4- and 5-star hotels in Starigrad

Starigrad sits on the Adriatic coast at the foot of the Velebit mountain range, and the entrance to Paklenica National Park is within walking distance of the centre. The coast here is pebble and rocky rather than sandy, with clear water, and the town is a base for hiking in the park's two limestone canyons as well as for swimming, with Zadar about 40 kilometers to the northwest. Central Starigrad has the main beach, shops and restaurants, while the quieter hamlet of Seline lies just southeast along its long pebble beach and Tribanj stretches northwest with small coves.

The listed hotels cluster in and around the centre: Villa Calma I, Villa Anastazia, Apartment in Starigrad Paklenica 6875, Apartments Ivan, Villa Vicko, Camping Paklenica and Stone House Marasovic are all within about a kilometer of the centre. Villa Beatrice Soho, Villa Neptune, Amari Apartments and Beautiful holiday house in Starigrad sit slightly further out, while Awesome Home In Starigrad Paklenica, Pet Friendly Home In Seline With Sauna and Vila Punta are further still. The choice suits couples and families who want a pool or the sea nearby, and anyone on a short break who wants the national park on the doorstep.

Getting there and around

Starigrad is connected by bus to Zadar, about 40 kilometers to the northwest, which has an international airport; buses also run along the coast to Rijeka and Dubrovnik. From the bus stop in Starigrad, most accommodations are within walking distance or a short taxi ride. If driving, the town is on the Adriatic highway (D8), with exits from the A1 motorway at Posedarje or Maslenica. Getting around Starigrad is easiest on foot or by bicycle, especially in the centre; local buses link the hamlets but services may be limited, and taxis are available but sparse. A car helps for nearby attractions, though parking in the centre can be challenging in peak season.

When to go

The best time to visit Starigrad is from May to October, when the sea is warm enough for swimming and the national park is fully accessible. July and August are the busiest and hottest, with temperatures often above 30°C. Spring and early autumn offer milder weather, fewer crowds and ideal conditions for hiking in Paklenica. Winter is quiet, with many tourist facilities closed, but the park remains open for hiking, though some trails may be affected by snow or strong winds, and the bora wind can bring cold temperatures.