I spent one night at the Pansion Maria in early June. My room – a double for single use – had a nice little balcony with a view of the quiet neighborhood in which it is located. It was clean and comfortable, if the furnishings were a bit dated. The walk to Zadar’s old city took about 20 minutes, much of which was through a pleasant residential district. The area felt quite safe, even when walking back late at night. If mobility is an issue for you, you might want to check into local bus options.

I didn’t meet my host (Zoran) until breakfast the day after I arrived, and he could not have been more gracious or welcoming. He had a wealth of information about Zadar and seemed genuinely intent upon ensuring that his guests enjoy their stay at the pansion and in Zadar. Breakfast was tasty and generous — I had bread, pršut, cheese, a soft-boiled egg, fruit, juice, and coffee — and it was served in a pleasant terrace surrounded by blooming flowers.

If you want a... more