On Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, the pretty town of Zadar offers travelers a varied and contrasting range of hotels: small modern establishments, large seaside resorts on the coast, and boutique-hotels in the historic center, a stone’s throw from the Organ of the Seas. We surveyed the city and its surroundings and selected the addresses that convinced us most.
In this article, you’ll find: our tips on the best areas to stay in Zadar, our list of the city’s best hotels and a few bonuses.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
The best hotels in Zadar: our 4 favorites
Before discovering our detailed reviews of each of the establishments we have selected, take a look at our 4 favorite addresses.
Best seafront hotel: Hotel Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera
On the private Punta Skala peninsula, the Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera resort faces the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy the private beach, pools and huge spa. We were seduced by the peace and quiet, the facilities and the quality of our overnight stay. A top-of-the-range seaside holiday just a few kilometers from Zadar.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best heritage hotel: Hôtel Bastion Heritage
Located just a few meters from the Arsenal in Zadar’s historic center, Hotel Bastion Heritage is a member of the Relais & Châteaux collection. Its handcrafted Art Deco furniture, parquet floors and personalized rooms create a chic, intimate atmosphere. We also loved its gourmet restaurant, Kaštel. A 4-star restaurant that has established itself as a benchmark in the old town.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best adults-only hotel: Hôtel Almayer Art & Heritage
Nestled in Zadar’s Old Town, Hotel Almayer Art & Heritage is an adults-only establishment that combines contemporary decor with an intimate atmosphere. Its restaurant, bar, garden and terrace provide a relaxing setting, ideal after a day’s sightseeing in the historic center.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best apartment-hotel in the old town: Hotel Borelli Palace – Borelli Blue
Housed in an 18th-century palace in the heart of the old town, Hotel Borelli Palace offers rooms and apartments. Handcrafted furnishings, rounded doors and stone walls create a pleasant setting. We were won over by this marriage of historic authenticity and contemporary comfort. Ideal for families or couples.
See photos, prices and availability.
Where to stay in Zadar: best districts + map
Why sleep in Zadar?
Zadar is one of the most attractive Dalmatian towns on the Croatian Adriatic coast. Its peninsular old town is encircled by listed Venetian ramparts. It is home to Roman remains, medieval churches and two unique sound and light installations: the Sea Organ, which transforms the energy of the waves into music, and the Salute to the Sun, a disc of solar panels that lights up at dusk. We found that Zadar lends itself equally well to a short cultural break or an extended seaside vacation. It’s also an excellent base for visiting the Dalmatian islands, Plitvice Park and Krka National Park.
Map of Zadar and its districts
Here’s our map to help you get your bearings, with the main areas to stay in Zadar:
1. Sleep in the historic center
Zadar’s old town stretches across a peninsula bounded by Venetian walls. Its cobbled streets, lively squares and seafront promenade make it the liveliest part of town. Everything is within walking distance. The Roman Forum, the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, the Place du Peuple and the two emblematic installations, the Orgue des Mers and the Salut au Soleil, are just a few minutes away. We particularly enjoyed our stay here.
Benefits:
- Walking distance to all monuments and restaurants
- Lively evening atmosphere, numerous terraces
- Ferries to the islands depart from the nearby port
Disadvantages:
- Very busy area in high season
- Difficult and costly parking in pedestrian lanes
- Higher hotel rates
Our favorite hotel: Bastion Heritage Hotel
2. Sleeping around Borik harbour and marina
The marina and marina area of Borik, a few kilometers northwest of the center, offers a more spacious and less dense setting than the old town. It’s a popular area for travelers who want to combine proximity to the sea with easy parking. Several high-end establishments have set up shop here, including the Hyatt Regency Zadar, which enjoys a direct seafront position, 200m from Maestrala beach. We found this area particularly suitable for car-hire travelers wishing to explore the surrounding region.
Benefits:
- Direct access to the sea and beaches
- Easier parking than in the old town
- Quieter setting
Disadvantages:
- Far from the historic center (car or bus recommended)
- Fewer restaurants and nightlife in the immediate vicinity
- Short boat trips to the islands
Our favorite hotel: Hyatt Regency Zadar Hotel
3. Sleeping on the coast
From Bibinje to Punta Skala, the coastline to the south and north of Zadar stretches along the beaches. The area is ideal for lounging and swimming. A seaside setting we’ve come to enjoy. The historic center of Zadar can be reached in 15 to 20 minutes by car.
Benefits:
- Quiet, unspoilt seaside setting
- Direct access to beaches and private beaches
- Self-sufficient hotel complexes (restaurants, spa, activities)
Disadvantages:
- Away from the historic center of Zadar (car essential)
- Few restaurants and shops
Our favorite hotel: Hotel Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera
Other useful tips to keep in mind
Zadar is a very popular summer destination: book your accommodation several months in advance if you’re planning a stay between June and September. Parking in the old town is almost non-existent. Ask your hotel about parking options before you arrive. Ferries to the Dalmatian islands (Ugljan, Dugi Otok, Kornati) leave directly from the port of Zadar, making it an ideal base from which to explore the archipelago. Finally, if you’d like to visit Krka National Park or the Plitvice Lakes, car rental remains the most flexible solution.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Croatia
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
See our tips (coming soon)
Best seaside hotels in Zadar
Zadar and the surrounding area offer a number of quality options for staying right on the seafront, from large resorts to more intimate addresses facing the Adriatic Sea.
The one we tested: Hotel Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera
Why stay there?
Located on the private Punta Skala peninsula, the Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera is a 5-star resort that we consider one of the most complete in the Dalmatian region. We liked the decor, a contemporary marine style with clean-lined furniture, blue and white accents, and architecture open to the Adriatic Sea. Our room was very comfortable, and the sea-facing bath was a real plus! Other highlights include the Acquapura wellness and spa area, two swimming pools and a private beach. So much to relax about! When it comes to dining, there’s a choice of five different addresses, from Dalmatian specialities to Mediterranean dishes, as well as a lounge bar, the Sotto Voce. We really enjoyed our stay in this upmarket seaside setting, where we didn’t need to leave the resort to enjoy our vacation.
Swimming pool and beach
- 4 pools in total: 2 indoor and 2 outdoor
- Indoor pools: overflow, with view, heated, saltwater, pool bar, sun loungers and parasols, open all year round, all ages welcome
- Outdoor pools: one with overflow, adults-only, with view, pool bar, sun loungers and parasols, open all year round
- Private beach directly accessible from the complex
- Pool and beach towels provided
- On-site water sports facilities (surcharge): canoeing, windsurfing, diving, snorkeling
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Punta Skala, northwest coast, 12km from Zadar
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes, 5 restaurants offering Dalmatian, Mediterranean and international cuisine; Sotto Voce bar/lounge with fireplace, cigar lounge and terrace
- Family rooms: yes, all ages welcome
- PMR rooms: yes
- Facilities: Acquapura spa (over 6,000 m²), sauna, steam room, whirlpool, massages (extra charge), body and facial treatments, hairdressing, pedicure/manicure; gym, personal trainer, fitness classes; bike rental; tennis court (extra charge); bowling (extra charge); billiards (extra charge); 24-hour reception; airport shuttle (extra charge); valet parking; electric vehicle charging station; free Wi-Fi, pets allowed on request.
- Parking: yes, private parking on site at €13 per day
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Our curation of other excellent seaside options
- Hotel Hyatt Regency Zadar – A modern 5-star hotel located 5min walk from Maestrala Beach, outdoor and indoor pool, full spa, restaurant and Adriatic Sea view. See prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Miramare Hotel – A 4-star hotel conveniently located 200m from Kolovare Beach, with outdoor pool, restaurant, terrace and free private parking. See prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Falkensteiner club Fumination Borik – A 4-star beachfront hotel with 2 pools and a giant slide, ideal for families . See prices, photos and availability
A LITTLE MORE patience
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Best boutique hotels in Zadar
Zadar is packed with characterful establishments, often housed in historic buildings in the center. Here’s a selection of our favorites.
One of those we tested: Hotel Almayer Art & Heritage
Why stay there?
Nestled in Zadar’s old town, the Hotel Almayer Art & Heritage Adults Only is an adults-only establishment. We found the decoration of the rooms modern and pleasant, with a nice view over the city. In terms of facilities, the on-site restaurant and bar offer quality dining in a beautiful setting. We appreciated the diversity of the breakfast, which can even be taken away. The hotel is close to the Eglise Saint-Donat and the Orgue des Mers. Would you like to combine cultural visits with relaxation in a quiet environment? Hotel Almayer is a first-rate option.
Swimming pool and beach
- No swimming pool on site
- Terrace and garden
- Nearest beach: Plage de Kolovaré (approx. 1.3km), Plage Maestrala (approx. 1.3km)
Practical information
- District: Zadar old town, Ulica Brace Bersa
- Price range: adults-only boutique establishment
- Restaurant: yes, on-site restaurant and bar, snack bar, superb breakfast (continental, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, takeaway); room service
- Family rooms: no, adults only
- Facilities: garden, terrace, temporary art galleries; massages (surcharge: body, cranial, couple, back, neck, hand); bike rental (surcharge); bike tours, walking tours, local culture tours or courses (surcharge); 24-hour reception; free Wi-Fi; airport shuttle (surcharge); daily maid service; soundproofed rooms.
- Parking: yes, private parking on site (by reservation only) at €15 per day; valet parking.
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
One of those we tested: Hotel Borelli Palace
Why stay there?
Borelli Palace & Borelli Blue occupies a former 18th-century palace with exposed stonework. Careful restoration has preserved the original features: oak staircases, rounded doors, original wells in the inner courtyard, combined with attractive furnishings. We were won over by this blend of historic authenticity and contemporary comfort. The establishment offers accommodation in rooms or apartments, some of which are on two levels, with a sitting area and fully-equipped kitchenette. We found the ideal location. 200m from the Roman Forum, 150m from Place du Peuple and 100m from the promenade.
Swimming pool and beach
- No swimming pool on site
- Nearest beaches: Kolovaré Beach (approx. 1.1km), Maestrala Beach (approx. 1.3km), Karma Beach (approx. 1.6km)
Practical information
- District: Zadar Old Town, Ulica Plemića Borelli
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: no on-site restaurant; many options in the immediate vicinity
- Family rooms: yes, 2-bedroom apartments available (up to several large double beds and sofa bed)
- Facilities: full apartments (25 to 44 m²), some duplex, fully equipped kitchenette, lounge area, patio, terrace, outdoor dining area, outdoor furniture; flat-screen TV with cable and satellite, minibar, coffee machine, safe; free Wi-Fi connection; soundproofing; shuttle service (extra charge); luggage storage.
- Parking: nearby public parking lot (non-reservable) at around €10 per day; no private parking on site
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Our curation of other excellent boutique-hotel options
- Hotel Delfin – A Mediterranean-style hotel in Diklo, facing the sea with terrace, panoramic view of the islands and whirlpool bath. See prices, photos and availability
- Hôtel Niko – A family-run establishment on the seafront, in front of a pebble beach and restaurant. See prices, photos and availability
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Best central hotels in Zadar
If you want to do it all on foot in the old town, this selection brings together the best-located addresses in the historic center.
The one we tested: Hôtel Bastion Heritage
Why stay there?
The Bastion Heritage Hotel is located right in the heart of Zadar’s old town. We spent a pleasant night in this 4-star establishment, a member of the Relais & Châteaux collection. Our room was beautifully decorated and had a sea view. You can also enjoy the Castello spa, with sauna, whirlpool and a full range of massages and thermal treatments. On the food and beverage front, we tried out the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, Le Kaštel, serving Mediterranean cuisine, as well as the Kristal bar, which serves great cocktails. Last but not least, we particularly appreciated the attentiveness and friendliness of the staff. If you’re looking for a boutique hotel that combines history, gastronomy and well-being in the center of Zadar, we recommend the Hotel Bastion Heritage without hesitation.
Swimming pool and beach
- No swimming pool on site
- Spa, whirlpool
- Terrace and garden
- Nearest beach: Kolovaré beach (approx. 1.1km), Maestrala beach (approx. 1.3km)
Practical information
- Neighborhood: historic center of Zadar, Bedemi Zadarskih Pobuna, right next to the Arsenal
- Price range: 4 stars, Relais & Châteaux collection
- Restaurant: yes, gourmet restaurant Kaštel (Mediterranean cuisine, garden terrace); bar Kristal (cocktails, tea, coffee); superb buffet breakfast; room service; packed lunches
- Family rooms: yes; baby cot on request
- PMR rooms: no
- Amenities: Castello spa (sauna surcharge, whirlpool surcharge, foot bath, spa treatments, massage surcharge); air conditioning; minibar; kettle; bathrobe; slippers; complimentary toiletries; safe; 24-hour reception; daily maid service; wake-up service; business center.
- Parking: yes, private parking on site (without prior reservation) at €15 per day
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Our curation of other excellent options in the center
- Hotel Art Hotel Kalelarga – A boutique hotel located on the main Kalelarga promenade, in the heart of the listed Venetian walls, with rooms decorated in beige tones and stone details; on-site restaurant. See prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Teatro Verdi Boutique Hotel – A boutique hotel in the city center, close to museums and monuments, with a terrace overlooking the garden. See prices, photos and availability
Best budget hotels in Zadar
Zadar is very touristy, but offers a wide variety of prices and services.
The one we also tested: Maison d’hôtes Riva Palace
Why stay there?
Housed in a building in the heart of Zadar’s old town, the Riva Palace guest house is an accommodation we found very appealing. You’ll appreciate the comfort of the rooms, decorated in a contemporary style with a historic touch thanks to the stone walls. The bedding is particularly comfortable. We also liked the view over the rooftops of the historic center when we woke up in the morning. Other rooms overlook the waterfront. We highly recommend this downtown address, an ideal starting point for exploring Zadar and great value for money.
Swimming pool and beach
- No swimming pool on site
- Nearest beach: Plage de Kolovaré (approx. 1.3km), Plage Maestrala (approx. 1.3km)
Practical information
- District: Zadar Old Town, Ulica Mihovila Pavlinovića
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: no restaurant on site; breakfast not served on site; many options in the immediate vicinity
- Family rooms: no
- PRM rooms: no, but lift to access floors
- Facilities: air-conditioning, coffee machine with pods, minibar, safe, flat-screen TV, soundproofing, elevator, express check-in/check-out, luggage storage; free Wi-Fi connection
- Parking: no on-site parking
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
Our curation of other excellent options
- Hotel A’mare: modern design hotel near the port, See prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Mediteran: swimming pool, restaurant, gym, See prices, photos and availability
Other types of accommodation in Zadar
You can also find
- B&Bs
- apartments for rent
- guest houses
- and youth hostels
See the top-rated accommodations in Zadar.
