Where to Stay in Zadar 2026: Old Town, Borik, Kolovare & Diklo
Zadarβs accommodation spreads across the Old Town peninsula, the seafront promenade areas (Kolovare, Diklo), and the green Borik peninsula for families. Prices are more affordable than Split and significantly cheaper than Dubrovnik. All prices in euros (β¬). For individual hotel reviews by category, see our best hotels in Zadar guide.
Old Town - best for first-timers and walkability
Staying inside or immediately beside the walled peninsula puts you steps from the Sea Organ, Roman Forum, and all Old Town sights. The most convenient base for a short city-focused stay.
Best for: First-time visitors; couples; those without a car.
- Price range (double, peak season): β¬80β200
Top options:
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Hotel Bastion - luxury inside the Venetian-era walls; pool and spa
- Price: β¬110β250
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Art Hotel Kalelarga - stylish apartments on the main Kalelarga promenade with sea-front views
- Price: β¬80β190
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Teatro Verdi Boutique Hotel - boutique hotel near the Riva and Sea Organ; designer decor
- Price: β¬90β220
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Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel - chic boutique in a 19th-century building with garden cafΓ©
- Price: β¬90β200
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Hotel Aβmare Zadar - elegant mid-range just outside the Old Town tip
- Price: β¬70β170
Borik - best for families and resort stays
A green, pine-tree-lined peninsula northeast of the Old Town, with family resort hotels, sports facilities, and a beach. Still walkable from the Old Town.
Best for: Families, longer stays, those wanting resort amenities.
- Price range: β¬70β280
Top options:
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Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera - large contemporary spa resort with pools, wellness, and beach access
- Price: β¬100β280
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Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik - family resort compound with pools, kidsβ areas, and entertainment
- Price: β¬110β210+
Kolovare - best for beach and promenade
Hugs the seafront and city beach, with hotels within 20β30 minutesβ walk of the Old Town.
Best for: Beach-focused visits; families wanting beach plus city access.
- Price range: β¬70β170
Top options:
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Hotel Kolovare - 4-star hotel close to beach and promenade
- Price: β¬70β170
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Apartments near Kolovare Beach - self-catering with sea views
- Price: β¬50β130
Diklo - best for quieter beachside stays
A quieter area along the southern seafront, with a more residential character and good beach access.
Best for: Couples and small groups wanting a quieter vibe with daily swimming.
Top options:
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Hotel Delfin - 3-star sea-front hotel with family rooms and sea views
- Price: β¬60β150
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Hotel Niko - relaxed hotel near the beach and seafront
- Price: β¬70β170
New Town / city centre - best for budget
The modern area outside the Old Town, with chain-style and 3-star hotels near tram and bus stops. More practical than romantic, but significantly cheaper.
Best for: Budget travellers, longer stays, digital nomads.
- Price range: β¬40β130
Top options:
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Hotel Sky - 3-star with city views and breakfast
- Price: β¬50β130
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Windward Hostel - central hostel with dorms and private rooms
- Price: β¬25β80
Area comparison
| Area | Style | Peak price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Town | Boutiques, promenade | β¬80β220 | Walkability, first stays |
| Borik | Family resorts | β¬70β280 | Families, pools |
| Kolovare | Beach hotels | β¬70β170 | Beach access |
| Diklo | Quiet coastal | β¬60β170 | Relaxed stays |
| New Town | Budget, practical | β¬40β130 | Budget, longer stays |
Practical notes
- Book JulyβAugust early - Old Town boutiques and Borik resorts fill ahead of peak season
- Self-catering: Apartments in the Old Town or Kolovare work well with the Pijaca green market nearby
- Cars: Not needed in the Old Town; hire a car if you plan to explore the National Parks (Krka, Plitvice) independently
See also
- Zadar city guide
- Things to do in Zadar
- Croatia travel guide
- Croatian coast road trip
- Dubrovnik vs Split
- Sailing in Croatia
Plan your trip: Browse tours and day trips from Zadar while youβre in Zadar. Travel insurance is worth sorting before you fly, and a Balkans eSIM will handle your data needs on the ground.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best area to stay in Zadar?
- Old Town for walkability and atmosphere; Borik for families and resort facilities; Diklo for quieter beach stays.
- How expensive is Zadar compared to Dubrovnik?
- Significantly less - typically 40β60% cheaper for comparable quality.
- Do I need a car in Zadar?
- Not necessary for city exploration. Useful if you're planning National Park day trips independently (rather than on organised tours).
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