Zadar to Zagreb Bus
Zadar to Zagreb Route Summary
Zadar to Zagreb bus is a popular way of traveling. There are up to 45 daily bus departures available, including 3 night buses. The earliest bus departs from Zadar bus station at 03:30h, arriving at Zagreb bus station at 07:00h the same day. While latest bus departs at 22:15h, arriving at 02:10h the following day.
Table Of Contents
Popular Departures
Below you will find some of the most popular bus departures from Zadar to Zagreb:Getting from Zadar and Zagreb by bus
The shortest travel distance between Zadar and Zagreb is 302 km. The fastest bus which departs at 03:30 has a travel time of 03:30h. The longest travel time on the route is 05:10h. While some of the buses are direct, there are also the ones which stop for a short break in Plitvice Lakes, Posedarje and Obrovac. You can book tickets in advance to secure your seat, especially during peak travel times.Overnight buses
Bus companies operating the Zadar to Zagreb route
There is a total of 8 bus companies operating the route. These bus companies have been rated 2421 times by travelers. Here you can see the list of the most popular bus companies operating the route and their overall rating.Departure and arrival stations
Bus station in Zadar has earned an average score of 6.8 from our passengers, while the station in Zagreb has earned a score of 6.3. More information on both stations, including their location and popular routes can be found on the links below.
Cheapest tickets
Budget-friendly tickets are listed below, depending on availability.Adult ticket: €11 (One-Way) or €19 (Return).
Child ticket: €8 (One-Way) or €14 (Return).
Student ticket: €15 (One-Way) or €22 (Return).
Other popular destinations from Zadar
If you're wondering what other destinations you can visit when traveling from Zadar, below are some of the most popular routes that other clients have purchased their tickets for:Other popular destinations from Zagreb
If you're looking for inspiration as to where to travel next once you've reached Zagreb, here is the list of the most popular travel routes that our clients have previously purchased their tickets for:Traveling tips
Here are some useful tips to make your journey smooth and comfortable:
Book Tickets in Advance - Although you can buy tickets at the station, booking in advance online(especially during summer) ensures you get a seat and sometimes better prices.
Choose an Express Bus for a Faster Journey - The fastest buses take around 3-3.5 hours, while others with multiple stops can take up to 4.5 hours. If you're short on time, opt for an express bus with fewer stops.
Be Mindful of Departure and Arrival Locations - In Zadar, most buses depart from Zadar Main Bus Station (Autobusni Kolodvor Zadar), located about 10 minutes from the Old Town. In Zagreb, buses arrive at Zagreb Main Bus Station (Autobusni Kolodvor Zagreb), which has great tram and taxi connections to the city center.
Arrive at the Bus Station Early - Zadar Bus Station can be busy, especially during peak season (June–August). Arriving 15-20 minutes early gives you enough time to find your platform and board without stress.
Check for Bus Amenities - Most buses offer Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and comfortable seating, but not all have restrooms. If you’re taking a longer route, check the amenities when booking. FlixBus and Croatia Bus often have onboard restrooms and charging ports.
Bring Snacks and Water - Although some buses stop for short breaks, it's best to bring your own snacks and drinks, especially if you're on a direct service.
Enjoy the Scenic Views - The Zadar to Zagreb route offers beautiful views of mountains, countryside, and the coast. If possible, try to sit by the window to enjoy the scenery.
Prepare for Changing Weather - Zagreb is often colder than Zadar, especially in autumn and winter. If traveling between seasons, bring a light jacket or sweater for when you arrive.
Know Your Transport Options in Zagreb - Once you arrive in Zagreb, you can easily take a tram, taxi, or Bolt/Uber to your hotel or next destination. If you need to continue your journey by train, the main railway station (Glavni Kolodvor) is a short tram ride away.
Relax and Enjoy the Journey - The bus ride from Zadar to Zagreb is smooth and comfortable. Whether you prefer to listen to music, read, or simply take in the views, it’s a great way to experience Croatia’s landscape while heading to the capital.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the bus from Zadar to Zagreb?
The bus journey from Zadar to Zagreb takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the route and number of stops. Express buses take around 3 hours, while standard routes with more stops may take up to 4.5 hours.
Is Zadar close to Zagreb?
Yes, Zadar is relatively close to Zagreb. The distance between the two cities is about 285 km (177 miles). By car, the journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, while buses take 3 to 4 hours depending on the route.
Is 2 days enough in Zagreb?
Yes, 2 days in Zagreb is enough to explore the city's highlights. You can visit:
Ban Jelačić Square – The heart of the city
Upper Town (Gornji Grad) – Home to St. Mark’s Church and the Museum of Broken Relationships
Dolac Market – A vibrant farmers’ market
Zagreb Cathedral – The tallest building in Croatia
Tkalčićeva Street – A lively area for cafes and restaurants
If you have more time, a trip to Maksimir Park or Medvednica Mountain is also recommended.
Is Zagreb worth visiting?
Absolutely! Zagreb is Croatia’s capital and cultural hub, offering:
Historic charm with medieval streets and Austro-Hungarian architecture
Museums and galleries, including the Museum of Illusions and Zagreb City Museum
A vibrant cafe culture and nightlife
Easy access to Plitvice Lakes National Park for a day trip
Zagreb is a great mix of history, culture, and modern energy, making it well worth a visit.
Can I book a Zadar to Zagreb bus ticket online?
Yes! You can book tickets in advance through GetByBus. Booking online ensures a reserved seat, especially during the summer season (June–August).
Do buses from Zadar to Zagreb run at night?
Most buses operate between early morning and late evening, but there are fewer departures at night. Some companies may offer late-night or overnight buses, especially during peak travel seasons. Check schedules in advance.
Where do buses arrive in Zadar?
Buses in Zadar arrive at Zadar Main Bus Station (Autobusni Kolodvor Zadar), which is:
About 10 minutes from the Old Town
Well-connected to local buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services
A hub for connections to other Croatian cities and islands
To have all the information in the palm of your hand download our mobile app for free!
