Where to Stay in Zadar, Croatia: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

Planning a trip to Zadar and not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place.

Zadar is one of Croatia’s most underrated coastal cities. It’s beautiful and historic, and while it’s not exactly unknown to tourists, it’s nowhere near as crowded as popular spots like Dubrovnik and Split! 

We also like Zadar because it’s compact and easy to explore, so choosing a place to stay is more straightforward here than in bigger cities. With that said, each area still has its own perks, and it’s important to choose with confidence, so we’ve broken down the best areas to stay in Zadar, plus hotel picks for every budget.

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Zadar

Zadar is a pretty compact city, which makes getting around nice and easy. If you stay in the Old Town or New Town, you can do most of your exploring on foot, so we think that both of these areas are a great choice. Old Town would be our top pick, as this is where the most famous spots are, including the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun, as well as lots of bars, restaurants, and ferries.

If you’re based in Arbanasi and Kolovare, you can still reach most main sights on foot without too much hassle, as long as you don’t mind a bit of extra walking. We think that this area is perfect for younger travelers on a budget! 

Meanwhile, Borik is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a beach or resort-style stay, especially with kids, although you’ll need to travel into the Old Town for sightseeing, and you can use either a rental car or ride-hailing apps for this, as Uber and Bolt both operate in Zadar.

• Old Town – Best for first-time visitors – This is the most atmospheric and convenient part of Zadar, with the city’s top sights and waterfront all within walking distance. Bastion Heritage Hotel is a gorgeous historic stay with a boutique feel and an unbeatable location.

• Borik – Best for families & resort stays – Borik is the best area if you want beachfront resorts! Hotel Mediteran is a great mid-range pick with a pool, friendly service, a top-rated breakfast, and easy access to the beach.

• New Town – Best for budget & convenience – New Town is a practical base just outside the historic center, with better prices and easier parking than the Old Town. Hotel A’mare is a modern stay in a convenient location, and we think it offers great value for money.

• Arbanasi & Kolovare – Best for local atmosphere & beaches – This area sits just south of the Old Town, and it also offers beach access, but with a more residential feel. Miramare Hotel is a stylish option close to Kolovare Beach and still within easy reach of the historic center.

Where to Stay in Zadar

Old Town Zadar 

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

• Best location for sightseeing, restaurants, and waterfront walks
• Walking distance to the Sea Organ, Greeting to the Sun, and the Roman Forum
• Home to a ferry port 

Cons

• Parking can be difficult if you have a rental car
• Can feel busy and touristy in high season

Zadar’s Old Town is where the vast majority of visitors stay in Zadar, and it’s our favorite area, too! It’s the historic heart of the city, and it’s set on a small peninsula surrounded by the sea, so it’s a very scenic place to base yourself.

This is where we stayed, and we loved how easy it was to walk everywhere! All of the main attractions are pretty close together, with the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun sitting right along the waterfront. The Roman Forum, St. Donatus Church, and the Cathedral of St. Anastasia are also nearby, and we loved checking out all of the cute cafes and wine bars tucked into the narrow streets.

Staying in the Old Town makes exploring Zadar really easy, so we think it’s the ideal place to stay if you’re only here for a few nights. We really appreciated being able to pop back to our hotel between sightseeing and enjoying the atmosphere of the waterfront in the evening without having to worry about transport.

The main downside here is the lack of parking! Most of the hotels don’t have any parking available, and there’s not much in the way of street parking, which is a bit tricky if you have a rental car. However, we didn’t actually need a car at all when we stayed here!

Bastion Heritage Hotel – $$$

Bastion Heritage Hotel is a gorgeous upscale stay right in Zadar’s Old Town, and it’s perfect if you want somewhere with proper history and character. The hotel is built on the remains of a 13th-century Venetian fortress, so you really feel that sense of place as soon as you arrive!

The location is fantastic, with the Sea Organ, Greeting to the Sun, Roman Forum, and waterfront all within easy walking distance. There’s also a lovely spa on site and the Kaštel restaurant, which serves Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting. We think this is a brilliant choice if you want a polished boutique hotel that feels very connected to Zadar’s history. Rooms here usually start at around €300 per night during peak season.

If Bastion Heritage Hotel is fully booked, Almayer Art & Heritage Adults Only Hotel and Dépendance rooms is another beautiful option right nearby. It has a romantic boutique feel and even boasts its own art gallery, so it’s a very cultured stay! 

Unique Integrated Hotel is another great Old Town alternative, set close to the waterfront and the Roman Forum. It’s stylish, and although it’s compact, the clever design makes great use of the space, so it’s the perfect base for a quick city break.

Central Apartments Integrated Hotel – $$

Central Apartments Integrated Hotel is a great choice if you want the convenience of the Old Town with a bit more space than a standard hotel room. It’s set right in the historic center, just a short walk from the sea, so you’ll be perfectly placed for sightseeing, restaurants, and sunset strolls along the waterfront.

The setup here is modern and practical, with individually located apartments and rooms that let you feel a little more independent during your stay. We like this option if you want something central but not too formal, especially if you’re staying for a few nights and want more flexibility. It’s also a good pick if you prefer apartment-style accommodation but still want that hotel-style support.

Rooms here usually start at around €225 per night.

For a similar central location, Apartments & Rooms Mareta Exclusive is close to the Roman Forum and the waterfront. It offers stylish, modern rooms, and some units feature huge standalone bathtubs and plant walls.

Idassa Palace rooms are also worth checking out, with a historic Old Town setting and simple, comfortable rooms for a slightly lower price point. I also like the exposed stone walls and soft lighting, because they add a really cozy feel.

Downtown Boutique Hostel – $

Downtown Boutique Hostel is a fantastic budget-friendly option if you want to stay right in the heart of the Old Town without spending too much. The location is amazing, with St. Donatus Church, the Roman Forum, the Sea Organ, and Greeting to the Sun all within easy walking distance.

This isn’t your basic backpacker hostel either. It has a modern boutique feel, with dorms, private rooms, a garden, shared lounge, restaurant, and bar. It’s a fun and social place to stay, and the perfect home base in Zadar if you’re looking to keep costs down while staying close to all of the action. Dorm beds usually start at around €45 per night, while private rooms cost more.

If Downtown Boutique Hostel isn’t your thing, Boutique Hostel Forum is another brilliant budget option right in the Old Town, close to the Roman Forum and waterfront. In fact, a lot of the rooms offer views of the water and/or Zadar’s ancient sites.

Scallop Regent Rooms is also a good alternative if you want a budget stay that’s not a hostel. It’s simple but comfortable and very well-rated, in the heart of the Old Town and just a 15-minute walk from Kolovare Beach.

Borik

BEST FOR FAMILIES & RESORT STAYS

Pros

• Best area in Zadar for beachfront hotels and resort-style stays
• Great choice for families who want easy beach access and more space

Cons

• Less historic charm than the Old Town
• You’ll need to travel into the center for most sightseeing

Borik is the best area to stay in Zadar if your priority is beach time! It’s located northwest of the Old Town and has the city’s biggest concentration of beachfront hotels and resorts. It’s very popular with families thanks to its relaxed vibe and abundance of casual restaurants. If you’re visiting Zadar with kids, we think this is the perfect place to stay.

This is the area to choose if you’re planning to spend your days swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the coast. It’s also a good option if you have a rental car, as parking is usually much easier here than in the Old Town. You can still head into the historic center for sightseeing, dinner, or sunset at the Sea Organ, but you’ll have a quieter and more spacious base to return to afterward.

The trade-off is that Borik doesn’t have the same atmosphere or charm as the Old Town. But if you want beaches, resorts, and a more relaxed holiday feel, it’s a great choice. It’s also a nice option if you’ve visited Zadar before and ticked off the highlights, and are seeking a more scenic and relaxing vibe this time around. 

Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik – $$$

Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik is a fantastic choice if you want a proper resort-style stay in Zadar. It’s set right by the beach in Borik, so you’ve got easy access to the water, plus plenty of family-friendly facilities on site.

This is a great option if you want your hotel to feel like part of the holiday rather than just somewhere to sleep. There’s a huge wellness area, indoor and outdoor pools, restaurants, kids’ facilities, and lots of activities. It’s not the most peaceful or boutique-style stay, but it’s ideal for a family vacation. Rooms here usually start at around €220 per night.

If Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik is unavailable, Hotel Niko is another lovely option nearby, close to the beach and a short drive from the Old Town. It has a more intimate, family-run feel, with comfortable rooms and a fantastic restaurant serving delicious seafood and Mediterranean dishes.

Hotel Delfin is a smaller hotel along the waterfront, with a more modern, minimalist design and lovely sea views. It also boasts a pretty restaurant terrace and a quieter atmosphere than the bigger resorts, and guests enjoy unlimited spa access – what’s not to love?

Hotel Mediteran – $$ 

Hotel Mediteran is a great mid-range option in Borik, especially if you want something friendly, comfortable, and good value. It’s located a short walk from the beach, so you can easily spend your days swimming and relaxing by the coast.

The hotel has a lovely, welcoming feel, with clean rooms, a pool, and a restaurant on site. It’s not a big flashy resort, but that’s actually part of the appeal. We think it’s perfect if you want a relaxed stay with easy beach access, helpful staff, and lower prices than some of the larger hotels nearby. Rooms here usually start at around €190 per night.

If you can’t get in at Hotel Mediteran, Villa Valentina is another solid option close to the beach. It has a local, family-run feel, and it’s more akin to a cozy B&B rather than a chain hotel.

B&B Demar Residence & Dependance is also worth checking out if you want something more modern and stylish. It has bright rooms and a good-sized pool, not to mention amazing reviews! 

Hotel Marinko – $ 

Hotel Marinko is a good budget-friendly pick if you want to stay in Borik without spending too much. It’s set in a quieter residential part of the area, but you’re still within walking distance of the beach, which is the main reason to stay here.

The hotel is simple and a little old-school, but it’s clean and comfortable, so it’s a good choice for a practical stay. The rooms feel a bit more contemporary than the rest of the property, too. If you’re planning to be out and about exploring the city for most of the time anyway, a place like this is the perfect base.

There’s also a restaurant on site, and there’s a parking lot with security, which is a big bonus if you’ve got a rental car! Rooms here usually start at around €90 per night.

If Hotel Marinko isn’t available, Villa Ivana is another great budget-friendly option in Borik, close to the beach and local restaurants. It offers both rooms and more apartment-style units, so it’s handy if you want extra space or a simple self-catering setup.

Avalena Residence is another good alternative if you want to stay in a modern apartment in the area. It’s a practical choice for families or longer stays, with more room to spread out than a standard hotel.

Related Read: Wondering how to fill your days once you’ve checked in? Follow our detailed 2-day Zadar itinerary packed with island adventures, local food, and unforgettable sunsets.

New Town 

BEST FOR FAMILIES & RESORT STAYS

Pros

• Better value than staying inside the Old Town
• Convenient location for walking into the historic center and joining day trips

Cons

• Less atmospheric than the Old Town
• Not as beach-focused as Borik or Kolovare

New Town is a really practical place to stay in Zadar if you want to be close to the Old Town without paying Old Town prices. It sits just east of the historic center, so you’re still within walking distance of Zadar’s main sights, but you’ll usually get better value and a bit more breathing room here.

This is the modern city center, so it doesn’t have the same postcard charm as the Old Town. You won’t be stepping straight out into Roman ruins and narrow stone streets, but you will have easier access to shops, restaurants, parking, and transport links. That makes it a great choice if you’re planning lots of day trips!

New Town is more affordable than the Old Town, but it’s still convenient. Plus, you can walk into the Old Town in about 15 minutes, so you can still spend plenty of time exploring the historic center without paying premium hotel prices. It’s our top pick for budget travelers, and those who are mostly using Zadar as a gateway for day trips around the islands and national parks.

Hyatt Regency Zadar – $$$

Hyatt Regency Zadar is a great choice if you want a more upscale stay outside the Old Town. It gives you that polished hotel experience while still keeping you close enough to walk or take a short taxi into the historic center.

The hotel has a modern, high-end feel, with spacious rooms and stylish interiors. We think it’s a good pick if you want comfort and luxury without dealing with the tighter streets and parking headaches of the Old Town. It’s especially handy if you’re planning day trips or renting a car, as staying in New Town generally makes logistics a lot easier. Rooms here usually start at around €200 per night.

Hotel Sky is another good option in New Town with easy access to the center by car or taxi. It’s plush and comfortable but nothing over the top, and it offers free parking, so it’s great for those renting a vehicle in Zadar.

Hotel A’mare – $$

Hotel A’mare is a sleek and modern hotel, and we love how fresh and contemporary it feels. It boasts a fantastic al fresco dining area where you can enjoy summer evenings in Zadar, and the breakfast is amazing! In fact, you can even opt to include both breakfast and dinner if you like, for extra convenience. 

The hotel is also just a 15-minute walk from Maestrala Beach, and there’s a bar on-site where you can regularly enjoy live music. There are both rooms and full apartments available, which is ideal for groups and families. Rooms here start at around €160 per night.

For a similar boutique feel, VELVET rooms & more is another stylish option nearby. It has a very on-trend, boutique feel, with sleek neutral and grey decor, and hot tubs in the rooms. 

Vila Siega – $

Vila Siega offers simple but homely studios at great prices. It’s low-key, but it has everything you need, including well-equipped kitchenettes that give you the option to self-cater some of your meals, and some units offer sea views. The property is also just a 12-minute walk from the Old Town, so you’re not far at all from Zadar’s top attractions and restaurants!  

We also like that each unit has its own washing machine. It’s a blessing when you’re trying to travel light! The hosts are super friendly too, and can help you out with anything you need. Studios here usually start at around €100 per night.

If Vila Siega is sold out, Rooms Marko Polo is another budget-friendly option in a convenient location just outside the Old Town. It offers simple rooms and a friendly, local feel, as well as very competitive rates. 

Olea Deluxe Rooms is a bit more polished while still keeping things fairly affordable. It’s decorated in an airy, minimalist style with comfy beds, coffee machines, and free on-site parking – what more could you want?

Related Read: Not sure what to bring? Read our Croatia packing guide for practical tips and the must-have items we never travel without.

Arbanasi & Kolovare

BEST FOR LOCAL ATMOSPHERE & BEACH ACCESS

Pros

• Close to Kolovare Beach and the waterfront
• More local, residential feel than the Old Town

Cons

• Fewer hotels and restaurants than the Old Town
• Slightly less convenient for sightseeing

Arbanasi and Kolovare sit just south of Zadar’s Old Town, and we think this area is a great choice if you want a more local base without being too far from the main sights. It’s more residential than touristy, so it feels calmer, but you can still reach the historic center on foot or with a quick bus or taxi ride. You can also walk a lot of the way along the waterfront, so it’s also a scenic walk into town! 

The biggest draw here is Kolovare Beach, which is one of Zadar’s best-known city beaches. It’s easy to spend a few hours here swimming and sunbathing. We think it’s great if you want to mix beach time with sightseeing, because staying all the way out in Borik does limit the latter somewhat. 

This area works well if you like the idea of being close to the sea, but don’t necessarily want a full resort-style stay. Accommodation prices can also be lower than in the Old Town, which is always a bonus!

You won’t have quite as many restaurants, bars, or historic landmarks right on your doorstep, which can be a drawback for some, but it’s perfect if you want a quieter base. In short, Arbanasi and Kolovare are great if you don’t like staying in the main tourist hub of a city, but don’t want to be too far from the action.

Miramare Hotel – $$$

Miramare Hotel is a lovely, sophisticated option close to Kolovare Beach without being too far from the Old Town. It’s in a quieter part of Zadar, and it definitely feels more refined than your typical beach stay here. Some of the rooms offer sea views, and although the pool isn’t huge, it’s sleek and well-maintained.

The hotel is also less than 10 minutes’ walk from Zadar bus station, and a 15-minute walk from the historic center. It offers a flexible cancellation policy, and breakfast is included, so we think there’s a lot to love. Rooms here usually start at around €250 per night.

If Miramare Hotel is sold out for your dates, Hotel Kolovare is another good option nearby, set close to Kolovare Beach and a short walk from the Old Town. It’s a more resort-style property, with two pools, beachfront access, and an included breakfast buffet.

Guesthouse Villa Maggie – $$

Guesthouse Villa Maggie is the perfect choice if you want a friendly and comfortable hotel that won’t break the bank. It’s set in the Kolovare area, so you’ll be close to the beach while still being able to reach the Old Town without too much effort.

The guesthouse has a homey feel, so it’s a great option if you prefer smaller stays over big hotels. The location makes it easy to balance beach time with sightseeing, and we think it’s a lovely option if you want a quieter base that still keeps you close to everything you’ll want to do in Zadar. Rooms here usually start at around €150 per night.

If Guesthouse Villa Maggie is booked up, Apartments & Rooms Lavandula Exclusive is another strong option nearby. It offers modern rooms and apartments close to Kolovare Beach, so it’s handy if you want a bit more independence during your stay.

Apartments & Rooms Kolovare Beach – $ 

Apartments & Rooms Kolovare Beach is a budget-friendly option set close to – you guessed it – Kolovare Beach. You can easily walk down to sunbathe or take a sunset stroll by the water. It’s also super close to Bazen Kolovare, a pretty man-made saltwater pool that’s perfect for swimming.

The accommodation itself is decorated in a casual, homey style. It’s a nice place to rest and relax when you’re not out exploring. The rooms are soundproofed to ensure you can get a good night’s rest, and it’s just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town gate. All in all, we think it’s a real gem in this area! Rooms here usually start at around €120 per night.

Just a short distance away, Sky Hostel is another budget-friendly option in the wider area. It’s a social and welcoming hostel, with practical, modern 4-bed dorms and a shared kitchen.

Related Read: Heading to Croatia during the warmer months? Don’t miss our complete guide on what to pack for Europe in summer.

Top Activities to do in Zadar

Now that you’ve found your hotel and figured out the best area to stay in Zadar, it’s time to start planning your trip. Whether you’re interested in history, island adventures, or getting out into Croatia’s incredible nature, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Here are some of our favorite tours in Zadar:

• Discover Zadar’s fascinating past – This small-group walking tour is the perfect introduction to the city. You’ll visit highlights like the Roman Forum, Sea Organ, Greeting to the Sun, and Land Gate while learning about Zadar’s history from a knowledgeable local guide. There’s even a tasting of the city’s famous Maraschino liqueur along the way!

• Escape to Plitvice Lakes National Park – Croatia’s most famous national park is easy to visit on this guided day trip from Zadar. You’ll spend hours exploring waterfalls, lakes, and scenic boardwalks before enjoying a relaxing boat ride and train journey through the park. An optional Old Town walking tour back in Zadar is included, too.

• Go island hopping by speedboat – With crystal-clear water, swimming stops, and charming island villages, this small-group speedboat tour is one of the most fun ways to experience the Adriatic. Highlights include Blue Bay Otrić, Croatia’s smallest inhabited island, and plenty of time to relax in the seaside town of Preko.

• See the city by eco-friendly tuk-tuk – Cover more ground while still enjoying a personal experience on this private tuk-tuk tour of Zadar. You’ll visit famous sights like the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun, discover hidden corners of the city, and enjoy local stories and insights from your guide along the way.

• Kayak to caves, cliffs, and shipwrecks – Adventure lovers won’t want to miss this private kayaking tour around Dugi Otok. You’ll paddle along dramatic coastlines, snorkel inside sea caves, explore a shipwreck, try cliff jumping, and finish the day at the stunning white-sand shores of Sakarun Beach.

Related Read: Planning a bigger Croatia itinerary? Don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Croatia, packed with can’t-miss destinations and experiences.

Thanks for reading!

Zadar may not get as much attention as some of Croatia’s bigger coastal cities, but that’s part of what makes it so special. Between the historic Old Town, beautiful waterfront sunsets, nearby islands, and easy access to places like Plitvice Lakes, there’s a lot to love here. Whether you’re planning a quick city break or using Zadar as a base to explore more of the Dalmatian Coast, choosing the right area to stay will make your trip that much better.

Before you head off, be sure to check out our other Europe travel guides for more tips, itineraries, and destination inspiration. We’ve also linked some of our favorite articles below to help you plan your next adventure. Happy travels!

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