Ugljan Travel Guide
City Croatian island and municipality in Zadar County
On the island of Ugljan, visitors arrive for olive groves, quiet coves and cycling between small harbors; ferries from Zadar drop you into stone villages, fresh fish on terraces and bell-tower views over the Adriatic.
Why Visit Ugljan? #
Island life on Ugljan appeals to visitors seeking sunlit beaches, olive groves and a slower Adriatic rhythm. The ferry link to Zadar and the harbors of Preko and Kukljica make island hopping effortless, while konobas focus on local olive oil and freshly grilled fish. Village feasts and centuries-old churches add cultural color, and secluded coves offer relaxed seaside time away from the crowds. Bring an appetite for simple seafood and artisanal olives.
Top Things to Do in Ugljan
All Attractions ›
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- Preko harbour - Main ferry port to Zadar with waterfront cafés and views across the channel.
- Kukljica village - Charming fishing village with sandy beaches, family konobas and relaxed island character.
- St. Michael viewpoint (Sv. Mihovil) - Short hike to the hilltop church for sweeping views over Zadar and islands.
- Muline inlet - Small sheltered bay with calm swimming coves and traditional stone houses.
- Local olive groves near Lukoran - Quiet lanes among centuries-old olive trees, ideal for short country walks.
- Family konoba dining - Home-run taverns serving freshly grilled fish and homemade island specialties.
- Zadar - Short ferry ride to the Romanesque old town, sea organ and vibrant waterfront.
- Pašman Island - Nearby island with quiet beaches, cycling routes and traditional fishing villages.
Best Time to Visit Ugljan #
Best from late spring to early autumn (May-September) for beach weather, swimming and island hopping. Winters are mild and quiet but several services run reduced hours or close.
Best Time to Visit Ugljan #
Temperate climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 3°C to 29°C. Moderate rainfall (849 mm/year).
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 10°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (63 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (67 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (63 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 29°C and lows of 19°C. The driest month with just 29 mm.
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August
August is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm).
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September
September is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 15°C. Regular rainfall (97 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 12°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (104 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 7°C. Significant rainfall (101 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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How to Get to Ugljan
Ugljan is an island off Zadar and is reached via Zadar Airport and Zadar's ferry links. After arriving on the mainland most travellers continue to Zadar port and take a short ferry or catamaran over to Ugljan (Preko and other island ports).
Zadar Airport (ZAD): Zadar is the closest airport for Ugljan, with seasonal international and domestic flights. From ZAD take the airport shuttle or taxi to Zadar city centre (about 20-30 minutes; shuttle ~HRK 30-50 / €4-7, taxi ~HRK 200-300 / €27-40) and then proceed to the port for the ferry to Ugljan.
Split / Zagreb airports: If you arrive at Split (SPU) or Zagreb (ZAG) you’ll face a longer transfer to Zadar by bus or car (2-4+ hours) before taking the ferry. These are viable when direct Zadar flights are not available, but expect additional travel time and cost.
Train: Mainland rail access to Zadar is limited; the nearest long-distance railhead is Knin or Zadar’s connections via bus are more common. Most visitors use buses rather than trains to reach Zadar.
Bus: Regular buses run to Zadar’s main bus station from across Croatia (operators include Arriva/FlixBus and local carriers). From Zadar bus station it’s a short walk to the ferry terminals; bus fares vary by origin (e.g., Split-Zadar ~HRK 80-120 / €11-16, 2-3 hours). In Zadar the local bus or a short taxi brings you to the port.
How to Get Around Ugljan #
Ugljan’s villages are small and easily walkable; many visitors explore on foot once ashore. Ferries (Jadrolinija and local operators) run between Zadar and Preko - crossings are short and fares are modest (a few euros), with more frequent service in summer. Local buses and taxis operate on the island but schedules are limited outside summer; renting a bicycle or scooter is common for independent exploration.
Where to Stay in Ugljan #
Where to Eat in Ugljan #
Breakdown of cuisine types found across Ugljan's restaurants and food venues, based on OpenStreetMap data.
Nightlife in Ugljan #
Nightlife on Ugljan is quiet for most of the year and peaks in summer when beach bars and seaside konobas stay open later. Most evenings are relaxed - dining and drinks rather than clubbing - with Preko offering the most options.
Shopping in Ugljan #
Shopping is basic: small grocery stores, family-run shops and a few stalls selling local olive oils, preserves and souvenirs. For a larger market or more shopping choices, visit Zadar on the mainland.
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