How to Get to Pag from Italy

How to Get to Pag from Italy: A Complete Travel Guide

Are you planning on travelling around Europe this summer? Explore all the options on how to get to Pag from Italy (car, ferry, plane, or bus) with zero hassle.

If you dream of clear Adriatic waters, long beaches, and a summer vacation filled with charm and culture, the island of Pag in Croatia should be at the top of your list.

Known for its unique landscape, delicious sheep’s milk cheese, and the traditional Pag lace (a UNESCO heritage), this island blends rustic tradition with a lively beach scene, particularly in Novalja and on Zrće Beach, a favorite spot for party lovers.

So how do you get to Pag from Italy?

The good news is there are several ways to travel, including by car, ferry, bus, and plane. Read on to know everything you need to reach Pag from Italy.

Where Is the Island of Pag?

Pag is located in northern Dalmatia, along the Adriatic Sea. It is the fifth-largest Croatian island and has the longest coastline among all the islands in the country, over 269 km. Its terrain is partly rocky and moonlike, with salt pans, olive groves, and untouched beaches. The island is directly connected to the mainland by a bridge on the southeast side and is also served by several ferries.

The two main towns on the island are Pag Town, which preserves the island’s cultural heritage, and Novalja, a lively destination known for nightlife and summer festivals. During the warmer months, even the smaller villages come to life, offering quieter alternatives.

How to Get to Pag by Car from Italy

One of the most flexible and scenic ways to reach Pag is by car. If you are starting in northern Italy—for example from Trieste, Venice, or Milan—you can head toward Croatia by passing through Slovenia. Be sure to bring your passport and the international car insurance card, as you will be crossing borders.

Once in Croatia, you can access the island through two main points:

Pag Bridge (Most Pag): Located on the southeastern part of the island, this bridge connects Pag directly to the mainland and is accessible all year round. If you are driving along the A1 highway, you can exit near Posedarje and follow the signs to Pag via the bridge. This is the ideal route if you are heading to Pag Town or the southern part of the island.

Port of Prizna: If you are coming from the north (such as from Rijeka or Istria), you can take a ferry from Prizna on the Croatian coast to Žigljen on the island of Pag. The crossing takes about 15 minutes and is operated by Jadrolinija, Croatia’s national ferry company. This is the fastest option if you are heading to the northern part of the island, especially Novalja.

Traveling by car is a great choice because it allows you to explore the island freely and enjoy the breathtaking views along the coast.

How to Get to Pag by Ferry from Italy

During the summer season, sea connections between Italy and Croatia become more frequent. If you are departing from the Italian Adriatic coast, especially from places like Ancona or Pesaro, you may find seasonal ferries to Croatia.

While there are no direct international ferries from Italy to Pag, you can still reach the island by following one of these routes:

Pesaro – Novalja: In the summer months, catamarans run from Pesaro to Novalja on the island of Pag. This is a passenger-only route (no cars), but it is a convenient and direct option if you are traveling light.

Other Italian ports to the Croatian mainland: You can also take a ferry from ports such as Ancona or Bari to Croatian coastal cities like Zadar, Split, or Rijeka, and then continue to Pag by car, bus, or internal ferries.

How to Get to Pag by Plane

If you prefer flying to Croatia from Italy (or from another part of Europe), the closest airports to Pag are:

Zadar Airport (ZAD): This is the most convenient airport for Pag. After landing, you can take a shuttle or taxi to the Zadar bus station, then catch a bus to Pag Town or Novalja. Buses leave several times a day and take about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Rijeka Airport (RJK): Further north, Rijeka Airport is another good option. After arrival, take a shuttle to the center of Rijeka, then either take a catamaran to Novalja or drive to the Prizna–Žigljen ferry.

Split or Zagreb Airports: Although farther away, you can also land in Split or Zagreb and drive from there. Driving from Zagreb to Pag takes about 3.5 hours via the bridge.

How to Get to Pag by Bus

Croatia has a well-developed intercity bus network. After arriving in Croatia by plane, train, or ferry, taking a bus is an affordable and reliable way to reach Pag.

From Zadar, there are frequent buses to Pag Town and Novalja. The ride takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. From Rijeka, you can take a bus to Senj or Karlobag, then continue to Pag via the Prizna–Žigljen ferry.

If you arrive in Italy by train and get off in Trieste, you can take a FlixBus or a local bus to Rijeka, then continue as described above.

Getting Around the Island of Pag

Once you are on the island, there are local buses connecting places like Pag Town, Novalja, and Lun, especially in the summer. You can also rent a car, a scooter, or even a bike, depending on how far you want to travel. The island is long and narrow, so getting around is easy and enjoyable.

Final Tips

• Book your ferry tickets in advance during summer, especially for the Prizna–Žigljen route or the catamarans to Novalja.

• Travel light if you are using catamarans. They do not take cars but do allow bikes and pets.

• Check updated schedules, as they change between high and low seasons.

• If you are driving, check your documents and find out if you need a vignette to pass through Slovenia.

No matter what you are chasing (cultural festivals in Novalja, relaxing on quiet beaches, or tasting the island’s famous cheese), getting to Pag from Italy is part of the adventure. There are several travel options for every type of traveler and budget, and the island of Pag is ready to welcome you with all its Adriatic beauty.

Pack your bags, check ferry times, and let yourself be welcomed by one of Croatia’s most authentic gems.