Hotels in Zadar

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Zadar, a city on Croatia's Dalmatian coast, offers a blend of ancient Roman architecture and modern art installations. The Sea Organ, a series of underwater pipes played by the waves, creates a melodic soundscape, while the Monument to the Sun captures solar energy to produce a light show after dusk. Its history stretches back to antiquity, evidenced by the Roman Forum and St. Donatus' Church, a pre-Romanesque structure from the 9th century.

Wander through its pedestrianised Old Town, enclosed by Venetian walls that are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city centre is compact, allowing easy exploration of its narrow alleys and squares. You'll find numerous cafes and eateries, alongside historical landmarks like the Land Gate and the Five Wells Square, making it a destination of varied interests.

When considering where to book your accommodation in Zadar, the Old Town, situated on its own peninsula, is typically the most popular choice due to its central location and historical significance.

For those preferring to be in the heart of the action, the Old Town offers a range of boutique hotels, guesthouses, and apartments within ancient buildings. Here, you're a short stroll from the Sea Organ, the Monument to the Sun, and the Roman Forum. The area is also home to numerous eateries, from traditional *konobas* to modern restaurants, and cultural spots like St. Donatus Church and the Archaeological Museum.

Just across the bridge from the Old Town, the Peninsula's immediate surroundings, such as the areas around Kolovare Beach, provide a different feel. This district often features larger hotels, some with private beach access, alongside various apartments. It's still very accessible to the historical centre but offers a more resort-like atmosphere, with facilities like swimming pools.

Further out, towards the eastern side of the city, districts like Borik are popular for family-friendly hotels and holiday resorts, often equipped with extensive amenities and closer to quieter beaches. While a short bus ride or taxi journey from the Old Town, these areas offer a more relaxed pace.

When booking your hotel, factor in Zadar's transport links. The city centre is well-connected by local buses. Zadar Airport (ZAD) is conveniently located about 12 km from the city, with shuttle buses and taxis readily available, making transfers straightforward regardless of whether your hotel is in the Old Town or a district further afield.

When planning your trip to Zadar, you can often find better value on accommodation outside the busiest times. The high season typically runs from July to August, coinciding with the main summer holidays and various music festivals held along the coast. During these months, prices for hotels and private rentals are at their highest, and places book up quickly.

To secure more affordable rates, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May, June, September, and early October. The weather is still pleasant for exploring, but crowds are thinner and prices begin to drop. The low season, from November to April, offers the best deals, though some establishments may have reduced opening hours. Bear in mind that during the Zadar Outdoor Festival in May or the KalelargArt street festival in July, accommodation might see a temporary spike in demand even in the shoulder season, so booking ahead is always a sensible approach.