Zadar Airport (ZAD)

Common Complaints

• Exorbitant Prices: Travelers frequently complain about the "exorbitant" cost of food and drinks within the airport, with coffee and a bottle of water often costing €4, and a 0.5L Coca-Cola priced at €5.50. There are no fresh water taps.
• Taxi "Mafia" and Rip-Offs: A dominant and severe complaint is the "taxi mafia" operating outside the airport. Travelers report being charged excessively high fares (e.g., €70-80 for a 5-mile trip to the city center), aggressive drivers demanding cash, and a lack of regulation from authorities. Uber and pre-booked transfers are highly recommended alternatives.
• Limited Facilities and Amenities: The terminal has limited facilities, including only two snack bars, a restaurant, and a duty-free shop. The departure lounge is often described as a "giant and cold tent" or "aircraft hangar" with poor catering. There are few power outlets and a lack of comfortable seating for extended stays or overnight sleeping.
• Expensive Parking: On-site parking is considered "crazy expensive" and among the most expensive in Croatia, leading many to seek off-airport alternatives like Park & More with shuttle services, or public parking near the main bus station.

In summary, Zadar Airport offers a functional and generally clean terminal for its compact size, with good bus connections to the city. However, travelers should be prepared for significantly overpriced food, drinks, and parking, and should avoid airport taxis at all costs, opting instead for ride-sharing apps or pre-booked transfers to ensure a fair price for transportation.