Your first party holiday in Croatia – what you need to know!
Zrce Beach on the island of Pag is one of Europe's hottest party destinations—perfect for those seeking sun, bass, and legendary nights. To ensure your first trip doesn't end in chaos, but rather in unforgettable moments, we've put together the ultimate beginner's guide— especially for drivers , but also with tips for bus and air travelers.
🚗 Getting to Zrce – What you need to know as a driver
If you're traveling by car, there are a few important points to consider:
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Documents : Pack your driving license (EU is sufficient), identity card/passport, vehicle registration document and green insurance card.
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Vignettes & Tolls : In Austria and Slovenia you need a vignette, in Croatia you pay at toll stations – so have cash or a card ready.
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Driving time & breaks : From southern Germany, it takes approximately 9–12 hours. Regular breaks, plenty of water, and a driver change are essential—especially in hot weather!
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Parking on Pag : Many accommodations in Novalja offer parking. Paid parking is available directly at Zrce Beach.
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Fueling : Fill up again before reaching the island. Fuel prices in Croatia are usually cheaper than in Germany or Austria.
🚌✈️ Alternatives: Coach or flight
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Coaches (e.g. through tour operators such as GGZ): inexpensive and stress-free, but with long travel times.
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Flights to Zadar or Split – from there, continue by shuttle or rental car to Novalja. Fast and convenient, especially for short journeys.
You can get practical things for your trip here
🏨 Accommodation – Where should you stay?
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Novalja : The party center of the island – many apartments, supermarkets, bars and short walks to the shuttle bus to Zrce.
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Gajac or Zrce directly : A little quieter or closer to the clubs – depending on your mood and budget.
🍾 Party life – What you need to know
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Respect quiet hours : Croatia takes quiet hours in residential areas seriously. Balcony parties with speakers or loud music can get you into trouble with the police.
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Clubs & Events : Zrce Beach offers open-air clubs such as Papaya, Aquarius, Kalypso, and others. Entrance fees are usually between €10 and €30, depending on the event.
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Prices : Drinks in clubs aren't cheap. Pre-drinks in your apartment? A good idea—but in moderation!
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Drugs : Strictly prohibited in Croatia. Even the smallest amounts can result in heavy fines or trouble with the police. Stay away.
🌡️ Heat check – How to get through the day
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Drink plenty of water – not just alcohol!
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Sun protection is mandatory: sunscreen (at least SPF 30), sunglasses and a cap.
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Avoid midday heat – take a siesta or power nap before the next party.
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Light clothing & water shoes – the beach is pebbly and you'll be doing a lot of walking.
👯♂️ Alone or in a group? – Both are fine
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In a group : Cheaper, safer, and usually more fun. Look out for each other and don't leave anyone behind.
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Traveling alone? No problem! Zrce attracts open-minded people, and at events like GGZ, you can meet new people super quickly. Hostels or group offers help you connect.
📱 Must-haves for your Zrce trip
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Charging cable & power bank
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Condoms & sunscreen
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Papers, lighters, chewing gum
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Copies of ID & insurance
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Festival tickets and cash