Here is good news for anyone who dreads the car-hire queue: Novalja is one of the easiest holiday towns in Croatia to do without a car. The old centre, the harbour, the supermarkets and most of the town beaches sit within a short walk of each other, and the places that are further away have a fairly simple fix. This guide covers what works, what to expect, and where to check before you go.
Start with your feet
Novalja is compact. Stay anywhere near the centre and you can reach the waterfront promenade, the cafés, the market and the main shops on foot in minutes. Several of the town beaches, including Straško, are also an easy stroll or short ride along the coast. If you are still choosing where to sleep, our neighbourhood guide and the accommodation page will help you pick a base that makes a car unnecessary.
The local bus and the Zrće line
Novalja has a small city bus network, operated by Arriva (Autotrans). During the season it links the bus terminal in town with the Zrće beach strip and a handful of coastal stops and settlements around Novalja; the published timetable lists lines numbered 2, 3 and 4, and a loop from the bus terminal. Buses on the main routes run roughly hourly in the daytime, and in the party season there is a night service that runs through the small hours so you do not have to worry about getting home from the clubs. Exact start dates, frequencies and fares change from year to year, so check the current timetable and ticket prices on the Arriva Croatia website before you travel.
New to Zrće itself? Our Zrće beach guide explains the clubs and the daytime scene, and the events calendar shows when the big nights happen.
Taxis
Taxis are the easy answer for late arrivals, luggage, and the stretches the bus does not cover. In high season, especially on festival nights, they get busy, so agree the fare or ask for the meter before you set off and, if you can, book in advance for early-morning departures. We do not quote prices here because they vary and are not published in one official place; ask your host or the driver for an estimate.
Bikes and e-bikes
The terrain around town is gentle enough for casual riders, and a bike gives you the freedom of a car without the parking headache. Rentals, including e-bikes, are available around Novalja in the season; ask your accommodation or look for rental points in town. For routes and difficulty levels, see our cycling guide. Take water, wear a helmet and remember that the midday sun in July and August is no joke.
Boats, kayaks and SUP
Some of the nicest coves are best reached from the water. Our guide to kayaking, SUP and small boats covers the options, and boat day trips take you to places a car could never reach.
When a car does help
Pag is a big island. Villages on the west coast such as Kolan, Mandre and Šimuni, Pag town and the salt pans are spread out, and public transport there is thin. For those days you can rent a car for a single day, join an organised tour or share a taxi. Our write-up of the quiet west coast shows what is worth the trip.
Good to know
Is there a bus from Novalja to Zrće? Yes, in season the city bus serves Zrće from the town bus terminal, with a night service during the busiest period. Check the current timetable on the operator site.
Can I walk to Zrće? It is possible for keen walkers, but it is not a pleasant stroll in midday heat; the bus or a bike is better.
Do I need a car on Pag? Not for Novalja and Zrće. You only need one if you want to explore the island widely at your own pace.
Are taxis easy to find at night? Usually, but they can be scarce when everyone leaves the clubs at once. Plan ahead.
Arriving by ferry or from the airport? See how to get to Novalja first.
