MileHacker Logo
Resources & References

Resources & References

Dalmatia, Croatia

Digital Resources

Essential Navigation & Utilities

  • Google Maps:

    Navigation, public transport, finding places.

  • Google Translate:

    Download Croatian offline pack for offline use.

  • Xe Currency:

    Useful for quick currency conversions.

  • Bolt / Uber:

    Ride-sharing options, check seasonal availability.

  • Booking.com / Airbnb:

    For finding and booking accommodation.

Specialized Apps & Planning

  • HappyCow:

    A useful app for finding vegetarian and vegan dining options.

  • Local Weather App:

    Check a reliable weather app for real-time updates.

  • Zadar Tourist Board:

    Zadar.travel for events, attractions, and general information.

  • Croatia.hr:

    The official Croatian National Tourist Board website.

  • Jadrolinija.hr:

    For ferry schedules and bookings to islands and international routes.

Online Planning & Inspiration

Bus & Ferry

Arriva.com.hr / FlixBus.com for intercity bus tickets within Croatia.

Learn More

Park Websites

Visit np-paklenica.hr, np-krka.hr, np-kornati.hr for park details, fees.

Explore Parks

Follow Zadar

Follow official Zadar tourism accounts on Instagram/Facebook for updates.

Instagram Facebook

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

  • General Croatia guidebooks (Rough Guides, Bradt Guides) include Zadar.
  • Detailed city maps are available at tourist offices or souvenir shops.
  • These maps are useful for navigating the Old Town.
  • They provide a different perspective than digital maps.

Local Reads & Publications

  • Search for books on the history of Dalmatia or Croatia.
  • Look for contemporary Croatian authors or novels set in the region.
  • Pick up free tourist magazines or event guides like "Zadar In Your Pocket."
  • These publications often feature current listings and recommendations.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (Police, Ambulance, Fire, Mountain Rescue).
  • Police: 192
  • Fire Department: 193
  • Ambulance: 194

Roadside Assistance

  • Roadside Assistance (HAK): 1987.
  • Save these numbers on your phone before travel.
  • These numbers cover all of Croatia and the EU.
  • Familiarity with these numbers can be very helpful.

Hospital & Clinics

  • General Hospital Zadar: Opća bolnica Zadar, Ulica Bože Peričića 5.
  • This facility is the main public hospital in Zadar.
  • Several smaller private clinics offer various medical services.
  • Private clinics often provide faster service for non-emergencies.

Critical Safety Information

Emergency Information

Lost Document Protocols

  • Passport: Report lost or stolen passports immediately to local police.
  • Get a police report for your records.
  • Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Zagreb for emergency travel documents.
  • Credit Cards: Contact your bank to cancel lost or stolen cards immediately.

Embassy Contacts

  • Most embassies are in Zagreb, the capital city.
  • US Embassy in Zagreb: Ulica Thomasa Jeffersona 2, +385 1 661 2200.
  • UK Embassy in Zagreb: Ivana Lučića 4, +385 1 600 9100.
  • Find and save your country's embassy/consulate details before travel.

Natural Disaster Guidance

  • Earthquakes: Follow local instructions. "Drop, cover, and hold on" indoors.
  • Seek open ground if outdoors during an earthquake.
  • Heatwaves/Forest Fires: Stay informed via local news updates.
  • Follow advice from authorities regarding hydration, shade, and fire warnings.

Travel Security & Awareness

General Safety Measures

  • Protect yourself from intense Zadar summers.
  • Hydrate constantly to avoid dehydration.
  • Use sun protection like sunscreen and hats.

Environmental Considerations

  • Wear water shoes for rocky beaches.
  • Water shoes offer defense against sea urchins and sharp stones.
  • Dispose of trash properly to preserve natural beauty.

Navigation & Connectivity Tips

Efficient Movement

  • Familiarize yourself with Zadar's layout upon arrival.
  • Learn about local bus routes for extended exploration.
  • Consider renting a car for trips to surrounding areas.

Digital Access

  • Utilize available Wi-Fi for communication and information.
  • Check mobile roaming plans or consider a local SIM card.
  • Download offline maps and translation packs.

Important Daily Reminders

Essential Daily Practices

  1. Carry some cash for small vendors or markets.
  2. Dress appropriately when away from beach areas.
  3. Reapply sunscreen throughout the day.
  4. Be patient with the local pace of life.
  5. Greet locals with "Dobar dan" or "Bok".

Navigating Social Norms

  1. Remember smaller shops may close for siesta in the afternoon.
  2. Smoking is common in outdoor cafe spaces.
  3. Do not rush coffee breaks; these are for lingering.
  4. Explore areas beyond the Old Town.
  5. Say "Hvala" (Thank you) often.

Planning for Group Travel

Group Reservations

Book accommodation and restaurant tables well in advance.

Tour Bookings

Secure popular day tours, especially in high season.

Private Transfers

Consider private airport transfers for group convenience.

Critical Information

Always verify current travel advisories and local regulations before and during your trip for safety.

Further Reading & Exploration

Deepen Your Zadar Connection

Cultural Immersion

  • Documentaries:

    Search for travel documentaries about Croatia or the Adriatic coast.

  • Klapa Music:

    Listen to Croatian traditional "Klapa" music before or during your trip.

  • Art Galleries:

    Explore local art galleries in Zadar.

Community & Language

  • Online Groups:

    Join travel groups on Facebook or Reddit for Croatia or Zadar.

  • Community Insights:

    These communities provide opportunities to ask questions and get recent tips.

  • Language Learning:

    Utilize apps like Babbel or Duolingo for basic Croatian phrases.

Exploring

Regional Travel Blogs

Read recent reviews and travel blogs for current information and local insights.

Visual Content

Search for YouTube channels focused on Croatia or Dalmatian coast for inspiration and visual context.

Local Learning

Some local language schools may offer short courses for Croatian phrases or cultural lessons.

Travel Resources Summary

Digital Tools Checklist

  • Confirm all essential apps are downloaded.
  • Ensure offline maps and translation packs are ready.
  • Check for relevant podcasts or digital content.
  • Verify website links for tourist boards and parks.

Physical Guide & Reading

  • Pack a physical guidebook if preferred.
  • Carry a city map for easy navigation.
  • Look for local magazines upon arrival.
  • Consider a journal for travel notes.

Beyond The Immediate

Future Destinations

  • Consider Split or Dubrovnik for more history.
  • Visit Plitvice Lakes for natural wonders.
  • Explore Istria for culinary experiences.
  • Discover quieter islands in the Zadar archipelago.

Seasonal Visits

  • Summer offers beaches and festivals.
  • Spring or autumn are good for hiking and cycling.
  • Winter provides a quieter, more local experience.
  • Zadar invites return visits to uncover more.
← Previous
Practical Tips & Hacks
← Back to Zadar
Next →
Pre-Trip Checklist

Next Up: Pre-Trip Checklist

Continue to Pre-Trip Checklist