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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Dalmatia, Croatia

Accommodation Types

Common Options

  • Hostels

    Budget-friendly dorms and private rooms, social atmosphere.

  • Hotels

    Boutique to resort-style, 3-star to 5-star properties.

  • Guesthouses (Sobe) and B&Bs

    Family-run establishments, personal and local feel.

  • Vacation Rentals (Apartmani)

    Popular for families/longer stays, feature kitchens and space.

Outdoor & Local Types

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Campsites outside Zadar with pitches, mobile homes, or bungalows.

  • Campsite Zaton Holiday Resort

    Large resort north of Zadar, camping pitches, mobile homes, apartments.

  • Campsite Borik

    Closer to Zadar center, pitches and mobile homes, beach access.

  • Homestay Opportunities

    Booking apartment rentals through local families.

Neighborhood Guide

Zadar's different neighborhoods have varied experiences and amenities.

Old Town Poluotok

Pros
  • All major attractions are within walking distance.
  • Numerous restaurants, bars, and shops.
  • Immersive historical atmosphere.
  • Central location with ferry port access.
Cons
  • Can be noisy on summer evenings.
  • Limited car access and parking outside the peninsula.
  • Prices are generally higher.
  • Rooms might be small in older buildings.

Diklo & Borik

Pros
  • Good beach access and often pools.
  • Green spaces and relaxed atmosphere.
  • Good for families.
  • Accommodations often include parking.
Cons
  • Requires a short bus or taxi ride to Old Town.
  • Fewer immediate dining options.

Brodarica, Arbanasi & Puntamika

Pros
  • Authentic local experience.
  • Proximity to Main Bus Station for day trips.
  • Accommodation is often more affordable.
  • Good access to Kolovare Beach (Brodarica/Arbanasi).
Cons
  • Less charming than the Old Town.
  • Longer walk or short ride to central attractions.
  • Puntamika is further from Old Town attractions.

Noise Levels and Ambiance

Old Town:

Lively and can be noisy, especially near bars and squares during summer.

Coastal Areas (Diklo, Borik, Puntamika):

Offer a calmer ambiance, good for those seeking peace.

Booking Strategies

Plan your accommodation search to secure the best spots and prices.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (July-August): Book 3-6 months in advance. Prices peak.
  • Shoulder Season (May-June, Sept-Oct): Book 1-3 months in advance for good selection.
  • Low Season (Nov-April): More flexibility, book a few weeks/days in advance. Prices are lowest.
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is generally not customary, especially for hotels.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Booking.com: A global platform with many options.
  • Agoda: Accommodation site with strength in Asia, but also global options.
  • IHG Hotels: For chain hotel stays.
  • Hostelworld: Specialist for budget accommodations.

Important Policies and Fluctuations

Deposit and Cancellation Policies
  • Policies vary by property.
  • Check terms before booking.
  • Many places have free cancellation periods.
  • Deposits are common for apartment rentals.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Prices are 2-3 times higher in peak summer.
  • Compare prices to low season rates for the same property.
  • Plan your visit for your budget goals.

Accommodation Considerations

Budget-Conscious Travelers

Hostels and basic guesthouses offer great value for solo travelers and those on a tight budget.

Families & Groups

Apartments and resort hotels are good due to space and amenities.

Comfort & Luxury

4-5 star hotels and boutique hotels in the Old Town provide high comfort and unique character.

General Accommodation Advice

Additional tips for a smooth stay.

Exploring Vacation Rentals

Private Homes & Apartments

Extremely popular options for independence and more space. Many properties are listed by local families.

  • Good for longer stays or for groups.
  • Kitchen facilities for meal preparation.
  • Vrbo is another platform for vacation rentals.
House Sitting

For unique and long-term stays, consider house-sitting exchanges. This involves caring for a home and pets while the owners are away.

  • Can save on accommodation costs.
  • Offers a truly local living experience.
  • Check TrustedHousesitters for opportunities.

Considerations for Your Stay

Accessibility Notes

The Old Town has cobblestones and many steps. Confirm accessibility with your chosen accommodation if needed.

  • Newer hotels or those outside the Old Town may have better accessibility.
  • Some buildings may lack elevators.
Parking Information

Parking is limited and often paid in the Old Town. Many accommodations outside the center include parking.

  • Verify parking availability when booking if you travel by car.
  • Public parking lots are available outside the Old Town walls.

Local Insights

  • Read Reviews

    Always check recent reviews for insights into cleanliness, noise, and service quality.

  • Direct Booking

    Sometimes properties offer better rates or special benefits for direct bookings via their own websites.

  • Consider Location Carefully

    Decide between being in the lively Old Town or a quieter coastal suburb, based on your preferences.

  • Breakfast Inclusions

    Confirm if breakfast is part of your booking, especially for guesthouses or B&Bs.

Budget and Preferences

  • Budget Accommodation

    Hostel dorms are the most budget-friendly, followed by basic guesthouses.

  • Mid-Range Options

    3-star hotels and mid-range apartments balance amenities and value.

  • Luxury Choices

    4-5 star hotels or boutique hotels offer premium experiences.

  • Special Preferences

    Consider specific needs like family-friendly amenities or solo traveler social settings.

Important Considerations

Wi-Fi Availability

Most accommodations offer free Wi-Fi, but it is good to confirm, especially for smaller guesthouses.

  • Check reviews for Wi-Fi reliability.
  • Consider a local SIM card for constant connectivity.
Check-in/Check-out Times

Be aware of standard check-in and check-out times. Arrange for late check-ins if needed.

  • Some apartments require meeting the owner for handover.
  • Confirm this process prior to arrival.

Other Accommodation Types

Mobile Homes

Popular at campsites, offering a blend of camping and apartment comfort.

Boutique Hotels

Often found in the Old Town, offering unique design and personalized service.

Luxury Villas

Available for rent in coastal areas for high-end privacy and amenities.