Things To Do
in Ugljan
Ugljan is a verdant Dalmatian island in the Zadar archipelago, just opposite the historic city of Zadar. Its pine-fringed coastline, quiet coves, and traditional stone towns offer a relaxed Adriatic escape. Olive groves, clear turquoise waters, and village life with a slow rhythm define the experience here.
Visitors enjoy seafood tavernas, scenic coastal walks, and easy ferry connections to the mainland for day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a fresh Croatian breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional pastries and espresso. After breakfast, rent a bicycle and explore the island's scenic bike paths, stopping by the charming villages along the way. Don't miss the chance to visit the historic church of St. Mary, which offers stunning views of the surrounding seascape.
For lunch, indulge in some freshly caught seafood at a seaside tavern, where the catch of the day is served with local wine. Spend the afternoon swimming in the crystal-clear waters at the beautiful beach of Muline, perfect for sunbathing or snorkeling. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, absorbing the tranquil island atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner where you can savor authentic Dalmatian dishes accompanied by live music. After dinner, enjoy a peaceful walk under the starlit sky, taking in the sounds of the sea. End the day at a nearby bar for a nightcap while meeting friendly locals and experiencing Ugljan's vibrant night scene.
Take a ferry to the main island city of Preko and start your day with a coffee at a local café. Explore the quaint streets, where you can admire traditional stone houses and gothic architecture. Visit the Preko Market to shop for local produce and handmade crafts.
Enjoy lunch at one of Preko's restaurants that specializes in fresh seafood, relishing the local flavors. Spend the afternoon at the gorgeous Jaz Beach, where you can lounge on the sand or take a dip in the calm waters. Consider trying your hand at paddleboarding or renting a kayak to explore the coastline.
As the evening approaches, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a seaside restaurant with stunning views of the sunset. Participate in a cultural event or local festival if available, experiencing the island's rich traditions. Conclude your night with a peaceful stroll along the beach, absorbing the serene ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $25-40 |
| 🧀Local cheese and bread | $5-8 |
| 💶Public transport day pass | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic, uncrowded, and easy to explore at a relaxed pace
- Beautiful beaches, clear water, and authentic Dalmatian towns
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options compared with mainland cities
- Some areas have narrow roads and limited public transport outside peak season
- "Dobar dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
- "Gdje je toalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Govoriš li engleski?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Ugljan
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over fishing boats and stone quays; calm water reflections make for tranquil seascapes.
Coastal pines framing a bright blue panorama; ideal for wide-angle seascapes and silhouettes.
Old olive presses, gnarled trees, and distant horizons over the Adriatic create moody rural-scapes.
Strait views between Ugljan and the mainland with crossing ferries—great for dynamic compositions.
Warm harbor lights reflecting on calm water as fishing boats return for the evening.
Food in Ugljan
Ugljan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught squid simply grilled with lemon, garlic, and olive oil; best eaten at a seaside konoba with sea views.
Must-Try!
Creamy risotto colored and flavored with squid ink, often served with tender mussels or shrimp.
A classic Dalmatian side dish of blitva and potatoes, commonly paired with grilled fish.
Fresh local olive oils poured with slices of bread; pairs well with feta or soft goat cheese.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh fish, olives, olive oil, herbs, honey, seasonal fruit, and locally baked bread—great for a picnic by the sea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Dobar dan' (good day) or 'Bok' (hi). Use polite forms with elders and in churches; a handshake is common.
Dress modestly for religious sites and villages; avoid loud behavior late at night and respect local residents’ routines.
Safety
Tipping in Ugljan
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5-10% is customary if service is not already included; rounding up the bill is common for good service. For taxis and cafe locals, rounding up the fare is appreciated but not obligatory.
Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but carry cash for smaller tavernas, markets, and rural setups. ATMs are common on the island and in larger towns; keep small denominations handy for tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for hiking, cyclotouring, and outdoor markets without peak heat.
Warm to hot days with lively coastal life; beaches and tavernas fill up, so plan early and enjoy sea breezes in the late afternoon.
Sea remains comfortable, fewer crowds, and harvest festivals; great for food-focused itineraries and relaxed island exploration.
Cool and windy with some services reduced; best for off-season strolls, coastal photography, and authentic village ambiance.
Ugljan at Night
Hiking in Ugljan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hike with sea views, olive groves, and small beaches along the way.
Short scenic route through groves with viewpoints over the channel and Zadar skyline in the distance.
Airports
How to reach Ugljan by plane.
The closest international airport with regular services to European destinations; good for quick access to Ugljan via ferry or car transfer.
A larger airport offering additional international connections; reachable by road or ferry-connected routes to Zadar and islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents are primarily Croatian with deep roots in Dalmatian traditions; many families have lived on the island for generations.
A mix of Croatian and foreign tourists, especially from EU countries, who visit during the summer months.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Passionate local following; facilities are common in towns and on school grounds.
Ideal conditions along the Dalmatian coast; rental options exist in peak season.
Popular ways to explore coves and marine life along the island's coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ugljan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for vegetable stews, grilled seasonal vegetables, salads with local olive oil, and cheeses; inform kitchens about no seafood or meat requests.