Useful information
How to get to Ist
The island of Ist is connected to the mainland and nearby islands by three ferry and passenger boat lines. The island has two ports: the passenger catamaran port of Široka in the southern bay and the ferry port of Kosirača in the northern bay. The distance between the two ports is just over one kilometre.
The catamaran to Ist departs from the Old Town peninsula in the centre of Zadar, while the ferry departs from the Gaženica Ferry Port.
The journey from Zadar to Ist takes between one and two hours, depending on the selected line, while the journey from Mali Lošinj takes approximately four hours.
For sailing schedules, we recommend visiting the Jadrolinija website. The Jadrolinija mobile app is also useful, offering an easy overview of timetables and the option to purchase tickets online.
For private boats, there are several unmarked mooring spots on Ist that do not belong to local residents and are commonly used by sailors for short-term dinghy mooring when coming ashore from anchorages. These spots are not reserved and should not be considered safe in poor weather conditions.
Berths are also available at Marina Ist. Berthing is subject to a fee and cannot be reserved in advance.
Parking on the Island
If you are travelling to Ist by car, we recommend purchasing your ferry ticket as soon as your stay is confirmed to secure a place for your vehicle.
Driving on the island is permitted only shortly before the ferry arrives and after it departs, allowing residents and visitors to load and unload their belongings. During the rest of the day, driving is not permitted and, due to the island’s narrow paths and the absence of roads, it is practically impossible.
As there is no official parking area on the island, vehicles are typically left near the ferry port or alongside the road in places commonly used by visitors during their stay.
If you decide to leave your car in Zadar, we will be happy to recommend secure parking options.
It is not possible to reach the MIST apartments by car. If you are travelling with larger amounts of luggage, we can arrange tractor transport between the ferry port and the apartments for an additional fee, a service that remains part of everyday life on the island.
Water on the Island
The island of Ist is not connected to the public water supply network. Each house, including ours, has its own well that collects rainwater, while additional water is delivered by water tanker during the summer months.
The household water system is connected to a shared cistern. With regular maintenance, the water is safe for consumption. However, guests who are not accustomed to this type of water supply may prefer to purchase drinking water.
As water reserves on the island are limited, we kindly ask guests to use water responsibly in order to avoid shortages.
Wastewater is managed through a private septic system. To ensure the system functions properly, please do not dispose of any waste in the toilet other than toilet paper.
Facilities on the island
For everyday essentials, there is a Studenac grocery store on the island. Ist also has a post office offering currency exchange services and a doctor's office.
As medical services on the island are limited, guests who require regular medication are advised to bring an adequate supply for the duration of their stay.
On Ist, you will find restaurants with a long tradition, as well as simpler options for everyday dining.
Mirela Maurin Gallery
On the way to the waterfront, you will find the small gallery of artist Mirela Maurin, whose work is inspired by the sea and the island of Ist. The gallery offers handmade souvenirs, jewellery and other unique pieces, many of which carry the Croatian Island Product label.
Diving point Ist - Zmorac
The diving center at Ist, led by NAUI instructor Luka Bekić, offers a blend of expertise and passion. With over 20 years in underwater archaeology, Luka has participated in numerous research projects, authored works on underwater heritage, and engaged in eco-initiatives.
Zmorac's mission is to provide a safe and serene environment for divers to explore Ist's underwater beauty, whether they're seasoned professionals or newcomers, all while enjoying the island's unique charm.
For all the detals visit official website
Ist Island Basketball Tournament
The last Saturday of July is traditionally reserved for the Ist Island Basketball Tournament, one of the most recognisable events in the Zadar archipelago.
Held since 1975, the tournament has become a symbol of the island of Ist. Each year, it brings together island residents, visitors and guests from across the archipelago, with games taking place on the Braskin dvor basketball court next to the local primary school.
After the tournament, the gathering continues with an evening programme and celebrations organised by the Youth Association of Ist.
JazzIst
JazzIst is a jazz festival that has been held in front of the church of St. Nicholas in the first half of August. Welcome!
Swimming marathon
The swimming marathon ˝Oko Benušića˝, with a length of 4.2 kilometers, has been held in August on the island of Ist since 2008. You can find more about this sporting event at the link
The Feast of Our Lady of the Snow
The Feast of Our Lady of the Snow is solemnly celebrated on August 5 in the parish of St. Nicholas. Believers and many tourists make a pilgrimage to the Church of Our Lady of Health from 1865 on the top of Straža Hill. In the evening, a party is organized on the Bratski dvor basketball court.
