Transportation in Zadar: A Guide for Tourists and Visitors

Transportation in Zadar is one of the key topics for anyone planning to visit this beautiful Dalmatian city. I have noticed frequent questions from guests on social media about transportation. That’s why I wrote this guide to help you move around the city more easily and safely.

To avoid unpleasant situations and unnecessary costs, it’s important to know in advance what options are available — from taxis and buses to airport shuttle services.

What to know before taking a taxi

Taking a taxi can be convenient, but often the most expensive option — especially if you haven’t agreed on the price beforehand. There are frequent reports in the media about tourists being overcharged, so we advise:

• Always check the payment method before accepting the ride so you’re not unpleasantly surprised at the end — ask the driver if they accept cards or only cash. Although more drivers are using POS devices, this is not yet standard, especially among local carriers in smaller towns.
• Before accepting the ride, be sure to ask for the price and check if the driver uses a taximeter that must be switched on and visible throughout the entire ride.

If you want additional price security, apps like Bolt and Uber are recommended. These apps allow you to see the price upfront, track the vehicle’s location, and pay by card.

However, during the season, waiting times for drivers can be longer — so expect possible delays.

Buses as a reliable option

Public transportation in Zadar is operated by the city company Liburnija, which connects almost all city districts and surrounding areas. The price of a city bus ticket is 1.59 euros. Check the timetable on Liburnija’s ’s official website.

If you are traveling as a large family or group of friends, taxi transport in Zadar may be a more cost-effective option than public buses. Although the bus offers a favorable price per person, a taxi can mean a smaller overall difference in cost, with significantly greater comfort, especially if you travel with children.

Transportation in Zadar from the airport to the city center

After arriving by plane, the most reliable option is the shuttle bus organized by Zadar Airport.

• Price: 5 euros per person (luggage included)
• Stops: Old Town (city center), Main Bus Station, and Gaženica Ferry Port.

Check the schedule and information on the official Zadar airport website.

This option is ideal if you want to reach the city center simply and without additional costs.

Maritime transportation in Zadar: catamarans and ferries

Maritime transport in Zadar is an excellent choice for those wanting to visit the Zadar archipelago. Catamarans depart from the Old Town (Poluotok) and are intended exclusively for passengers — cars cannot be transported.

If you travel with a vehicle, ferries depart from the Gaženica ferry port, a few kilometers south of the city center. Gaženica is easily accessible since there is a bus line connecting the Main Bus Station with the passenger terminal in Gaženica, making this port easily reachable even without a car.

Tickets for catamarans and ferries are purchased at the terminal, and both card and cash payments are accepted. During the summer months, crowds can be large, especially for ferries boarding vehicles. It is recommended to arrive earlier if you travel by car to secure a spot on your desired ferry and avoid last-minute stress. Check the sailing schedule on Jadrolinija official website.

Both options offer easy access to islands like Preko, Ugljan, Silba, Olib and others.

If you are looking for accommodation, check available dates at Coastal Apartments Zadar.