Must-Visit in Europe! Pag Island Guide: Croatia's Most Moon-Like Mysterious Island!

1. Where is Pag Island? Located in the northern Dalmatian archipelago of Croatia's Adriatic Sea, Pag Island is Croatia's fifth-largest island, covering approximately 284.6 square kilometers with a coastline stretching 269 kilometers. The island has two main towns: Pag Town and Novalja Town. It is connected to the mainland via the Pag Bridge in the south, while the Prizna–Žigljen ferry links the northern part to the mainland, making transportation convenient.  ⸻ 2. Why Should Pag Island Be on Your European Travel List? 🌕 Unique "Lunar Landscape" Pag Island is renowned for its distinctive rocky terrain, earning it the nickname "Moon Island." The island's karst topography features exposed rocks and sparse vegetation, creating a desolate yet breathtaking scenery. The highest point, Sveti Vid Mountain, stands at 349 meters, offering panoramic views of the island and surrounding sea.  🧀 A Fusion of Food and Culture Pag Island is famous for its unique culinary culture, particularly its cheese (Paški sir) and lamb (Paška janjetina). The cheese, made from local sheep's milk, has a rich flavor and has won numerous international awards. The lamb boasts a distinctive taste due to the sheep's diet of salty island herbs. Additionally, Pag is celebrated for its traditional lace-making (Paška čipka), a craft recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.   🎉 Party Vibes and Serenity Combined Novalja Town on Pag Island is a renowned party destination in Croatia, especially Zrće Beach, famous for its vibrant nightlife and summer music festivals. Yet, the island also offers tranquil villages and beaches perfect for visitors seeking peace and relaxation.  ⸻ 3. How to Explore Pag Island? 🏖 Discover Stunning Beaches Pag Island boasts numerous beautiful beaches for all types of travelers: • Prosika Beach: Near Pag Town, well-equipped and family-friendly. • Čista Beach: Close to Kolan Village, featuring soft sand and crystal-clear water. • Ručica Beach: Near Metajna Village, surrounded by pristine nature, ideal for adventurous travelers.  🧀 Savor Local Delicacies Must-try foods include: • Paški sir: Cheese made from local sheep's milk, with a unique flavor. • Paška janjetina: Lamb with a distinct taste from the sheep's herb-rich diet. • Paška sol: High-quality sea salt harvested from the island's historic salt pans. 🎭 Experience Traditional Culture • Pag Carnival: Held annually in winter and summer, featuring traditional dances, music, and parades. • Pag Lace Festival: Showcasing the art of traditional lace-making. • Pag Cheese Festival: A chance to sample various cheeses and learn about cheese production. [Beach] Hidden Gem for Solitude This is a lesser-known island with few tourists. If you cherish solitude, you might find an entire beach and stretch of sea all to yourself. ⸻ 4. How to Get to Pag Island? ✈️ By Air The nearest airport is Zadar Airport, with direct flights from major European cities. From the airport, you can rent a car or take public transport to Pag Island. 🚗 By Car Pag Island is easily accessible via the Pag Bridge in the south. The drive from Zadar takes about an hour. ⛴ By Ferry The Prizna–Žigljen ferry connects the island's northern part to the mainland, with a 15-minute crossing—ideal for travelers coming from northern cities.  Highly recommended: Ride the ferry's top deck, feel the sea breeze, gaze into the clear waters, and experience the surreal journey to the "Moon Island." ⸻ 5. Cost Overview • Accommodation: Ranges from budget hostels to luxury resorts, starting at around €30 per night. • Dining: Local restaurants offer seafood and traditional dishes, with meals costing €15–€30 per person. • Entertainment: Clubs and music festivals at Zrće Beach have varying ticket prices; booking online in advance may offer discounts.  ⸻ 6. Conclusion Pag Island, with its unique natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse activities, is an unmissable destination in Croatia. Whether you seek serene beaches or lively nightlife, Pag Island has it all. When planning your European trip, be sure to include this "Moon Island" and experience its extraordinary charm.