Kornati National Park and Islands

Croatia is riddled with beautiful national parks and scenery, people visiting these parts are likely more familiar with the Plitvice Lakes National Parks or Krk and rightly so but another gem in this region would be the Kornati National Park.

Kornati is a group of islands located in the northern part of the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, in the Adriatic Sea. The Kornati islands are part of the Kornati National Park, they are accessible by boat from some of the coastal towns, one of which being Zadar.

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How long should I spend in Zadar?

Of course, this always depends on your situation, however, if you plan to visit Zadar as part of a longer trip to Croatia or Europe, you may have limited time in this city. In this case, you could easily spend 1-2 days exploring the city's highlights and taking in its vibrant atmosphere.

If you are looking for a more chilled stay, exploring the history, museums, Kornati islands, and beaches then I would suggest staying for at least 3 days. I stayed here for just over a week and felt very relaxed the whole time, I even joined a gym (of course) that was perfect for all my needs.

Where to stay in Zadar?

If you are only spending a few days in Zadar and you are on a budget, then a hostel would be a great choice, a well-known and affordable hostel in the heart of Zadar for budget-conscious travellers is – The Downtown Boutique hostel this hostel is highly acclaimed by travellers worldwide! Secure your spot now and avoid missing out on a great experience. ‍

I usually stay in apartments, I find them better value, and more comfortable for a longer stay, which enables me to be fully self-sufficient, as an introvert, there's not much more I could need. Check out this apartment selection in the area.

If you have a bigger budget and feel like staying somewhere a little more up-scale then check out these amazing Zadar hotels (4-star and up).

Final Thoughts on Zadar & Kornati National Park

For me, Zadar was the perfect end to my Croatian tour, although I can see how it would be a great introduction to Croatia too, so do not hesitate to start here. It is in a region that has access to many must-see cities and attractions, for instance: Pula, The Plitvice lakes, Krk National Park, and even Zagreb and Split are only a bus journey away.

The city has unique attractions, such as the Sea Organ and Kornati National Park, if you're starting in Zadar it will offer a glimpse into Croatia's stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage.

What's more, Zadar proved to be a budget-friendly destination, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking an affordable summer holiday. This has likely changed recently due to Croatia's introduction into the EU in January 2023. It is a small city so I doubt this would have any major changes.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Zadar and would not hesitate to return. Its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and affordable prices make it a top choice for anyone looking for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation.

Hopping on and off the buses is my favourite way to get around Croatia, it is inexpensive, easy to book, and comfortable. Here is a link to Flixbus, I used this company while I was there and always had a pleasant experience.