EU citizens need no visa. Many others (US, UK, Canada) can stay up to 90 days without a visa. Check current regulations.

How do I get to Preko from Zadar?

Take a passenger ferry from Zadar's Old Town harbor to Preko. Ferries run frequently and take about 20 minutes.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, especially in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels. Younger locals speak English well.

What currency is used?

Croatia uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small purchases.

Are there ATMs in Preko?

Yes, there are a few ATMs in the town center. For more options, use ATMs in Zadar.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe and of good quality. Bottled water is also available.

What is the best beach?

Jaz Beach is popular with pebbles and clear water. Mostir Beach offers a more secluded spot. Both have cafes.

Is Preko family-friendly?

Absolutely. Calm waters, safe beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for families. There are playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Preko

CityCroatia, Europe

Preko is a CITY in Croatia, Europe.

Preko is a charming coastal town on the island of Ugljan, just a short ferry ride from Zadar. Its picturesque harbor, lined with colorful fishing boats and waterfront cafes, invites you to relax and soak up the Dalmatian atmosphere. Wander through narrow stone streets, discover hidden coves with crystal-clear waters, and enjoy fresh seafood at konobas. The nearby beaches, like Jaz and Mostir, offer pebbly shores and excellent swimming. Hiking trails lead through olive groves and pine forests to hilltop viewpoints with stunning vistas of the Zadar archipelago. Preko's laid-back vibe, rich history, and proximity to Zadar make it an ideal base for exploring the region. Whether you're sunbathing, kayaking, or savoring local wine at sunset, Preko promises an authentic Croatian island escape.

Best time to visit Preko

May to September offers warm, sunny weather perfect for beach activities and island hopping. July and August are peak season with lively atmosphere but higher prices and crowds. June and September provide a balance of good weather and fewer tourists. Spring (April-May) and autumn (October) are ideal for hiking and sightseeing with mild temperatures.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 13-20°C, some rain

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Good for hiking, off-peak prices

Know before you go

Getting there

ZAD

Zadar Airport

International

25 km away

SPU

Split Airport

International

150 km away

ZAG

Zagreb Airport

International

280 km away

Getting around

"Preko is walkable; most attractions are within a 15-minute walk. Bicycles and scooters can be rented for exploring the island. The main ferry from Zadar runs frequently (every 30-60 min) and takes about 20 minutes. Local buses connect Preko to other Ugljan villages. Taxis are available but limited. For island exploration, consider renting a car on the mainland."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in cafes, restaurants, and accommodations

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Zadar ferry terminal or airport from $5

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe overall. Scam risk low but beware of overpriced taxis or unofficial tours.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe overall. Scam risk low but beware of overpriced taxis or unofficial tours.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Preko is very safe with low crime. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas; keep valuables secure. The main risks are related to water activities: swim at designated beaches, heed warning flags, and avoid rocky areas. Roads are narrow; drive carefully. At night, stick to well-lit streets. Scams are rare but be cautious with unofficial currency exchange."

Police

999

Ambulance

112

Fire

112

Entry and health

Health information

"Healthcare in Preko is limited; for serious issues, take the ferry to Zadar (20 min) where there is a general hospital and pharmacies. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is recommended. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies are available in Preko for minor ailments. Bring any prescription medications as local equivalents may differ."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly when visiting churches (cover shoulders and knees). Greetings are friendly; a handshake is common. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up the bill or leave 10% for good service. Lunch is the main meal, typically from 12-3 PM. Evening meals start around 8 PM. Smoking is banned indoors. Respect quiet hours (2-5 PM and after 10 PM)."

Croatian (official)ItalianSerbianHungarianCzechCroatian

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$10-15 | a meal at a mid-range restaurant costs $10-15

Hotels

$50-100 | budget hotels range $50-100/night

Local transport

$2 | ferry from Zadar costs ~$2 one way

Cost notes

Prices are lower than Zadar mainland. Peak season (July-Aug) sees higher rates.

Timezone

Europe/Zagreb
Local time 21:58

More facts

Population

1,250

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Oltre, Preko, Općina Preko, Comune di Oltre, Преко

Major HubBeachHistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingIslandSeafoodRelaxation