Private car transfer from Split to Zadar

During Italian rule (1918-1947), Zadar had a mostly Italian-identifying population. Croatian assimilation was part of the state’s agenda, but resentment was growing in the form of the Yugoslav Partisan Movement. Allied bombing in WWII resulted in 80% of Zadar being leveled and most of the Dalmatian Italians left as a result.

After most of the Italian population left, Zadar became part of Yugoslavia. This union of southern Slavs installed highways, railroads, and an airport to encourage internal tourism and immigration to the coast.

As Yugoslavia fell apart in the 1990s, Zadar was once again at war, this time with the Serbs. From 1991 to 1995, the city experienced bombings, sieges, and riots, before becoming part of the newly independent Croatia.

Today, Zadar’s main industries are tourism, agriculture, and seaborne trade. The restoration of major historical sites and infrastructure after the Yugoslav Wars has kept Zadar’s old-world charm while still connecting it with the world. It welcomes thousands of visitors a year to its sunny shores and beautiful natural landscapes.

Prepare for your activities

Consider the day’s activities when you pack for your trip. If you visit Salona, a wide-brimmed hat, water bottle, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended due to the lack of shade around the ruins. Sturdy walking shoes and insect repellant will be your best friend at Krka National Park.

Buses from Split to Zadar

Autotrans operates most bus routes throughout Croatia. Buses for their Split to Zadar route leave 8 times per day in the summer months and cost between $11 to $28 (€10 to €26) per passenger. The trip takes about 3.5 hours, not including getting to and from the bus station, or waiting to get on and off the bus.

When you book a bus ticket in Croatia, you may have to pay an extra $1 or $2 (€1 or €2) fee for each piece of luggage stored under the bus. It is best to have small bills and coins for this fee.

Trains from Split to Zadar

While the Croatian national train service, Hrvatske Zeljeznice, technically has a route from Split to Zadar, it is not an efficient way to travel. In either Knin or Perkovic, you will need to transfer to a bus due to ongoing construction on the train tracks.

Ferries from Split to Zadar

Although Split is a major port for ferry and private boat travel to other destinations, there are currently no direct routes to take a ferry to Zadar. Put your sea legs away for this transfer!

Flights from Split to Zadar

As with the ferries, there are also no direct flights between the Split Airport (SPU) and Zadar Airport (ZAD).

As the waves crash endlessly against the promenade, they push air into the organ pipes to produce ethereal musical notes. This clever use of public space combined with engineering and music theories creates an inviting atmosphere to connect with nature in a surprising way.

Give a “Greeting to the Sun”

A few steps from the Sea Organ, Nikola Basic also designed Greeting to the Sun, a nod to the sun’s importance. This installation consists of 300 multi-layered solar plates that absorb sunlight during the day and create a spectacular light show at night. The energy collected from the solar panels powers half of Zadar’s waterfront lights.

Take a boat to the Kornati Islands

The Kornati Islands National Park, a short boat ride from Zadar, consists of 89 islands, islets, and reefs. Go swimming, snorkeling, and exploring in its secluded bays and coves and experience Croatia’s marine life up close.

Cool off in Zadar’s museums

If it rains during your stay, or you’d like a midday reprieve from the sun, visit one of Zadar’s museums. The Museum of Ancient Glass showcases ancient glass artifacts, including Roman glassware, jewelry, and decorative items. Watch demonstrations of traditional glassblowing techniques as well. This delicate material rarely survives its thousands of years underground and can tell us about the lives of the people who used to call Zadar home.

The Archaeological Museum of Zadar houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the prehistoric, Roman, and medieval periods. Come visit to learn about Zadar’s many empires that make up its cultural heritage.