainland
Slow evenings on the riva and in town konobe
Stay longer if you want more beach days or several different outings.
FAQs
Is Pag Town a good base for Pag Island?
Yes. Pag Town sits roughly in the middle of the island length. Roads lead north to Novalja and south to the Pag Bridge. You can explore in both directions without long drives.
Is Pag Town suitable for families with children?
Pag Town works very well for families. Prosika Beach has shallow water and services. The town is walkable and there are enough simple outings without long car trips.
Do I need a car in Pag Town?
A car is not essential but it helps. You can reach the town by bus and stay near the centre or beach. However, a car makes day trips to other beaches and villages much easier.
How does Pag Town compare with Novalja?
Pag Town is calmer and more focused on history, food and families. Novalja is busier and closer to Zrće Beach clubs. Many travellers visit both to experience the contrast.
Can I visit Pag Town as a day trip from Zadar?
Yes. Many visitors drive from Zadar for a Pag Town day trip. You can explore the old town, try Pag cheese and see the salt area. A quick swim at Prosika is also easy before you return.
Plan your Pag Town base
Pag Town is a place of stone, lace, salt and sea. Choose it if you want clear light, small town charm and easy access to both culture and the beach.
Pick one hero experience for your stay. It might be lace and baškotini at the monastery, a salt and cheese tasting day or a drive across the island’s lunar hills. Add one beach afternoon and one gentle walk above the bay. Then let Pag Town’s slow rhythm shape the rest of your Pag Island vacation.
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