The Zadar airport is a fairly small airport located about 11 km from the center of Zadar. The airport is one of the two main hubs for Ryanair flights to Croatia.
In the video below, I show you the airport and explain to you the transport options from the airport to Zadar center and places like Novalja on the Island of Pag.
Airport Overview
Zadar Airport is compact but has seen significant passenger growth (1.6 million passengers last year, up from 800,000 pre-COVID).
Future Developments: A new terminal is scheduled for completion in 2026. This will enable further growth in passenger numbers.
Transportation Options from Zadar Airport
Airport Bus / Shuttle
The airport shuttle from Zadar airport to Zadar city center is operated by the city bus company Liburnija.
Timetable: The shuttle bus timetable for any given month is published a few days before the start of the month on the airport’s website. You can find the timetable for both directions here.
The airport shuttle has three drop-off locations in Zadar; the first is near the Gazenica/car ferry port, followed by the main bus station, and finally the Old Town in Zadar. Note that if you need to get off at Gazenica, you must press the stop button on the bus.
Cost: €5 per ticket.
2. Taxi-App services and Taxis
Zadar Old Town.
Taxi Costs: A taxi from the airport to the city center costs from 25 euros.
Taxi-App Costs: If you are familiar with taxi apps like Uber, Bolt, or Wizi, you know that their prices change depending on demand.
When we recorded the above video, an Uber to the center of Zadar cost 15 euros for a standard vehicle (4 passengers), and a 7-person minivan was around 21 euros. Please comment below on what price you paid during the summer season. Thanks.
Novalja
As we recorded the video, the price for a standard vehicle with Uber to Novalja was 99 euros, and the price for a 7-person minivan was 193 euros. In this case, I would also be grateful if you could leave a comment with the prices you experienced.
3. Pre-Booked Transfers
The most convenient way of transport from Zadar airport is a pre-booked transfer, where a professional driver will await you in the arrivals area with a sign displaying your name.
Zadar Old Town.
Transfer Costs: A standard vehicle to Zadar town costs around 28 euros, a van for up to 8 passengers around 36 euros.
Novalja
Transfer Costs: A pre-booked transfer to Novalja costs 100 euros for a standard vehicle and 120 to 140 euros for a minivan with space for up to 8 passengers.
TIP: Prices are often cheaper if you book ahead.
4. Car Rentals
At Zadar airport, you have around 20 car rental companies. Most of them have small booths/offices on the road, just outside of the arrival terminal, and a few of them have offices inside the terminal.
As I live in Croatia, I very seldom need a rented car, so I cannot give any advice in relation to which company is the best.
One note: when you leave or arrive at the airport to pick up or drop off a rental car, ensure you follow the signs for car rentals to avoid confusion.
Practical Tips
Planning Arrival Time: Account for potential crowding due to the airport’s size.
Checking Bus Schedules: Visit the airport website for the latest timetable, as Liburnija’s site may not have it.
Cost Comparison: Evaluate taxi apps, buses, and pre-booked transfers based on group size and destination.
Island Travel: Avoid booking transfers or taxi apps directly to the islands; use ferries from Gazenica or Old Town and arrange transport on the island upon arrival.
Facilities: Limited to cafeterias, car rental desks, ATMs, and toilets.
FAQ
Is there a public bus from the Zadar airport?
No, there is no public bus except for the shuttle bus, operated by Liburnija
Is there a bus to Novalja from the airport?
No, the only scheduled bus to the airport is the shuttle bus to Zadar
Does Flixbus drive from Zadar Airport?
No, the only bus company operating from the airport is Liburnija
Where can I find the timetable of the shuttle bus from Zadar Airport?
The timetable for the current month is available on the airport’s website.
