Biograd na Moru is located at the perfect crossroads of the Adriatic – large enough to offer every amenity a traveler or yachtsman could desire, yet intimate enough to preserve the Mediterranean charm of a small Dalmatian town. It's no coincidence that sailors have recognized it for decades as one of the most important hubs of Adriatic navigation. Here, history meets modernity, gastronomy blends with the sea, and the marina is truly the heartbeat of the town. Biograd is special because it offers everything a yachtsman could wish for – from a prime location and natural beauty in the surroundings to first-class infrastructure, among which stands out the Croatia Yachting base, one of the best charter management bases on the Adriatic.

A town with royal heritage

The story of Biograd stretches far back in history. It was first mentioned in the 10th century, but what truly sets it apart is the event in 1102, when King Koloman, the Hungarian-Croatian king, was crowned in the Biograd cathedral. This historic moment symbolizes Biograd's connection to the heartbeat of the Croatian state.
Over the centuries, Biograd’s strategic position between Zadar and Šibenik played an important role in the region. The fertile Ravni kotari plains and rich sea made it a natural center of life. A stroll along the waterfront or through the old town’s core reveals the layered history: the remains of the Basilica of St. John the Evangelist, the monastery of St. Catherine, old walls, and narrow stone streets all tell stories from the past.

The origin of the name

The name Biograd na Moru derives from the original settlement called simply "Biograd," which in Old Slavic means "White City" (from the words "bio" or "bijel" meaning white, and "grad" meaning city). Historically, the name referred to a fortified white stone city, consistent with its background as a royal city with stone buildings and fortifications.
The suffix "na Moru" (on the sea) was added later to distinguish it from other places named Biograd. This attribute officially corresponds to the fact that Biograd is located on the sea, as opposed to inland or river cities with the same name.
In historical and Italian sources, Biograd is also known as "Zaravecchia" or "Xara Vecia," which translates to "Old City" or "White City." Due to centuries of tradition and historical circumstances, the town kept the official name Biograd na Moru, confirmed in municipal statutes and Croatian legal regulation.

A magnet for artists, culture and politics

Throughout history, Biograd attracted numerous artists, cultural figures, and political personalities, thanks to its prominent position and importance. A particularly notable figure is Vagan Melik Karaganjan, an Armenian architect and visionary regarded as the father of Biograd’s tourism. Thanks to his efforts and vision, Biograd became connected to many notable public figures, which added prestige and cultural shine to the town.

In Biograd na Moru, a monument was erected to Vagan Melik Karaganjan, an Armenian architect and visionary who left an indelible mark on the history of this town. Known as the "father of Biograd tourism," Karaganjan greatly contributed to the development of Biograd as a tourist destination through his vision and actions.
The monument was ceremoniously unveiled on September 21, 2024, on the Biograd waterfront, near the monument to Pope John Paul II. The sculpture’s author is Romanian artist Stefan Bintintan from Alba Iulia, a city that is a friend of Biograd. The statue depicts Karaganjan sitting on the waterfront, gazing toward the Adriatic islands, with an old-fashioned suitcase symbolizing his life journey and visionary spirit.

In 1933, Karaganjan built the first modern hotel in Biograd, the Grand Hotel Ilirija, marking the beginning of organized tourism in this part of the Adriatic. His ambition was to transform Biograd into a luxurious and modern destination. Besides the hotel, he planned additional tourist facilities, including a casino on the island of Katarina, but historical events prevented the full realization of these plans.
Besides being an entrepreneur, in 1934, Karaganjan electrified Biograd and surrounding areas by purchasing and modernizing the local power plant, significantly improving the local infrastructure.

Did you know?

• Biograd is known as the heart of Croatian royal history because King Koloman was crowned here in 1102, giving the town a special status among Croatian historical cities.
• It is surrounded by three national parks (Kornati, Krka, Paklenica) and two nature parks, making it an ideal base for nature lovers and adventurers.
• The town hosts the largest Fun Park for children in this part of Europe, with over 20 diverse attractions, from carousels to adrenaline rides like a roller coaster.
• Biograd was established on the ruins of the ancient Roman city Blandona, and a 16th-century sunken ship discovered near the island of Gnalić is one of Croatia’s most valuable underwater archaeological sites.
• Biograd’s waterfront and marina are often gathering places for famous sailors and participants of the Biograd Boat Show, the region’s largest nautical fair.

What to see in Biograd and its surroundings

When you arrive in Biograd, the first thing you’ll notice is the lively atmosphere of the waterfront, filled with the scents of the sea, fresh coffee, and fish. The promenade is a perfect place for socializing, strolling, and enjoying views of boats bobbing in the harbor.
History lovers will appreciate wandering the old town streets, discovering landmarks such as the Church of St. Anastasia (Sv. Stošija) and the Heritage Museum located in the town center, showcasing archaeological finds including artifacts from the 16th-century shipwreck.
Nature is also within easy reach: just a few kilometers from the town lies the magnificent Lake Vrana, a paradise for birdwatchers, cyclists, and lovers of untouched nature. Nautical enthusiasts can use Biograd as a starting point to explore the Kornati National Park, famous for its more than 80 islands and pristine nature.
For excursions further inland, the national parks Krka and Paklenica offer rich natural and historical experiences perfect for day trips.
Those looking for even more will find UNESCO-protected monuments in Zadar, the picturesque streets of Šibenik, and the historic town of Nin with its famous church and salt pans – all easily accessible from Biograd as a central base.

Family-friendly beaches and fun spots

Biograd is also an excellent destination for families. Its three main town beaches – Dražica, Soline, and Bošana – hold the Blue Flag status, guaranteeing clean and safe environments.

Dražica Beach delights visitors with a pleasant mix of pebbles and sand, shaded by pine trees, and offers playgrounds, water slides, and sandy sports courts. It’s ideal for children due to its gentle sea entry and numerous cafes and restaurants nearby.

Soline Beach is renowned for its sandy shore and tranquil atmosphere nestled in a pine-covered bay, a favorite among young families thanks to its shallow waters.

The Bošana Beach, near Marina Kornati, offers a quieter experience and is suitable for sports like beach volleyball and snorkeling.
Fun Park Biograd, located opposite the beaches, captivates children and parents alike with adrenaline-filled attractions and varied activities, making the town even more appealing for families.

Where to eat 

Visitors to Biograd can indulge in excellent local cuisine. Fishermen’s specialties such as fish stew (brudet), octopus cooked under the bell (peka), and fresh shellfish are staples on local menus. Complemented by olive oil from the Ravni kotari region and locally produced wines, every meal is a celebration of Dalmatian flavors.
Restauranteur favorites include Dupin, known for its consistently excellent fish dishes, and Marina Kornati Restaurant, which offers stunning sea views paired with sunset dining.
The old town’s small konobas (taverns) invite guests to enjoy authentic experiences, enhanced by warm conversations with locals.

How to get to Biograd

Biograd is easily accessible from all directions, reinforcing its popularity.

By car: Biograd lies on the Adriatic Highway and is just 15 minutes from the A1 highway exit Benkovac/Biograd. The drive is well connected with many European destinations, whether coming from inland or the coast.

By plane: The closest airport is Zadar, roughly 30 kilometers away, with numerous international flights and good connections. Another option is Split Airport, about 110 km distant, serving southern Croatia.

By sea: Biograd is an ideal harbor for Adriatic cruising, located between Zadar and Šibenik, featuring modern marinas and rich nautical infrastructure.

Tautical Infrastructure – the heart of Adriatic sailing

Biograd is recognized as one of Croatia’s most important nautical centers. Marina Kornati stands as one of the largest and best-equipped marinas on the Adriatic, offering over 700 berths, repair services, shops, restaurants, and numerous other amenities. Marina Šangulin complements the offering with a more intimate atmosphere.
Every autumn, Biograd comes alive with the Biograd Boat Show, the region’s largest nautical exhibition, welcoming hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of visitors from across Europe. The fair is an excellent opportunity to discover the latest in nautical innovation and enjoy social events on the waterfront.

The perfect partner for charter management

It’s no coincidence that one of Croatia’s leading charter companies, Croatia Yachting, is based in Biograd. The company offers yacht owners comprehensive support for a successful season – professional assistance, logistics, maintenance, and marketing. Biograd’s location is perfect as a central point between northern and southern Adriatic, allowing guests diverse routes and day trips to popular destinations. Demand for yacht charters in Croatia continues to grow each season, and reliable management like Croatia Yachting’s provides security for both owners and clients.

Biograd na Moru is more than just a port or destination — it is a way of life connected to the sea, nature, and history. A town where sailors, tourists, and locals live in harmony, enjoying good food, nature, and safe sailing. Being in Biograd means experiencing a unique Mediterranean spirit, and Croatia Yachting’s base ensures that every boat and its owner will find the ideal place and safe harbor here.