If you're planning a trip to Croatia, one question probably comes to mind:
Is Zadar expensive?
The short answer is no! Especially compared to cities like Dubrovnik or Hvar. Zadar offers beautiful beaches, Roman history, national parks and incredible sunsets, often at significantly lower prices.
However, like any popular tourist destination, costs can add up if you don't plan ahead.
Here's what you can realistically expect to spend during your visit.
Accommodation Prices
Accommodation is usually your biggest expense.
Average nightly prices:
Hostel: €25-50
Budget apartment: €70-120
Mid-range hotel: €120-220
Luxury hotel: €250 +
Prices are highest during July and August.
Money saving tip: Visit in May, June or September for lower prices and fewer crowds.
Food & Drinks
Eating in Zadar can be surprisingly affordable.
Typical prices:
☕ Coffee: €2-3
🥐 Bakery breakfast: €2-6
🍕 Pizza: €10-16
🍝 Main course: €15-25
🥩 Premium steak: €30-45
🍺 Local beer: €4-6
🍷 Glass of wine: €4-8
Restaurants away from the busiest tourist streets usually offer better value while serving authentic Dalmatian cuisine.
Transportation
The Old Town is compact, meaning you won't spend much on transport.
Typical costs:
City bus: €2-3
Taxi within the city: €6-15
Airport shuttle: around €5-8
Walking: Free
Most visitors explore the historic centre entirely on foot.
Attractions
Many of Zadar's most famous attractions cost absolutely nothing.
Free attractions include:
Sea Organ
Greeting to the Sun
Roman Forum
Five Wells Square
People's Square
Zadar Waterfront (Riva)
If you plan to visit museums, entrance tickets usually range from €5-15.
Boat Tours & Day Trips
Boat tours are among the highlights of any visit to Zadar.
Typical prices:
Kornati National Park: €60-100
Dugi Otok Tour: €60-90
Sunset Cruise: €20-40
Private Boat Rental: from €180+
Booking in advance often secures better prices and more availability.
Daily Budget
Budget Traveller
Accommodation
Bakery breakfast
Casual lunch
Local dinner
Walking
Free attractions
Around €70-100 per day
Mid-Range Traveller
Apartment or hotel
Restaurant meals
Museums
One excursion
Drinks
Around €120-200 per day
Luxury Traveller
Premium hotel
Fine dining
Private tours
Boat rental
Cocktails
€250+ per day
How to Save Money in Zadar
If you'd like to experience more while spending less, here are some local tips:
✅ Walk around the Old Town instead of taking taxis.
✅ Visit free attractions during the day.
✅ Book excursions before arriving.
✅ Eat where locals eat.
✅ Travel outside peak season.
✅ Compare tour prices before booking.
Save Even More with My Zadar City Card
If you're planning to visit museums, book boat tours or dine at local restaurants, My Zadar City Card can help you reduce your travel costs.
Card holders receive exclusive discounts from selected local partners, including:
Museums
Boat tours
National park excursions
Restaurants
Guided tours
Local attractions
Many visitors save €50-100 or more during their stay, making the card one of the easiest ways to enjoy more of Zadar for less.