Zadar County packs island‑hopping, canyon hikes, and a cultured Adriatic city into one compact region. Ferries hop to quiet islands, trails climb the Velebit, and family beaches stay shallow and safe.
Quick Orientation
Where you are. Zadar County lies in northern Dalmatia. The mainland runs along the Adriatic. The Velebit range rises just inland. Offshore, the Zadar Archipelago spreads across dozens of islands.
Main hubs. Zadar city anchors the coast. Other useful bases are Nin, Biograd na Moru, Pakoštane, Starigrad-Paklenica, Pag town, Sukošan, and island villages on Dugi Otok, Ugljan, and Pašman.
How to choose your base.
Zadar Old Town — car‑free city break and sunsets.
Nin/Zaton — families and sandy beaches.
Starigrad‑Paklenica — hikers and climbers.
Dugi Otok (Sali/Božava) — quiet island stay.
Ugljan/Pašman — easy day trips via short ferry.
Headline nature. Three protected areas sit in the county: Paklenica National Park, Telašćica Nature Park, and Vransko Lake Nature Park. Rivers Zrmanja and Krupa carve wild canyons. Cerovac Caves reveal an underground world.
Why it works for visitors. Logistics are simple. Zadar Airport connects you with Europe. The A1 motorway sits close by. Ferries from Zadar run often. Bridges link Pag and Vir. You can mix culture, beaches, hiking, and sailing in a single trip.
Highlights at a Glance
Zadar Old Town: Sea Organ, Greeting to the Sun, Roman Forum, Venetian Land Gate.
Islands: Dugi Otok for Sakarun Beach and Telašćica cliffs. Ugljan and Pašman for easy day trips. Silba, Olib, Molat, Iž, and Premuda for peace and slow travel. Vir for quick access. Pag (southern half) for lace, cheese, and pale beaches.
Parks: Paklenica canyons and beech forests. Telašćica cliffs and Lake Mir. Vransko Lake birdlife and viewpoints.
Rivers and caves: Zrmanja rafting, Krupa’s stone bridge, Cerovac Caves, Modrič Cave.
Sailing: D‑Marin Dalmacija (Sukošan), Marina Kornati (Biograd), ACI Marina Zadar, Olive Island Marina (Ugljan).
Family beaches: Queen’s Beach in Nin and Zaton’s long, shallow strands. City swims at Kolovare.
Pick a base for 3–5 nights. Add one island, one park day, and one city day. You will cover the essentials without rushing.
Zadar City: Classic Sights and Sunset Rituals
Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun
Waves push air through organ pipes set in the steps of the promenade. The sound changes with the sea. Next door, solar panels charge by day and glow at night. Locals stroll here for sunset. Bring time, not a to‑do list.
Roman Forum and St. Donatus
Stones of the Roman Forum lie under open sky. The Church of St. Donatus rises beside them. The scene shows how old and layered Zadar is. Sit on the low walls. Watch daily life move around ancient ruins.
Land Gate and Five Wells Square
The Land Gate is a rich Venetian portal. It shows the city’s strategic past. Five Wells Square sits under the old bastions. It is a handy break between sights.
Museums and rainy‑day ideas
Duck into a museum if the bora blows. Choose archaeology, glass, or local art. Cafés line the lanes. Warm, short stops fit well with a city stroll.
Aim for golden hour on the waterfront. Then dine in the old town. Book a morning ferry for the next day.
Nature Grand Tour: Parks, Canyons, and Caves
Paklenica National Park
Paklenica lies on the south Velebit. Two canyons, Velika and Mala Paklenica, cut into limestone. Trails climb through forests to high huts and peaks. Climbers gather at the canyon mouth. The vibe is active and authentic.
Good to know. Surfaces are rocky. Bring sturdy footwear and water. Summer can be hot in the canyon. Early starts help. The coast base is Starigrad‑Paklenica.
Why go. You get mountain scenery fifteen minutes from the sea. Views sweep over islands. Nature and beach days pair well here.
Telašćica Nature Park (Dugi Otok)
Telašćica protects high cliffs, quiet coves, and Lake Mir. The lake is salty and warm in summer. Trails lead to lookouts over the open sea. The setting is wild yet reachable by road or boat.
Good to know. The park sits at the far end of Dugi Otok. Plan a full day. Bring sun cover. The cliff path is exposed.
Vransko Lake Nature Park
Vransko Lake is the largest natural lake in Croatia. Birdlife thrives in the reedbeds. The Kamenjak viewpoint (around 290–303 m a.s.l.) gives you a broad Adriatic panorama. Cyclists enjoy gentle tracks on the shore.
Good to know. Combine Vransko with a coastal swim in Pakoštane or Drage. Spring and autumn bring migratory birds.
Zrmanja and Krupa Rivers
Zrmanja runs clear and green through a deep canyon. Rafting is possible when water levels suit. In lower flows, kayaks or packrafts work well. On the Krupa, a stone footbridge called Kudin most crosses a series of pools. It is a romantic, rural scene.
Good to know. River levels change with seasons and rain. Check conditions locally. Wear good footwear. Protect phones and cameras.
Cerovac Caves and Modrič Cave
Cerovac Caves sit near Gračac. Boardwalks and guides keep visits safe. Stalactites and old bones tell a deep history. Modrič Cave near Rovanjska is a speleo experience. Groups go in small numbers with helmets and lamps.
Good to know. Dress for cooler cave temperatures. Book guided tours in advance when possible.
The Islands: Easy Hops and Slow Days
The Zadar Archipelago is varied. Some islands are quick hops for a beach day. Others are best for two or three slow nights. Ferries and catamarans run from Zadar. Car ferries also sail from the Gaženica port.
Dugi Otok
Dugi Otok means “Long Island.” The north shows a softer side. Sakarun Beach is the star, with white sand look and pines. Veli Rat Lighthouse stands nearby. The south is wilder. Telašćica brings cliffs and calm bays.
Getting there. Gaženica → Brbinj (~1h40, car ferry).
Best for. Families, swimmers, hikers, photographers.
Checklist. ✓ Park at Sakarun early ✓ Stock water/snacks ✓ Plan fuel stops ✓ Sun cover for Telašćica.
Ugljan and Pašman
Two islands sit closest to Zadar. Ugljan faces the city. Olive groves cover the hills. Pašman connects by bridge at Ždrelac. Sailboat masts over 16 m should avoid Ždrelac and route around the islands. Life runs slow here. Beaches are stony but clear. Villages feel lived‑in year‑round.
Getting there. Zadar → Preko (~25 min, frequent). Ugljan ↔ Pašman via Ždrelac Bridge.
Best for. Day‑trippers, cyclists, families, short sailing hops.
Checklist. ✓ Consider foot‑passenger catamarans ✓ Drivers use car ferry to Preko ✓ Bring water shoes for pebbly coves.
Silba, Olib, Molat, Iž, and Premuda
These islands are about calm. Silba is largely car‑free. Olib and Molat are small and low‑key. Iž mixes gardens, coves, and a creative spirit. Premuda is a tiny dive and sailing stop.
Getting there. Seasonal catamarans and ferries from Zadar (check shoulder‑season schedules).
Best for. Couples, slow travellers, readers.
Checklist. ✓ Book early in summer ✓ Bring cash for small shops ✓ Check sailing/boat luggage rules.
Vir
Vir connects to the mainland by bridge. Access is easy. Beaches ring the island. The scene is casual and family friendly.
Getting there. Mainland → Vir Bridge (no toll).
Best for. Drivers, families, quick swims.
Checklist. ✓ Explore multiple coves around the ring road ✓ Expect summer crowds near main strands.
Pag (Southern Half)
Pag is shared between two counties. The southern part belongs to Zadar County. Expect pale stone, long views, and dry winds. Pag lace is a point of pride. Paški sir, the island’s cheese, is famous across Croatia.
Getting there. Pag Bridge from the mainland.
Best for. Food lovers, curious shoppers, wide‑view beaches.
Checklist. ✓ Confirm which towns are in Zadar County (Pag, Kolan, Povljana) ✓ Expect wind exposure ✓ Allow extra driving time.
Note. Novalja and the party beaches sit in a neighboring county. Distances can be longer than expected.
Beaches: Sandy, Shallow, and Scenic
Queen’s Beach, Nin
This is the signature sandy strand of the county. The sea stays shallow for a long way. Families love the warm water in summer. The nearby saltworks give the place a special story.
Pros. Long, shallow, warm water.
Cons. Limited natural shade; summer crowds.
Shade/Parking. Bring an umbrella; large paid lots nearby.
Why it stands out. Space. Soft entries. Mountain views over the lagoon.
Zaton Holiday Resort
A classic family spot near Nin. Playgrounds, shade, and a gentle shore. The water is calm. Facilities are many. It is easy with kids.
Pros. Facilities, shade options, calm water.
Cons. Can feel resort‑like; busy in peak weeks.
Shade/Parking. Good on‑site facilities and organized parking.
Sakarun, Dugi Otok
Sakarun looks almost tropical on bright days. The bay is wide. Pines give shade. The seabed is pale. That creates the turquoise color.
Pros. Turquoise shallows, partial pine shade.
Cons. Popular; parking tight in peak season.
Shade/Parking. Partial natural shade; arrive early.
Good to know. The beach is popular. Arrive earlier in peak season. Pack water and snacks.
Kolovare, Zadar City
A city beach with Blue Flag status. Locals come for a quick swim. It is handy after sightseeing. Shade and steps make access simple.
Pros. Close to Old Town; facilities nearby.
Cons. Urban feel; can be crowded late afternoon.
Shade/Parking. Some shade; street/lot parking in surrounding area.
Do one sandy day and one pebbly day. You will feel the region’s range.
Sailing and Marinas
Zadar County suits both beginners and experienced crews. Channels are well‑sheltered by the islands, and winds are predictable most of the year. Distances between marinas are short, allowing comfortable day sails even for novice skippers.
Main Marinas
D‑Marin Dalmacija (Sukošan). One of the largest marinas on the Adriatic (around 1,200 sea berths). Full services, yacht charter fleets, technical support, restaurants, and a beach club. It is ideal as a starting base for multi‑day island trips.
Marina Kornati (Biograd). A popular regatta base with modern facilities and quick access to the central Dalmatian islands. It hosts annual sailing events and offers secure winter berthing.
ACI Marina Zadar. Close to the old town and convenient for sailors who want to combine sailing with urban stays. Cafés, repair workshops, and grocery stores are within walking distance.
Olive Island Marina (Ugljan). A quiet, boutique marina within the archipelago, known for its eco‑friendly design and family‑friendly setting. Ideal for a relaxed overnight before exploring Pašman or Iž.
Sailing Routes and Ideas
Zadar’s position makes it easy to plan short and scenic loops:
One‑day loops. Cruise around Ugljan, Pašman, and Iž for sheltered sailing, lunch stops in quiet coves, and easy returns before sunset.
Two‑day mini‑cruises. Head south to Telašćica Nature Park for a night on a mooring, waking to cliffs and saltwater Lake Mir. Return via the outer islets of Sestrunj and Rivanj.
Extended circuits. Combine Zadar County’s archipelago with nearby Kornati National Park and Murter for a weeklong charter blending open‑sea legs with protected channels.
Practical Tips for Sailors
Book berths in high season—July and August fill fast.
Check bridge clearance at Ždrelac (16 m) if sailing between Ugljan and Pašman.
Carry cash for small island moorings and konoba dinners.
Keep an eye on the bora forecast—sudden but short northeasterly bursts.
Waste disposal and fueling stations are best handled at Sukošan or Biograd.
Plan one easy sailing loop even if you’re not chartering—local skippers run day trips and sunset cruises from Zadar marinas, giving a perfect taste of the archipelago.
Food and Drink
Dalmatian seafood
Expect grilled fish, calamari, scampi, and octopus salad. Simpler places often do it best. Look for daily chalkboards.
Pag cheese and island products
Paški sir is hard, salty, and rich. It pairs well with local wine. Olive oils from the Ravni Kotari hinterland have a fresh bite. Figs and almonds show up in desserts.
Zadar maraschino tradition
Maraska liqueur is part of local culture. It comes from marasca cherries. You will see it in classic cocktails and desserts.
Markets and picnics
Pick up bread, tomatoes, cheese, and fruit. Then pick a headland at sunset. It is the easiest, most local dinner you can make.
Do one simple seafood meal and one picnic evening. Add a taste of Pag cheese. You will eat like a local without trying too hard.
Getting There and Around
Transport at a glance. Airport: ZAD (15–20 min to Old Town) • Motorway: A1 (Zadar 1/2) • Ferries: Zadar–Preko ~25 min; Zadar–Brbinj ~1h40 • Bridges: Pag, Vir, Ždrelac.
By Air
Zadar Airport (ZAD) sits close to town. Routes increase in summer. Budget carriers link many European cities. Car hire and transfers are on site.
By Road
The A1 motorway runs inland. Exits signed Zadar 1 and Zadar 2 lead to the coast. Driving is straightforward. Expect summer traffic near popular beaches.
By Ferry and Catamaran
Frequent ferries run between Zadar and Preko (Ugljan) — about 25 minutes each way. The car ferry to Dugi Otok (Zadar–Brbinj) takes about 1 hour 40 minutes and sails from Gaženica. Catamarans connect to smaller islands on seasonal timetables. Arrive early in peak months.
Bridges
Pag Island connects via the Pag Bridge. Vir links by the Vir Bridge. Ugljan and Pašman connect by the Ždrelac Bridge. These links make island day trips easy with a car.
Local tips
Fuel stations are fewer on small islands. Carry cash in tiny villages. Summer parking fills fast near headline beaches.
When to Visit
May–June and September–October give warm seas and lighter crowds. Spring brings wildflowers and clear air. Autumn is mellow and golden. July and August are hottest and busiest. Winter is quiet and can be windy. The bora brings bright skies after it passes.
If you can choose, aim for late May or late September. Book ferries and stays earlier for peak weeks.
Suggested Short Itineraries
3 Days: First‑Timer Mix
Day 1: Zadar Old Town. Sea Organ at sunset. Dinner on the Riva.
Day 2: Dugi Otok. Sakarun Beach and Veli Rat Lighthouse. Optional Telašćica lookout.
Day 3: Paklenica morning hike. Swim at Starigrad in the afternoon.
5 Days: Coast, Island, and River
Day 1: Zadar highlights and museum hour.
Day 2: Ugljan and Pašman by bike. Ferry back for dinner.
Day 3: Zrmanja rafting or Krupa footbridge walk.
Day 4: Vransko Lake birds and Kamenjak viewpoint. Swim in Pakoštane.
Day 5: Beach day at Nin. Sunset finale on the promenade.
7 Days: Slow Archipelago + Parks
Day 1–2: Zadar culture and food. Kolovare swim.
Day 3–4: Dugi Otok overnight. Sakarun, Telašćica, lighthouse.
Day 5: Return via island coves. Evening in Zadar.
Day 6: Paklenica full‑day hike.
Day 7: Vransko Lake cycle + coastal picnic.
Traveler Types: Where to Base Yourself
Families with Small Kids
Nin, Zaton, and Borik make the easiest bases for young families. The water is shallow, beaches are sandy, and most resorts have playgrounds, ice‑cream stalls, and shade. Zaton Holiday Resort offers organized activities, while Nin adds the bonus of therapeutic mud and open space. In Zadar’s Borik area, hotels and apartments stay close to calm swimming zones and family‑friendly restaurants.
Hikers and Climbers
Starigrad‑Paklenica is perfect for walkers and climbers. You wake up at the park gate, start trails early, and return for a sea swim in the afternoon. Mountain huts welcome overnighters, and the area’s small restaurants serve hearty meals. For lighter hikes, Vransko Lake’s paths or Krupa’s stone bridge trails give easy half‑day options.
Island Dreamers
Those seeking slower rhythms should base on Sali or Božava (Dugi Otok), Preko (Ugljan), or Tkon (Pašman). Expect quiet lanes, cafés by small harbors, and coves that you reach on foot. Local ferries make day trips simple, but evenings stay peaceful. A few days here balance city time with still mornings and starry skies.
Sailors
Sukošan, Biograd, and Zadar marinas are ready bases for crews. Distances between islands are short, anchorages are safe, and facilities top‑notch. Beginners can join day charters, while experienced skippers can loop to Telašćica or Kornati. Shoreside, sailors find fresh markets, service yards, and good dining in every port.
Food Lovers
Pag town blends food heritage with slow island life. Sample Paški sir cheese, local lamb, and lace workshops. Back on the mainland, Zadar offers seafood taverns, markets, and the maraschino tradition. Inland Ravni Kotari wine‑and‑olive routes reward those who explore beyond the coast.
Tip: Mix types if you stay longer. Combine two nights in Zadar with three in an island village or Starigrad for a fuller taste of the county.
Note on Kornati. Kornati National Park is administered by Šibenik‑Knin County; many boat tours depart from Zadar and Biograd. It is simple to join a day cruise if seas are calm.
Responsible and Safe Travel
Heat and sun. Drink often. Wear hats and reef‑safe sunscreen. Start hikes early.
Footwear. Trails and stone lanes can be slick. Good soles help.
Sea care. Watch for sea urchins on rocky shores. Water shoes are useful for kids.
Waste. Take litter back with you. Bins may be rare on outer islands.
Nature rules. Stay on marked paths in parks. Respect closures and seasonal wildlife zones.
Driving. Slow down on narrow island roads. Watch for cyclists and animals.
Practical Planning Notes
Cash and cards. Cards work in towns. Carry some cash for island bakeries and kiosks.
Language. English is widely spoken in tourism. A few Croatian words go a long way.
Shopping. Buy island honey, olive oil, and cheese. Pack them well for flights.
Connectivity. Mobile data is strong on the coast. Coverage can drop in deep canyons.
Parking. Use official lots in Zadar. In summer, arrive early for beach parking.
Fuel. Top up before island crossings. Small islands may have limited stations.
FAQs
Is Kornati National Park part of Zadar County?
No. Kornati belongs to a neighboring county. Many tours still depart from Zadar and Biograd. The sailing is straightforward when the forecast is calm.
Which island is best for a first visit?
Ugljan is the easiest. The ferry is quick and frequent. Dugi Otok is best for a full day or an overnight. Sakarun and Telašćica reward the extra effort.
Where are the best sandy beaches?
Queen’s Beach in Nin and Zaton’s long bay are the top sandy choices. Sakarun has a bright, shallow look but can be busy.
Is Zadar city good with kids?
Yes. The old town is compact and walkable. Kolovare Beach is close by. Ice cream shops dot every lane.
Can I hike in summer?
Yes, with care. Start at dawn. Carry water. Avoid exposed midday climbs. Use shade breaks.
Is swimming safe on rocky beaches?
Yes. Water is clear and clean. Wear water shoes to avoid sea urchins.
What is the best time to visit?
Late spring and early autumn balance warm seas and manageable crowds. Summer brings peak heat and energy. Winter is quiet and breezy.
Are there good marinas for a charter?
Yes. Sukošan, Biograd, Zadar, and Ugljan have solid options. You can stitch short hops between sheltered bays.
Can I drive to Pag and Vir?
Yes. Bridges connect both islands to the mainland. Ferries are not needed.
Is Zadar windy?
At times. The bora wind can arrive in bursts. It leaves clear skies behind. Pack a light layer even in summer.
Simple Trip Checklist
Choose a base: Zadar, Nin, Starigrad‑Paklenica, or an island village.
Lock in ferry times for island days.
Book a park day: Paklenica or Telašćica.
Add one sandy and one pebbly beach.
Plan one river or cave visit.
Reserve a marina night if sailing.
Ready to go? Pick your base and dates, then match one island day, one park day, and one city day. You will cover the best of Zadar County without stress.
Final Word
Zadar County rewards curious travellers. The city offers art and layers of history. The islands promise still mornings and clear coves. The parks deliver views that stretch from peaks to sea. With short distances and frequent ferries, you can shape a smooth, varied trip in a week or less. Keep your plans light. Let the weather guide your days. The region will do the rest.
Discover Zadar county: Cities, Villages, Posts & Nature
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