Are you thinking of visiting Zadar for your next vacation?
It’s a great idea: this city on the Dalmatian coast charmed us with its Roman heritage, unique contemporary attractions, and authentic atmosphere.
Before you go, here are all the details to answer your question: Is Zadar a safe city?
Check out all our practical tips for a worry-free trip.
Is Zadar a safe city? Quick answer
Yes, Zadar is one of the safest destinations on the Croatian coast. Violent crime is virtually nonexistent there, and the city is less crowded than Split or Dubrovnik, which further limits the inconveniences associated with large crowds. We’ve always felt comfortable there, day and night, even in the quietest alleys of the old town. The few things to watch out for mainly involve some classic tourist scams, the summer heat, potentially slippery cobblestones near the waterfront, and sailing conditions for boat tours. We believe Zadar is perfectly suited for solo travelers, families, and couples with no prior experience in the region. There’s plenty to do there! Check out our article on the best things to do in the city here.
Zadar is a city in Croatia where Croatian laws and European regulations apply, as the country has been a member of the European Union since 2013 and of the Schengen Area since 2023.
WHERE TO STAY IN Zadar
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Historical center
Bastion Heritage Hotel – Check photos and availability
Marina de Borik
Hyatt Regency Zadar Hotel – Check photos and availability
On the coast
Hotel Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera – Check photos and availability
Possible petty thefts in crowded places
As in any tourist city, petty pickpocketing can still occur in the busiest areas, particularly around the Organ of the Sea at sunset or while boarding ferries. However, this is a rare occurrence in Zadar—far less common than in cities like Split or Zagreb. A simple common-sense precaution, such as keeping your bag closed in a crowd, is all it takes.
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)
Tourist scams
Zadar has a few of the typical scams found in tourist destinations, rather than any real safety risks. Taxis that refuse to turn on the meter are among the most common issues, as are some waterfront restaurants that may charge above-average prices. One point deserves special mention: some nightspots—sometimes presented as simple bars by very friendly touts—may present exorbitant bills at the end of the night. We advise you to be cautious if you’re invited too insistently to follow someone to an unfamiliar establishment.
Advice:
- Make sure the meter is running before getting into a taxi, or agree on a price in advance
- Check the menu and prices before sitting down at a tourist restaurant
- Be cautious if someone persistently invites you to a bar or club in the evening
- Book your tours with reputable tour operators
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in Croatia a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
Safety at Sea and on the Beaches
Most of Zadar’s beaches consist of pebbles or concrete slabs rather than sand, which requires a few extra precautions when entering the water. The piers and rocks around the Sea Organ become slippery when wet, especially after it rains. We like to wear water shoes when swimming at rocky beaches. We also check the marine weather conditions before a trip to the islands, as the sea can get rough quickly in the Adriatic.
Advice:
- Bring water shoes for pebble beaches or rocky areas
- Check the marine weather forecast before a boat trip
Dangers of sun and heat
Zadar has hot, dry summers, with little shade at the Roman Forum and along the Riva promenade. The white stones of the old town strongly reflect the light, which intensifies the feeling of heat in the middle of the day. We always bring a bottle of water and prefer to do outdoor sightseeing in the morning, before the heat sets in.
Advice:
- Visit the Roman Forum and the cathedral early in the morning or in the late afternoon
- Take a break in the shade at one of the city’s parks if it gets too hot
Safety for women travelers
Zadar is a safe destination for women traveling alone. Street harassment is rare there, and the Riva, the Old Town, and the main beaches remain bustling until late at night. We walked alone along the waterfront after sunset without feeling particularly uncomfortable. We do, however, recommend taking the usual precautions in the evening at bars and clubs, especially keeping an eye on your drink.
Traffic and Driving Around Zadar
Driving to Zadar and the surrounding area is generally straightforward, but some secondary coastal roads remain narrow, winding, and sometimes lack guardrails. We exercise extra caution on these stretches, especially in rainy weather when the road surface can become slippery. The old town is entirely pedestrian-only, which makes exploring it easier once you’ve parked your car in one of the paid parking lots on the outskirts. We also stick to main roads and marked trails when traveling through the countryside.
Advice:
- Park in a paid parking lot on the outskirts of the Old Town, which is entirely pedestrian-only
- Rent a car from a reliable partner
Is the water safe to drink in Zadar?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink throughout Zadar and meets European standards. You can also drink it from the public fountains in the Old Town.
Emergency Numbers in Zadar
Keep this number handy during your stay:
- European emergency number: 112
Zadar has a well-equipped general hospital capable of handling most common emergencies. We recommend purchasing travel insurance before departure, as medical care may be billed directly to visitors who are not covered by the European Health Insurance Card.
It’s time to book!
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Neighborhood safety
There are no neighborhoods in Zadar that are truly dangerous for visitors. However, here are some useful details to keep in mind depending on the area.
Are the Old Town and the Riva safe?
The Old Town and the Riva promenade form the tourist heart of Zadar and remain safe areas at all hours. The narrow streets are lined with restaurants, shops, and monuments, ensuring a constant presence of visitors and locals. We particularly enjoy this neighborhood in the late afternoon, when the terraces along the Riva fill up before sunset. We still keep a close eye on our belongings in the busiest areas, where petty theft can occur, just as it does anywhere else.
Are Kolovare and Borik Beaches safe?
The beach neighborhoods of Kolovare and Borik, located near the city center, are quiet and safe residential areas, popular for their family-friendly accommodations. The beaches there are patrolled during the high season and well-equipped with showers and equipment rentals.
Is Diklo safe?
Diklo, located further north of the city, retains a more authentic and less crowded atmosphere. The neighborhood is still safe, but the streets are less lively in the evening.
