Getting to Zrce Beach: How to get to Novalja stress-free

🚌 By bus to Zrce Beach

Many tour operators and travel platforms offer direct bus trips to Zrce – these options are particularly popular during the festival season from May to September.

Advantages of traveling by bus:

Cheapest way to get to Novalja
No parking searches or alcohol limits
Luggage is usually included in the price
Launch in many German, Austrian and Swiss cities

Duration : Depending on your starting point, you will need approximately 12-13 hours from Munich and approximately 10 hours from Vienna.
Arrival : Usually directly in Novalja – from there it is only a few minutes to Zrce Beach.

💡 Tip : With organizers like “Austria goes Zrce” or “Spring Break Europe” the bus is often included in the package.

🚗 By car – Road trip to Novalja

A road trip to Zrce Beach is ideal for those who want to travel independently and flexibly—especially with friends and loud music. The last few kilometers are tough—but the feeling is unique.

Important route:

If you're traveling from the Croatian mainland, you'll reach the island of Pag via the famous Pag Bridge (Paski Most) . From there, it's about an hour's drive to Novalja – along a winding coastal road with stunning views.

Parking & driving on site:

In Novalja there are public parking spaces and private parking spaces at apartments
Shuttle buses run to Zrce Beach – it’s better to leave your car at home (alcohol limit!)

Tolls & Costs:

Croatian motorways are subject to tolls (e.g. approx. €20–30 depending on the route)
Make sure you have valid travel documents, driving license & green insurance card

💡 Tip : Start early in the morning to enjoy the Pag Bridge in daylight.

✈️ Arrival by plane – via Zadar to Zrce

The fastest option is to fly to Zadar Airport (ZAD) – approximately 1.5 hours from southern Germany or Vienna. From there, it's the shortest flight connection to Zrce Beach .

Continue to Novalja:

By shuttle (many providers can be booked online)
By rental car (from approx. €35/day)
By bus (via Zadar main station – takes longer but is cheaper)

Travel time from Zadar Airport to Novalja : approx. 1.5 hours

💡 Tip : Book the shuttle in advance – the buses are often fully booked, especially for festivals like Sonus or Hideout.

Conclusion: This is the best way to get to Zrce Beach

Whether you arrive by Zrce bus , your own car over the Pag Bridge or by plane via Zadar – each option has its advantages.
If you want to travel cheaply and socially, the bus is perfect. For freedom and the feeling of a road trip, take the car. If you want to get there quickly, the best option is to fly to Zadar.

In any case, book early and prepare well – then nothing will stand in the way of your festival trip to Novalja!