Public Transportation in Zadar

Public transportation in Zadar, is a well-organized system that includes buses, taxis, and ferries. The city's public transportation is managed by Liburnija Zadar, which operates the bus network, and there are also numerous taxi companies and ferry services available. For expats living in Zadar, it is entirely possible to live comfortably without a car, relying on the public transportation system and walking. The city is compact and most of the main attractions are within walking distance. However, having a car can be beneficial for exploring the surrounding areas and for convenience.

Buses

The bus system in Zadar is the primary mode of public transportation and is operated by Liburnija Zadar. The buses are reliable and cover most areas of the city and its surroundings. They run from early morning until late at night, with reduced services on Sundays and public holidays. The bus system is safe to use at all times, even for women traveling alone or children going to school. A single ticket costs around 10 HRK (approximately 1.5 USD) and can be purchased from the driver or at Liburnija's offices. There are also daily, weekly, and monthly passes available for frequent travelers. The routes are well-marked and easy to understand, with route maps available online and at bus stops.

Taxis

Taxis are another popular mode of transportation in Zadar. They are readily available throughout the city and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or via mobile apps. The taxis are metered and the fares are regulated by the city, making them a safe and reliable option. The starting fare is around 20 HRK (approximately 3 USD) and the rate per kilometer is around 7 HRK (approximately 1 USD). Taxis are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling with luggage or in a hurry. However, they can be more expensive than buses, especially for longer journeys.

Ferries

Zadar is a coastal city and ferries are a common mode of transportation, especially for traveling to the nearby islands. The ferry services are operated by Jadrolinija, the largest ferry company in Croatia. The ferries are safe, reliable, and offer stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The fares vary depending on the destination and the type of ticket (passenger or vehicle), but a one-way ticket to the nearby island of Ugljan, for example, costs around 15 HRK (approximately 2 USD) for a passenger and 130 HRK (approximately 20 USD) for a vehicle. The ferry schedules are available online and at the ferry terminals.

Walking

Walking is a great way to get around Zadar. The city is compact and most of the main attractions, including the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun, are within walking distance. The city is safe to walk around, even at night, and there are plenty of pedestrian zones and walking paths. Walking not only saves money on transportation costs, but also allows you to experience the city at your own pace and discover hidden gems along the way.

In conclusion, public transportation in Zadar is efficient, reliable, and affordable, making it possible for expats to live comfortably without a car. However, having a car can be beneficial for exploring the surrounding areas and for convenience. Regardless of the mode of transportation, Zadar is a beautiful city that is easy to navigate and offers plenty of options for getting around.