Iž

Island Small island in the Adriatic Sea near Zadar

A small island in Zadar County, Iž is reached by ferry and known for olive groves, vineyards and quiet coves. Visitors bike between villages, swim in bays and sample local olive oil.

Iž is an island in Zadar County in the Croatian Adriatic Sea, characterized by small villages, agricultural terraces and a low-density population. It forms part of the Zadar archipelago and is known for olive production and traditional stone architecture.

Visitors encounter quiet village harbours, walking routes between settlements and sheltered bays for swimming and boating. The island’s simple rural character and coastal scenery make it a popular short-trip destination from Zadar and neighbouring islands.

Iž’s settlement has long been shaped by maritime trade, fishing and olive cultivation, with stone-built villages and small-scale agriculture persisting through centuries. Seasonal tourism increased in the 20th and 21st centuries while traditional practices continue.

The island lies off the central Dalmatian coast near Zadar and is accessed by regular ferries and local boat services from Zadar and nearby islands. Its location places it within easy day-trip range of the Zadar mainland.

Access and economy: Regular ferry connections link the island to Zadar and nearby islands, and the island's economy centers on small-scale agriculture, olive oil and seasonal tourism.

What to See #

Veli Iž and Mali Iž: Veli Iž and Mali Iž are the island's two main settlements, with narrow lanes, stone houses and small harbours that serve local boats and ferries.

Tips for Visiting Iž #

Take the scheduled ferry from Zadar (check the local line timetables) and plan arrivals around the ferry schedule-crossings are short but infrequent outside high season.
Arrive at the main Mali Iž landing to access both villages (Mali Iž and Veli Iž) on foot; the island is best explored by bike or local taxi-boat between bays because public transport is minimal.
Set aside time to walk inland from the harbours to find the quieter west-facing coves and traditional olive groves that many day-trippers miss.