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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Zadar

Although Zadar is one of Croatia’s lesser-known cities, this gorgeous spot along the Adriatic Coast has so much to offer. With a population of under 200,000, this small gem is packed with surprises and attractions you wouldn’t expect. Compared to the bustle in Dubrovnik, Zadar is a peaceful retreat away from the larger crowds.

This Zadar travel guide will be your insight into the city’s best activities and attractions, from Roman ruins to pristine beaches. Keep reading to find out what you can expect when you visit Zadar, Croatia, including the best tours to book and restaurants to eat at.

This ultimate travel guide to Zadar will show you all the most beautiful places in Zadar, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Zadar and things to do in Zadar which will help you in planning a trip to Zadar.

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Table of Contents

How to get to Zadar

Fortunately, there is a small international airport only eight kilometres from the centre of Zadar. There are an impressive number of connections to many nearby European cities, with more destinations being added in 2019. For 25 kn, you can easily catch a bus from the entrance of the airport to the city.

If you’re coming from a larger Croatian city or even Austria or Slovenia, there are buses that can take you right to Zadar. FlixBus is a reliable and affordable coach service that runs throughout Europe, so be sure to explore this option from your departure city.

From Zagreb, you can catch a train to Zadar with a transfer at Knin. During the summertime, there are also trains to Croatia from Vienna, Prague and Budapest, although you will again have to switch over at Knin for a local train to Zadar.

What to expect in Zadar

Croatian is the language spoken by locals in Zadar. However, most of the population along the coastline of Croatia are used to tourists and can speak English fairly well. You’ll be able to communicate easily with anyone you encounter in the tourism and hospitality industries.

Croatia’s currency is kuna (kn), although the country is expected to transition to the euro in the coming years. One kuna currently equals about 22 cents in Australian Dollars or 0.13 euro. Debit and credit cards are accepted at most places, so you won’t always need to carry banknotes with you.

Tipping isn’t necessary at bars or local cafes, although you can make the paying process easier by rounding up the bill to the nearest five or 10 kn. At fancy restaurants, however, tips of five to 10% are more common.

How to get around Zadar

All of Zadar’s Old Town is walkable, and it is rare to see any cars around. Unless your accommodation is further out, you’ll be able to explore most of the area on foot. To get to the Old Town, you can use any local taxi service, like Lulić Taxi.

The only form of public transport in Zadar is the bus, run by a company called Liburnija. Tickets cost 10 kn and can be pre-purchased at a kiosk or on board any bus. Buses run frequently between the Old Town, the main bus station, and throughout the suburbs.

The best time to visit Zadar

The Mediterranean climate of Zadar equals cold winters and warm, humid summers. The best time to stop by for a visit is anywhere between May to September.

You’re guaranteed the best possible weather between June and August, with average temperatures of 24 to 28 degrees Celsius. From November to March, however, there are rarely any days above 10 degrees Celsius, meaning you’ll miss out on any beach activities.

Things to do in Zadar

Wondering what to see and what to do in Zadar ? Here are some of the best ways to spend your time while visiting this charming Croatian city:

Zadar’s most unique attraction is the Sea Organ, designed in 2005 by the Croatian architect Nikola Bašić. Holes are drilled into marble steps along the shoreline, linking to 35 organ pipes below the surface of the water.

The crashing waves help to create magical tones that are simultaneously eerie and calming. If you ever hear faint mystical music in Zadar and wonder what’s going on, the noise is almost definitely coming from the Sea Organ!

Monument to the Sun

Another rare attraction in Zadar is the Monument to the Sun. This 22-metre diameter circle is constructed using 300 multi-layered glass plates with solar modules. At night, these plates are illuminated in various patterns and colours to illustrate the solar system.

Just like the Sea Organ, this solar-powered attraction was designed by Nikola Bašić. Stop by once the sun goes down to witness the dynamic display of light.

Roman Forum

Since ancient times, Zadar’s Roman Forum has been a popular public space for people to converge. Constructed between the first and third centuries, these former Roman ruins are now an open-air museum.

Although many surrounding buildings were destroyed during an earthquake in the sixth century, various elements still stand, including altars and benches. Stop by and wander through this historic spot opposite the Church of Saint Donatus.

Zadar Cathedral

The Cathedral of Saint Anastasia, better known as Zadar Cathedral, is the largest church in the Northern Dalmatia region of Croatia.

Its Romanesque appearance with round-spoked windows and arched details date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Inside the basilica is the marble-columned altar of the Saint Sacrament.

The cathedral’s bell tower was a later addition that took three centuries to construct, finishing up in the 1890s. For 15 kn, you can wander up to the top of the tower and look out over serene, uninterrupted views of the Adriatic Sea.

Kolovare Beach

Conveniently located near the city, Kolovare is one of the best beaches in Zadar, Croatia. The pebble sand haven is Blue Flag certified, meeting high standards of safety, cleanliness and accessibility.

The pine trees provide some welcome shade during the hot summer days, as do the ice cream parlours close by. You’ll find locals and tourists alike sharing a game of beach volleyball or water polo, so join in for an enjoyable Zadar beach experience.

The City Walls

The limestone walls around the city helped Zadar retain its independence during the 16th and 17th centuries while under threat by the Ottomans. Parts of the walls still remain, including some of the impressively-built gates.

Be on the lookout for the Land Gate, which is the official entrance into the Old Town . The Renaissance monument features a main arched entrance for vehicles with two side passages for pedestrians. Notice the winged Lion of Saint Mark statue at the top, as well as the other delicate motifs.

Five Wells Square

The historic landmarks known as the five wells allowed the city to have its own water supply during the 16th century. Today, Five Wells Square is a popular meeting point for locals of all ages.

Right next to the square is the Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, as well as many bars and restaurants. If you can, stop by at night when the wells are illuminated.

What to eat in Zadar

Curious about what kind of food is served up in Zadar? Here are some delicious local dishes you’ll want to try and where you can order them:

Restaurant Bruschetta is a mix of Mediterranean and Dalmatian culinary traditions. Try the squid or shrimp risotto, as well as a cold fish platter as an appetiser. As one of the fancier restaurants in Zadar, you can expect top-notch service and a beautifully-presented meal.

Proto also has an impressive range of vegetarian dishes and modern Croatian cuisine. Favourites include the spinach gnocchi, salmon pate, and black and white tuna. There’s even a speciality beef burger if you’re already missing the food back home.

Next door at Pet Bunara , you can enjoy a plate of pašticada, a popular stewed beef dish originating in Dalmatia. This restaurant specialises in giving classic Croatian and Dalmatian meals a unique twist, so spend your time looking at the menu thoroughly or ask your server for recommendations. You’ll find inventive dishes like ravioli with figs to black squid stew with chickpeas.

Where to stay in Zadar

Zadar may not be the biggest city, but there are still hundreds of different places you can stay at during your Zadar trip. Here are a few suggestions for Zadar hotels you’re sure to love. If hotels isn’t your jam, check our Airbnb options.

Art Hotel Kalelarga is one of a kind in Zadar and without a doubt one of the top accommodation choices. This art hotel is made up of 10 individually decorated rooms that create a unique atmosphere for guests.

Each room is spacious and impeccably designed with stone elements that will definitely impress you. Situated along the main promenade in the Old Town, the location couldn’t be more convenient as well.

For something more mid-range, you can’t go wrong at Villa Liburnum . The family-run bed and breakfast was built in 2013 in a peaceful area of Zadar. Enjoy your complimentary breakfast on the balcony overlooking the beautiful town below.

Although the property seems modest from the outside, the interiors are remarkably contemporary and provide all the modern features you’ll need. You’ll also find a ton of useful Zadar tourist information at reception if you need any last-minute pointers.

On a tight budget? Not a problem at Rooms Goga . This guest house is friendly on your bank account without you having to compromise on a thing. The vibrantly decorated spaces provide instant comfort, making you feel well and truly at home.

All rooms come with a fridge, kettle, TV, aircon, and free wifi, of course. Best of all, you’ll be right in the heart of the Old Town and walking distance from all of the best attractions and restaurants.

Tours to do in Zadar

As always, one of the best ways to experience any new city is by joining a walking tour. Zadar’s small group walking tour allows for a more personalised experience, giving you insider knowledge from a local rather than boring facts spouted at you.

The best part about this two-hour tour is the visit to the market, where you can taste local cheeses and Maraschino liqueur, the flavour of which originates from the Dalmatian coast. The places of worship and museums on the agenda require a smart casual dress code, so avoid any tank tops or short shorts.

If you don’t feel like walking, you can always bike instead. A two-and-a-half-hour cycling tour runs in both the morning and the afternoon, and is suitable for families. You’ll see as much as you possibly can in a short amount of time while learning about 3,000 years of Croatian history. Discover the city’s hidden secrets with your guide and be shown the most picturesque spots in Zadar.

A delicious half-day experience is a private food tour on Pag Island . The island is known for its culinary delicacies, from cheese, olive oil, honey and wine. You’ll get to taste all of these treats as you visit four farms and get to know all about their history and production.

Visiting Zadar with your partner? Don’t miss the romantic sunset sailing trip in the early evenings. The tour is complete with a bottle of wine and snacks like cheese, prosciutto and olives. With everything taken care of, you can sit back and relax for two hours as the sun goes down.

Day trips from Zadar

There are a handful of fantastic day trips you can take from Zadar that you’ll always remember. Among the top is a full-day tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park . Discover some of the tranquil terraced lakes, picturesque waterfalls, and marvellous limestone canyons.

On a four-hour-tour, your guide will introduce you to the local fauna and flora of the area as you stroll through the heavenly forest. Later on, take a boat tour along the turquoise-green Kozjak Lake.

The next best place to go to from Zadar is the Kornati archipelago . Depending on your interests, you can board a cruise towards Telašćica National Park and do some swim ming along the coast. Afterwards, you’ll have the chance to learn the basics of sailing from your skipper.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, go on a sea kayaking tour to the Kornati Islands. Hopping off the passenger boat in Sali, you’ll bike to the southern tip of Dugi Otok before getting the rundown and having your gear fitted.

You’ll have some time for snorkelling and swimming as well, but lunch isn’t provided, so remember to bring a picnic with you.

If you’ve already seen Plitvice, why not head to Krka National Park next? You’ll instantly agree that Krka is one of the most naturally beautiful places in the world, and it’s only an hour south of Zadar!

From Skradin, you’ll take a 30-minute boat ride into the park grounds. Follow your guide through the winding, picture-perfect nature trails and marvel at the incredible Skradinski Buk Falls, the longest of the park’s seven main waterfalls.

Birdwatching is a popular activity here, and you’ll learn a lot about the local animals that call Krka home. As a bonus, you’ll get to visit the traditional mills in the park and see the weaving workshops.

Recommended budget tours in Zadar

• Excursion to Kornati National Park from Zadar
• Zadar Market Tour and Cooking Class
• Zadar Small-Group Walking Tour
• Zadar Romantic Sunset Sailing Trip
• Plitvice Lakes National Park Full-Day Tour from Zadar
• Kayak tour on Dugi Otok – full day
• Pag Island Private Food Tour
• Krka National Park Full-Day Tour from Zadar

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Home > A Local’s Guide On Things To Do In Zadar, Croatia

A Local’s Guide On Things To Do In Zadar, Croatia

Written by our local expert Mate

Mate is Croatian and owns a transport company in the Balkans, he has visited over 30 countries. He is an expert on all things transportation as well as food and wine.

I have lived in Zadar for a decade, and it’s changed significantly in those ten years. But one thing that has not changed is its beauty. Ever wondered about all of the top things to do in Zadar? We have a few suggestions on what to see and do in Zadar – our hometown!

Zadar isn’t as well known as its coastal neighbors like Split , the famed walled city of Dubrovnik , or even  the capital, Zagreb . It has been overlooked as a destination by many people traveling to Croatia , but that’s a mistake.

Let me tell you that this ancient seaside city is jam-packed with incredible sights. I know; it’s my hometown!

Zadar is the second-largest city in Dalmatia and one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Now it’s time to share my hometown of Zadar and give her a moment to shine on Chasing the Donkey.

This is our guide on what to do in Zadar, what to see in Zadar, including all the major Zadar sights, and suggestions on where to lay your head after all the sightseeing.

Warning: this Zadar Croatia travel guide is long, very long.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Top Things To Do In Zadar, Croatia

There is no shortage of things to see and do in Zadar; here are just a few ideas to get you started:

1. The Sea Organ

One of the best things to see in Zadar is the Sea Organ. The magic of the Sea Organ, known as the Morske orgulje in Croatian, is mesmerizing. Okay, it’s not real magic.

The music comes from the waves. The waves push air through 35 underwater pipes stretching across 70 meters, and the sound pops up all along the waterfront promenade known as the Riva.

Now, I know I said it was an organ, and it is; I don’t think you can make a song request or even expect to hear anything you’ll recognize. Because it’s nature, the notes played are a touch haunting, very enchanting but always relaxing.

The Sea Organ, created by Croatian architect Nikola Bašićis, is a harmonious mix of modern design and nature. Sit on the broad marble steps that flank the water or along the long rows of bench seating. It’s an area you can enjoy all year round.

We always love taking our friends to see the Sea Organ, which never ceases to amaze our visitors. On a hot summer day, we pack towels because this inevitably happens.

Being one of the significant Zadar attractions, the Sea Organ is busiest at sunset, with hordes of photographers and sungazers waiting to see one of the famous sunsets. This is one of the top 5 things to do in Zadar.

And we recommend you get ice cream from Slasticarna Donat . It’s the best ice cream in town. Now, I can’t recommend a flavor because there are far too many. I can only suggest you close your eyes and point and take what you get. Once you have your ice cream, you can sit along the steps and enjoy the show.

2. Greeting To The Sun

After you’ve watched the sunset, turn to your right, and just next door is a solar-powered work of art that explodes with an array of brightly colored lights – The Greeting to the Sun. Tap dance, tip-toe, or waltz across its glass surface as it changes hues.

The Greeting to the Sun consists of 300 multi-layer glass plates in the shape of a circle 22 meters in diameter. It is conceived as a spatial installation in the form of an amphitheater surrounded by stone blocks with a presentation of all Solar System planets and their orbits.

This light display is one of many great family activities when traveling with children in Croatia . The same artist who created the Sea Organ also created the Greeting to the Sun and made something uber-cool again.

3. Catch A Sunset On The Riva

It’s well known that Croatia is the home of the world’s best sunset. Well, that is at least according to Alfred Hitchcock, who in 1964 was staying in room 204 of the now closed Hotel Zagreb along the Riva in Zadar and claimed:

“The sunset of Zadar is the world’s most beautiful and incomparably better than in Key West, Florida.”

Make sure to see it for yourself!

4. Take A Zadar Food And Wine Tour

If you want something unique and interactive, a food and wine tour + cooking class might be just what your taste buds need. We loved this tour so much that we devoted a particular post to our experience . Check it out for an overview of foods and wines you can expect to sample from the Zadar region .

Additionally, for more culinary delights, joining a cooking class in Zadar is also an unforgettable experience.

5. Explore The Top Wineries In Zadar On Your Own

If wine is your scene, then there are a few wineries not to be missed. We dedicated an entire post on the region’s top wineries and what to drink here.

6. Museum Of Ancient Glass

One of our favorite museums in Zadar is this one. This museum is home to numerous glass artifacts, some of them dating as far back as the 1st century and others that were created far more recently.  

Demonstrations of various glass-working techniques, including bead making and glass blowing, are also held at this spot. Visitors can easily stroll the halls, where additional exhibits touch on such topics as the origins and history of glass.

A visit to the Ancient Museum of Glass in Zadar is an absolute must-do when you visit Zadar. Moreover, because the museum continuously organizes new events and houses temporary exhibitions, you can always go back for round two or three, even if you have been once. 

Tickets are inexpensive, and the displays have cards with information in English, so you can easily walk the museum on your own without a guide.

7. Gold & Silver Museum

Another of our favorite Zadar museums is this one. Head to the church of St Mary’s, and then turn left. There, you’ll see a small door selling tickets. The Benedictine nuns have preserved this museum with priceless treasures and have been since WWII.

The priceless treasures are so well maintained for items that are centuries old. Of particular note are fabrics embroidered with golden threads made by local nuns, crowns, and a set of hands of several saints enclosed in gold.

8. The Museum Of Illusions Zadar

This fascinating museum is where you can have a mind-blowing adventure where nothing is like it seems. At the museum, your senses will be tested, your brain challenged, and most importantly, you will have an absolute blast.

You may have already heard about the one in Zagreb , but the one in Zadar is different. The Zadar Museum of Illusions brings many new exhibits, including a bamboozling vortex tunnel, the first of this type in the region, a room of mirrors that distort everything providing a unique perspective on reality, a room with a chair that changes the perception of the size of people and will have you scratching your head wondering what is going on.

As if that was not already enough fun, in the museum, you can defy gravity and walk on the wall of a room. Just like Spiderman! And, for anyone wanting to test their brain, there are several didactic puzzles that will challenge even the sharpest of sharp minds.

9. Tentative UNESCO Site – Episcopal Complex

The Episcopal Complex area that was proposed to be included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Croatia lies in the historic heart of Zadar . This is a popular attraction in Zadar , located within the Old Town.

It comprises several historic buildings, including the iconic Roman Forum with its temple ruins; the Archaeological Museum ; and the Episcopal Complex itself, which consists of the St. Donatus Church , the Cathedral of St. Anastasia , and the Archbishop’s Palace , among various other structures.

The Episcopal Complex is so remarkable because it offers an architectural timeline of Zadar’s history, from Roman times to the Middle Ages and modern times. The history of Zadar dates back to Roman times. In the 1 st century B.C., the settlement became a Roman colony, which resulted in a new layout according to Roman town planning principles with longitudinal and transversal streets that divided the town into rectangular building blocks and squares.

Here’s a bit more about the buildings included in the Episcopal Complex:

Roman Forum

As a kid from Sydney, I had never seen anything like it. It really got me thinking about the world, its many ancient sites. This is where I got my inspiration to travel.

The Forum in Zadar is located in the heart of Old Town Zadar, where passersby can walk among the remains of the Romans. The Forum was established by the Emperor Augustus and was built from the 1st century BC to the 3rd century AD. It’s is located beside St. Donat’s Church.

Why not relax at one of the cafes in the Forum and take in the history and gorgeous architecture of the area? 

Local tip: Look at the foundations of St. Donat’s church, and you will see the remains of Roman structures that were reused.

Archaeological Museum

Found across the street from St. Donat’s Church, this museum provides travelers with some background information on Croatia’s history, from prehistoric times to around the Middle Ages. The museum is very well organized, and excellent English translations accompany most of the displays.

You will want to allow several hours for your visit. 

St. Anastasia’s Cathedral

Head up high to the viewing area. Once there, you’ll have magnificent panoramic views across the St. Donat’s Church and Roman Forum and the Velebit Mountains.

Most travelers visit for the magnificent views from the bell tower. Climbing this structure is a feat not for the faint of heart or the mobility impaired because the steps are very steep. Admission to the bell tower costs only a few euros. Travelers should note that this portion of the site remains closed on Sundays and holidays.

If you choose not to climb the bell tower, you can still enjoy its beauty from the outside, especially at night when the lights inside are on, streaming out from all of the tower windows. 

St. Donat’s Church

Those interested in architecture and still wondering what to see in Zadar will want to make their way over to this church because it is widely considered among the finest examples of Byzantine church architecture.

The rounded interior is designed so that the light that falls into the sanctuary creates varied patterns at different times of the day. However, because the inside of the building is somewhat plainly decorated compared to the exterior, those of you who are not architecture enthusiasts may only want to view the building from the outside rather than venturing in.

Once night falls during the summer; you can enjoy the sounds of the Musical Nights Festival . This classical music festival runs from July to August each year, bringing the 9th-century St. Donat’s Church and Roman Forum to life.

10. Narodni Trg (People’s Square)

This square has been at the center of public life in Zadar for generations, as far back as the middle ages. Even today, people use it as a meeting point. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes. Sit down, relax, and watch the world go by, or discover Zadar with this fun, interactive new game – Jadera Secrets – that starts in the Peoples Square and literally walks you through the Old Town’s history.

While in the square, snap a picture of the city sentinel’s clock tower – it’s quite the sight!

11. Venetian Works Of Defense – Grimaldi Bastion

The city walls , with a series of powerful bastions, were added to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Croatia in 2017 as part of the Venetian Works of Defense. These works stretch out across three countries—Croatia, Italy, and Montenegro . The site comprises six different defense works extending over 1,000 kilometers along the eastern Adriatic coast. Together, they made up the so-called ‘Serenissima’ in the 16 th and 17 th centuries, the most crucial era in the history of the Venetian Republic.

Grimaldi Bastion along with the Land Gate are great examples in Zadar. 

Here’s a little more on the Zadar Venetian Works of Defense & Surrounding Area:

Queen Jelena Madijevka Park & Grimaldi Bastion

Queen Jelena Madijevka Park is the city’s oldest public park, and it leads directly to the Land Gate and the entrance to Old Town. The park was built on top of the city’s fortification military structure – the Grimaldi Bastion by Five Wells Square. As the park sits higher than Old Town, it’s quite a unique chance to enjoy Dalmatian flora while admiring excellent views of the city and harbor.

Foša Land Gate Zadar

People often ask me about things to see in Zadar. To me, no visit to Zadar is complete without looking at (and a photo of) the Land Gate located next to the port of Foša. Built by the Venetians in 1543, this massive Zadar city gate served as the main entry into the city. An excellent example of the Venetian Republic Lion is at the top of the gate.

Five Wells Square

While checking out Queen Jelena Madijevka Park and the Land Gate, make sure to see Five Wells Square, where the Venetians created a drinking cistern for the city, using a design of 5 wells in the same square (hence the name). 

These wells still stand today and are a cool way to understand the way life was led in the past. 

12. Take A Romantic Boat Ride Across The Jazine

The Jazine harbor has a footbridge connecting the main area of Zadar to Old Town, which takes about 20 minutes to travel by foot. However, if you are in the mood for a more romantic crossing, consider hiring the little red boat (locally know as barkarjol), rowed by barkarjoli, to take you across. It’s cheap and historic – someone has been rowing this style of boat here for 800 years.

To find the boat, head to thejetty by the Tankerkomerc building on the mainland side of the footbridge.

13. Zadar Pijaca

The Zadar Pijaca (market) has been operating since the Middle Ages and is quite large by Dalmatian standards. It’s your typical market with fresh food and vegetables. Pick up some famous Pag cheese (Paski Sir)  from one of the local producers or try out the award-winning Gligora cheese.

If you get to the Pijaca, don’t miss the Peskarija (fish market). This place has a wide variety of fish available and changes daily. If you’re staying in Zadar and have a kitchen at your disposal, the Pijaca and Peskarija are where you can pick up everything you need to try and cook some Croatian recipes .

14. Church Of St. Simeon

This church is famous for the silver casket found at the church’s altar where legend says the mummified body of St. Simeon was finally laid to rest. 

The casket contains many detailed inscriptions and reliefs, and is considered to be the most valuable work of Medieval goldsmith art in Croatia. The Chest of St. Simeon was made in 1380 from embossed silver sheet metal by the goldsmith Franciscus de Mediolano, who had a workshop in Zadar

15. The Sphinx

Yes, you read it right; there is a sphinx in Zadar. This sphinx, however, was not built by the Ancient Egyptians but made by a local artist named Giovani Smirich.

He had the sphinx built in 1918 after the death of his wife as a memorial to her. Interestingly, this sphinx is distinctly different from its Egyptian relatives in that it’s made of concrete and has fingers instead of paws. You’ll find the sphinx in the garden of Villa Attilia, located in the bay of Maestral, which is in Brodarica.

It’s quite a walk to get there, so make sure you wear some comfy travel shoes.

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What to do around zadar: day trips from zadar.

The Zadar region extends many kilometers around Zadar Old Town – and it’s effortless to get around by car or private transfer .

Here are some short day trip ideas you can take and ideas for things to see around Zadar:

Paklenica National Park

Paklenica National Park is about a 40-minute drive from Zadar. All you need to do is  follow the signs to Starigrad Paklenica , which is the location of the entrance to the park. Paklenica National Park is utterly beautiful and really popular with climbers and hikers. We strongly recommend this as one of your day trips from Zadar.

The park was established in 1949 and is Croatia’s second-oldest national park, behind Plitvice Lakes National Park  in Northern Dalmatia.

Paklenica National Park is 95 km2 and consists of two dolomite limestone canyons called Velika (Big) Paklenica & Mala (Small) Paklenica in the Velebit M ountains, which is Croatia’s most extensive mountain range . Mrs. CtD always says that the Velebit often looks like a Hollywood backdrop on a clear day.

The park has around 150km of hiking trails , which will ultimately take you up to the highest peak of Vaganski Vrh at 1,757 meters if you have the legs for it. The mountains rise sharply from the sea, and while the park initially looks very rocky, you’ll be surprised to find out that 75% of the national park is, in fact, primarily beech and black pine forest.

• Starigrad Paklenica Jeep Safari

Add  the first capital of Croatia, Nin , to your list for another great day trip from Zadar. It’s only 15 km from Zadar, so the drive is conveniently short. Alternatively, you can easily catch a bus as well.

The town of Nin has a long history, 3,000 years, in fact, which is evident when you walk through the town. Nin town center is located on a small island in the middle of a shallow lagoon and is connected to the mainland by two stone bridges.

Make sure you check out the Roman ruins, including the mosaic tiles that were discovered, rub Gregory of Nin’s (ninski Grgur) toe for good luck, visit Solana Nin to learn how salt has been produced for centuries and don’t forget to get a photo at the church of Saint Nicholas.

Krka National Park

One of the most scenic parts of Dalmatia is undoubtedly the famous Krka National Park . Few places in Europe are as naturally beautiful, and with the mighty Krka River running through it, there are some spectacular waterfalls to check out.

These are, without a doubt, some of the most iconic features of the region overall. They were even featured in Game of Thrones . Especially Skradinski Buk, the most spectacular of all Krka National Park waterfalls, even beats all of Plitvice Lakes’ waterfalls in terms of size and volume.

It’s one of the best day trips from Zadar!

• Getting From Zadar To Krka National Park

Kornati National Park

Stretching along the central part of the Croatian Adriatic are the Kornati Islands . If you’re in Zadar, you absolutely have to go and see the Kornati Islands for yourself. 

The Kornati Islands were designated a national park in 1980. The park comprises 89 islands, islets, and reefs and is perfect for sailing or cruising . The islands are very barren and rocky, with little vegetation on them.

The Adriatic Sea is at its glorious best in the park, crystal clear, and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving . Also, some cool remote restaurants are scattered throughout the Kornati Islands that can only be reached by boat. One of the best restaurants is Konoba Opat.

Explore The Islands Of Zadar

The Zadar archipelago has hundreds of islands, most of which are not inhabited. This region’s islands, sea, and coastline are absolutely stunning and best seen by boat . We have previously spent a week sailing through the Zadar archipelago and had an incredible time.

One of the highlights was stopping at an islet between Molat and Silba and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic with no one in sight. The Adriatic was ours for that moment in time; definitely a unique experience.

If you don’t have a boat, it’s easy to take a ferry to the family-friendly islands near Zadar . Numerous ferries are leaving daily. They make going on day trips from Zadar a piece of cake. The islands I would suggest are Dugi Otok (for Telašćica Nature Park, see below), Ugljan, Pašman, Molat, Iz, and Ist.

Pag Island is perfect for Zadar day trips because it’s connected to the mainland by a bridge, so it’s easy to reach. Pag Island is famous for clubbing in Zrce, Pag Cheese (Paski sir), sheep, and lace.

If you’re young and into partying all night long, Zrce is undoubtedly the place for you. Through summer, they have clubs that operate 24/7. Aquarius and Papaya are the two big clubs, and throughout summer, there are numerous events with the world’s biggest DJs playing.

An absolute must-try – Pag cheese (Paski Sir).

It’s a sheep’s milk cheese, and what makes it so good is the milk that comes from the Pag ewes. They live on a diet of wild grass and herbs, which imparts a unique flavor to the milk and, in turn, the cheese.

You can try the cheese at roadside stalls from local producers or go to Kolan for a factory tour at the  award-winning Gligora Dairy as we did . Afterward, head to the tasting room and try the variety of cheeses they offer.

Telašćica Nature Park

Telašćica Nature Park is located on Dugi Otok and consists of thirteen islands, islets, and reefs and is a popular destination for boat enthusiasts and day trips from Zadar . Telašćica Nature Park is known for its massive cliffs that plunge into the Adriatic and the unique Salt Lake Mir, which is said to have curative properties.

We have been to Telašćica many times, and it’s a great day trip . We love swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear bay. Oh, and I must mention the local donkeys that wander the park, who are extremely friendly!

Benkovac Farmers Market

The Benkovac Farmers Market is held on the 10th of every month, and many locals make day trips from Zadar to get to this massive market . Benkovac market is all about locals picking up monthly supplies for rock-bottom prices.

You can buy almost anything in this market, from livestock and food to clothes and tractors. This market has basic facilities, so don’t expect pretty cafes and soy caramel cappuccinos to be available. Many years ago, Mrs. CtD tried to convince me to buy her a donkey on our visit.

Don’t leave without eating some spit-roasted lamb, though. It’s mouthwateringly delicious!

A few kilometers from Benkovac are the remains of the ancient town of Asseria.

The Liburnians built this town, then later taken over by the Romans, and it was an important position on the route between present-day Zadar and Split , as well as other regional municipalities. The remains are 600 by 150 meters, and much of the site is yet to be excavated. However, plenty remains to see with the three-meter-thick ramparts and cippi (Liburnian carved tombstones).

Rafting & Kayaking The Zrmanja And Krupa Rivers

We always recommend rafting or kayaking along Croatia’s most beautiful rivers in crystal-clear waters.

They’re surrounded by a karst canyon that makes it easy on the eyes and fun!  Almost anyone can do this activity because it requires no experience whatsoever. This is definitely a great activity if you’re visiting Croatia with kids. Rafting will get you up close and personal with nature, and you can even swim under the Krupa waterfalls.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

In just under two hours, you can be at the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park .

Plitvice Lakes is a National Park, and in 1979 was awarded recognition as a  UNESCO world heritage site . This UNESCO site has sixteen lakes and a series of gushing waterfalls. The lakes are famous for their stunning colors, which change from shades of teal, turquoise, and dark blues to grays throughout the year. The shades vary due to the number of minerals or organisms in the water.

The Best Beaches In Zadar

Zadar County is home to many beaches (including a few hidden gems!). Here are just a few we love:

Kolovare Beach

Kolovare is a public beach in Zadar City. This Zadar beach is clean (Blue Flag status, to be exact!) and has all the necessary facilities, including showers, toilets, changing stalls, lounge chairs, and beautiful pine woods that provide excellent shade when the sun gets toasty.

This beach is ideal for families with children or teens, as the water sports options and other activities are endless. Get your kiddos excited with a game of beach volleyball or ping pong, a chance to parasail or ride water bikes, or even take a short cruise on a yacht or catamaran. Plus, given its proximity to the Old Town, you still have all the restaurants, bars, and shopping at your fingertips.

Borik Beach

Borik Beach lies four kilometers from the Old Town of Zadar, and buses are a convenient transportation to and from its sandy/pebble shores. It’s part of the Falkensteiner Resort, which has a family holiday vibe and is a favorite Zadar beach.

They have geared the beach so that the children can be entertained. The beach itself is shallow with a sandy bottom . Borik Beach Zadar also has all the facilities you’ll need for a day out, such as food and drinks, toilets, changing stalls, and showers if you want to wash the sandy sea from your skin before dinner in the Zadar city center.

Diklo Beach

Further west from Borik, you will find Diklo. This area of the seashore is less touristy than Borik, and visitors love the relaxed, quiet vibe of the area. Diklo has a few beaches that are all pebbly. Scattered along the way, visitors will find cafes, restaurants, and various vendors selling food and drink.

The waterfront is clean, making it great for families on holiday . The area also hosts many sporting events in the Zadar region, an excellent place for participating in a few water sports activities while in Croatia .

Explore Beaches Further Away

Zadar County is blessed with numerous stunning beaches . Here  are the best beaches in the Zadar region:

Petrćane Beach

Petrćane is a beautiful village located between Nin and Zadar. The town has a stunning harbor and boasts many pebble and concrete beaches for visitors to enjoy. Once in the water, sandy floors make these great beaches for families. The waterfronts along this village are also perfect for those seeking recreational sports on holiday.

Complete with restaurants, hotels, and ways to easily travel to Zadar for additional cultural sightseeing, the village of Petrćane has become a tourist destination visitors choose as their home base when exploring the Zadar region. This is one of my favorite Zadar beaches.

Zaton Beach

Zaton Beach is quite possibly one of the most extensive beaches in the Zadar region and another with the desired Blue Flag status. You will find these sandy/pebble shores just west of Zadar. Beach day equipment is available for rent, including scooters, and bar and food choices are nearby for those needing refreshments.

This beach is part of the famous Zaton Holiday Resort , which has received excellent reviews from families with children. The use of the resort’s nearby pools and slides are also available. This Zadar beach is definitely one for the family.

Queens Beach Nin

We can’t leave the famous sandy Queens Beach of Nin off our list. This three-kilometer stretch of sand near the town of Nin runs along the Privlaka peninsula and is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is an excellent beach for families with small children, as it has been awarded Blue Flag status for its cleanliness. The waters are shallow, while the sand is ready for castle building.

If you are looking for something more unique to do while visiting Queens Beach, go kite-surfing or find the peloids of Nin to apply to your skin, a healthy mud known worldwide for its incredible benefits for skin and other ailments. Many people use this Zadar beach in summer, so get in early and grab your spot.

Pisak And Kulin Riviera

Pisak and Kulin are beautiful natural pebble beaches located on the Starigrad Paklenica Riviera shore in northwest Zadar.

If your holiday plans include visiting Paklenica National Park for a few days, a stop at these beaches is worth considering. The beaches are known for being family-friendly. Kulin is one of the top ten beaches of the Adriatic, while Pisak is known for its crystal-clear waters.

The area along the Riviera, at the foot of the Velebit mountains, provides stunning natural beauty and shade from pine and beech trees. If you’re in Paklenica , this should be your go-to beach.

Sakarun Beach

Leave the city behind with a day at Sakarun Beach. About thirty kilometers west of Sali on Dugi Otok, this pebble/sand beach is one of the most beautiful in the region and arguably even Croatia. Shallow waters bring warmer sea temperatures and the opportunity to walk far into the bay. Grab your snorkel gear and a towel to spend the day here.

Cocktails and bites to eat are available at two locations along the shore, and a train also makes a stop here should you need public transport. This Zadar beach is just stunning.

Zlatna Luka Beach, Sukosan

In Sukosan, just southeast of Zadar, is Zlatna Luka Beach, a pebble beach along a road featuring palm and pine trees, chemical toilets, showers, and changing rooms.

This is an excellent destination if you want to escape busy Zadar for an afternoon and relax on a quiet-ish beach .

Additionally, this is also the location of the Zlatna Luka Diving Center, which organizes diving excursions to the spectacular Kornati National Park.

Duboka Draga

Located in Vrsi, this beach can be hard to find, but worth the effort if you dare! This wholly wild and natural beach , away from the city and the villages, is where you’ll find a beautiful view of Velebit Mountain .

This beach is accessible only by car, and there isn’t much room for many people to laze about. The sea here is extremely enticing, even though there are no facilities at the beach.

To access the beach, you need to walk a long distance along a stony path – but it is absolutely worth it once there.

Where To Stay In Zadar: Find Zadar Accommodation

If you’re looking for a hotel in Zadar or any other type of Zadar accommodation, we have selected the best in each category for you to choose from in this post about where to stay in Zadar here.

Where To Eat In Zadar: Our Fave Zadar Restaurants

You’ve made the journey to Zadar and now need to know where to eat. Given this is our hometown, we have some great tips for you. These are the restaurants in Zadar that we recommend.

Restaurant Foša

If you are looking for something a bit more upmarket, Foša is the restaurant for you. Serving traditional Dalmatian food with a bit of a modern twist, this place specializes in fish and has a huge Croatian wine list to go with it. More than 120 varieties! Located in the little Foša harbor of Old Town, after which this restaurant is named, enjoy breathtaking Adriatic Sea views from the terrace. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a big night out. This is one of my favorite Zadar restaurants.

Restaurant Bruschetta

Known for its beautiful plates of hearty Mediterranean and Dalmatian cuisine, enjoy lunch or dinner at this establishment. The menu has excellent options for all palates, from pizza to octopus salad , and the prices are reasonable. House wines are delicious and come highly recommended. Enjoy dining indoors or take a seat on the charming patio. Free Wi-Fi is available if you need to catch up on a few emails or post some holiday shots online. This is the Zadar restaurant we love for pasta dishes.

You’re in for a real treat when dining at Pet Bunara. Serving up a fusion of contemporary dishes alongside Mediterranean meals, stop in for lunch, dinner, or simply a glass of delicious house wine. The prices are reasonable, the staff are knowledgeable, and the service is fantastic. Whether you want a romantic evening or a family dinner, this charming and cozy restaurant does it right.

Nostalgie Restaurant

Located in the heart of the Zadar Old Town, Nostalgie Restaurant is a well-rated restaurant in a relatively quiet area. People appreciate the service, decor, ambiance, and location. Its menu features a variety of dishes, but there is a main focus on fish and seafood . Order a seafood platter, fish soup, ravioli with crab filling, or tuna steak, sit back, and enjoy an evening in a typically Dalmatian restaurant.

Konoba Pece

As one of the best konobas in the region, this gem sits on a hilltop in the little hamlet of Vinjerec, just north of Zadar. The interior may seem a bit plain, but don’t let that fool you. The food that is served here is unlike anything you’ve tried before. Fish are caught fresh daily, and the dishes prepared with them are delightful and flavorful. If you love seafood, this konoba is an absolute must!

Local Tip: Book in advance and ask for a table on the terrace because the view is absolutely breathtaking.

Bon Appetit

Bon Appetit has already made a name for itself as one of the “must-try eateries” in the city. This popular and well-rated restaurant serves modern Mediterranean and Dalmatian food, including fresh fish, pork ribs, and excellent wines. You can dine in the cozy atmosphere of its interior or sit outside overlooking the waterfront at sunset.

Restaurant/pizzeria 4 Kantuna lies in the very heart of the Old Town of Zadar and is a beautiful place for a hearty dinner after a long day of exploring. The restaurant’s menu is almost overwhelmingly extensive and features a modern interior design. There’s everything from portions of pasta, risotto, bruschettas, and salads to fish and seafood, steaks, and lamb chops. The star of the menu, however, is the pizzas.

Not technically in the restaurant in the strictest sense of the word, ART Kavana is a superb pastry, dessert, and cake shop. If you didn’t order dessert with dinner and suddenly find yourself craving something sweet, there’s no better place to go in Zadar than this one.

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Best Coffee In Zadar

Get ideas on where to get a cup of joe & cake in Zadar.

Coffee and Cake

This well-rated and ever-so-popular establishment features a warm and cozy space where the coffee is tasty, and cakes are homemade. Sit inside, or choose a table on the terrace for world-class people-watching. Situated in the middle of the Old Town, it’s the perfect place to rest your legs during a long exploratory walk in the afternoon. Follow the page here. 

A favorite meeting place for locals, this cafe is perfect for grabbing an afternoon coffee. Enjoy seating on the terrace and prices that won’t break the bank.

Cool Bars In Zadar

Here are a few bars in Zadar for you to enjoy a cold drink!

After wandering about Zadar’s Old Town, why not pop into Deja Brew, a bar in Zadar that has live music and a killer selection of drinks? At Deja Brew, you can choose from 9 beers on tap, 57 beers, 76 whiskeys, 15 gins, 13 vodkas, 9 Tequilas, and 17 rums, and kick back and enjoy the low-key, laid-back vibe. All cocktails are made from scratch; no premise sugar mixes here like many other bars.

Lounge & Bar Ledana

This bar’s live music, outdoor seating, and chilled vibe make it a favorite in the city. Found in the garden of Queen Jelena Park, it boasts multiple terraces for watching performances while sipping a refreshing beverage. The neon lighting gives it a funky atmosphere at night; sun lovers will enjoy soaking up the rays in the afternoon.

Beach Bar Bamboo

If you find yourself at Beach Diklo for the day, definitely grab a cocktail at Beach Bar Bamboo. Taking in city view while relaxing in loungers by the sea, it will make your beachy day complete. 

Lounge on sofas atop the old city walls at The Garden while listening to all forms of jazz, dub, electronica, and Latin music. Gaze over the harbor while enjoying a pre-dinner drink or spend the evening in the open air, watching the sun drop to the chill tunes.

Tequila Sunrise Beach Bar

Described as a hidden gem of Croatia by a fellow blogger, this unpretentious bar has a prime waterfront location about 30 minutes on foot from Old Town Zadar. Skip the crowds, and grab a bite and a cold beverage at this local hangout while catching one of Zadar’s beautiful sunsets.

Zadar Events And Festivals

One of the unique Zadar events, Škraping, is an international trekking race on sharp island rocks. It takes place in March every year, and its name comes from the local term for the sharp rocks. Over 1,000 competitors from all over Europe join in the challenge, and media and guests can watch. Climbing, jumping, walking, open-space orienteering, and adventure tourism are the main characteristics of this international event.

Musical Evening In St. Donat

A series of concerts performed by outstanding Croatian and international ensembles (both in the orchestral and soloist categories) can be enjoyed during July and August. Visitors and locals alike can purchase tickets for each evening’s performance for this cultural experience.

Full Moon Festival

If you are in Zadar during the summer on the night of a full moon, head to the Riva. The lights along the Riva are turned off at night, and instead, torches and candles are lit up, casting off a magical yellow glow alongside the sea. 

As you walk the Riva, boats will sell fish along with other local wares. 

Fig Festival

Since the first fig tree arrived in Dalmatia figs, have been produced in abundance. The annual Zadar Fig Festival takes place every September and involves tasting all manner of delicious fig-related snacks!

Spanning over three days, the Fig Festival involves workshops, tastings, and the opportunity to buy mouth-watering products.

Friday Festice

This fun, free festival takes place each Friday from June to September. The streets of Old Town will transport you back in time with festive klapa singing groups along with loads of traditional snacks, drinks and stalls selling Dalmatian treats. 

Zrce Beach Festivals, Novalja

Throughout the summer, Zrce Beach comes to life with numerous electronic music festivals drawing tens of thousands of party-goers from across the globe to see the best international DJs. Some of the biggest festivals worth attending are the Hideout Festival, Sonus Festival, Black Sheep Festival, and Spring Break Europe. If you need an airport transfer to one of these festivals, we can get you there with our new Airport Transfer Business.

How To Get To Zadar

• Air:   Zadar has its airport , so book flights directly to Zadar if traveling by plane. Many international flight options are available to Zadar from starting locations all over Europe. You can also use Croatia Airlines to book short flights to Zadar from other Croatia airports. The airport is located approximately 8 kilometers from town, so further transit (via car, bus, private transfer , or taxi) is necessary upon arrival
• Bus:  Transport via bus is available from Croatia’s main towns – Zagreb , Dubrovnik, Split, Rijeka, and more. If you fly into another of Croatia’s airports to start your holiday elsewhere, use the Zadar Bus Website to locate the bus line and timetable that fit your needs
• Ferry: Not only can you hop on a ferry to Zadar from nearby islands (Dugi Otok, Silba, Mali Losinj, Rava, and Ugljan), but you also can take an overnight ferry service from Italy to reach Croatian shores. Local tip: The ferry from Italy only stops in Zadar during the summer months of June to September. So, if visiting during other months, opt for the year-round ferry to Split and then travel by bus or car to Zadar
• Car: If you enjoy taking in the countryside at your own pace and enjoy the adventure of driving new roads while on holiday, renting a car is always an attractive option—no need to wait for public transport time schedules. A drive from Split will average shy of two hours, while a trip from Zagreb will take around three hours. Stop along the way when the fancy strikes you, and have transportation at your beck and call all holiday! Not to mention, you can drive the quick 90 minutes to Plitvice Lakes National Park once you’ve arrived

Zadar Airport

Zadar Airport (ZAD) is located in Zemunik Donji. It offers various flight options to both domestic and international destinations. Some popular destinations that you can fly to from Zadar Airport include:

• Domestic Destinations within Croatia: Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Pula, and Rijeka
• European Destinations: Frankfurt, London, Munich, Vienna, Warsaw, Stockholm, Oslo, Brussels, Rome, Paris, Barcelona, Dublin, and many more
• Seasonal Charter Destinations: During the summer season, Zadar Airport also offers charter flights to popular vacation destinations in countries such as using Ryanair to fly to Vienna, Sofia, Hamburg, Marseille, Bucharest, Liverpool, Aarhus, Stockholm, Rzeszów, Berlin, Budapest, Bremen, Bournemouth, Frankfurt Hahn, Manchester, Munster, Birmingham, Newcastle, Pisa, Rome, Turin, Bologna, Leeds Bradford, Bordeaux, Edinburgh, Milan Malpensa, and Paris Beauvais

It’s important to note that flight routes and destinations may vary depending on the airline and the season. It’s always best to check with airlines or travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight options from Zadar Airport.

Traveling To Further Destinations

Traveling after a visit to Zadar is as easy as catching any of the ferries , buses, trains, or planes that initially got you to the city.

Dubrovnik, Split & Zagreb

Daily buses leave Zadar to Dubrovnik, Zadar to Split, and Zadar to Zagreb .

Dalmatian Coast Islands

Zadar is a great home base for visiting the beautiful Dalmatian coast islands, easily accessible by ferry or boat hire. Our favorites include Pag , Kornati Islands (Local Tip. Eat at Konoba Opat), and Dugi Otok . Dugi Otok is where we spotted our first donkeys , inspiring the name of this blog.

Plitvice Lakes

Zadar is also an excellent starting point for exploring Plitvice Lakes and then traveling to other cities afterward. Plitvice lies roughly midway between Zadar and Zagreb. Buses are available from the central bus station from either town. From Zadar, it takes two hours, and from Zagreb , it takes two hours and 20 minutes. We suggest that if you’re coming from elsewhere in Croatia, you take the bus to one of these towns first.

If you’re planning to drive to Plitvice, the route is easy to find and is approx 155 kilometers from Zadar, 130 kilometers from Zagreb, 280 kilometers from Split, and around 465 kilometers from Dubrovnik .

I know that was a massive post of Zadar tourist information,  such as things to do in Zadar, where to go, what to eat, and places to sleep, but that’s not ALL Zadar has to offer. So, if I’ve missed one of your favorite Zadar highlights, let me know below!

• What To Pack For Croatia
• Croatian Food You’ve Gotta Try
• Check Out Croatia’s Stunning Beaches
• Absolute Best Things To Do In Croatia

Comments (103)

The light show looks amazing! I wanna see that. And, that’s pretty awesome what Hitchcock said–I can’t really argue with him!

Yeah he is kind of famous…

HA! Love your slide! If I had read your posts a year ago, I’d have definitely visited Croatia before leaving Europe. Not only gorgeous scenery, but also cool art installations – I’m sold! Good luck!

Damn! Well never fear we’re not going anywhere so Zadar will be awaiting your return at some point.

Before reading your blog posts on Croatia, the only place I had heard in Croatia is Dubrovnik. Your writing makes me realize how much Croatia has to offer.

Thanks Nanette. Zadar is not as big as Dubrovnik, but still loads to do and see. It’s a great base to see many other things as well…. come on over.

I want a lighted floor like that! However, those sunsets are the true light show.

What neat attractions! I would love to see these and we can probably spend hours at the Sea Organ just listening to the sounds of nature. Love the slide show action here.

You really could, just bring a hat and water, it can get HOT!

Wow, Zadar looks beautiful – we didn’t make it there during our visit to Croatia but you continue to do a great job of persuading us to visit again! Thanks for hosting :)

Just dont try and charge me for your airfare back :) I’ll shout the ice cream…

Gorgeous pictures, what a wonderful place! Love the sound of the sea organ too! :)

I’ll definitely come back to this post when I plan a trip to Zadar – thanks!

i love the lit floor, that looks fantastic!

I have never been to Zadar, it looks a lovely place. The sea organ looks so cool!

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12 Best Things to Do in Zadar, Croatia in 2024 (with Map!)

Looking for the best things to do in Zadar, Croatia? You’ve come to the right place!

With so many things to see and do, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! 

In this post, I’ll be sharing what to do in Zadar , from must-visit attractions to hidden gems that you won’t find in your typical travel guide. 

During my recent road trip around Croatia , I stumbled upon one of the most charming cities in the country – Zadar. 

I have to admit, I wasn’t expecting much when I first arrived in Zadar, but it quickly won me over with its breathtaking beauty and lively atmosphere. 

I fell in love with this coastal gem and I’m thrilled to share my experience with you! 

⭐ Make the most of Zadar with this amazing walking tour of the city and its history! (Includes a tasting of local maraschino liquor and cheese from the island of Pag)

If you want to explore all that this fantastic destination has to offer, Olivia, an American with Croatian roots, who has been living in Croatia for 10 years and runs the travel site Inspired by Croatia , will show you some of her favorite things to do in Zadar to make you fall in love with the city as much as I did . 

From admiring the breathtaking Sea Organ and enjoying stunning sunsets to exploring the city’s rich history and tasting delicious local cuisine, here’s everything you can’t miss in this charming coastal gem .

✏️ Post content

Where to stay in Zadar (with recommended hotels)

How to get around zadar, zadar travel tips, best time to visit zadar, 1. city walls & gates.

• 2. Roman Forum, one of the best things to do in Zadar

3. St. Donat Church

4. sip coffee on narodni trg, 5. sea organ, 6. greeting to the sun, 7. eat some delicious local seafood, 8. lounge on the beaches in zadar, 9. try maraschino in zadar, 10. explore the best islands near zadar, 11. zadar archaeological museum, 12. day trips from zadar, final thoughts: best things to do in zadar, is zadar worth visiting, is zadar a good holiday destination, how many days do you need in zadar, does zadar have a beach, are there sandy beaches in zadar, can you swim in zadar, does zadar have an airport, how do i get from zadar airport to old town, <strong>how much is a taxi from zadar airport to zadar</strong>, <strong>is zadar a party place</strong>, <strong>what is zadar famous for</strong>, <strong>what is the zadar sea organ made out of</strong>, <strong>how do you get from zadar to italy</strong>, <strong>how do i get from zadar to split</strong>, <strong>what is zadar known for</strong>, is zadar near dubrovnik, <strong>how do i get from dubrovnik to zadar</strong>, <strong>which is better split or zadar</strong>, <strong>is there a boat from split to zadar</strong>, <strong>how do i get from zadar to plitvice lakes</strong>, <strong>does zadar have snow</strong>, <strong>what language is spoken in zadar</strong>.

For those exploring Zadar for the first time, nothing compares to staying in the Old Town . 

Imagine opening your door and discovering ancient Roman ruins, majestic Byzantine churches, and lively bars and restaurants all just steps away – it is a truly magical experience.

If your ideal holiday is spent lounging on the beach , Zadar New Town is just what you need. 

From here it’s a short journey to Old Town and some of the best beaches in Zadar .

Families will enjoy staying at Diklo Beach, while friends and couples in search of nightlife will love Kolovare for its buzzing nightlife and restaurants.

• Best Hotel in Zadar Old Town: Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel and Dépendance  
• Best Hotel for Families: Falkensteiner Family Hotel Diadora
• Best Luxury Hotel: Falkensteiner Hotel Adriana – Adults Only
• Best Mid-Range Hotel: Hotel Kolovare
• Best Budget Hotel: Hotel Delfin

Zadar Travel Guide

Welcome to Zadar, a small coastal town in Croatia with a big heart! 

Nestled about halfway down the Dalmatian Coast , Zadar has been inspiring visitors since the 4th century BC. The city is home to 75,000 people but has that authentic, small-town vibe that immediately draws you in.

Croatia has become one of the most sought-after European summer destinations , yet a visit to Zadar needs to be noticed. 

By choosing Zadar over more popular tourist spots, you will be welcomed by peace and tranquility away from the crowds while still enjoying all Croatia has to offer!

Even Alfred Hitchcock said “ Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world ” – so you know this town is unique.

Whether it’s meandering down the cobblestone streets of the Old Tow n, sunbathing on rare sandy beaches, or admiring ancient Roman architecture – there are plenty of amazing things to do in Zadar. 

The city boasts an incredible wealth of culture and history which we’ll dive into in this guide so that you can plan the best visit.

From things to do in Zadar Old Town to the best islands near Zadar, let’s get into all the best places to visit in Zadar !

Zadar is highly walkable , making getting around on foot the best way to discover all the city has to offer! 

The Old Town is pedestrian-friendly , so you won’t have to worry about busy roads and traffic. 

Another popular way to get around is to rent a bike . This is especially ideal when staying in the neighborhoods surrounding Zadar, making it a convenient mode of transportation for getting to and from the town.

How many days to spend in Zadar

The Old Town itself is relatively small and all of the top Zadar attractions can be easily seen in one or two days . 

However, if you’re spending 10 days in Croatia (or more), Zadar makes a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding Croatian islands and national parks.

What is the currency in Croatia?  

At the beginning of 2023, Croatia switched from the Kuna to the Euro (which is used in most countries in the European Union).

Drinking water in Croatia

Croatian tap water is considered safe for human consumption.

The taste may seem different, but don’t worry, you can drink tap water during your trip in Croatia.

The best airport to fly into

The Zadar Airport is closest to town and serves mostly domestic flights and flights from other European destinations. 

For international flights, it is best to fly into Split Airport or Zagreb Airport.

Depending on what type of holiday you’re after, Zadar can be visited all year round . 

• For swimming and lazy days on the beach , the months of June, July, and August are best. 
• I f history and sightseeing are more your thing , then the perfect time to visit is spring or fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.

Best Things to Do in Zadar, Croatia

The city of Zadar has a unique system of walls and gates that have been standing for centuries! 

Dating back to the 9th century, these walls served as protection from invaders, earning them a place on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list . 

The most impressive is the Land Gate , adorned with carvings including the Lion of St Mark (a symbol of the Republic of Venice). 

The Sea Gate is also a must-see, with its beautiful facade and ornate decorations. Both the Land and Sea Gates once served as the official entrances to the city.

2. Roman Forum , one of the best things to do in Zadar

Situated in the heart of town, the Roman Forum can be found right between St. Donat Church and St. Mary’s Church, and Monastery. 

This incredible archeological site is made up of ancient ruins from the 1st century BC and 3rd century AD and was used as a place of worship, markets, and public gatherings during its time.

You can even see some of the remains of former shops and baths once open here. 

If you look closely, you may even notice the one looming column that was used as a “ pillar of shame ”. It is said that citizens found guilty of an offense would be chained to the column to be mocked and humiliated by the public. 

This column blends in well with the surrounding architecture, so whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the Roman Forum, you will want to seek it out.

The church of St. Donatus is a symbol of Zadar’s history and culture and a must-see for anyone visiting the city. 

It stands in the center of the Roman Forum, surrounded by ancient ruins from centuries past. This impressive religious site features a round Byzantine-style church , as well as intricate stone and marble carvings. 

This impressive church is attached to the Zadar Cathedral ( Cathedral of St. Anastasia ), considered the largest church in all of Dalmatia .

This is one of the most iconic sites of Zadar and often graces the front of postcards from the city!

Narodni Trg (People’s Square) is the beating heart of Zadar . 

Located in the center of town, it has been at the core of public life in Zadar since the Renaissance and continues to be a vibrant hub today. 

From strolling around and admiring its stunning architecture to enjoying an afternoon coffee in one of the many cafes, Narodni Trg is the perfect place for people-watching and taking a break .

The Sea Organ is one of the most unique attractions you’ll find not only in Zadar but anywhere in Croatia! 

This amazing architectural sound art object plays music by way of sea waves and tubes located underneath a set of large marble steps. As the waves push air through the tubes, it produces eerily beautiful sounds that echo across the harbor. 

This immersive musical experience is one of the top things to do in Zadar , a favorite among visitors to the city, and one of the free things to do in Croatia !

Right next to the Sea Organ, you’ll find a stunning modern installation called Greeting to the Sun. 

This awe-inspiring attraction is made up of 300 solar panels and glass plates that light up at night , creating an incredible show of colors and movements. 

The best time to visit is at night when the light show is in full effect. 

Children especially love running around and dancing on top of the Greeting to the Sun, making it a great place for families and one of the top things to see in Zadar.

A visit to Zadar is not complete without sampling some of the local seafood!  

The region is known for its fresh fish , as well as for classic Dalmatian dishes such as Brudet (a seafood stew), grilled fish, and Scampi Buzara (shrimp cooked with garlic and white wine). 

Don’t forget to try some of the local wines while you’re here too, as these pair perfectly with the seafood delicacies of Zadar. 

Here is a list of typical dishes to eat in Zadar :

• Octopus salad (Salata od hobotnice) – a refreshing salad with tender pieces of cooked octopus, onions, and olive oil.
• Pag cheese ( Paški sir ) – a hard sheep cheese with a unique flavor due to the island’s vegetation.
• Maraschino liqueur (Maraskino) – a sweet liqueur made from marasca cherries and produced only in Zadar.
• Peka – a meat or seafood dish slow-cooked under a bell-shaped lid, usually served with potatoes.
• Lamb under the bell (Janjetina ispod peke) – a tender and juicy lamb dish cooked under a bell-shaped lid with vegetables and herbs.
• Black risotto (Crni rižot) – a seafood risotto made with squid ink, giving it a distinctive black color and unique flavor.
• Fritule – a type of small fried doughnut, usually sprinkled with powdered sugar or served with chocolate or fruit syrup.
• Brodetto (Brudet) – a fish stew made with various types of fish and served with polenta or bread.
• Soparnik – a traditional savory pie filled with Swiss chard, onions, and garlic.
• Roasted bell peppers (Pečeni paprika) – bell peppers roasted and served with olive oil and garlic, a popular appetizer.

🍴 If you’re a foodie and want to try the local food, you’ll love this 3-Hour Zadar Food Tasting Tour !  

Zadar is blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. 

Some of the best beaches Zadar offers include Borik Beach , a pristine bathing area with shallow waters perfect for families. 

Another beach worth visiting is Zaton Beach , offering a mix of sand and pebbles that are great for wading, and Kolovare Beach . 

If you’re looking for a picture-perfect spot, don’t miss Queen’s Beach – the longest sandy beach in Croatia. 

All of the beaches here offer picturesque views of the Adriatic Sea and are known for their cleanliness and excellent amenities.

When in Zadar, enjoy a sip of Maraschino, an iconic aperitif made with marasca cherries that grow along the Dalmatian coast . 

Sweet and tart, this delightful spirit is said to have been first crafted by Dominican monks in the 1500s. Ever since then, it has been proudly cherished as a part of Zadar’s cultural heritage .

Just a short boat ride away from Zadar are some of Croatia’s most stunning islands . 

Dugi Otok is home to one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Croatia, Sakarun Beach . This island is truly off the beaten track and is perfect if peace and tranquility are what you need. 

⛵ You can book this full-day kayak adventure in Dugi Otok from Zadar , including a local guide (ACA certified), kayaking gear, a dry bag for personal belongings, insurance, and ferry/catamaran tickets.

Pag Island is known for its rugged and moon-like landscape, encouraging visitors to explore its rocky coastline, taste the famous local cheese, and admire traditional lace-making. 

Finally, Kornati National Park should not be missed. Made up of 89 islands, islets, and reefs, this unique archipelago wows visitors with its amazing limestone landscape against the sapphire blue Sea.

⛵ Explore the best islands near Zadar and make the most of your time with this amazing Private Half Day Speedboat tour to Zadar’s Nearby Islands !

If you’re a history buff visiting Zadar, the Archaeological Museum is a must-see attraction . 

The museum houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts , including Roman glassware and pottery, as well as prehistoric pottery and tools from the Stone Age. The museum is well-organized and informative, with detailed explanations in English . 

You can take a tour of the museum’s permanent exhibition, which includes a range of exhibits from the prehistoric period to the Middle Ages. 

The entrance fee is very affordable and includes access to other museums in the city. I recommend visiting during the week to avoid crowds .

One of the best things to do in Zadar when you have already seen the highlights of the city is to take a day trip, especially if you have extra days on your trip to Croatia .

From awe-inspiring waterfalls and ancient Roman ruins to charming medieval towns and picturesque islands , the region around Zadar is packed with unforgettable day trip destinations.

• Plitvice Lakes National Park : A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning waterfalls, lakes, and forests.

👉 Book this Plitvice Lakes Day Tour with a panoramic Boat ride with accommodation pickup and drop-off, and ticket included. 

• Nin : A charming town known for its historic architecture, salt production, and sandy beaches.
• Kornati Islands National Park : A stunning archipelago of 89 islands with crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling .

👉 Book this Kornati day tour on a small-group boat trip from Zadar including snorkeling, hiking on shore, seeing hidden cliffs, and savoring a taverna lunch.

• Paklenica National Park : A beautiful natural park with hiking trails, rock climbing, and scenic views.
• Sibenik : A picturesque town with a stunning cathedral and a beautiful old town. 
• Krka National Park : A park with several waterfalls and a beautiful river perfect for swimming and picnics.

👉 Book this Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting tour from Zadar with a boat ride and air-conditioned transport with WIFI.

• Velebit Nature Park : A park with hiking trails, stunning views, and rich flora and fauna.
• Pag Island : An island with beautiful beaches, salt fields, and local cheese and lamb dishes.
• Biograd na Moru : A lovely coastal town with beautiful beaches, historical sights, and a charming marina.

I can say without a doubt that Zadar is one of the most charming and surprising cities I’ve visited in Croatia . From the moment I arrived, I was captivated by the city’s stunning beauty and vibrant energy.

From the captivating Greeting to the Sun installation to the delicious seafood and unique Maraschino liqueur , Zadar is a destination that should not be missed. 

With its pristine beaches and nearby islands, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy – whether you want to relax on a beach or explore untouched nature. 

However you choose to spend your time in Zadar, one thing is sure: it will be an unforgettable experience.

FAQ about the top things to do in Zadar

Yes, Zadar is definitely worth visiting! Its combination of Roman ruins, beautiful seafront, charming Zadar’s old town, and laid-back atmosphere makes it a great holiday destination for history, culture, and relaxation seekers.Plus, it’s not as crowded as some other Croatian cities, which makes it even more appealing.

Yes, Zadar is a great holiday destination with a mix of history, culture, beaches, and stunning seafront.

You can see the main attractions in Zadar in 2-3 days, but you could easily spend more time exploring the surrounding areas and enjoying the beaches.

Yes, Zadar has several beaches along its coastline, mostly with pebble or rocky shores.

Most of the beaches in Zadar are pebble or rocky, but there are a few beaches with a mix of sand and pebbles, such as Borik Beach and Queen’s Beach. However, they are not fully sandy.

Yes, you can swim in Zadar. The sea is generally warm and clean, and there are several beaches and swimming areas along the coast.

Yes, Zadar has an airport called Zadar Airport (ZAD), located around 8 km from the city center.

You can get from Zadar Airport to the Old Town by taking a taxi, a shuttle bus, or a public bus. Taxis and shuttles are available outside the airport terminal, while the public bus departs from the airport every hour and stops at several locations in the city center, including the Old Town of Zadar.

The cost of a taxi from Zadar Airport to the center of Zadar may vary depending on the taxi company and the time of day. However, it usually costs around 120-150 HRK (approx. 16-20 EUR) for a one-way trip.

While Zadar is not typically known as a party destination like some of the other cities on the Dalmatian coast, there are still some bars and clubs in the city center where you can enjoy a night out. However, it is generally a quieter and more relaxed city.

Zadar is famous for its historical and cultural heritage and unique attractions such as the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation. The city also offers beautiful beaches, excellent seafood, and stunning sunsets.

The Zadar Sea Organ is made out of a system of pipes and whistles that are placed beneath large marble steps leading down to the sea. As the waves and tides flow in and out, they push air through the pipes, creating a series of musical notes that can be heard above the surface.

There are several options for traveling from Zadar to Italy, including by car, bus, train, or ferry. The exact route and mode of transportation will depend on your final destination in Italy.

There are several options for getting from Zadar to Split, including by bus, car, or ferry. The most convenient and cost-effective option is usually to take a bus, which runs regularly between the two cities and takes approximately 2 hours.Another option is to rent a car and drive the coastal road, which offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Finally, there are also several ferry services that operate between Zadar and Split, which can be a scenic way to travel between the two cities.

Zadar is known for its beautiful old town, stunning sunsets, unique sea organ, and rich history, which includes being ruled by the Romans, Venetians, Austrians, and even the French during Napoleon’s time. It is also known for its delicious local food, including fresh seafood and traditional Dalmatian dishes.

No, Zadar is not near Dubrovnik. They are located in Croatia but are approximately 440 km (273 miles) apart.

You can get from Dubrovnik to Zadar by bus or car. The bus journey takes around 8-9 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive along the beautiful coastal road, which takes approximately 5-6 hours, depending on the route and stops along the way.

Both cities have their own unique charm and appeal. Split is larger, more bustling, and has a more prominent nightlife scene. Zadar is smaller, more laid-back, and has a charming historic old town and scenic waterfront. 

Yes, there are various ferry companies that operate a regular service between Split and Zadar during the summer season, with a travel time of around 2-3 hours.

The most convenient way to get from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park is by car or bus, with a travel time of around 1.5-2 hours. Some tour companies also offer guided day trips from Zadar to the park.

No, Zadar doesn’t have snow. Zadar is not known for having snow since it is located in a Mediterranean climate zone with mild winters.

The official language of Zadar is Croatian.

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Sara Rodríguez

A passionate traveler with a mission: Help you plan your next trip easily and enjoy it to the fullest.

In this travel blog you will find everything you need to get inspired and organize your next adventure. Read more about my story here.

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Home » Travel Guides » Croatia » 15 Best Things to Do in Zadar (Croatia)

15 Best Things to Do in Zadar (Croatia)

Pushing out into the Adriatic and basking in one of the world’s most beautiful sunsets, the old town of Zadar in Croatia is almost overflowing with heritage. This small finger of land almost entirely encircled by stone defences and boasts more historic churches than you’ll be able to get through in one trip.

In Zadar you’ll spend your time hopping from one breathtaking piece of architecture to the next, on the way finding out about the different civilisations that made their home here and fought tooth and nail to defend it! Let’s have a look at the best things to do in Zadar :

1. St. Donatus Church

This early-Byzantine church was built all the way back in the year 800 and remains in a near-perfect state of preservation.

Over time St. Donatus tall, rounded outline has become a symbol and a source of pride for Zadar, the first building you’ll see on postcards.

You don’t have to be an amateur historian to appreciate the primitive beauty of this pre-romanesque building.

These days the church is a venue for renaissance music performances, the 27-metre-high walls complementing the sound perfectly.

The church was built on the Roman Forum, which you’ll find out about below, and building material from this site were used in its construction.

2. Roman Forum

Zadar’s is the largest Roman forum east of the Adriatic. It was established by Emperor Augustus at the turn of the first century according to two inscriptions found at the excavation site when the forum was rediscovered in 1930.

After bomb damage in the Second World War the space was cleared and by the 60s the forum began to take shape once more.

What remains are fragments of a colonnade and a pillory, where criminals received a very public punishment!

The temple and basilica that once stood here are gone, but you can still trace the raised ground of its foundations.

3. City Walls and Gates

Zadar has the distinction of never falling to the Ottomans and this is down to the formidable defence system that the Venetians constructed in the 1500s.

A great deal of the city is still defended by a continuous curtain of white limestone, interrupted by two original gates: The Land Gate and Sea Gate.

The Land Gate is still as striking today as it must have been half a millennium ago. It resembles a Roman Triumphal Arch, and the Venetian symbol, the Lion of St. Mark still strides proudly above the entranceway.

The Sea Gate is close to the ferry port and is a little more modest. It was built in 1573 to celebrate the Holy League’s naval victory against the Ottoman Empire in Lepanto two years earlier.

4. St. Mary’s Church

On the eastern edge of Zadar’ forum is St Mary’s, belonging to a Benedictine Monastery founded in the 11th century.

The building took damage in the Second World War, but was completely restored and today contains one of the city’s most prized exhibits.

The Permanent Exhibition of Religious Art features a host of gold and silver religious artefacts  accompanied by tapestries, manuscripts, reliefs and embroideries spanning a thousand years between the 700s and 1700s.

The exhibition is operated entirely by the monastery’s nuns and there are interpretation signs in English.

5. Museum of Ancient Glass

Croatia is flush with Roman heritage and many of the glass items recovered from digs have ended up at this contemporary museum in the stately confines of the Cosmacendi Palace, which dates to the 1800s.

In modern displays you’ll see drinking vessels, cup for mass, jars and intricate little vials used to contain anything from skin creams to medicine.

You can brush up on the history of glassmaking in Croatia and throughout the day there are glass-blowing demonstrations, so you’ll see firsthand how these delicate items were crafted.

And at the end of the tour you can visit the shop to purchase some glassware made the ancient way.

6. St. Anastasia’s Cathedral

A possible future World Heritage Site, Zadar’s cathedral is on the site of a very early Christian basilica that was founded back in the year 300.

The building you see today was started in the 1100s and is yet another example of Zadar’s fine collection of romanesque architecture.

It was consecrated by Pope Alexander VII in 1177 and then more than 800 years later, Pope John Paul II paid the cathedral a visit in 2003.

Inside you can see an early-Christian mosaic dating back to the original basilca.

The cathedral’s magnificent bell-tower is newer, having been started in the 15th century and only completed at the end of the 1800s.

7. National Museum

This is a regional museum that gives a deeper look into the natural history, ethnology and artistic heritage of the wider Zadar region.

It was founded in the 1960s but has ties with local scientists and historians that date back well into the 1800s.

For instance, the natural history wing has curated the collections of several local botanists and biologists, such as Domenico Pappafava who gathered more than 6000 plant specimens in the area.

Part of the attraction is also the Zadar City museum, where you can see a host of artefacts from the turbulent renaissance and baroque period when the city was under the threat of Mongols and Ottomans.

8. St. Simeon’s Church

This church is most famous for what lies inside. The exterior is attractive, but relatively nondescript compared to others in the city.

Within though is a UNESCO-protected piece of art that dates to the late-1370s. Found at the church’s altar, the Chest of St. Simeon is a wooden sarcophagus plated in silver and gold, boasting unbelievably detailed reliefs and inscriptions that seem to defy what people thought was possible in that age.

The chest features scenes depicting the childhood, life and death of St. Simeon, as well as some of his miracles, and there are also fascinating illustrations of Zadar on this incredible work of art.

9. Sea Organ

At the tip of the old town’s peninsula is this imaginative and award-winning art installation.

It was devised in 2005 by the architect Nikola Bašić to breathe new life into Zadar’s waterfront, and was the first of its kind in the world.

The organ takes the form of a series of large marble steps leading down to the water, and beneath each platform is a tube that creates a musical note generated by the power of the waves that break underneath.

The outcome is a random but soothing tune that might be written by some avant-garde minimalist composer!

10. Greeting to the Sun

The Sea Organ’s sister, this was also designed by Nikola Bašić and is found at the end of the peninsula looking out over the Adriatic and offshore islands, where the brilliant sunsets were adored by Alfred Hitchcock who visited in the 60s.

As the sun goes down this circular installation, embedded in the ground, comes to life.

The Greeting to the Sun uses photovoltaic cells to absorb the suns energy by day and then releases it in a vivid graphical display as it starts to get dark.

Around the circle, 22 metres in diameter are carved the names of the saints to which Zadar’s churches are dedicated, with astronomical information detailing the ascension and declination on each saints’ day.

11. Archaeological Museum

Also set on the Forum, this attraction displays the impressive Prehistoric, Illyrian Roman, Byzantine and medieval artefacts recovered in and around Zadar.

For many visitors the most exciting part is devoted to Roman times, when there was a great deal of activity in the area.

There’s a model here showing what Zadar’s Forum looked like at the height of Roman power, and there weapons, ceramics, mosaics and other decorative items brought here from across the empire.

If you’re interested in Croatian history then you can also check out the artefacts discovered in the graves of nobility in Nin, dating to the early middle ages.

12. Five Wells Square

You’ve heard about the city walls that the Venetians built to keep the Ottomans at bay, but none of that would have been much use without a clean water supply.

The answer was an ingenious drinking water cistern accessed by five wells on the same square.

These remain in place today, standing in a row next to the city’s bastion and a section of the battlements.

The best time to check out this sight is at night, when the wells and defences are lit up from below.

13. Paklenica National Park

This park protects a variety of karst formations neighbouring the coast among them caves, cliffs and high peaks.

Climbers and hikers love Paklenica, which has the most popular walls in the country and 200 kilometres of trails.

Most visitors come to see the two spectacular gorges, Velika and Mala, which have sheer cliffs that soar in places to more than 700 metres.

Sections of Velika and no more than 50 metres wide and you’ll have a fun little adventure finding the source of the canyon’s spring.

This is a beautiful little pool cradled by jagged rock, with a cascade feeding a small stream that trickles out to the Adriatic in the wetter months from spring to autumn.

14. Charter a boat

There’s a whole world waiting off the coast of Zadar and it would be shame not try to see as much as you can.

The Kornati National Park alone has 150 islands, so there’s an in exhaustible choice of places to visit and remote beaches to relax on. Many of these beaches are world-class too.

On the island of Dugi Otok there’s Sakarun Beach, which is often rated with the best on the planet.

It’s a cove tucked with in a deep recess in the coast, bathed by crystalline turquoise waters and with a backdrop of nothing but fragrant pine scrub.

15. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Although the Plitvice Lakes are about 90 minutes north of Zadar you simply have to make the journey, because the park is easily one of Europe’s most beloved natural attractions.

What you’ll see are fourteen lakes, each connected to the next by waterfalls and natural pools as waters work their way down a mountainside.

The king of all these waterfalls is Veliki Slap, at 70 metres in height.

You can use boardwalks to get unbroken views of some of the cascades and look down into the waters to see thriving ecosystems in these gorgeous travertine pools.

15 Best Things to Do in Zadar (Croatia):

• St. Donatus Church
• Roman Forum
• City Walls and Gates
• St. Mary's Church
• Museum of Ancient Glass
• St. Anastasia's Cathedral
• National Museum
• St. Simeon's Church
• Greeting to the Sun
• Archaeological Museum
• Five Wells Square
• Paklenica National Park
• Charter a boat
• Plitvice Lakes National Park

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Collective Travel Guides

Inspire to Travel

25 Best Things to Do in Zadar Croatia 2023

This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of visiting Zadar in Croatia , from the top things to do in Zadar to places to eat and stay. It also covers how to get around, where to find the best beaches in Zadar and many other useful Zadar travel tips you need to know to plan your perfect trip.

Tyrone and I visited the city of Zadar during our incredible three-week road trip around Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. I can assure you that you won’t be disappointed if you choose to visit Zadar. Zadar is one of the most beautiful destinations in northern Dalmatia worth visiting, especially for its rich history and cultural heritage which dates to the time the city was a Roman settlement.

Zadar Old Town oozes Venetian charm and is surrounded by the stunning Adriatic Sea, renowned for its high-quality water which is ideal for all sorts of water adventures. It’s closer to Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park , both are some of the most beautiful nature parks in Eastern Europe, natural wonders such as Paklenica National Park and many gorgeous islands. Out of all the cities we visited along Croatia’s Adriatic Coast such as  Sibenik ,  Split  and  Dubrovnik , Zadar was actually our favourite. 

To help you out, we’ve created a list of all the best things to do in Zadar Croatia .

What to do and see in Zadar Croatia

1. visit zadar land city gate.

Zadar Land City Gate which is located to the east of Zadar Old Town, beside the pretty little Fosa Harbour, is a good place to start your tour of Zadar.

There are a few gates to enter the Old Town, however, the Land Gate should not be missed when in Zadar. The Land Gate is considered one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture in the whole of Dalmatia.

Zadar Land City Gate was built by the Venetians when they ruled over Zadar and for many centuries was the main entrance to the old city. During that time, the Land Gate together with the surrounding UNESCO-protected walls formed a strong defence system for the city.

The winged lion sculpture above the Land Gate’s large archway proudly symbolises the Republic of Venice.

2. Join a walking tour

Price: 100 minutes = €14 zadar walking tour.

Zadar is one city along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast that is perfect for a walking tour and something I highly recommend during your tour of the city.

A walking tour has the advantage of helping you quickly familiarise yourself with Zadar Old Town making it easy to explore the sights on your own later on.

Zadar Walking Tour runs its highly rated tours daily and this tour is one I still fondly remember and really got me to appreciate Zadar and its glories.

The tour takes you through Zadar’s fascinating history including the bombing of Zadar during World War II and the more recent, Homeland War (1991 to 1995).

3. Visit Zadar Market

Zadar Market in the Old Town is one of the best and largest markets on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, so it’s definitely worth checking out.

The market is quite good for stocking up on fresh local produce at reasonable prices whilst the bakeries close by are great for trying out Dalmatian breads and pastries.

If you get to join the walking tour run by Zadar Walking Tour , a highlight of this tour is a visit to the market because you get to sample the famous Pag Island cheese (Croatian Sheep Cheese ) and the traditional Croatian Maraschino liqueur.

The delis at the market offer a wide selection of Croatian cheeses, Croatian liqueur, cured meats, olives, various spreads and olive oils, all packaged nicely in case you wish to bring them home.

Zadar Market Tour & Cooking Class

4. Explore Zadar Old Town Streets

Exploring Zadar Old Town is a joyful thing to do in Zadar because the streets are mostly pedestrianised. Most of the historical sights in Zadar Old Town are within walking distance of each other, so you will find it quite enjoyable to stroll through the Old Town’s narrow polished streets and squares.

As you wander around, you can’t help but notice that the Old Town bear a strong resemblance to cities in Italy. This is probably due to Zadar’s long history under Venetian rule.

5. Visit People’s Square Zadar

People’s Square or Narodni Trg is historically the centre of public life in Zadar as far back as the Renaissance.

The square has gone through various transformations over the years like the City Loggia which was restored following war damage. The current Town Hall was built in more recent times, however, traces of old Zadar can still be found in People’s Square like the small 11th century Pre-Romanesque St Lawrence Church and the City Guard which was erected during the mid-century.

The art of drinking coffee is said to have been invented in People’s Square centuries ago and little has changed since that time. Cafes and bars around People’s Square continue to attract people who love coffee.

6. Explore Roman Ruins at the Roman Forum

History enthusiasts will be thrilled by a visit to the Roman Forum in Zadar which is home to 2000-year-old ancient Roman ruins. Here, the Roman ruins which are laid out nicely were once a Roman Forum, evoke an intriguing image of life in ancient Zadar under the Roman Empire. The main squares in Ancient Rome were known as Forums. General activities involved with running a city happened in a Forum.

Zadar Forum is said to have been specifically commissioned by Emperor Augustus and built between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century AD. It was destroyed together with other buildings in its vicinity in a deadly earthquake during the 6th century.

The free-standing ancient pillar at the Roman Forum is known as the Pillar of Shame where offenders were chained and ridiculed publicly to shame them as punishment.

Also, at the Roman Forum and beside the archaeological museum is Croatia’s first university, the University of Zadar, which was established in 1396 by the Dominican order. It’s worth checking out especially if you’re interested in Gothic architecture.

The Roman Forum, also known as Pope John Paul II Square, is surrounded by cafes, bars and public seats, so you can take your time exploring and re-imagining what life was like many centuries ago.

• Interested in exploring Sphinx? Zadar is home to the largest sphinx sculpture in Europe with a human head and lion body. Read about the Zadar Sphinx here if you plan to check it out.

7. Mingle with the locals on Kalelarga Street

Mingling with the locals on Kalelarga Street was one of the big highlights of our trip to Zadar. Historically, Kalelarga Street is said to be the place Zadar locals came out to meet, have a laugh and fall for each other and the city.

Everyone, young and old comes out to play on Kalelarga Street to enjoy the many exciting things on offer street-side like pizzerias that sell huge slices, sweets and ice cream shops, souvenir shops, bars and clubs. The energy is vibrant with entertainment which is nicely balanced.

Kalelarga is one street you will remember long after you have left Zadar.

We found Kalelarga Street quite enjoyable to wander especially in the evenings, watching the happy crowds, kids running around playfully, indulging in sweets and ice creams as well as live street music.

8. Visit Zadar’s Churches

Ancient beautiful churches which are worth checking out in Zadar are the round 9th century Church of St Donatus , Zadar Cathedral and its Bell Tower and the Church of St Simeon which houses the UNESCO-protected St Simeon’s casket. St Simeon’s casket is considered one of the best examples of medieval gold-smithery in Europe.

9. Climb Zadar Cathedral’s Bell Tower

Price: €3.50.

It’s hard to miss Zadar Cathedral as its large rose windows and three doors at the front together with its Bell Tower stand out in the area. Zadar Cathedral’s Bell Tower is the tallest structure in Zadar, so the two dominate the city.

Climbing the Bell Tower’s 180 steps is one of the most popular things to do in Zadar and an experience that I highly recommend if you are up for the challenge. You’ll be well rewarded with stunning views of Zadar and the Adriatic Sea.

The Bell Tower’s steps are narrow and a bit steep, however, you will find breaks in the steps as you go if you need to rest.

10. Visit Zadar Museums

The best museums in Zadar worth checking out include the Archeological Museum Zadar at the Roman Forum, home to a large collection of archaeological artefacts from ancient Zadar and a scaled version of the original Roman Forum.

Museum of Ancient Glass Zadar , housed in the 19th century Cosmacendi Palace, is home to one of Europe’s largest collections of archaeological glass artefacts. Workshops demonstrating the intriguing art of ancient glass making are held a few times daily, so check ahead for times if this is something you’re interested in.

Museum of Illusions Zadar is one of the newest museums in Zadar attractive to families and young adults. Its permanent exhibition allows you to experience various intriguing unique illusions like those created by the popular, Vortex Tunnel.

Price : €5 & €20 – Family Ticket

12. Walk through Five Wells Square

The Five Wells Square is one of the most visited Zadar attractions, especially by those interested in learning a little bit about the city’s history.

Here, you will find a series of five wells, obviously. During the period of Italian rule, Zadar faced constant attacks from the Turks, so the wells were built to ensure a stable supply of water for the city.

It’s interesting to imagine that the five wells supplied water to the whole of the Zadar population throughout the middle ages up to the early 19th century.

Like many squares around the Old Town, the Five Wells Square hosts a night bar, and various open-air events in the summer and during the Christmas period, so be sure to check it out.

11. Take a stroll in Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

Queen Jelena Madijevka Park is one of the oldest parks on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. It’s located in the Old Town, up the steps from Five Wells Square and behind the city walls.

The park offers a nice cool space to retreat from Zadar’s summer heat. Furnishing the park are public seating areas, walkways and numerous spots offering beautiful views of the city.

Queen Jelena Park is also home to a bar which is open during the day and becomes one of the hottest nightclubs in Zadar at night.

13. Spend some time at Petar Zoranic Square

Petar Zoranic Square together with surrounding buildings showcases the mixture of Zadar’s architecture well.

Furnishing the square are modern buildings, ancient remains, and historical buildings, some patched up or restored due to war damage, all giving Zadar its own distinct character along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast.

Petar Zoranic Square is one of my favourite spots in Zadar Old Town as the atmosphere here is quite peaceful and complemented by nice cafes, bars and really good restaurants.

Konoba Skoblar, a restaurant renowned for offering authentic Dalmatian cuisine and Pet Bunara, one of Zadar’s excellent restaurants, are both located in Petar Zoranic Square.

14. Go for a swim at Kolovare Beach

Kolovare Beach is just a short walk from Zadar Old Town which makes it one of the most convenient public beautiful beaches near Zadar. It’s a lovely “Blue Flag” beach with everything you need to have fun.

Like most beaches found on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, Kolovare is a pebble beach so water shoes will come in handy.

15. Experience Zadar’s spectacular Sunset

One of the highlights of a trip to Zadar is experiencing its spectacular sunset. Zadar’s sunset is really out of this world and will make you feel calm and peaceful and help you appreciate the world’s beauty.

Many claims that Zadar’s sunset is the most beautiful in the world. Famous screenwriter and film producer Alfred Hitchcock thought so as well.

After a day spent adventuring in Zadar, make a point to relax and enjoy the highly cherished sunset.

16. Listen to The Sea Organ

Watching the sunset whilst listening to the Sea Organ , designed by architect Nikola Bašić, is one of the most memorable things to do in Zadar and one you should experience as well.

The Sea Organ, located at Zadar’s waterfront, is made up of several large marble steps that extend into the sea with some pipes built underneath them. When the waves from the sea push into the pipes, an odd but relaxing sound is released and can be heard from the steps.

Sitting on the marble steps whilst listening to the oddly beautiful sound from the sea and watching the sunset, is truly special.

17. Spend time at the Greeting to the Sun Monument

Spending time at the Greeting to the Sun Monument or the Sun Salutation, a monument Croatians dedicated to the sun, is another fun and free activity to do in Zadar, popular with visitors of all ages, young and old.

The monument, situated just beside the Sea Organ, is made up of a large glass disc which is built into the promenade. Underneath the glass disc are solar panels that collect energy and in turn power a public entertaining light system which comes alive at night.

The Greeting to the Sun Monument and the Sea Organ are some of the most lively spots in Zadar. Despite being crowded, we found our visit to both monuments enjoyable. The atmosphere is that of laid-back fun.

18. Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park

Price: €40 adults , €27 students.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s largest and undoubtedly one of most beautiful natural wonders, so be sure to add it to your list of things to do in Zadar. The park consists of a huge lush forest covering 30 000 hectares, multiple breathtaking intertwining lakes as well as numerous magnificent waterfalls.

The park is really awe-inspiring, it has to be seen to be believed. Fans of UNESCO World Heritage Sites will be delighted to know that Plitvice Lakes National Park has been a protected site since 1979.

Plitvice Lakes National Park  is among the most visited national parks in Croatia as a result it gets crowded, especially during the summer months.

Prepare well by purchasing your tickets online and getting to the park early. We were in the park in June, got there by 7:00 A.M. and managed to avoid the long ticket queues and parking problems that are often found at the park.

Zadar Plitvice Lakes Tours

19. Go canoeing on River Zrmanja

Price: €40 adult, child €20.

Going canoeing on River Zrmanja is another excellent way to add a bit of adventure to your trip to Zadar. River Zrmanja is one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe surrounded by scenic mountains, clear and warm waters.

We joined Raftrek Adventure Travel and had a fun day canoeing and swimming on River Zrmanja.

Most canoeing tours on River Zrmanja start from the village of Kastel Zegarsk, an hour’s drive from Zadar. Before you leave Zadar stock up on snacks for the day and download directions on your phone because the mobile signal is poor in some parts on the way to Kastel Zegarsk.

Popular River Zrmanja Tours

20. Experience authentic Dalmatia on Ugljan Island

Visiting surrounding islands like Ugljan Island or Telascica Nature Park’s Dugi Otok to experience authentic Dalmatia is another big highlight of a trip to Zadar that you shouldn’t miss.

Ugljan Island is one of my favourite islands in Croatia which is easy to visit from Zadar. The island is home to friendly locals, beautiful simple Dalmatian food, secluded beaches and a lot of walking trails.

Ugljan Island is also a perfect place to stay for a long and relaxing break.

To make the most of your time on the island, I highly recommend renting a car, bike or boat.

Ugljan Sailboat Tour

21. Take a day trip to Nin

Nin is one of the best day trips to take whilst in Zadar, especially for families. Nin is a small town located in Zadar county, in the middle of a sand lagoon, about 15km north of Zadar city centre.

The town of Nin is important in Croatia’s history. The first Croatian community and royals were established in Nin. Additionally, the first Bishops in Croatia were seated in Nin in particular the famous medieval Croatian priest,  Bishop Gregory of Nin ,   whose statue outside  Split Old Town  is said to bring you good luck by rubbing his big toe.

Nin is also home to some of the best beaches around Zadar which are popular mostly with families. We visited Queen’s Beach but Ninska Laguna Beach and Sabunike Beach are also highly rated.

Other interesting things to do in Nin include visiting the world’s smallest cathedral, the Church of the Holy Cross , a tour of one of the oldest salt factories at Solana Nin Salt Museum or just a simple stroll around Nin’s town centre.

22. Spend a day in Sibenik

Visiting Sibenik, Dalmatia’s third largest city, was another big highlight of our trip to Zadar and I highly recommend you add this fascinating city to your list of places to see in Zadar.

Game of Thrones fans will be thrilled to see the Cathedral of St James and St John’s Fortress both of which are featured as scene sets in the TV show.

Sibenik’s well-preserved Old Town is one of the most beautiful along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. An enjoyable thing to do in Sibenik is to take a simple stroll around its well-preserved medieval Old Town and along its attractive promenade.

Sibenik is located just over an hour’s drive from Zadar. Make sure to take the coastal route to Sibenik as the drive is very scenic.

23. Explore Kornati National Park

Kornati National Park is an archipelago of 89 uninhabited islands, islets and rocks located in the Adriatic Sea in the area between Zadar and Sibenik . The Kornati National Park’s landscape is made up of lush green vegetation, numerous coves, cliffs and crystal clear waters.

If you enjoy exploring nature, outdoor activities like hiking, cycling or water activities such as swimming, sea kayaking and snorkelling, then you will have a blast at the Kornati National Park.

The easiest way to explore Kornati National Park is by joining the many available tours which start from Zadar’s Old Town.

Kornati Sailing Tour

24. Indulge in Dalmatian cuisine

Zadar is an ideal place to try out delicious Dalmatian dishes such as cuttlefish risotto, pasticada, grilled fish and grilled meats. Some of the most delicious food we had during our tour of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast was in Zadar’s restaurants.

There is no shortage of restaurants to dine at in Zadar. 4 Kantuna , a modern Italian-style restaurant in the Old Town, was recommended to us by a Zadar local and it sure did not disappoint. We returned to 4 Kantuna a few times when we were in Zadar for lunch and dinner. We found the food tasty, full of flavour and fresh.

The more traditional Konoba Skobla , at Petar Zoranic Square, is another good restaurant to indulge in scrumptious Dalmatian dishes.

25. Check out Ice Cream Shop Donat

Gorging on ice cream at Ice Cream Shop Donat , located on Zadar Cathedral Square, was one of our most delightful experiences in Zadar. We tried a few ice cream shops around the Old Town, but the Ice Cream Shop Donat was our favourite.

The staff at the Ice Cream Shop Donat are friendly, the scoops are generous and a variety of interesting flavours are offered.

Ice Cream Shop Donat is quite popular with Zadar locals and visitors to Zadar, so expect to queue, however, it’s worth the wait.

I hope you do get to travel to Grad Zadar Croatia and enjoy it as much as we did!

Let me know if you need help with your Croatia travel by leaving a comment below. I will be glad to help.

FAQ – Zadar Croatia

Is zadar croatia safe.

Zadar Croatia is a small city and is generally safe. We toured the Zadar region extensively, at all hours and felt safer than we do even in our own home in Ireland.

Is Zadar Croatia Expensive?

In general, things are a lot cheaper in Zadar compared to other places on the Dalmatian Coast. Accommodation, restaurants and bars in Zadar are a lot more affordable than let us say Dubrovnik or Split. If you’re looking for a good holiday destination which is budget-friendly, then Zadar is a perfect choice.

Where to stay in Zadar?

Where to stay in Zadar depends on several factors such as affordability, who you’re travelling with and what you plan to do. Accommodation outside the Old Town is usually cheaper and a good option especially if your stay in Zadar is long. On the other hand, basing yourself in the Old Town has the advantage of being close to sights and nightlife, however; expect to pay more.

Zadar Hotels Worth Checking Out :

• Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel – for a comfortable and cosy stay in the Old Town.
• The  Falkensteiner Hotel   Adriana – an Adult Only hotel, located about 10mins away from the Old Town is perfect for both short and long Zadar stays.
• Downtown Boutique Hostel – a cheaper alternative in the Old Town with excellent reviews.
• Hotel Delfin – Small charming hotel is perfect for combining city sightseeing with a beach stay.

How many days do you need in Zadar?

You need at least two nights to explore Zadar’s Old Town, however, if you want to see other interesting places around Zadar, then add a few more days to your trip.

What is the best way to get around Zadar?

We hired a car from Xlrentacar Zadar which was quite convenient and gave us more freedom and time. However, it’s possible to get around with public buses including travelling between Zadar airport and the city. See full Zadar travel tips . 

What is the best time to visit Zadar?

The best time to visit Zadar is during the summer season (June, July and August) when the weather is at its finest. This is also peak season, so prices tend to be at their highest. The beginning of autumn is also a good option as it is less crowded, the prices are lower and the weather is still warm.

Popular Tours to Discover Zadar

Tip: : Here is a guide with all the Best Places to Visit in Croatia including the most useful tips.

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Edit – All Rights Reserved – Collective Travel Guides – updated 2023

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Zadar Travel Tips – Inside and Outside the Old Town

Lonely Planet just named Zadar one of the Top Cities to Visit in 2019.  And I was going to do this post anyway… not because I have a ton left to say after this epic 3,000-word blog post detailing most everything you need to know about visiting Zadar. But because I was finally having a blogging moment and itching to hit post the other week… only to find I didn’t have my camera, which contained most of my Zadar photos. (So I opted for mostly iPhone photos in my last blog post because published is better than perfect, right?)

These are my final travel tips for Zadar, particularly tips on things to do outside the Old Town. (There’s plenty all over the Internet about things to do inside the Old Town.) But because every travel article needs some nuance, I’ve included a little bit about the best and worst aspects of our five weeks there. I’ve also included several questions that I had before traveling to Zadar and their answers.

To be honest though, there isn’t much that’s the “worst” about living in Croatia during the summer…

Read More: Living in Zadar, Croatia: The Old Town, Restaurants, Beaches, and World Cup!

Should you stay in Old Town Zadar or Outside?

If you’re there for a short time, I’d recommend somewhere inside the Old Town or just outside the city walls. There are some great (cheaper) local spots that you’ll find if you go for a stroll outside the Old Town. Our second Airbnb was a 12-minute walk from the city walls and it gave us a chance to see views of the city and harbor from beyond. And well, it gave us an opportunity to exercise… ya know, since we usually walked to the bars in the Old Town to watch the World Cup and all…

If you’re not on AirBnb, get on it. Get $40 Off!

The Best Things About Staying in the Old Town:

Old Town Zadar is ancient and lovely and you can wander among Roman ruins while you drink huge, cheap beers, eat gelato, and grab slices of pizza and flaky burek on the reg. Shopping at the local market is an experience in itself. Most nice restaurants are located here, as well as tons of open-air cafes and sites like Sea Organ and Salutation to the Sun, which are always busy at sunset. Also, you can climb the Bell Tower and visit the Sea Glass Museum, which sounded really cool, but we didn’t get around to it.

You really can’t beat having a cold beer while you stare at Roman ruins and watch hundreds of birds fly around the lit-up Bell Tower as the sun goes down.

this place is always hoppin’ at sunset

if you’re “living” here, however, you may find yourself dodging crowds a lot just to go grocery shopping

The Worst Parts About Staying in the Old Town:

It can get crowded.

The Old Town’s restaurants are pricey, hit or miss in quality, and well, you might end up in an Airbnb like our first apartment with no windows to the outside world, no AC, and mosquitos that fly inside and bite you whenever you close your eyes. (Or you might have a boyfriend who “requires” the only fan and table while he works, leaving you to sweat it out on the futon with your laptop. It could happen to you!)

Or maybe just do your research first, and you’ll be fine. Honestly, it’s awesome to wake up in the middle of the Old Town every day. Especially if you’re on vacation.

I hear you though, it can feel a little curated at times. A little too perfect. Outside of the Old Town’s walls, it starts looking like a real Balkan city, equal parts crumbling concrete and bright, colorful Adriatic beauty. And I loved it there too…

on the way out…

nope, not our house, unfortunately!

Where Are the Best Beaches?

Ahhh, one of the first things I googled. So I tried not to get my hopes up since I’d been to Croatia before and I knew that although they are beautiful, most of the beaches here are rocky. And we were planning to stay on the mainland in a port town, rather than one of the smaller islands. Typically, you’re also not going to find a pristine beach right in the middle of a city (unless it’s Barcelona, okay). Most websites were telling me that the best beach spots were a boat ride away (which is true – read about Sakarun here ). Nevertheless, she persisted…

The Best Things About Zadar’s Beaches:

Don’t let ’em lie to you. There are good beaches to be found around Zadar. They do the job, anyway.

Some of them even have tiny pebbles where you can get semi-comfortable on your towel. The sea is a super clear and blue-green in color, and that’s really all you could ask for. You can BYOB or order drinks from a nearby cafe-bar… and they may even have chairs for you to rent. The best beaches within walking distance of the Old Town are Karma Beach and Kolovare Beach . If you fancy a long walk or an Uber ride, check out Borik Beach .

If you’d prefer to feel a bit like a local, we really liked the community feel of Bazen Kolovare , a public beach club of sorts. They’ve got beers, TVs, pool, a diving platform, sports, a ton of kids and families, lots of locals hanging out, and general good times. You can BYO food.

The Worst Things About Zadar’s Beaches:

If you’re really into soft, sandy white beaches, you’re out of luck. I hear you – I considered buying water shoes like the locals after hobbling around on rocks as I waded into the water each time.

If you don’t want to walk too far and you give no f’s, just drop your towel anywhere along the edges of the Old Town. It makes me nervous to jump into water when I don’t know how deep it is (as it should), but just follow the drunk Spanish guys who bring they own pizza and cans of beer to the Sea Organ and you should be fine… Seriously, people swim anywhere.

a picturesque street near our apartment, en route to the sea, which you are never far away from!

What is there to do outside the city walls?

Explore! I wandered around in new directions every day. There are so many cool nooks, side streets, and neighborhoods around town. And don’t forget about all the little marinas and docks with boats and tiny beaches!

When choosing a neighborhood while traveling, I have a theory: If you pick a more local or outlying spot, you’ll see more of a city. That’s because you’re  always  going to make the effort to see the tourist sites, the city center, the places people told you to go. You’re  not  going to always wander outside the center or through the residential areas. And when you stay in those more local spots, you  have  to explore more. It’s a good way to get slightly off the tourist trail.

(Caveat: If you only have a couple of days, prime location might still be the number-one criteria that dictates where you stay. You don’t want to spend a lot of time in transit. But if it’s easily walkable, my theory still applies.)

The Best Things About Staying Outside the Old Town:

You’ll see so much more! So many cool homes. Whether decrepit, ornate, or art deco, they are just beautiful. You’ll find lots of photo ops surrounded by brightly colored flowers and crumbling buildings. Look for cool local spots. I really loved this market where the butcher (who didn’t speak much English except for “grill” and “steak”) would cut me whatever I wanted. There was also THE best bakery next door for greasy delicious burek and cream-filled croissants. (I found it on Google Maps and wandered there. It’s worth the walk.)

FYI, some important Croatian language knowledge: Pekarna is bakery. Mesnica is butcher. Most words I learned besides “hello,” “thank you,” and “cheers” involve food.

Another cool think about the outskirts that’s similar to the Old Town: You can also hop in the water anywhere. The cafes along the water are perfect for sunrise or sunset, an espresso or a beer, or a casual dip after you finish your afternoon run. There are little pebbly beaches, grassy areas, or just plain concrete ramps where you can get yourself into that saltwater.

The Worst Things About Staying Outside the Old Town:

Um, not much. Since there aren’t a ton of major tourist attractions in the Old Town, it won’t kill you to walk 10 minutes into town if you’re able. The restaurants might have a little less ambiance, but they make up for that with their prices!

Just don’t situate yourself too, too far away from the Old Town. We almost made our mistake with our second Airbnb but then decided against it. If you’re farther out, you’re less likely to walk into town on a whim. Although there are Ubers if you don’t feel like walking occasionally…

Are there any other bad things about staying outside the Old Town? It’s not quite as picturesque, things are farther apart, and, I mean, I guess the mall isn’t anything to write home about. (But who’s shopping on their Croatian vacay? Really, I’m grasping at straws here, guys.) Even if you do go to explore and exercise around the mall – I headed that way on my runs – you may find out that your knees just can’t take running up the stairs like Rocky. This is 30.

Why isn’t there more street food in Zadar?

Ahhh, I don’t know! You read my mind!

With all the seafood, fresh produce, cevapi around Zadar, I don’t know why the only thing you see regularly is corn! (I’m not counting pizza and ice cream.) And there are only a few corn stalls surrounding the Old Town at that. Okay, once I saw a tent by the water serving bread bowls filled with tiny fried fish. And there was a temporary Italian street market where I accidentally spent about $9 on a jar of giant capers. But other than that, I got nothin’! Zadar, let’s make this happen?

How easy is it to take day trips from Zadar?

Pretty easy. Just don’t spend as much time as I did researching on the Internet. Google Maps is all you need!

You can book tickets to nearby islands along the Dalmatian Coast using the Jadrolinija office by the city walls. There are tons of villages, beaches, and islands to explore in the vicinity, like Dugi Otek where you’ll find the incredible Sakarun Beach . And that’s if you want to DIY it for cheap. If you feel like having someone pick you up, drop you off, show you around, and pack your lunch, there are a million stands selling tourist packages and lots of boats in the harbor. Impossible to miss.

Even if you do choose the cheap option, you’ll get great views as you cruise around the islands. Since our particular ferry broke down, we got to experience the closed and open-air versions that Jadrolinija offers…

You can also rent a scooter for the day! (They’re about $40.) Marko and I hopped on a bike and traveled to the town of Tisno to see his friends who were there for a music festival. Sure, it was a little bit farther than I typically like to go sitting on the back of a motorbike, but it was doable in a day. There are also the nearby small towns of Bibinje and Diklo, and a bit farther north is the village of Petrčane, which is supposed to be beautiful. One of my biggest pieces of advice is to get out of Old Town Zadar and explore!

For More “Bests” of Zadar:   Living in Zadar, Croatia: The Old Town, Beaches, and World Cup!

If you’ve got more Zadar questions, leave them here! Anybody following Lonely Planet’s advice and heading to Zadar now? I’d go back…

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Living in Zadar, Croatia – The Old Town, Beaches & World Cup!

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Good travel essay. Tips are helpful too. I love to read travel story. Here with the story I have enjoyed beautiful images and tips too. Thanks for a great share.

wow the photos are awesome i do have a thing for old towns and the way they seem to take you back in time. Love it.

© 2020 - Rachel Sasser - Trailing Rachel - All Rights Reserved.

10 Best Things to do in Zadar, Croatia [with Suggested Tours]

Are you planning to travel to Zadar, Croatia soon ? Read our tips below on the things to do in Zadar with suggested tours!

Popularly known for its Roman and Venetian ruins, Zadar is a really beautiful city in Croatia that deserves to be visited both for its sea, which is really top, and for its monuments. You will find several Venetian gates in its city walls. Visit the Roman Forum to experience the greatest history of Zadar and see most of the century-old buildings. Read more below as we listed down some of the places you can visit and things to do in Zadar.

Other articles you can read:

• Our Travel Guide To Brac Island, Croatia – Sailing and Staying at Orvas Villas
• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Istria, Croatia
• 10 Reasons Why Istria, Croatia is the Ultimate Couples Destination! 
• 10 Reasons Why You Should Travel in the Balkans
• 7 Days Balkan Itinerary: Guide on How to Visit Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina

Table of Contents

List of Best Things to do in Zadar, Croatia

1. sea organ (morske orgulje).

The Marine Organ of Zadar, better known as Greeting to the Sun, is a square facing the Adriatic and the Zadar bay. There are 80 organ pipes that play with the pressure of seawater. The melody can be heard up to a kilometer but when you arrive at the staircase and stare at the sea while this melody is playing, it is truly enchanting.

Suggested Tour: Zadar: Private Walking Tour Through 3,000 Years of History

2. The Forum

A beautiful space that brings together churches from different eras, the cathedral in the background, and a beautiful collection of ancient remains. Remains of walls, loose columns, bits of statues. Everything that has been found in the city that is Roman is here. The Forum is not very big and it’s right next to the St-Donat church and the archaeological museum.

Suggested Tour: Zadar Walking Tour: From Roman Times till Now

3. Zadar Land City Gates

This gate is called the gate of the earth. Like the whole of the city, it is very well preserved and deserves to be seen. Located next to the port of Fosa, it was the main entrance to the walled city.

Suggested Tour: Zadar Guided Walking Tour

4. Zadar Cathedral

Stunning white stone facade, this cathedral is one of the main attractions of the old town of Zadar. The interior is also suggestive, with its Romanesque style, a dominant and unusual central nave, in which the contrast between pink marble and gray stone dominates. The church was remodeled several times over the centuries with Romanesque, Byzantine and Venetian influences, very simple and elegant.

Suggested Tour: Zadar: City Highlights Tour with Guide

The Zrmanja Canyon is always worth the trip. You can have a wonderful boat tour or rafting through the Canyon which is very idyllic. Experience fun and exciting day on the river, surrounded by nature, wonderful water, optimal temperature, and postcard views.

Suggested Tour: Zrmanja Full-Day Canoe or Kayak Trip in Kaštel Žegarski

6. Museum of Illusions

A very didactic museum that takes us into the world of illusion. This museum is quite small but really nice with young children and even adults. A museum that is perfect for families because illusions are to be appreciated in groups.

7. Church of St. Donat

This sacred building certainly does not go unnoticed, with its high and imposing walls. The church of St. Donat with its typical structure is one of the symbols of Zadar and is located in the center of the Roman Forum area. An imposing 9th-century Byzantine church that’s also built with elements collected from the adjacent Roman forum, which can be clearly seen at the base.  Certainly, a suggestive attraction that is definitely worth visiting or at least seeing!

8. Archaeological Museum Zadar

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Arheoloski muzej Zadar (@arheoloskimuzejzadar) on Apr 29, 2020 at 3:34am PDT

A museum to visit to understand the history of the place. Its collection, which dates back several thousand years, is really impressive. The exhibition occupies three floors starting from the second one which presents the oldest finds from the Paleolithic up to the early Middle Ages on the ground floor. The first floor presents the Romanesque period. Archaeology enthusiasts would love this place!

9. Paseo Maritimo

An unmissable place during a visit to Zadar, where you will find a small market selling souvenirs, producers of local products, and also entertainment at the end of the day. Be sure to be present during the sunset, you’ll see a simply magnificent and unforgettable spectacle.

10. Degarra Winery

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Degarra winery Zadar? (@degarra_winery) on Jan 18, 2019 at 5:04am PST

Enjoy a wine tasting day here at Degarra Winery. This small but very fine winery is housed in a former military building. Here, you will not only have the best wines in the city but you will also gain a lot of knowledge about the wines and their production.

Where to stay in Zadar, Croatia

Budget hotel.

Rooms Nekic 1

Rooms Nekic 1 features accommodation with free WiFi in Zadar. All rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk. At the guest house, the rooms are fitted with a wardrobe and a private bathroom.

Price: Starts at $35 per night for Twin Room with Bathroom, includes taxes and charges, and it offers a free cancellation.

Luxury Hotel

Luxury rooms Kadena

The Luxury rooms Kadena offers modernly furnished accommodation in the center of Zadar. All units at the property are equipped with a seating area that features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, as well as a desk and a water kettle. A vegetarian breakfast is available every morning. Free WiFi is also available in all areas.

Price: Starts at $87 per night for Deluxe Double Room with Shower, includes taxes and charges, add $18 for breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

These are the possible things you can do in Zadar, Croatia. So if you are ready to have a fun and exciting trip, you know what to do and where to go! So pack your things now and prepare yourself for a wonderful adventure in Zadar.

How to go to Zadar, Croatia from London

Via Ryanair: (one way with one-stop)

*From London Stansted – Prague – Zadar

Ticket Price: £76.85

Via EasyJet: (one way with one-stop)

*From London Gatwick – Prague – Zadar

Ticket Price: £85.22

* Prices are subject to change. You can visit Skyscanner for more details about the ticket prices.

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Zadar (Croatia): Best Things to Do & Travel Tips

Zadar is one of the main cities of the Croatian coast, and is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches and wonderful natural parks located in its surroundings, including the archipelago of the Kornati Islands and the island of Dugi Otok . But what makes Zadar one of the most famous destinations in Croatia is not only its location, perfect for exploring Dalmatia, but also the beautiful Zadar’s Old Town , enclosed within ancient Venetian walls which have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Zadar’s Old Town and its surroundings are full of tourist attractions, including medieval churches, remains of ancient Roman towns, and breathtaking natural wonders. The city boasts historical landmarks such as the Church of St. Donatus , an imposing circular structure dating back to the 9th century, as well as the Forum , a central square with well-preserved ruins from Roman times. Visitors can also experience the unique Sea Organ , an architectural sound art installation along the waterfront, which produces music by the sea’s waves.

What you’ll find in this guide to the best things to do in Zadar:

Zadar: Interesting Facts to Know Before You Go

Best things to do in zadar, best beaches in zadar, excursions and day trips from zadar, best restaurants in zadar, how to get to zadar.

Zadar is one of the main towns of Croatia and is located along the coast of the Adriatic Sea in the North Dalmatian region. Its modern built-up area stretches for about 25 km, including beautiful beaches , fabulous resorts such as the Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera , the Falkensteiner Family Hotel Diadora and the Sunnyside Apartments Petrcane , and scenic views of the sea and the Zadar Archipelago .

But besides the beaches, Zadar also boasts a beautiful old town, located on a rectangular shaped peninsula with magnificent churches and buildings from the Venetian era, and a port that offers frequent connections to the surrounding islands.

Zadar is an exceptional starting point for exploring the surrounding region, the wonderful Kornati and Telašćica National Parks (easily visited on a boat trip from Zadar ) with the 24 islands of the Zadar Archipelago . Here you can see the breathtaking landscapes of some of the most beautiful islands and beaches in Croatia.

The region around Zadar is home to three natural parks (Telašćica, Velebit and Vransko Jezero) and five national parks (Paklenica, Kornati Islands, Krka, Sjeverni Velebit and the world famous Plitvice Lakes ). Also nearby is the scenic village of Kaštel Žegarski along the Zrmanja River , one of the most popular rafting destinations in Croatia .

Zadar was founded in the 9th century BC. from the Illyrian tribe of the Liburnians before passing in 48 BC. to the Roman Empire. During the Roman rule, the city took on the typical Roman structure, still partially visible today, with a regular road network, a public square, the forum and various temples.

Some historical facts about Zadar

The origins of Zadar date back to the Roman era, but the town has been strongly influenced by the peoples who have dominated it over the centuries, such as the Byzantines , the Hungarians and the Venetians . Similar to the other towns on the Croatian coast, Zadar experienced its heyday under Venetian rule, when it became a wonderful fortified town and an important trading port.

Despite the continuous attacks of the Turks, the town developed considerably under the Venetians, and then passed to the French and the Austrians after the fall of Venice in 1797. After the First World War it was annexed to Italy. In the years of the Second World War it was occupied by the Germans and heavily bombed by the Allies. This caused extensive damage to Zadar Old Town, which was meticulously rebuilt as the original just after the war ended.

After WWII Zadar became part of Yugoslavia until the early 90s, when it was one of the cities most affected by the Croatian Wars of Independence . After the end of the conflict, in 1995, Zadar was further restored to its original splendor.

Zadar Old Town

The most beautiful and visited area of ​​Zadar is the small peninsula on which the Zadar Old Town stands, a treasure of Venetian and Roman architecture. Entering the Land Gate , the old main gate of Zadar Old Town, you will be able to admire the maze of narrow streets from the Roman era, with the main longitudinal street, Kalelarga or Široka ul , and the cross street, Simon Kožičić Benja .

The beautiful defensive walls that surround the city date back to the Venetian era, as well as the towers and gates. The Cathedral of Zadar stands right in the heart of what used to be the Roman forum, where there were also temples and even an aqueduct. Today only a few traces of the Roman past remain, such as parts of columns and capitals, the only remains of the ancient basilica and temples.

But the Zadar Old Town still holds a lot of interesting things to do and see, which is why, especially in summer, it is teeming with tourists, also attracted by its pleasant and lively atmosphere.

The main attractions of Zadar Old Town are:

• City Walls and Gates : the main gates are the Land Gate and Port Gate , built under the rule of the Venetian Republic. Even today you can see the winged lion (symbol of Venice) that adorns them;
• Five Wells Square , dominated by the Captain’s Tower , one of the most beautiful and evocative places in Zadar;
• Two famous modern art installations: the Sea Organ (an organ that is played by the waves of the sea) and the Sun Salutation (a photovoltaic floor that becomes a colorful attraction at night);
• The Roman Forum , the ancient Roman square where you can see the remains of Roman times and the beautiful St. Donatus’ Church ;
• The beautiful old churches of Zadar Old Town , such as St. Simeon’s Church ;
• The town’s interesting museums, such as the Archaeological Museum , the Museum of Ancient Glass , the Museum of Illusions and the Museum of Religious Art .

Petar Zoranić Square

A stone’s throw from the Land Gate and just behind the Five Wells Square you can see the Petar Zoranić Square . This square is located right at the end of the Decumano , the Roman road that crosses the entire Zadar Old Town, and once served as a gateway to the town.

The square is named after Petar Zoranić , a famous local Renaissance poet, and several Roman ruins and remains of medieval gates are visible here.

The main street of Zadar is Kalelarga (Široka ulica) , formerly also called Via Magna or Ruga Magistra. This boulevard runs longitudinally through the Zadar Old Town, and is the city’s main pedestrian boulevard, lined with restaurants, bars and shops.

Zadar City Walls and Gates

During the Venetian rule Zadar became one of the most important trading ports of the Adriatic Sea, which attracted the unwanted attention of the Ottoman Turks and other peoples who often attacked the town.

To defend Zadar from enemy attacks, the Venetians decided to build a mighty city wall. Thus the best engineers and architects of the time were sought to entrust these works. The works were thus commissioned to some of the most famous Venetian architects, such as Malatesta Baglione and Michele Sanmicheli , who designed most of the buildings in Zadar and its complex defensive system, made up of resistant walls, moats, bastions, towers and fortresses.

Most of these structures were destroyed during the terrible conflicts that the city suffered in the 1900s. However, you can see some of the main city gates and some parts of the defensive walls, partially well preserved. Among these it is worth taking a look at the Land Gate and the Port Gate , the two main gates of the town (built according to the classic Venetian scheme).

The City Walls of Zadar are a UNESCO World Heritage Site , inscribed in the “Venetian Works of Defense between the 16th and 17th Centuries” list. You can see the walls of Zadar starting from the Land Gate and walking along the narrow streets that lead to the sea. Along the way you will also see an ancient fortress and some of the ramparts still intact.

The Land Gate (Kopnena Vrata) is one of the main city gates, located in the eastern part of the Zadar Old Town. It was built in 1543 by the architect Michele Sanmicheli and was used as the main access from the mainland, as was the custom for Venetian fortified cities, and as its name recalls.

Around the Land Gate it is possible to see the remains of the defensive walls that surrounded the city. In the past, this gate also had a drawbridge over the moat that ran around the walls, today only the adjacent Foša remains, the small port located on the left of the gate.

The Land Gate is built in the Renaissance style with three Doric arches, the smaller lateral ones reserved for pedestrians. The central arch is dominated by the Winged Lion and the equestrian sculpture of St Chrysogonus.

Right next door you can see the Ponton Bastion , 240 meters long and 40 meters high. It was built by the grandson of the architect Giangirolamo Sanmicheli, and is one of the largest bastions built by the Venetians. A short distance away is the old Sforza Pallavicino fortress , built in 1567 and protected by walls 9 meters high. On the main door you can see the coat of arms of the Pallavicino family, a six-headed dragon. Now the fortress houses one of the main public gardens of Zadar.

On the eastern side of Zadar Old Town is the Port Gate , the main one for those coming from the sea. It was built in 1573 and the decorations celebrate the victory over the Turks during the Battle of Lepanto in 1571.

The construction takes advantage of the pre-existing arches, recognizable by the effigy of St Chrysogonus, patron saint of the city. Looking at the door from the sea you will be able to see the usual Venetian Winged Lion.

Five Wells Square (Trg Pet Bunara) and the Captain’s Tower

Close to the Land Gate, is the Trg Pet Bunara or better known as the Five Wells Square . It is enclosed by the medieval city walls and is home to the oldest park in Zadar, the Queen Jelena Madijevka Park , established by the Austrian commander Franz Ludwig von Welden in 1829. You can reach it via the famous Renaissance Grimani Bastion.

The square also houses five wells lined up in a row, built under Venetian rule in the sixteenth century, when the city was besieged by Turks and it was therefore necessary to devise a system to ensure continuity in the water supply. Today the wells are no longer used, but the square is one of the main meeting places for locals and concerts and events are often held here.

On Five Wells Square there is also a defensive tower, the Captain’s Tower , the only one of the 10 towers of the Zadar defense system still intact. The pentagonal-shaped tower takes its name from the nearby Captain’s fortress. It is possible to climb to the top to enjoy a nice view of the city.

At the northern tip of Zadar Old Town you can see the Sea Organ (Morske Orgulje) , one of the main attractions of Zadar. It is an organ built right on the sea, within the pavement of the promenade, and is both a contemporary artwork and an experimental musical instrument.

It consists of a 70-meter long staircase that descends directly from the seafront into the water. Its steps have openings, the largest of which is located in the last step, immersed in the sea water and hit by the waves.

Inside the staircase, under the waterfront, there is an engineering masterpiece, an organ with 35 pipes of different diameters and lengths, which play thanks to the air pushed by the sea waves. The work is a project by architect Nikola Bašić , created with the collaboration of experts in plumbing, acoustics and music.

Sun Salutation

Just a step away from the Sea Organ you will be able to see another interesting contemporary art installation, the Sun Salutation (Pozdrav Suncu) by architect Nikola Bašić, the same author of the Sea Organ.

The installation is made up of over 300 sheets of glass covering the same number of photovoltaic panels, arranged in a circle of 22 meters in diameter. During the day, the photovoltaic panels absorb solar energy and from sunset until dawn the glass circle of the Sun Salutation lights up with colorful LED lights. Furthermore, these panels collect enough energy to power all the lights in the port and promenade of Zadar.

Zadar Archaeological Museum

One of the main museums in Zadar is the Archaeological Museum , located in the main square. Founded in 1832, it is considered one of the oldest in Croatia and Europe.

Inside there are several interesting archaeological exhibits. In total, over 100,000 finds from different eras are exhibited, from the Paleolithic and Neolithic periods to the Roman and Byzantine periods up to the 12th century.

The museum is spread over three floors, divided according to the historical period. On the ground floor there are finds from the seventh to the twelfth centuries, including artifacts from the early Middle Ages such as Croatian tombs and stone furniture. On the first floor you will be able to see a large collection of finds from the Roman era, artifacts from the Dalmatian necropolises and ancient mosaics.

The second floor is dedicated to prehistory. In addition, there are other interesting thematic sections, such as the one on underwater archeology, which also exhibits objects and weapons that belonged to sailors. The museum also has a library and a well-stocked gift shop. It is open every day from 9.00 to 21.00.

Zadar Franciscan Monastery

The Franciscan Monastery is located on the western part of Zadar Old Town, near the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation. It dates back to the 12th century and also includes the Gothic church of the same name. To visit it you will need to buy a ticket, which also includes the beautiful cloister, the sacristy and the Treasury of the Monastery .

The church is famous for being the oldest Gothic church in Dalmatia, and precious works are preserved inside, including an altar from 1672 with a finely inlaid wooden choir in 1348 by Giacomo da Borgo Sansepolcro from Venice. Among the most important works are the 15th-century Ugljan Polyptych by the local painter Dujam Vučković and the painting by the Venetian painter Lazzaro Bastiani, depicting Pope Sixtus IV and Katarina Kosača-Kotromanić.

From the choir you can continue your visit towards the sacristy, furnished with beautiful antique wooden furniture. Here in 1358 the famous peace treaty was signed between the Republic of Venice and the King of Hungary and Croatia Ludovico I.

The visit continues to the Monastery Treasury where you can admire some of the most valuable works of the monastery, such as the 16th century painting of Dead Christ by Jacopo da Ponte Bassano, a beautiful reproduction of a 12th century wooden crucifix and statues of the Annunciation of Mary of the 15th century.

The collection also includes precious religious objects, coral pieces from the 16th to 15th centuries, ancient documents and historical seals. The monastery also has a beautiful Renaissance-style kiosk, where a small Midnight Mass ceremony is held at Christmas.

Museum of Ancient Glass

One of the most curious things to do in Zadar is to visit the Museum of Ancient Glass , located in the eastern part of Zadar Old Town, near the more famous Museum of Illusions. It is located inside the 19th century Cosmacendi Palace and houses a huge collection of over 5,000 glass objects, dating back to the period from the 1st century BC to the 5th century AD.

The museum boasts a fabulous collection of Roman glassware, with chalices, vases, vials, jewels and amulets from several Dalmatian archaeological sites. Among the most precious pieces there are vases that women, in Roman times, used to store perfumes, creams and essential oils. There are also cups and flasks used during the celebration of mass or to contain holy water.

Inside the museum there are also two small glass processing workshops. One is dedicated to glass blowing and the other to glass jewelry. During your visit you can see how artisans create glass artifacts, which you can also buy in the attached gift shop.

The Museum of Ancient Glass in Zadar is open every day from November to May from 9.00 to 16.00, from June to October from 9.00 to 21.00. The entrance ticket costs 30 kn (reduced 10 kn) and includes the tour of the museum and the laboratory. More info on the museum website .

Zadar’s Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions is located next to the Museum of Ancient Glass on the eastern side of Zadar Old Town. This museum, which opened a few years ago, has quickly become one of the most famous in the city and one of the main attractions for families.

Inside, everything is an illusion: rooms upside down or tilted, mirrors that will make you look deformed, giant or microscopic, holograms and optical illusions. There are also curious objects that deceive the view, such as bottomless holes, endless rooms and many interactive exhibits.

Inside the museum there is also a section dedicated to activities such as puzzles, quizzes, tricks and mathematical and logic games. The museum is open every day, but it has different hours depending on the season:

• From June to the end of September from 9.00 to 22.00
• From October to the end of November from 10.00 to 20.00
• From December to the end of March from 10.00 to 16.00
• From April to the end of May from 10.00 to 22.00

The ticket price is 70 kn (reduced 50 kn). Family ticket (2 adults and 2 children): 200 kn. More info on the museum website . The ticket can be purchased online .

Zadar’s Museum of Religious Art

The Museum of Religious Art is one of the most famous museums in Zadar, located just behind the Archaeological Museum, near the main square. It is located inside the Benedictine Convent of St. Mary and contains the precious gold and silver treasure of Zadar, in what is much more than a simple permanent exhibition of religious art.

The exhibition was designed by the Croatian Miroslav Kreleza in 1976 and quickly became famous throughout Croatia. It is spread over 1200 square meters divided into eight exhibition rooms where you can see precious ancient artefacts of sacred art in gold and silver, paintings, embroidery, sculptures and manuscripts.

Among the main paintings on display are Vittore Carpaccio’s St Martin’s Polyptych and Paolo Veneziano’s Virgin and Child Enthroned, in Byzantine style, some of the most important artworks preserved in Dalmatia.

You will also be able to see the reliquary bust of St Sixtus, dedicated to Pope Sixtus II and other majestic reliquaries, such as that of St. Oroncius and that of the head of St. Jacob.

Zadar’s People’s Square (Narodni trg)

People’s Square (Narodni trg) is the real heart of Zadar and stands on the site of the old medieval square, called Platea Magna. Today it is the main nightlife hub of Zadar, with a wide choice of bars and restaurants and some of the main attractions of the city.

The most important building is the Town Guard Palace (also called The City Guard), built in 1562 by the Venetian architect Michele Sanmicheli. The Clock Tower was added in 1798, under Hungarian rule, and the cannon housings can still be seen today. The tower also played an important defensive role.

The beautiful lodge dates back to the 13th century, and was the heart of Zadar’s political and administrative life. Refurbished in the 16th century, it was used as a courthouse, library and council chamber, while today it hosts temporary exhibitions and events.

On the square, near the City Guard , there is also the small pre-Romanesque Church of St. Lawrence , dating back to the 11th century. Just next to the Town Hall and the Ghirardini Palace, also in pre-Romanesque style.

Zadar’s Roman Forum

The most famous tourist attraction in Zadar is the Roman Forum , located in Zeleni Square, in the heart of Zadar Old Town . Here it is possible to see the remains of the Forum built between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century AD by the will of the Emperor Augustus.

This was the center of the political and social life of the town, there were some temples and palaces, of which it is still possible to see some remains of pavements, columns and capitals. Among the notable remains is the Place of Shame , a well-preserved 14-meter high column, once used for the public humiliation of criminals. The Forum also preserves the remains of some frescoes depicting mythological scenes, and of two altars with bas-reliefs, dedicated to Jupiter and Medusa.

There are also some frescoes of mythological scenes and altars with reliefs of Jupiter or Medusa. The temples located in the Capitolium , on the west side of the square, are dedicated to Jupiter and Minerva, with the remains of floors, stairways and capitals.

Right on the square of Zadar’s Roman Forum is the Archaeological Museum , the famous St. Donatus’ Church and, just behind, St. Anastasia’s Cathedral with the Bell Tower.

St. Anastasia’s Cathedral and Bell Tower

One step away from the Roman Forum is St. Anastasia’s Cathedral and its tall Bell Tower . The cathedral, called Sv. Stošija in Croatian, dates back to the period between the 12th and 13th centuries and is the largest in Dalmatia.

It takes its name from St. Anastasia of Sirmium , whose ashes were donated to the Episcopate of Zadar by the Byzantine Emperor Nicephorus I in the 9th century. The cathedral, sacked, destroyed and rebuilt several times, was visited by two Popes: Pope Alexander III, who consecrated it in 1117 and Pope John Paul II.

The Cathedral is in an elegant Romanesque style with a facade characterized by 3 doors, the central one dominated by a bas-relief of the Madonna and Child between Saints Grisogono and Anastasia. The upper part of the facade has a large central rose window and a triangular pediment.

The interiors are quite simple, with three naves divided by rows of columns. On the apse is the sarcophagus containing the relics of St. Anastasia. Many parts of the Cathedral were destroyed in WWII, such as the ancient hexagonal baptistery of early Christian origin.

The main attraction of the Cathedral, however, is its bell tower . It took several centuries to complete, as the works lasted from 1452 to 1892 and completed under the supervision of the British architect Thomas Graham Jackson. For a nice view of Zadar’s Old Town you can climb the steep and dizzying staircase to the top of the bell tower.

Church of St. Donatus

St. Donatus’ Church is located on Zadar’s Roman Forum and was built in the 9th century at the behest of the Zadar bishop and diplomat Donatus of Zadar , after whom the church is named. It is considered one of the main symbols of the city and many local folk songs are dedicated to it.

This is probably the most iconic church in Zadar, built with a circular shape, as used in medieval Dalmatian churches, in austere and simple white stone. It is considered an excellent example of Byzantine architecture. It’s 27 meters high, it has simple interiors with 3 apses and an ambulatory around the central area, surmounted by circular gallery. Part of the floors and Roman columns are reused materials from the adjacent Roman Forum.

The imposing dome surmounts the church which, due to its particular acoustics, is often used to host classical music concerts. For over 200 years this church has no longer hosted masses and religious ceremonies, but is the site of temporary exhibitions and in the past it housed the Archaeological Museum of Zadar.

Church of St. Simeon

St. Simeon’s Church is located on Ul. Andrije Medulića just a few minutes’ walk from the Land Gate entrance. This small church dates back to the 17th century, but has been damaged and rebuilt several times and in different styles, from early Christian to Gothic, up to the present Baroque.

Its interior is worth taking a look at: above the main altar there is a precious medieval chest containing the relics of St Simeon. The sarcophagus was made in 1377 by an Italian goldsmith master, commissioned by the Hungarian Queen Elizabeth. It is made of fine cedar wood covered with beautiful silver reliefs.

Zadar’s Palaces

The Zadar Old Town is full of beautiful bourgeois buildings, once belonged to the noble families of the town. You will be able to admire its exterior during your stroll through the Zadar Old Town: near St. Simeon’s Church is the Grisogono Vovo Palace , which belonged to one of the most important noble families of Zadar.

The building is in Romanesque style with Gothic-Venetian windows and balconies. Inside it houses a beautiful closed courtyard, with a cistern and a well. The palace also has a picturesque little marina and a gallery on the second floor.

Nearby is the medieval Petrizio Palace , while adjacent to the Land Gate is the Cedulin Palace , which now houses the tourist information center. In its courtyard, exhibitions, concerts and musical events are often organized.

Zadar’s Rector’s Palace

The Rector’s Palace is located near St. Simeon’s Church, in the eastern part of the Zadar Old Town. In the past it was the seat of the city administration, while today it is an exhibition space and an archaeological site, with Roman remains and medieval parts in Gothic and Romanesque style.

Heavily damaged by the wars of the 1900s, especially the Croatian War of Independence of the 90s, it has been rebuilt and today has a rather modern appearance. Its more than 2000 square meters of rooms decorated in the original style of the building host temporary exhibitions, events and concerts.

Outside of Zadar’s Old Town

Apart from the beaches, Zadar Old Town is certainly the main attraction of Zadar. But for shopping lovers it may also be a good idea to take a look at the more modern part of the city, located on the opposite side of the peninsula on which the Zadar Old Town stands, also connected by a convenient pedestrian bridge. From the port, you can also take one of the traditional boats (barkarijoli) that go back and forth between the banks.

Zadar Sphinx

Strolling along the Obala Kneza Trpimira waterfront, in the modern town of Zadar, you will be able to see the Zadar Sphinx , a replica of an Egyptian sphinx.

It is located in the garden of Villa Attilia , the residence of the Croatian artist Giovanni Smirich and his wife Attilia. The sphinx was built at the behest of Smirich after his wife’s death, and is dedicated to her. There are also engravings on the Zadar Sphinx which, however, no one has been able to decipher yet.

Zadar is also a popular summer destination along the Croatian coast, with a good choice of beaches and bays on a crystal clear sea. Among the most famous beaches in Zadar is Kolovare Beach , located just south of Zadar Old Town, which boasts a beautiful promenade (where you can also see some monuments, such as the Imperial Fountain) with pebble beaches.

Here you are in the heart of the new town of Zadar, so there is not a great choice of hotels and resorts, but there are excellent apartments , such as Apartments & Rooms Lavandula Exclusive , CAISA Luxury Apartment (in a modern villa with a nice garden, located 20 m from the sea) and the Sunset Penthouse Apartment (with Jacuzzi and seaview).

Here there is also a good hotel, the Hotel Kolovare , and one of the best hostels in Zadar, the Sky Hostel .

Another famous beach in Zadar is Petrčane Beach , located a few kilometers north of Zadar Old Town. Here are beautiful beaches , pine forests and some of the best hotels and resorts in Zadar , including the Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik (a great choice for families), the fabulous Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera and some good hotels like the Hotel Mediteran , the Hotel Petrčane and the Hotel Pinija .

There is also a wide choice of excellent luxury apartments , with fabulous swimming pools and private beaches, such as the Falkensteiner Senia Apartments , the Sunnyside Apartments Petrcane , Villa Pino (with Pool, Sauna & Jacuzzi) and Villa Triana .

Kornati Islands

The wonderful Kornati Islands are located right in the stretch of sea off the coast of Zadar, just 15 km south of Zadar’s Old Town, and are an unspoiled archipelago of about 150 islands , the largest in the entire Mediterranean Sea.

The name Kornati Islands derives from the largest island in the archipelago, Kornat , and most of the islands form one of the most important and famous natural parks in Croatia, the Kornati National Park , founded in 1980.

A day trip to the Kornati Islands , which can be easily reached on a boat trip from Zadar , is well worth the effort. The beautiful islands are dotted with idyllic villages, breathtaking beaches on a crystalline emerald sea, cliffs and sea caves. Many of the islands are uninhabited, but in the summer they come to life, especially on Kornat, where there are several restaurants and guesthouses.

Dugi Otok is the largest island around Zadar , and is characterized by beautiful rural landscapes, with some picturesque villages. Its name, Dugi Otok, means Long Island, because the island is almost 45km long but only 4km wide. The northern area of Dugi Otok is covered with vineyards and orchards, while the southern is characterized by beautiful cliffs and hills.

There are convenient boat trips from Zadar that allow you to better explore the archipelago, with the Telašćica Nature Park and the surrounding Kornati Islands. Alternatively, if you have a car you could take the ferry from the Gaženica port of Zadar to the port of Brbinj on Dugi Otok Island (about 2h), and then explore the island along the beautiful scenic road that runs along the coast. At the southern end you can visit the picturesque Mir Lake and Telašćica Park .

Telašćica Park

Located on the island of Dugi Otok , on the scenic 10 km-long bay of Telašćica , Telašćica Nature Park is one of the most beautiful natural parks in Dalmatia and is home to many species of animals and plants.

Its landscape is full of cliffs, islets and coves on a breathtaking emerald sea, but its most famous attraction is Lake Mir (Jezero Mir) , a fabulous salt lake, located right on the sea. Its waters are salty because it is connected by underground channels to the sea, and its muds are famous for their healing properties. They are believed to be good for the skin. The beautiful beaches of Telašćica are a great place for snorkeling, hiking or cycling and fishing.

The scenic Vrana Lake is located 40 km south of Zadar and stretches over 60 square km. It is one of the most important protected ornithological reserves in Croatia, and is home to a large variety of bird species, making it one of Croatia’s top bird watching destinations.

The best time to visit Vrana Lake is in spring and autumn, but the other months aren’t too bad either. Strolling on the park’s wooden walkways you will be able to see birds in their natural habitat and take beautiful photographs.

It is worth making a trip to the Kamenjak viewpoint, from which you can have a nice view of the lake and the surrounding landscape. Here are also several information panels on the history and geology of the park and its endemic species. There are also telescopes to see the nearby Kornati Islands. The park can also be visited by bicycle: there are numerous cycle paths suitable for the whole family. Also there are several hiking trails.

It is worth staying overnight near the park , where the wonderful Heritage Hotel Maskovica Han is located. This hotel is located in the village of Pakoštane , one step away from Vrana Lake , in an old white stone complex dating back to the 17th century, which was once a mosque. Its rooms are elegant, modern and refined, and guests can visit the archaeological site of Maškovića Han (which also boasts an authentic 17th-century Turkish hammam) and enjoy the hotel’s good restaurant. The excellent breakfast and private parking are included in the rate.

Also nearby is the excellent Camp Vransko Lake Crkvine , which boasts beautiful accommodations in luxury bungalows, located right on the lake. From each bungalow you will have a beautiful view of the lake, a beautiful garden and a private beach, perfect for relaxing.

Just 20 km north of Zadar is the picturesque little town of Nin ( Nona , in Italian), located in the middle of a scenic lagoon on the Adriatic Sea. The Princes of Dalmatia once lived here and the village was quite famous in the Middle Ages.

This village is one of the most beautiful gems on the Croatian coast. Its delightful old town (only 500 meters in diameter) can be reached by a couple of medieval pedestrian bridges and by a road that runs alongside the vast salt flats located east of Nin Old Town .

There are several beautiful beaches around the village of Nin, while Route 306 runs all over the peninsula north of Nin until it reaches the island of Vir , which is connected to the mainland by a bridge.

To the north of Nin Old Town is the Mud Mine , a swampy area full of hiking trails and beaches, while to the south you can visit the Solana Nin Salt Museum , a small museum dedicated to local salt mines, which also sells some salt souvenirs from the saline.

Nin is also an important archaeological site, in fact the village was very important for the Romans and the Byzantines. Here are the remains of one of the largest temples on the Adriatic, built around the 1st century BC by the Emperor Vespasian. In addition there are several important Croatian Pre-Romanesque Catholic churches, such as the Church of the Holy Cross , known under the moniker of the smallest cathedral in the world, and the Church of Saint Nicholas , which stands on the earthen pyramid mound on top of the Liburnian prehistoric tomb and which was a coronation site of Croatian kings.

Paklenica National Park

The Dalmatian hinterland is home to some of the most important parks in Croatia. About 60 km from Zadar is Paklenica National Park , easily accessible by car or by bus from Zadar to the city of Starigrad.

The main attractions of Paklenica National Park are its canyons, Mala Pklenica (12 km long) and Velika Paklenica (14 km long), which are a good place for nature hikes. Here you can also visit some tunnels built by the will of Tito, which often host temporary exhibitions, and some caves, of which the Manita Peć is the only one open to visitors.

The highest peak in the park is Mount Vaganski , nearly 1,800 meters high, and the surrounding landscape is home to many species of wildlife, including hawks, eagles and owls, but also deer, bears or foxes. The park is a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, climbing, rafting, and cycling.

In the surroundings there are some small villages, among which the Mill of Marasović , dating back to the 19th century, is worth a visit. This old rural village is almost abandoned, but it is a great place to enjoy the old charm of the Dalmatian countryside.

Pet Bunara Restaurant

Pet Bunara Restaurant is located in Five Wells Square in Zadar’s Old Town and is a modern restaurant with a nice terrace. It serves a traditional menu, with typical Dalmatian soups, stews and good meat or fish dishes. For dessert try the traditional Zadar fig pie.

Near the port of Zadar the Kornat Restaurant serves excellent seafood dishes of Italian and French inspiration. The place is elegant (and perhaps a little kitschy), but it also has a nice terrace overlooking the sea. Reservations are recommended.

Konoba Dalmatina

In the heart of Zadar’s Old Town, Konoba Dalmatina is a good traditional restaurant, serving good regional cuisine at reasonable prices. It serves good fish or meat dishes and Dalmatian specialties.

Getting to Zadar by Plane

Zadar Airport is located 10 km from the city center and has several connections with some of the major European cities such as Brussels, London, Munich, Paris and Warsaw. It is served by Croatia Airlines and some low cost airlines. You can reach the center by taxi or bus. A bus leaves in front of the airport that takes you to Port Gaženica in the city center of Zadar in a few minutes.

Getting to Zadar by Bus

The Zadar Main Bus Station is located 1 km from the historic center on Ul. Ante Starčevića and is well connected with the major cities of Croatia and with some international connections operated by Flixbus . Popular destinations (operated by Flixbus and some local companies) are Dubrovnik (6 hours), Rijeka (4 hours) and Sibenik (1.5 hours). There are also connections to Zagreb (4 hours) and some buses that stop near Plitvice Lakes (2 hours).

In summer there are about 1 bus every 2 hours which stops near the Plitvice Lakes . Alternatively there are affordable guided day trips from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes , which include round-trip transport .

Getting to Zadar by Ferry

The main port of Zadar is Gaženica , located 7 km south of the old town. From June to September there are car ferries (6 per week) from Ancona (Italy) to Zadar (about 9 hours) operated by Jadrolinija . Ticket prices start from 500 kn. In the months of July and August the connections can be more frequent, up to 14 per week. More info on the Jadrolinija website.

Also from the port of Zadar Gaženica , car ferries leave for the port of Brbinj on the island of Dugi Otok (about 2 hours). Ticket prices start from 40 kn for passengers and around 250 kn for cars. There are also passenger-only ferries to Sali, Zaglev and Brbinj.

Ferries also leave from Zadar to the port of Preko , on the island of Ugljan . There are some ferries from the port of Gaženica and from the smaller port of Zadar Old Town (30 minutes – 100 kn).

From the port of Zadar Gaženica there are connections (both car and passenger ferries) also to Mali Lošinj , on Lošinj Island (4 hours – 250 kn).

BALKANS ON THE ROAD

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Three days in Zadar: exploring in and around Croatia's coolest city

Nov 15, 2018 • 4 min read

Situated on the Adriatic, Zadar has access to a few nearby beaches, as well as the pristine waters of the surrounding region © paul prescott / Shutterstock

Thanks to its flourishing culinary scene and bustling nightlife, the seaside city of Zadar is fast becoming known as Croatia's ‘capital of cool’. With a Unesco-protected Old Town, Roman ruins, Adriatic sunsets and the unique sea organ, this rising city can no longer be kept a secret. And if you want to venture further afield, the northern Dalmatian hinterland has an abundance of attractions to explore.

Day 1: Roam through the Old Town

First, get acquainted with the city’s historic Old Town. Kalelarga is the main artery, running from pretty Narodni trg , the traditional centre of public life, to  the Roman Forum . Don’t miss climbing the Bell Tower , an extension of the Romanesque St Anastasia's Cathedral , where you’ll be met with uninterrupted views of the city's rooftops and the archipelago of over 200 islands and islets just off the coast. 

Exploring the Old Town on foot is a breeze, although segway tours are becoming increasingly popular. Be sure to turn off the main streets and explore the narrow alleyways, where you'll find a mixture of Roman, Venetian and modern architecture and motifs.  As the day grows long, many people congregate by the seafront at the tip of the peninsula to watch the sun set. The  Sun Salutation light installation here is at its best in the fading light, and the nearby  Sea Organ , which uses ocean waves to create euphonious sounds,  retains its awe factor anytime of day.

Cafes and restaurants throughout the Varoš neighbourhood come alive when the sun goes down. Canzona is modest and unpretentious, offering an array of fresh seafood delicacies and homely vibe. Close by at Bruschetta locals and tourists sit side-by-side, wolfing down the locally caught seafood . Bon Appetit is known for its morska teća (seafood hot pot). The restaurant’s prime location by the waterfront means you can sit here while the sun sets over a glass of Korlat, a local yet internationally award-winning wine.

After dinner, Ledana Lounge & Bar is an ideal spot for those who want a taste of nightlife and are looking for a boozy hideout inside the Old Town.

Day 2: Day trip to Dugi Otok

Dugi Otok , the seventh largest island in the Adriatic Sea, is where you’ll quickly forget the sounds of the city. Visit Nature Park Telašćica , a quiet cobalt-blue bay at the southern end of the island that's fringed with small coves and surrounded by pristine nature. Stop by the scenic salt lake Mir , followed by lunch within the nature park at Taverna Goro , where the menu focuses on local Dalmatian specialities.  

Spend a few hours under the sun at either Uvala Brbišćica, a heavenly sandy hideaway, or Veli Žal Beach – both good alternatives to the typically crowded Sakarun Beach . Or take one of the local-guided kayaking tours that explores Golubinka Cave, an underwater cave popular for scuba diving located west of Brbinjšćica Bay. Further north of the island you’ll find Veli Rat lighthouse , the tallest lighthouse in the Adriatic, and those seeking an underwater adventure will enjoy the mysterious Shipwreck Michelle.

Day 3: Hiking in Paklenica

Start your final day with a hike or climb of one of the two famous canyons in Paklenica National Park , the second oldest national park in Croatia (second only to the famed Plitvice Lakes National Park ) . Mala (small) Paklenica is recommended for experienced hikers and mountaineers due to the density of the trail, while Velika (big) Paklenica is more suitable for beginners.

Paklenica National Park is located only 40km from Zadar, and is easily accessible from the nearby coastal town of Starigrad . Once inside the park, the landscapes, limestone canyons and idyllic views of Velebit mountain range unfold. Consider joining a group tour to explore some of the area's 150km of trails or one of many caves, such as Manita Peć , which is rich in underground fauna.

Adrenaline junkies looking for their next fix can go skydiving , and from Obrovac, just 30 minutes from Paklenica National Park, you can venture into  Zrmanja Canyon , a pristine, emerald-coloured river, which is perfect for rafting, kayaking and canoeing.  Regain some strength after a long day of adventure by enjoying peka (a stew baked in a fireplace under a bell-shaped lid ) at Ramića Dvori , a local lodge and restaurant immersed in nature.

Make it happen

If you’re looking for accommodation in the city, sleep in style at Almayer , a newly opened boutique hotel located moments from Zadar’s landmark attractions such as the Sea Organ, Kalelarga and the Roman Forum. Those looking for a more relaxed, slower-paced getaway will find Hotel Adriana to be a tranquil escape in Zadar’s trendy beachfront neighbourhood of Borik.

Otherwise book an apartment rental and wake up to the waterfront at Lux Zadar No.6 , located on the waterfront in the same building Alfred Hitchcock stayed in when he claimed that Zadar had ‘the best sunset in the world’ back in 1964. Or to sleep in the heart of all the action, Hostel Forum Zadar claims first prize with each room having a birds-eye view of the ancient Roman Forum.  

Lonely Planet has produced this article for Zadar Tourism. All editorial views are those of Lonely Planet alone and reflect our policy of editorial independence and impartiality.

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Explore the Enchanting Wonders of Zadar, Croatia: Your Ultimate Travel Guide 2023

by Progressive Traveller | Croatia , Europe , Featured

Zadar Travel Guide: Top Picks and Tips

Discover the stunning coastal city of Zadar, Croatia, a hidden gem offering an unforgettable travel experience. Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, Zadar boasts a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. In this travel blog, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about Zadar, including top-rated GetYourGuide recommendations, accommodation options on Booking.com, fascinating facts, transportation tips, and why you should make Zadar a must-visit destination on your Croatian adventure.

Why Visit Croatia and Zadar?

Before we dive into the specifics of Zadar, let’s address why Croatia as a whole deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. Croatia offers a diverse range of experiences, from pristine beaches and picturesque islands to historic cities and vibrant culture. The country’s Mediterranean climate, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality make it a traveller’s paradise. And Zadar, with its unique charm, adds an extra layer of magic to your Croatian journey.

Here’s a list of lesser-known facts about Zadar that I learned on my visit to Zadar:

Sun Salutation : Zadar is not only home to the Sea Organ but also the Sun Salutation, a solar-powered art installation that produces a mesmerising light show at sunset.

Roman Legacy: The city’s Roman forum is one of the largest and best-preserved on the Adriatic coast, offering a glimpse into its ancient history.

Historical Layers: Zadar’s Old Town is like a history book with layers spanning over 2,000 years, showcasing Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Croatian influences.

Vibrant Nightlife: Zadar comes alive after dark with a vibrant nightlife scene, offering numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Greeting to the Sun: The Sun Salutation and Sea Organ were designed by local architect Nikola Bašić , adding a unique touch to the city’s waterfront.

Culinary Delights: Zadar’s culinary scene is a blend of Mediterranean and Croatian flavours, with delicious seafood and traditional dishes like pasticada and peka .

Island Hopping: Zadar serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the nearby islands of Dugi Otok, Ugljan, and Pasman, known for their pristine beauty and tranquillity.

Maraschino Liqueur: Zadar is famous for its Maraschino liqueur , made from marasca cherries, and you can visit the Maraschino liqueur factory for a tasting.

Alfred Hitchcock’s Praise: The legendary filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock once said that Zadar’s sunset was the most beautiful in the world, and he wasn’t wrong.

Astronomical Heritage: Zadar has an astronomical tradition dating back to the 10th century, with ancient observatories like the Zadar Observatory and the one on the island of Pašman.

Cultural Festivals: The city hosts a variety of cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Zadar Outdoor Festival , offering opportunities for adventure and culture enthusiasts.

Gornji and Donji Grad: Zadar is often divided into two parts – Gornji Grad (Upper Town) and Donji Grad (Lower Town), each offering its own unique atmosphere and attractions.

GetYourGuide Recommendations for Zadar:

Zadar Old Town Evening Walking Tour : Immerse yourself in the rich history of Zadar by exploring its ancient streets, Roman ruins, and iconic landmarks such as the Church of St. Donatus, the Forum, Five Wells and People’s Squares, the Sea Organ and more with your guide as the sun sets over Zadar.

Sunset Sailing Tour : Witness one of the most breathtaking sunsets in the world as you sail along the Adriatic coast. The play of colours in the sky is truly mesmerising.

Kornati Islands National Park Tour : Discover the natural beauty of Croatia by visiting the Kornati Islands. This boat tour allows you to explore pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and untouched nature. Stop to swim and explore the island and enjoy an included breakfast and lunch.

Plitvice Lakes National Park Day Trip : Venture inland to Plitvice Lakes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its cascading waterfalls and emerald lakes. This day trip from Zadar is a nature lover’s dream.Tickets included.

Zadar and Nin Highlights: Private Tour : Discover Zadar and Nin, two old European cities, full of hidden treasures, interesting stories, rich history and good vibes. The tour includes a visit to Zadar Old Town, where you’ll di scover the world’s smallest Cathedral in Nin and visit the Museum of Salt and the Museum of Ancient Glass.

Booking.com Accommodation Choices in Zadar:

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Zadar, Booking.com has you covered. Here are five diverse options to suit every traveller’s preference:

• Bastion Heritage Hotel : A luxurious choice within the city walls, offering elegant rooms, a spa, and a stunning view of the sea. The 4-star hotel is nestled within the heart of Zadar’s historic core. It’s a true gem, just a stone’s throw away from the historic Arsenal and home to the renowned fine dining establishment, Kaštel, where you can indulge in Mediterranean cuisine amidst elegant interiors or on a spacious terrace with a delightful garden view. The hotel also boasts a top-notch spa, ensuring your relaxation needs are met, and they offer complimentary WiFi access throughout the property.
• Art Hotel Kalelarga : Located in the Old Town, this boutique hotel boasts unique artistic décor and comfortable rooms. Nestled within the UNESCO-protected Venetian walls in the heart of historic Zadar, you’ll find the enchanting Art Hotel Kalelarga. This boutique hotel is perched along the main promenade known as Kalelarga and boasts a charming on-site restaurant, as well as complimentary WiFi access. The hotel’s rooms are a testament to modern comfort, each thoughtfully air-conditioned and elegantly furnished.
• Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera: For a seaside escape, this 5-star resort offers private beaches and impeccable service. Located 12 kilometres from the Old Town, One of the standout features of this exceptional retreat is its expansive wellness, beauty, and fitness facility, spanning over an impressive 6,000 square meters. The Acquapura Spa is a sanctuary of rejuvenation, offering the perfect opportunity for unwinding and pampering oneself. When it comes to dining, the Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera has you covered.
• Boutique Hostel Forum : Ideal for budget travellers, this hostel is centrally located and offers a friendly atmosphere. The newly built Boutique Hostel Forum is located in the very heart of ancient Zadar, next to the Romanesque St. Anastasia’s Cathedral, pre-Romanesque St. Donatus’ Church and the Roman Forum.
• Apartments Donat : Enjoy the freedom of a self-catered apartment close to the main attractions. Couples particularly like the location — they rated it  9.7  for a two-person trip.

Getting to Zadar from Main Croatian Cities:

From Zagreb: The capital city is approximately a 3-hour drive from Zadar. You can also take a direct bus or train for a convenient and scenic journey.

From Split : Zadar is around a 2.5-hour drive south of Split, and there are frequent bus connections between the two cities.

From Dubrovnik: While Dubrovnik is farther away (about 6-7 hours by car), you can also opt for a picturesque coastal road trip to Zadar.

Renting a Car in Zadar with DiscoverCars.com:

For those seeking the utmost flexibility and convenience during their Zadar adventure, renting a car through DiscoverCars.com is an excellent choice. Zadar’s surrounding region is filled with hidden gems, and having your own wheels allows you to explore at your own pace. DiscoverCars.com offers a wide range of rental options, ensuring you’ll find a vehicle that suits your needs and budget. Whether you’re planning day trips to nearby national parks, or picturesque coastal towns, or simply want to explore the city at your leisure, having a rental car at your disposal opens up a world of possibilities.

Just imagine cruising along the stunning Dalmatian coast with the wind in your hair, stopping at scenic viewpoints and off-the-beaten-path destinations. With DiscoverCars.com, you can easily book your rental online and unlock more of Zadar’s hidden treasures.

Best Croatia Destination Guides

To discover additional helpful tips and valuable information, be sure to explore more of the Progressive Traveller “ Destination Guides for Croatia .”

• KORCULA ISLAND GUIDE 2023 | EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
• ULTIMATE PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK VISITOR’S GUIDE
• 11 MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS TO ZAGREB CROATIA
• DUBROVNIK: YOUR COMPREHENSIVE 2023 TRAVEL GUIDE FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS
• EXPLORING MONTENEGRO | THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO DISCOVER CARS CAR RENTAL

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8 wonderful things to do in zadar, croatia.

Though Zadar wasn’t included in my Croatia itinerary at first, I’m pleased that I eventually decided to extend my trip, which gave me the opportunity to visit this laidback coastal town as well.

Situated on the extensive shoreline next to the calming Adriatic lies Zadar, a small town that is characterized by its welcoming atmosphere, rich history, and lively contemporary daily life.

The time-worn streets of the old town have no shortage of fascinating things to see and do – think ancient Roman ruins, innovative art installations, as well as trendy restaurants and bars.

The best part though, Zadar Old Town is the perfect size to discover in just a few days, while it also makes a great base to uncover the nearby Plitvice National Park on an exhilarating day trip.

And though Zadar is often overshadowed by the grandeur of Split and Dubrovnik , I believe that Zadar is a town in its own right, clearly worthy of your visit.

So here’s my take on the best things to do in Zadar – plus travel essentials and tips on where to stay, how to get there, as well as an insight on a unique, local summer hotspot.

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WHERE TO STAY IN ZADAR

Zadar is perfectly situated next to the Adriatic, as well as appealing to those interested in culture, making it a favourite destination among tourists and backpackers alike.

I recommend staying in Zadar old town, where you can find a huge selection of accommodation, including family-run guesthouses, Airbnb’s, budget-friendly hostels, as well as luxurious hotels for those looking for a bit of extra comfort.

Apartments & Rooms Mareta | Encircled by all the best things to see and do in Zadar, Apartments & Rooms Mareta offers a comfy luxurious apartment, without breaking the bank. On top of that, it is spacious and well designed, as well as equipped with a kitchen, air conditioning and a seating area with a flat screen.

Scallop Regent Rooms | Situated in the heart of Zadar Old Town, just a short walk from the action, Scallop Regent provides spacious rooms, air conditioning and a pleasant private bathroom, all at an excellent quality-price-ratio. Perfect for those looking for some extra comfort.

Boutique Hostel Forum | This is where I stayed during my time in Zadar, and it was an excellent experience, at only €17 a night. Boutique Hostel Forum has comfortable and spacious shared rooms, and a large common area, and is without a doubt one of the best hostels I ever spent the night. Additionally, it is located next to Zadar’s charming Roman Forum.

Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Zadar, Croatia .

8 WONDERFUL THINGS TO DO IN ZADAR, CROATIA

1 | admire a stunning zadar sunset at the sea organ.

Perched on the northwestern edge of the charming Zadar Riva is the Zadar Sea Organ, an architectural sound art object, that is easily one of the most interesting things to see in Zadar.

Designed in 2005 by Croatian architect Nikola Bašić, the Morske Orgulje – the sea organ’s Croatian name – follows the intuitive flow of nature, creating random, yet calming sounds.

And believe me, there’s just something magical and captivating about the calming vibrations that are created by the waves of the Adriatic and the 35 organ pipes that lay beneath the marble steps of the Zadar Riva.

Throw in the fact that famous British film director Alfred Hitchcock once said that ‘’Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world’’, and the Zadar Sea Organ turns into an absolute must-visit.

It is therefore little wonder that this extraordinary art object is considerably popular among travellers and locals alike.

So do as I did, and grab some gelato at Bob Rocks ice cream, and secure yourself a quiet spot to sit and watch the world go by.

Additionally, you can also see the adjacent Greetings of the Sun, an art installation that uses light to symbolize communication with nature.

2 | WALK THE IMPOSING ROMAN FORUM

Though you most likely already know, the delicate architecture is one of the key ingredients for the splendour that defines Zadar Old Town, with the imposing ruins of the Roman Forum at the heart of it all.

Situated in the epicentre of Zadar Old Town, the Roman Forum dominates the horizon, and walking around it feels as though you accidentally boarded a flight heading for Italy, yet this is far from the truth.

But is easy to see why, if you consider the fact that ancient Zadar was once part of the prosperous Roman empire that ruled in Zadar from 48BC till the end of the 5th century.

While this period in time is now long gone, the Roman forum reminds travellers and locals, that this was one of the most influential chapters in Zadar’s rich history.

Adjacent to the forum, you’ll notice the medieval St Donat church, a cylindrical-shaped church that was built on the remnants of a Roman construction at the beginning of the 9th century.

3 | GO ON A DAY TRIP TO THE PLITVICE NATIONAL PARK

Situated roughly 1,5 hours away from Zadar is the incredibly beautiful Plitvice National Park, a vast natural phenomenon that is deemed to be one of the main reasons why travellers flock to Croatia.

Croatia’s best-known highlight is distinguished by a wide array of picturesque interconnected lakes, the most mesmerizing waterfalls, as well as plenty of calming streams and rapids, and walking among this sheer natural beauty is truly an otherworldly experience.

The UNESCO listed National Park is divided into two sections – the Upper lakes (Gornja Jezera) and the Lower Lakes (Donja Jezera) – both extremely impressive, and best visited in the early morning.

One word of warning though – book your tickets online and well ahead. By doing so you have guaranteed access to the park at the time of arrival, saving you a lot of unnecessary waiting time.

If you plan to visit Plitvice National Park as a day trip from Zadar, I highly recommend renting a car, so you’ll have all the freedom to visit on your own conditions. For car rental in Croatia , make sure to pick an option from the wide selection that is available at Rentalcars.com .

Ooh and just to make it clear, I think a visit to Croatia is incomplete without a visit to the famous lakes of Plitvice National Park.

Where | Plitvice National Park

Opening hours | Daily 07:00 – 20:00 during the high season, more information here

Cost | Entrance fee 300 HRK (€39,70) per person

4 | WALK AROUND ZADAR OLD TOWN

Like most old towns in Croatia, Zadar has no shortage of fascinating architecture, dotted throughout the streets of Zadar’s attractive historic centre.

A walk around Zadar Old Town is the perfect activity for those that are keen to uncover Zadar’s time-worn architecture but of course also for travellers looking to enjoy a relaxing late-afternoon walk.

Zadar Old Town has the perfect size to uncover in a few hours, and walking around it is, partly thanks to that, one of the most rewarding things to do in Zadar.

Here are a few highlights where I highly recommend stopping by:

St Anastasia cathedral | Built at the end of the 12th century, the St Anastasia cathedral – also known as the Zadar Cathedral – is considered one of Zadar’s most fascinating buildings. Charmed by its intriguing facade in typical Romanesque architecture style, the cathedral is a must-see in the old town.

The Land Gate | Zadar’s charming old town is encircled by fortified walls, and as a result, the city is only entered via a handful of ancient gates. The best-known of these gates is the ornate Land Gate, which was once the main gate to the city. At present, the Land Gate is easily the most picturesque gate to gain entrance to Zadar Old Town.

Five wells square | During the 16th century, Zadar survived many Turkish attacks, partly due to its innovative system that supplied citizens with water. And though the five wells are no longer in use, the historic Trg Pet Bunara square has become a popular place for locals and travellers alike.

5 | SAMPLE ON LOCAL CRAFT BEER AT DEJA BREW

During the car journey from the Netherlands to Croatia, my friends Sander and Maaike told me that Croatian people are pretty serious when it comes to craft beer, and after visiting Deja Brew it is easy to understand why.

Situated in the time-worn streets of Zadar old town is Deja Brew, a classy ‘hipster-ish’ pub that serves a wide variety of local, national and international craft beers, as well as hand-crafted cocktails and excellent whiskeys.

After my day trip to Plitvice National Park, I decided to drop by, and once seated I sampled a bottle of Zagreb’s very own Grif craft beer, a light refreshing single hop Pale Ale, that was rewarded with a World Beer Award in 2020 .

And I must say, it was a welcoming refreshment after an adventurous day under the sizzling Mediterranean sun.

The unique and local-oriented setting, the cosy atmosphere and the excellent selection of top-notch craft beers make Deja Brew a great place to sit down after an active day of exploring.

So, if you’re keen to have a friendly chat with travellers and locals alike, while enjoying a few late-night drinks, make sure to visit Deja Brew at least once during your time in Zadar.

For those wanting to start the day off right, Deja Brew doubles as a cafe and serves excellent coffee during the day.

6 | TAKE A RIDE WITH THE BOATMEN OF ZADAR

For over 800 years, the boatmen of Zadar have been transferring passengers from the surrounding cities to Zadar Old Town, and at present, this tradition is fortunately still very much alive.

Passed on from father to son, the Barkajol Zadarski is by far one of the most authentic travel experiences in Zadar, and by taking part in it, you’ll be supporting a proud tradition.

Once you set foot in the small bright-coloured wooden skiff, a traditional boatsman will row you to the other side of the harbour, using only 2 oars and a large dose of friendliness.

Though the passage to the old town takes only 5 minutes, it is an excellent way to get a feel for the ‘real’ Zadar and its people.

On top of that, I think the boatmen of Zadar make quite a picturesque frame for on the wall.

7 | SPEND A DAY RELAXING AT BAZEN KOLOVARE

Nestled on the shoreline only just outside of Zadar Old Town is Bazen Kolovare, an urban outdoor swimming deck that is without a question one of my favourite places for an afternoon of swimming and relaxing in Zadar.

Teeming with both local youngsters and the elderly, Bazen Kolovar is considered a bit of a local-only secret, and by visiting you’ll have a great impression of a traditional Mediterranean summer day.

The complex houses a large natural swimming pool, a towering diving board for those after a quick adrenaline spike, as well as a cafe that serves refreshments and snacks.

So, if you’re keen to spend a day relaxing, yet still want to experience authentic local life, look no further, Bazen Kolovare is the place where you want to be during the long summer days.

Ooh, and Bazen Kolovare truly makes for a postcard-perfect setting.

8 | SAMPLE A BURGER AT LA FAMIGLIA ZADAR

The one thing that I struggle to resist since I started to eat more plant-based food, is definitely a good, juicy beef burger.

So every once in a while, when I stumble upon an inviting place that is specialized in creating innovatively composed burgers, I give in.

This was clearly also the case when I discovered La Famiglia in Zadar.

Once I checked their extensive menu, it became very clear that I was in the right place to consent to my occasional burger craving.

After some contemplation, I opted for the Big Boy, a double burger served with pickled red onions, fresh tomatoes, cheddar cheese, their signature sauce, and an iconic black bun.

It was impressively tasty.

Those keen for a lighter meal, be at ease – their menu is vegan-friendly – think pasta, risotto, salads, as well as a falafel burger, making it an excellent option for everyone.

BEST TIME TO VISIT ZADAR

Zadar has no shortage of long summer days flooded with sun, and is, in my opinion, best visited during the shoulder months that run from April to June and from September to October.

The weather during these months is excellent to explore Zadar and surrounds, as well as spend time relaxing poolside or at the beach.

Additionally, you’ll experience significant smaller crowds and slightly lower prices than during the summer months of July and August, making it a more enjoyable (and cheaper) trip.

MY FAVOURITE DAY TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND ZADAR

If you’re keen to explore Zadar on an organized tour, here are some of my personal favourites.

HOW TO GET TO ZADAR, CROATIA

FLIGHTS | HOW TO GET TO ZADAR

Zadar is considered an excellent summer getaway, and is easy to get to by plane, especially during the peak period that runs from June till September.

Flights to Zadar arrive and depart at Zadar Airport, roughly 20 minutes from the historic centre of Zadar Old Town.

For flights to Zadar, I would recommend Skyscanner . Their website is user-friendly, holds a large variety of airlines, and grants the possibility to find good rates.

From Zadar Airport, take a shuttle bus in the direction of the old town. More information here .

CAR | HOW TO GET TO ZADAR

Croatia’s attractive coastline makes an excellent destination for a road trip, and if you’re keen to uncover the best places in the country, renting a car is clearly the best thing you could do.

If you’re planning to rent a car in Croatia, you’ll have all the freedom to visit Zadar – plus it’s remarkably easier to make day trips.

For car rental in Croatia , I would recommend checking out Rentalcars.com . They offer excellent service, additional insurance, and a broad selection of cars, all at an affordable price.

One word of warning, there are little parking spaces available in Zadar Old Town. For that reason, you’ll do wise to seek an apartment with private parking.

BUS | HOW TO GET TO ZADAR

Croatia has excellent roads and infrastructure and as a result, you’ll notice a wide array of bus travel options.

For the journey from Dubrovnik to Zadar, I’d decided to make use of Flixbus , and after this recent experience, it is safe to say that it is an excellent organization that is both comfortable and punctual.

If you’re keen to visit Zadar by bus, Flixbus will operate between all the major cities in Croatia, as well as a wide range of cities in the neighbouring countries.

In terms of tickets, I’d recommend booking online and in advance. For information on availability, travel departures and additional information, visit the Flixbus website .

SAFETY IN CROATIA | TRAVEL INSURANCE

While Croatia is completely safe for travellers, I always aim to enter a foreign country with my travel insurance sorted out, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.

Where we prefer to assume that everything runs smoothly during our travels, the reality is often that something can go wrong at any given moment – when that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here .

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

A traveller’s guide to Krka National Park, Croatia (Update 2022)

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28 Amazing Things To Do in Zadar, Croatia

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

I’d heard fantastic things about Zadar and during the two months I’d spent digital nomading in Split , I was constantly meeting people singing its praises. I couldn’t wait to visit and discover all the best things to do in Zadar for myself. My trip exceeded my expectations and I’ll certainly remember it for a long time. From sunsets at the Sea Organ to island day trips and ancient Roman ruins, there’s history, culture and nature in abundance.

ZADAR ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting there: flight / car / bus ( Flixbus ) Getting around: foot / taxi Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator

Note – my visit was hosted by the Zadar Tourism board , however all opinions are my own.

Visiting Croatia? Check out my best things to do in Dubrovnik , Split & Zagreb !

Where is Zadar?

Zadar is on the central Dalmatian Coast in Croatia , north of Split and Dubrovnik. Here’s a map including the top Zadar attractions.

How to get to Zadar

By air: Zadar airport is well connected to other European capitals with regular direct flights to the UK. I use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights, searching by ‘whole month’ for the best prices. Search for flights to Zadar . By car: located 2 hours from Split and 4 hours from Dubrovnik by road, it’s easy to reach Zadar by car. Use Rentalcars.com to check prices on rentals and book. By bus: I caught the Flixbus from Split in 2 hours; it also connects Zadar with Zagreb (3.5 hours) and other Croatian cities. Book your Flixbus to Zadar here .

Read next: how to spend the perfect 1 week in Croatia

Fun facts about Zadar

• Zadar is one of the oldest continually-inhabited cities in Croatia
• In ancient times, when the city was governed by the Republic of Venice, local people were so keen to proof the city against the Ottomans that even members of the noble families of Zadar were summoned to help out in constructing the city walls and wells with their hands
• Maraschino, the typical liqueur from Zadar, made its way to numerous European countries and was even drunk by Napoleon
• Albert Hitchcock claimed Zadar has the best sunsets in the world! More on this later…

Where to stay in Zadar

I spent a wonderful 3 nights at the Hotel Kolovare . It’s perfectly located beside Kolovare Beach with a relaxed 15-minute walk into town with coastal views the whole way. It has comfortable rooms and a killer breakfast buffet. In the summer, there’s even a large swimming pool. It was still out of action during my April visit so I may have to return one day to use it! Book your stay at Hotel Kolovare here .

More accom options

• Budget hostel – for a social base in the heart of town with fantastic breakfast options, you can’t do better than Boutique Downtown Hostel. All bunks have their own curtains, reading lights and plug sockets. Book from €19 .
• Affordable guesthouse – stay at Harvey’s Luxury Rooms in a modern, spacious double room in the heart of town. Book from €50 .
• Apartment – for total privacy in the city centre with a kitchen, balcony and garden view, stay at Arsenal Apartments from €65 . If you don’t mind being on the mainland and walking or taking the 6 kuna barkajoli boat into town, Apartments Gabriel is available from just €40 a night .

Browse all Zadar hotels & apartments on Booking.com and hostels on Hostelworld .

What to do in Zadar, Croatia

Now for the fun bit. I’ll share the key attractions in Zadar city centre before moving onto popular day trips in the surrounding region.

1. The Roman Forum

One of the most famous and impressive places to visit in Zadar is the Roman Forum , located in the centre of the city. Like many ancient Roman cities, Zadar is built on a grid with 5 long streets connected to the central ruins, and several smaller intersecting streets. Constructed between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century AD, the Forum was the centre of public life. Everything from worship to bustling markets would have been held here. Find the one remaining Roman column which was used as a pillar of shame . My guide told me that when a citizen was convicted of wrong-doing, they would be tied to the column for people to throw things at, similar to stocks in the UK. I don’t envy those ancient rule breakers!

The Roman Forum is free to walk around. You can still see the ruins of shops and public baths.

2. Catch a show at the Church of St Donatus

The round church at the centre of the Roman Forum is one of Zadar’s most famous and historic buildings: a Christian worship site remodelled using stone from a Roman temple. It’s now used as a concert venue between July and August. Keep up-to-date on 2022 shows by checking the events page .

3. Archaeological Museum in Zadar 

With more than 100,000 artefacts, there’s plenty to see in Zadar’s Archaeological Museum . For a historical thing to do in Zadar, walk through the Stone and Metal Ages as well as the Roman and Byzantine Periods. From spiritual artefacts belonging to the early Croats, items showing the worship of multiple deities in Roman times, and Christian artefacts dating from the 7th century onwards, the changing eras are well documented and will enhance your understanding of Zadar, Dalmatia and Croatia. The museum is open from 9am-3pm daily and entry costs 30 kuna .

4. Monastery of St Mary

Benedictine nun and noblewoman, Čika, founded this monastery with the help of King Petar Krešimir IV. On the same square as the Roman Forum, it’s easy to tick off several Zadar attractions in one go. My guide explained how the monastery works, with its nuns fully dedicating their lives to God and never leaving the monastery. Other members of the community bring food daily to support them. Many of the nuns are older but the youngest is 32. She spent a while trialling out monastery life before deciding it was for her.

5. The Silver and Gold of Zadar at the Permanent Exhibition of Religious Art

The Silver and Gold in the Benedictine convent is one of the most striking things to see in Zadar. Guarded by Benedictine monks since WWII, the valuable shrines contain relics of important saints. Other exhibits include paintings and garments woven with gold and silver thread. The entry times are a little tricky so be sure to plan around them. The museum is open from 10am-1pm and 5pm-7pm (Sundays 10am-1pm only). Tickets for 40 kuna can be bought at the brown door to the left of the church.

6. Listen to beautiful music at the Sea Organ

Easily my favourite thing to do in Zadar is sit beside the Sea Organ. I’ve never seen (or heard!) anything like it. For me, it was a brand new experience and isn’t that why we travel? The Sea Organ is a musical instrument powered by the ocean. Underneath a large set of marble steps, a warren of tubes create sounds as the waves hit them. It’s funnelled up through vents in the steps, allowing guests to sit surrounded by mellow music.

7. Stay for sunset!

Zadar has spectacular sunsets but don’t just take my word for it: Alfred Hitchcock visited Zadar in 1964 and deemed Zadar’s sunsets the best in the world! For a fun thing to do in Zadar in the evening, catch sunset at the Sea Organ. I watched it every day, waiting until the sun was down to eat dinner. The Sea Organ won the European Prize for Urban Public Space in 2006 and rightly so. It brings people together, especially at sunset when friends, strangers, tourists and locals share an appreciation of the sky as it changes colour and fades to darkness. When the sun’s down, the fun really starts at the harbour…

8. The Greeting to the Sun

Built in tribute to Alfred Hitchock’s claim that Zadar has the best sunsets in the world, the Greeting to the Sun is a second captivating public installation beside the Sea Organ. This Zadar attraction uses 300 solar panels, soaking up sunlight during the day and releasing it at night in the form of a colourful light show. Multicolour lights glimmer across the 22-metre masterpiece. But there’s not just one! The largest circular panel represents the sun and around it can be seen smaller solar panels representing the planets (apart from Pluto as the installation was built the year after it was cancelled as a planet. Poor Pluto), all placed at the appropriate distance from the sun, in scale. It’s yet another unique feature of Zadar that brings people together and uses public space in a thoughtful way. Bravo!

9. Ride a barkajol across the bay

There’s a bridge connecting the Zadar peninsular to the mainland that you can easily walk across. But for a fun activity in Zadar that supports the locals and only costs 6 kuna, why not get a local boat rower (named a Barkajoli Zadarksi) to take you across? The 70m ride between the two docks takes just 2 minutes, saving you 20 minutes on foot. The Barkajoli Zadarksi tradition has been passed between fathers and sons for over 800 years making it a cultural treasure that’s well worth the €1 ride! If you’re staying on the mainland, depart from Barkajol and arrive near Kornat restaurant on the peninsular.

10. Wander through the Land Gate & Sea Gate

If you needed more evidence of Zadar’s ancient history, look no further than the city gates. The Land Gate and Sea Gate were official entrances to the city of Zadar. Thick, protective walls surrounded the city to ward off invaders. There’s also the Bridge Gate but it’s not as impressive as the others. The most striking is the Land Gate , adorned with carvings including one of the Lion of St Mark. My guide explained it’s holding an open book; a sign that Venice – the rulers at the time – were not currently at war (the sign for conflict was a closed book).

To walk Croatia’s most complete set of city walls, read my guide to the best things to do in Dubrovnik .

11. Meet Nina the famous dog

Here’s an off-beat thing to do in Zadar! When I walked past the harbour, I was wowed by 80s music blasting from a boat. In pride of place was an adorable fluffy dog wearing a pink bow in her fur. Later, my tour guide told me Nina is a famous resident of Zadar and so is her owner. I didn’t meet him but he has fantastic taste in music. I love ABBA!

12. Browse Zadar Market

If you’re a morning person, head down to Zadar Market in the AM. Such outdoor markets are called ‘green markets’ in Croatia, selling fresh produce from vegetables to local cheese, meat, fish, honey, nuts and eggs. Although it used to be located at the Roman Forum, Zadar Market has been operating for thousands of years not just as a market but also a meeting point and community hub. If you’re in self-catering accommodation, forgo the supermarket and get your ingredients here! You can also buy souvenirs like Croatian lavender and liquors.

13. Cathedral of Anastasia

This Romanesque church is another popular Zadar attraction, built in the 12th-13th centuries. It was named after the martyr, St Anastasia, who died for her cause on Christmas Day, 304 AD. In 2003, Pope John Paul II bowed down outside to show his respect. Entry is 20 kuna ; free for under 10s.

14. Delicious ice cream at Stasticarna Donat

With all kinds of food options on offer, one of the top things to do in Zadar is eat! If you have a sweet tooth, get down to Slasticarna Donat Ice Cream and Gelato . It has a long history of serving some of the best ice cream in Zadar, in cones and huge sundae-style glasses, pilled high with fruit, nuts, cream and chocolate.

Although the scoops are cheaper, I treated myself to a 50 kuna sundae (I believe it was their house variety although there are tons of combinations). It was huge and probably could have fed 2-3, not that I needed the help!

15. Sample the competition at Cafe Eva

Although I thought my ice cream experience in Zadar had peaked at Donat, I’d heard good things about Gelateria Eva so went to check it out. It was just as tasty! The flavours were inventive with plenty of options to choose from. I had raspberry ice cream in a chocolate and coconut cone. I forget the price but I remember thinking it was very affordable.

16. People-watch on Narodni Trg (People’s Square)

For people-watching and rubbing shoulders with the locals, this historic square is the best place to visit in Zadar. Nurse an Aperol Spritz overlooking buildings with centuries of history. The City Guard (Gradska straža) is an attractive pink clock tower and, to its right, is a caffe with a hidden 11th century church in the back. You can also pop into Gradska Loza, a museum and bookshop (note most of the books are in Croatian).

17. Church of St Simeon (Crkva sv. Šimun)

A final religious site I’d recommend visiting in Zadar is the  Church of Saint Simeon Stylites . What puts this modest church on the map is the cedarwood sarcophagus inside, thought to hold the remains of St Simeon, renowned for holding the Baby Jesus. The gold-laden chest is a masterpiece in its own right. Legend goes that a Venetian nobleman brought the body to Zadar, returning from a crusade. His ship was caught in a storm, stranding him in Zadar. He became ill and died so the relic of St Simeon stayed in the city. 

Foodie tip – just across the square is Konoba Skoblar, a fantastic local restaurant. More about this place, and my other recommended restaurants, soon…

18. Try maraschino

This sweet liqueur made from marasca cherries is a cultural treasure of Zadar. Bitter wild cherries found growing along the Dalmatian coastline were first distilled by the Dominican monastery in the 16th century. As I learnt in Portugal, monasteries brought us many delicious things like pastel de nata ! Greats from Casanova to Napolean and Hitchock have enjoyed Maraschino and it was even consumed on the Titanic, although that’s perhaps not the best omen… It can be drunk neat or within cocktails. You’ll find plenty of cafes and bars serving Maraschino, and countless souvenir shops selling bottles to take home.

19. Bar-hopping in Stomorica

If you’re wondering what to do in Zadar at night, rub shoulders with the locals and other tourists in Stomorica . From elderly locals drinking beer to students sipping cocktails and IPAs, this is the city’s melting pot after dark. The maze of alleyways was built to confuse invaders and I’m sure it confuses tourists too after one too many! Stomorica is the best place to stay for night owls, but best avoided if you want to get your beauty sleep. Either way, come to let your hair down in this lively quarter especially if your visit coincides with a weekend.

20. Shop for goods in an old church

A wonderful hidden gem I discovered while wandering the atmospheric streets of Zadar is this small chapel converted into a crafts store. It sells beautiful glassware, jewellery and other trinkets. Although I couldn’t find it on Google Maps, it’s right beside 4She Shop .

21. Museum of Ancient Glass

The Museum of Ancient Glass can be found in a refurbished palace belonging to a notable family. It holds a spectacular 5,000 items dating from antiquity to the 5th century AD. Browse permanent exhibitions, catch glassblowing workshops using traditional techniques and purchase souvenirs from the gift shop. Opening times are Mon-Sat, 9am-4pm in the winter and until 9pm in the summer. Tickets cost 30 kuna .

Day trips & things to do near Zadar

Although there are plenty of attractions in Zadar, it’s a small city that can be easily explored on foot during a day. From islands to hiking and national parks, there’s so much more in the Zadar region should you have time to explore it.

Note – if you’re visiting Split during your Croatia trip, some of these places (like Šibenik and Krka) can be visited from there, too. Read my guide to the best day trips from Split !

22. Sail to Dugi Otok (Long Island)

I had the most fantastic day on Dugi Otok , translating as Long Island. This 45km island just a 45-minute ferry ride from Zadar is home to a wonderful nature park, beautiful beaches and quaint villages with rich cultural heritage. Telašćica Nature Park is a real highlight of Dugi Otok. Declared a nature park in 1988, this beautiful bay with 13 islands is best seen by boat. The rich flora and fauna includes wild asparagus (that my guide picked for me to eat fresh) meanwhile the marine life includes scorpionfish, seabream and dolphins. Getting there: You can catch the ferry (25 kuna) from Zadar to Sali, the largest town on the island. I caught the 8.15am boat leaving Zadar and the 7.30pm return journey from Dugi Otok. Another option is visiting by boat tour from Zadar, usually combining Dugi Otok with the Kornati Islands. Browse island tours . It’s also possible to book small boat trips when you arrive on Dugi Otok although this may be harder if you’re short on time.

Read next: my complete guide to visiting Dugi Otok, Croatia

23. Island-hopping to the Kornati Islands

This stunning archipelago is located close to Telašćica Nature Park on Dugi Otok hence why many day trips combine them . There are over 140 Kornati islands, the striking karst terrain setting them against the brilliant blue sea. Kornati National Park , where trips will take you, comprises 89 islands granted a high level of protection due to their unique nature and wildlife. Rugged cliffs and caves characterise the islands and there are opportunities to swim, snorkel and scuba dive. Browse Kornati island tours .

24. Hiking in the Velebit Mountains

If I’d had an extra day in Zadar, I would have gone hiking in the Velebit Mountains as several people have raved to me about their incredible beauty. These mountains make a striking backdrop that can be seen from the city. The biggest mountain range in Croatia is best explored by visiting Paklenica National Park , a 45-minute drive from Zadar. From the main bus station, there’s a daily departure at 8am. Start from Stari Grad town and make your way to the National Park entrance. There’s an 18km hike you can do to Paklenica Hut where there will hopefully be a cheap and hearty meal waiting for you. I found this helpful article written by a woman who did the Paklenica hike solo from Zadar by bus .

25. Cheese-tasting on Pag Island

Foodies like myself will certainly think this is one of the best things to do in Zadar! Pag Island is located an hour from the city, connected to the mainland by bridge. Pag has a long history spanning 2,000 years of salt production. Such was the value of salt that, under the Roman Empire, the word for salt (sal) evolved into the word salary since people were commonly paid in salt. Lace-making and cheese are two other historic trades from Pag. The island has 35,000 sheep, farmed to make delicious Pag cheese which has won accolades such as best sheep’s cheese in the World Cheese Awards. If you love cheese, you’ll have to come try it for yourself! Getting there: the best way to explore Pag is by hiring a car because many of the attractions are spread out. It’s an hour’s drive from Zadar. There’s a bus at 10am each day from the main bus station (returning at 6.30pm) but you’ll be restricted to Pag Town.

Read next: cheese, lace and salt traditions on Pag Island

26. Krka National Park

Although I visited Krka as a day trip from Split , it’s one of the most popular things to do from Zadar. This natural wonderland of flora, fauna and plummeting waterfalls needs to be seen to be believed. If visiting independently, ride the Flixbus to Skradin and board the ferry to Skradinski Buk falls (in off season this doesn’t run but you can take an hour’s nature walk instead). Depending how much time you have, there are other places to explore like Roški Slap Falls and Visovac Monastery on a tiny island.

Book a Krka day trip from Zadar .

27. Šibenik

A final worthwhile day trip from Zadar is to Šibenik , another charming city on the Adriatic Coast. Churches and forts with historic importance are dotted around the city and even off the coast: St Nicholas Fortress is a Venetian stronghold reachable by boat. Šibenik may not be as well known as Dubrovnik or Split but then, neither is Zadar and we all know what a wonderful city it is! Definitely visit Šibenik if you have time, especially if you have a keen interest in history. Getting to Šibenik: it’s an hour’s drive. If you’re relying on public transport, there are more frequent departures from Split so, if you’re visiting, take the Flixbus to Šibenik from Split instead.

Where to eat in Zadar

Well, you’re on Where Goes Rose? so of course there’s food! I’m not really exaggerating when I say it’s 80% of the reason I travel 😉 If you’re a foodie too, go check my food around the world archives . Once you’ve ticked off the best things to do in Zadar, start ticking off the best meals!

Seafood at 2Ribara

2Ribara is a fantastic restaurant in central Zadar with 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor . Expect Dalmation delicacies like seafood and pasta, an extensive wine list showcasing some of Croatia’s incredible wines, and fresh desserts that change daily. I ate here on my first night in Zadar, tucking into fresh squid with Swiss chard (a popular dish in Zadar) and tasty pannacotta.

Traditional fare at Konoba Skoblar

Restaurant Skoblar is a typical konoba (an authentic local-style restaurant in Croatia) serving high-quality meat and seafood. I had monkfish medallions with courgette, carrot and potatoes in a delicious garlicky sauce. I’ve had monkfish in the UK as a treat but here it’s a typical, affordable dish. Not only was the food great, but it’s a cosy restaurant with period details and indoor and outdoor seating. I paid 150 kuna for a main, bread basket and a soft drink.

Sushi at Maguro

When I strolled past an Asian restaurant, my attention was instantly captured. Whether it’s pho, gyoza, sushi or pad Thai, I can never get enough! Maguro Restaurant serves a wide range of Asian dishes and I can personally vouch for the sushi. Maguro means ‘tuna’ in Japanese so it’s worth ordering one of the tuna dishes. I had no idea but Zadar is world-renowned for its tuna fishing and even exports to famous Japanese restaurant, NOBO.

Thai food at Pearl of Siam

I possibly ate too much Asian food in Zadar but, after 3 months in Croatia, I think I deserve a few meals off. Pearl of Siam is a tiny Thai restaurant run by Maria and her two sons with authentic, beautifully-presented food. I had the spring rolls and pad Thai with shrimp. The highlight was the selection of amazing dips including homemade satay with coconut milk. Blissful!

Eat coffee & cake

After writing cafe guides to Split and Zagreb , I’ve come to know my Croatian coffee. There aren’t many cafe chains in Croatia and no Starbucks whatsoever. Woohoo! Locals tell me the model simply wouldn’t work: Croatians like to sip their coffee slowly rather than get it to-go. One of the best coffee shops in Zadar is Coffee & Cake . The coffee will energise you while ticking off all the best things to do in Zadar plus they serve excellent cakes and brunch dishes.

Bonus thing to do in Zadar (#28)

If all this talk of food is making you hungry, why not learn how to make the signature dishes for yourself? Zadar Cooking Class will take you for a morning coffee and spot of shopping at the local market before cooking up a storm in their kitchen. After cooking a typical Croatian meal, you’ll get to enjoy it with wine.

Book your class here .

Thanks for reading!

Don’t miss my other Zadar blogs to Dugi Otok and Pag Island .

For more Croatia content, see my other blogs…

• 7 day Croatia itinerary
• The ultimate guide to solo female travel in Croatia

Split blogs:

• What to see and do in Split
• 21 best day trips from Split
• Cafes and coffee shops in Split
• Split Old Town – what to do & see
• 18 best Split restaurants
• Things to do in Trogir, Croatia
• The ultimate Krka Falls day trip from Split
• Marjan Hill guide

Zagreb blogs:

• Top things to in Zagreb, Croatia
• 15 best Zagreb coffee shops
• Zagreb street art walking tour
• How to visit Plitvice Lakes as a day trip from Zagreb

Dubrovnik blogs:

• Fun things to do in Dubrovnik
• Visiting Lokrum Island, Dubrovnik
• A day trip to Bosnia & Herzegovina from Dubrovnik

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Zany Zadar is where the modern and the ancient collide in happy confusion to create one of Dalmatia 's most dynamic and exciting towns. Its central location and an international airport have made Zadar a popular gateway to Croatia but it's more than just a place to pass through. Zadar is a place to explore Roman ruins and Venetian architecture, marvel at a solar-powered light show, enjoy fine dining and watch a spectacular sunset to the soothing sounds of the sea.

[ Check out 22 Amazing Things to Do in Zadar ]

Zadar's historical centre is crammed on to a narrow peninsula. It's fascinating to explore. Wandering the streets is like peeling back layers of time until you end up in the 9th century BC in ancient Illyria which is where Zadar's story started. The old town is paved with gleaming white stone and the straight streets were first laid out by the Romans.

[ Ponder the grandeur that was Rome in Zadar's Roman ruins ]

Long part of the Republic of Venice, Zadar's Venetian built defensive walls are now a world heritage site . More recently, the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun are highly original art installations that have gained worldwide renown.

Get out of town for a day trip and you'll find an array of national parks within easy reach, including Plitvice Lakes , the Kornati Islands and Krka Waterfalls .

Or, stay in town and relax at one of Zadar's beaches.

[ Check out Zadar on a map of Croatia ]

Orientation & map

The old town lies on a peninsula bounded by roads running along two quays. The southwestern quay, Riva, is a delightful pedestrian promenade while the busy northeastern quay is the Old Port where passenger ferries and the Ancona-Zadar car ferry dock. Beyond medieval Zadar lies the economic heart of the city as postwar housing, industrial parks and commercial zones sprawl outward to the suburbs.

About 6km to the northwest lies the wooded beach suburbs of Diklo and Boric which have been developed into a tourist and residential zone replete with hotels, private accommodation and a hostel. ( see more on Zadar accommodation ) About 1 km southeast of the medieval centre lie the bus and train stations. The new car ferry/cruise port is at Gazenice, 3km southeast of the old town.

Zadar was conquered by the Romans and became the colony of Iadera . Later the Venetians moved in but the port city was repeatedly attacked by the Turks. Venetian rule passed to the Austrians in the 18th century and then to Italy until 1943 when the Germans moved in. Allied bombing destroyed much of the historic centre which was rebuilt after the war only to suffer more attacks by Yugoslav forces in 1991. Read more Zadar history

things to See

Zadar's top highlights are:

Roman ruins:  columns and a "pillar of shame" from its days as a Roman colony;

St Donat church: a Byzantine style church that dates from the 9th century

Sea Organ : a structure that transforms waves into mournful melodies through a system of pipes and whistles.

[ See all Zadar sights and follow a walking tour]

things to Do

In recent years Zadar has undergone a startling revival. Cafes and bars are filled, museums and churches have been restored and tourists are pouring in to take advantage of the beaches , bars, restaurants and cultural offerings. Not only is Zadar one of the Adriatic's most historically interesting towns but it lies within driving distance of four national parks : Plitvice Lakes , Krka Waterfalls , Paklenica and Northern Velebit , plus there are boat excursions to the Kornati Islands National Park. There are also the large islands of Pag and Dugi Otok to visit as well as an archipelago of smaller islands such as Ugljan , Pasman, Molat and Premuda.

Experience Zadar at night. Make the effort. It's easy to wander from cocktails to dinner to after-dinner drinks to a nightclub, all within the Old Town. You'll be glad you did.

Festivals and Events

Zadar Dreams : beginning of August The Zadar Dreams ( Zadar Snova ) festival brings contemporary theatre to the streets of Zadar. Focusing on the exciting and cutting edge, this festival attracts companies from around Europe. See Zadar Snova Facebook page.

Full Moon Festival July The night of the midsummer moon brings the Full Moon Festival when the quays are lit by candelight and filled with music, dancing and stalls selling local treats.

I took the following video as I was leaving Zadar one morning in April. The Jadrolinija ferry I was taking to Mali Losinj only ran once a week and it was packed. I started filming while we waited for the heavily-laden trucks and cars to lumber aboard and finished just as we were leaving the port. The view that you see is of the northeastern walls that border Jazine Bay, the body of water that separates the peninsula containing Zadar's Old Town from the greater metropolitan area. You'll see the bell tower of Zadar's cathedral as well as a series of Jadrolinija ferries!

Getting to Zadar

To see it all, rent a car

Flights : Croatia Airlines connects Zadar with Zagreb daily, Ryanair has a base at Zadar airport, and there are direct international flights to Zadar in the summer. More.

Buses: Zadar is well-connected with every Croatian town with frequent, convenient and cheap buses that can now be booked online at Bookaway . More about taking buses to Zadar .

Ferries : Getting to Zadar from Italy is easy on the Ancona-Zadar ferry but it only runs in the summer. From other towns in Croatia, not so much. More.

Trains: The Zagreb-Zadar connection has fallen into disuse now that a major motorway connects the two cities. Buses are much, much faster. More.

Driving: Major motorways make Zadar an easy two-hour drive from Zagreb or Split. More.

Check out all ways of getting to Zadar

[ See how to work Zadar into your Croatia itinerary ]

Zadar Travel Planner

Where to stay.

Accommodation There's one excellent hotel and a number of private rooms and apartments in Zadar's Old Town.

What to See & Do

Top Sights Museums, galleries, monuments, churches; Sea Organ Greeting to the Sun Roman Ruins St Donat Church Museum of Church Art Venetian Walls Beaches Things to Do in Zadar

Day Trips Four national parks, islands and beaches--all within easy reach.

Getting Around taxis, buses,car rental & a Zadar street map and a Zadar bus map.

Eating & Drinking

Restaurants The best dining in Zadar

Nightlife Bars, clubs, discos and pubs

Get Psyched!  Read up on Zadar History

Tourist information in zadar.

The Zadar tourist office (tel 023-316 166) is in the town centre at Mihe Klaica 5.

Last Updated: February 28, 2023

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Zadar Croatia

Zadar Croatia is a seaside town in Croatian region of Dalmatia . Located in the northern Dalmatia, just below Velebit mountain, Zadar was less popular tourist spot than southern Dalmatian towns, like Makarska or Dubrovnik. Zadar hinterland was also badly hit during the 1991-1995 war, and its remains can still be seen in the villages around the town. However with Zadar airport awakening and new highways, Zadar has become increasingly popular in the last ten years. The old town is located on the small peninsula, surrounded by medieval fortification walls.

The mainland, where the new part of the town stands, can be reached by the pedestrian bridge, or you can wave a boatman to take you across in his little rowing boat. His family has been doing that for centuries. In the old town there are lots of historical sites, dating back from Roman times. From remains of roman forum, to 21st century sea organs, Zadar is an excellent town to explore on foot.

Zadar Croatia at a glance

Best time to travel to Zadar Croatia is summer. First, there are lots of low cost flights flying into Zadar airport. Second, there are lots of events and festivals happening in Zadar during the summer months. Third, loads of beaches in and around Zadar, dozens of small and big islands are waiting to be discovered.

Accommodation in Zadar: There are just few hotels in the old town. Art Hotel Kalelarga, Hotel Bastion, and Hotel Venera. However there are plenty apartments to rent, and hotels out of the old town and in Zadar surrounding area. Prices are the highest in August. The most popular campsite is campsite Zaton located in the village Zaton, 17 km north of Zadar.

Food in Zadar: Zadar is quickly becoming exciting food destination. The town is blessed with great local produce: fresh seafood from the Adriatic, excellent lamb from the nearby mountains, sheep cheese from the island of Pag, veggies from the inland villages. Apparently the best potatoes grow in the mountainous villages in Zadar hinterland. Frank tried them and he agrees that they taste great. Meals in the restaurants are affordable (much better value for money than in Dubrovnik).

Beaches in Zadar: Town’s beaches are not the best beaches you’ll find in Croatia. If you would like to swim on a really nice beach, you’ll need to get out of the town. There are some excellent swimming spots on the nearby islands. The most popular beach is a sandy beach Saharun on the island of Dugi Otok. Another excellent bay for swimming is Lojenka Bay on the islet Levranka, a part of Kornati Islands National Park.  The closets beach to the town is Kolovare Beach. The beach is very crowded, but it can be reached by foot from the old town.

Transportation in Zadar: Zadar can be easily explore on foot. The old town is mostly car free zone. If you stay outside of the old town, you can use public buses. They run frequently and the one-way ticket costs 1.4 € if you buy in the bus, or alternatively if you buy your ticket at the ticket office, you’ll pay  2.2 € for a two-way ticket. You can reach Zadar by plane, or by bus. Zadar airport is well connected with European airports. Lots of low-cost flights fly into Zadar during summer months. If you are arriving with a car, Zadar is easily reachable by highway. Highway toll from Zagreb to Zadar is 16.2 €.

Parking in Zadar: There are plenty parking lots in Zadar. However, the parking is extremely expensive in July and August.  In the old town, parking costs 1.6 € per hour, with maximum parking time of 2 hours. Other parking lots charge 1.4 € per hour in July and August. There is also a public garage that costs only 0.4 € per hour and the first hour is free of charge. However, it will take you 15 minutes by walk to reach the old town from the garage.

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The ancient capital of Dalmatia, Zadar is one of the success stories of the Croatian Adriatic, combining ancient and medieval heritage with a bustling café life, a vibrant bar scene and the kind of go-ahead architectural projects (such as the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun) that give the seafront the appearance of a contemporary art installation.

Brief history of Zadar

Greeting to the sun, festivals in zadar, the sea organ, the zadar archipelago.

Bombed no fewer than 72 times by the Allies during World War II, Zadar lacks the museum-like quality of so many Adriatic towns, displaying instead an ad-hoc muddle of architectural styles, where lone Corinthian columns stand alongside rectangular 1950s blocks, and Romanesque churches are jostled by glass-fronted café-bars. With a population of around 75,000, the city is the main ferry port for northern Dalmatia. Zadar’s growing popularity with visitors ensures that the central streets are swarming with life from June to September. Outside that time, the city’s invigorating café culture is left to the locals.

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Long held by the Venetians (who called it Zara), Zadar was for centuries an Italian-speaking city, and its university, established by Dominican monks in 1396, claims to be the oldest in Croatia. Ceded to Italy in 1921 under the terms of the Treaty of Rapallo, the town became part of Tito’s Yugoslavia in 1947 – when most Italian families were expelled. Postwar reconstruction resulted in something of an architectural mish-mash, and further damage was meted out in 1991, when the JNA (Yugoslav People’s Army), supported by Serbian irregulars, came close to capturing the city. Despite the UN-sponsored ceasefires of 1992, Zadar remained exposed to Serbian artillery attack right up until 1995, when the Croatian offensives finally drove them back.

After spending the 1990s in the economic doldrums Zadar became an important focus for investment from around 2000 onwards, when bars and clubs mushroomed and the city’s airport became a major entry point for tourists visiting the middle Adriatic.

Towards the tip of the peninsula is another of Bašić’s innovative set-pieces, Greeting to the Sun (Pozdrav suncu). Intended as a companion to the Sea Organ , it consists of a huge disk paved with light-sensitive tiles, which accumulate solar power during the daytime and radiate a seemingly random sequence of coloured lights at night. It’s absolutely hypnotic and enormously popular with tourists of all ages, who can spend hours here basking in its mood-enhancing glow.

The most prestigious of Zadar’s summer arts festivals is the St Donat’s Musical Evenings (Glazbene večeri u sv. Donatu; early July to early August), featuring solo and chamber music performers from around the world making the most of the excellent acoustics at St Donat’s Church. Running more or less concurrently is the Zadar Theatrical Summer (Zadarsko kazališno ljeto; late June to early August), with theatre and dance groups from all over the country – imaginative use of the city’s historic spaces (venues include the Church of St Dominic and various courtyards) makes for some striking visual entertainment. More accessible for non-Croatian audiences is Zadar Dreams (Zadar snova; July or August), a festival of alternative theatre, performance art and music held in Old Town churches and squares.

Most visitors ultimately gravitate towards the so-called Sea Organ (Morske orgulje) on the peninsula’s southwestern shoulder. Designed by local architect Nikola Bašić and completed in 2005, the organ consists of a broad stone stairway descending towards the sea. Wave action pushes air through a series of underwater pipes and up through niches cut into the steps, producing a selection of mellow musical notes. The organ is at its best when the sea is choppy, but even during calm periods the tranquil tones of the organ will be sufficient to lull you into a meditative state.

The small, often bare islands of northern Dalmatia – sometimes called the Zadar archipelago – see much less in the way of mass tourism than those in the south, and their rural nature provides them with bags of off-the-beaten-track allure. The northern end of the archipelago is full of semi-abandoned islands boasting beautiful bays and lush inland scenery, although few other than Silba possess significant tourist facilities. Silba’s near-neighbour Olib is worth considering as a day-trip if not necessarily a lengthy stay. Densely inhabited Ugljan, directly opposite Zadar, is almost a suburb of the city, and it is the long and barren Dugi otok, on the far side of Ugljan, that offers most in the way of stunning scenery, the beautiful Telašćica Bay – here, the archipelago’s most celebrated natural beauty spot.

With a catamaran operating daily between Silba and Zadar it’s possible to fit one of the other islands of the northern archipelago into a trip of one day or longer. One of the most rewarding of these is Olib, another small, car-free place offering unspoilt nature and an unhurried pace of life. In the twentieth century it was traditional for Olib families to emigrate to New Jersey, and you will encounter older locals speaking English with a pronounced North American drawl. A handful of local families offer accommodation, so it’s feasible to stay here if you plan in advance, although most people limit themselves to a day on the beach.

Olib’s main settlement is much more of a scattered rural village than a compact town, with long distances between family houses and only a church belfry to tell you where the centre might be. Beside the church is an impressively rugged medieval tower, built to provide refuge from raiding pirates. Beyond the church, a signed path leads to Slatinica Bay, some fifteen minutes’ walk between olive groves, where you will find a broad crescent of shingle and a shallow, sandy-floored bay.

For connoisseurs of soothingly unspoilt islands with no traffic and no hotels, kidney-shaped Silba is as perfect as they come. Not only are there no cars on the island, an unofficial ban on bicycles from mid-July to late August serves to preserve the island’s pedestrian pace. Strolling along maquis-lined country lanes in search of wild beaches is the only adrenaline sport you are likely to encounter.

Eight kilometres in length and only 1km wide at its narrowest point, Silba probably gets its name from the Latin word silva (wood) and is still covered with Mediterranean black oak, giving it an atmosphere quite different from that of its scrub-covered neighbours. The island’s one settlement, Silba Town, has an air of relaxed luxury, its palm-shaded houses and walled gardens serving as reminders of the island’s erstwhile commercial wealth, when sailing ships from Silba dominated the carrying trade between Dalmatia and Venice – only to be put out of business by the steam-powered vessels of the nineteenth century. During the 1970s Silba attracted a significant slice of both Croatia and Slovenia’s post-hippy, pre-punk intelligentsia, who camped wild on the southern part of the island. Nowadays a permanent population of about three hundred is swelled tenfold in summer, when independent travellers from all over Croatia and Slovenia come to enjoy the island’s uniquely relaxing rural atmosphere.

Silba Town straddles the island’s narrowest point, its streets sloping down towards two bays. The one on the western side of town contains the ferry dock and has some splendid sections of pebble beach. Rising over the middle of the town is the Marinić Tower, a lookout post with a spiral staircase running up the outside, supposedly built by a sea captain for the beautiful daughter of a woman who jilted him when a young man. Near the town church is an open-air sculpture park devoted to Marija Ujević Galetović (1933–), famous for her expressive human and half-human forms – notably the cat-headed woman who dominates the collection here.

The bay that marks the east of Silba Town is home to a harbour for small boats and yachts, and Šotorišće Beach, a broad, shallow bay with a sandy seafloor and a summer-only café-bar. Paths and gravel roads lead all over the island towards a multitude of other bays and beaches. One of the most popular is Dobre Vode, a majestic sweep of rock and pebble some fifty minutes’ walk south of the village.

Some 43km long and at no point more than 4.5km wide, Dugi otok (Long Island) is the largest and arguably the most beautiful of the Zadar archipelago islands. With fewer than two thousand inhabitants, it boasts a wilder and more dramatic landscape than any of its neighbours, with sheer cliffs on its western side and a rugged, indented coastline.

Dugi otok’s main attraction is Telašćica Nature Park , which is best approached from the island’s main settlement, Sali, although the quiet villages and headlands of the northern part of the island are also worth a visit. It’s also a possible base from which to visit the Kornati archipelago, with boat captains in Sali offering trips, though the archipelago is more usually approached from Murter.

Telašćica Nature Park

It’s about 3km from Sali to the northern edge of Telašćica Bay , a 7km channel overlooked by smooth hills and indented with numerous smaller bays which run down to the tangle of islands at the northern end of the Kornati archipelago. The flora along the shoreline marks the transition from the green vegetation of the Zadar archipelago to the bare wilderness of the Kornati – banks of deep forest slope down towards the western shore of the bay, where maquis-covered offshore islands rise like grey-brown cones from the water – and the whole place has been designated a nature park.

From the car park it’s a twenty-minute walk to Uvala mira (Bay of Peace) at the park’s centre. There’s a bar and restaurant here, and a path that leads, after five minutes’ walk up a wooded hillside, to a stretch of ruddy clifftop looking out towards the open sea. Five minutes south of the restaurant lies Jezero mira, a saltwater lake cut off from the sea by a narrow barrier of rock. The excessively salty water of the lake is several degrees warmer than the sea in summer, and has therapeutic fango mud in its southeastern corner. Walk to the end of the lake to reach the rock barrier that separates it from the sea – it’s a popular spot for sunbathers and swimmers, many of whom have constructed towers and pyramids from the local pebbles and rocks to crate an eerie but compelling forest of stone.

Top image: Famous Fosa harbor in Zadar aerial view, Dalmatia, Croatia © xbrchx/Shutterstock

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Dalmatian spot: kicking back on Croatia’s Dugi Otok island

A fishing village stay on one of the country’s less-visited large islands reveals a quiet Adriatic gem boasting green lakes, holm oak forests, and unspoilt beaches

T he first thing that struck me about Luka was the silence. My wife, Caroline, and I had driven our rental car from Split north along the Croatian coast to Zadar and taken an hour-and-a-half ferry ride to the island of Dugi Otok. Then we had driven the island’s length southwards, through pine forest and scrub, to arrive at this tiny fishing village, where we would spend the next week. Both of us were slightly wired from driving on foreign roads. But the strange spell of Luka put an end to that.

Nothing moved, not even cats. Before us was a sheltered bay that seemed almost surreally smooth, undisturbed by the faintest breeze. Plaster flaked from the walls of crumbling fishing cottages, their gardens bright with flowering cactuses and bougainvillaea. A row of empty beer bottles outside the shuttered general store gave the deserted quay a Mary Celeste quality. Travelling in space can sometimes seem like travelling in time, and it felt as if we had stepped back to the 1950s. Dugi Otok (“Long Island”) is the most westerly of the Zadarian Islands off the Dalmatian coast, and one of the least-visited large islands in Croatia. Twenty-seven miles (44.5km) long and only three miles (4.8km) wide, the island’s slenderness makes it easy to explore, with a single road running from north to south. Its inhabitants – fewer than 1,500, many of whom leave in the winter months to escape the notorious Bora winds – are huddled on the eastern side, mostly in the “capital” Sali; the west falls away to steep cliffs and sand beaches. Cypress, pine, fig, olive and holm oak cover much of it, while the rest is blanketed in maquis, the scrubby evergreen underbrush of the Mediterranean. The plants comprising this dense weave are invariably spiked, hooked or barbed, as I learned the painful way when going off piste from a walking trail; the next few days were spent nursing lacerated legs. The maquis makes the island wild in a way I hadn’t encountered before, as swathes of uncultivated land are impenetrable to humans.

We rented an old fishing cottage in Luka (£62 a night) that had been in the owners’ family for years: tall and narrow, it had strong stone walls and a tiny balcony. Black-and-white photos gave an impression of their grandparents’ lives, fishing in the Adriatic through storms and bitter winters. The harbour was only steps away, and we befriended several cats in the restaurant on the quay, Konoba Zlata Vala, which served carafes of local wine and one of best risottos we had ever tasted.

A short drive south from Luka is the Telašćica nature park , around one of the largest natural harbours in the Adriatic. On the western edge of a narrow bay that cuts inland for six miles, elevated above the sea by 150-metre cliffs, is the saline Lake Mir (“Peace”), famed for its blue-green water. This is the island’s main tourist draw, as attested to by the yachts anchored in the bay below – snatches of boozy Italian and German drifted to us across the waves. But we spent most of the week seeking quieter corners. On Dugi Otok in September such a mission is not hard. The “only busy month” is August, according to our guesthouse hosts, and often we would find ourselves on near-empty beaches.

Our favourite was Veli Žal, half a mile of pebbles and sand bordered by thick greenery, along which previous castaways had constructed driftwood shelters. A mysterious craftsperson had whittled stick windmills, which spun rattling in the wind, a quirky generosity I found oddly moving. On afternoons when we didn’t feel like venturing far from home, the pebbly beach near Luka had its own scruffy charm. I was excited to meet a bright green praying mantis there, while the gloriously uninhibited older women sprawling naked on the rocks were a source of great admiration to Caroline. It reflected what we found to be an unbothered – and deeply relaxing – attitude among the islanders, and visitors, we encountered. Having said that, anti-nudity signs – a Ghostbusters-style bar across a cartoon pair of boobs – were displayed at Veli Rat, the lighthouse at the island’s northern tip. Islands are parochial. Things are different in the north.

Islands are also superstitious, refugia of myth. At the sea pool of Dragon’s Eye we found fossils in the rocks and in the cave of Strašna Peć – said to be created by fairies in an attempt to split the island at its narrowest point – deep time was recorded in dripping stalactites. Like many Adriatic islands, for centuries on the frontline of invasion from the Ottomans, Dugi Otok also has its share of pirate stories. These coasts were once haunted by the Uskoks, Croatian sea bandits used as proxy forces by the Hapsburg empire, who wreaked havoc on Venetian and Turkish fleets.

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The best way to know islands, of course, is from the sea. On our penultimate day, a skipper steered us in a boat southwards out of Sali and through Telašćica bay into an archipelago that felt like another world (private half-day boat tours with Adamo Travel cost £128). The Kornati national park consists of 89 islands and islets scattered across eight miles south-east of Dugi Otok. They are starkly different from the forested place we’d just left, banded with karst rock formations like gigantic ammonites, yellow and desolate, looking – as our skipper said – “like Arabia or Iran”. A century ago, the Kornati Islands were purchased from the aristocrats of Zadar by peasant farmers for grazing sheep, which ate everything in sight. Most are uninhabited, apart from the hardiest souls; summers here are scorching and the winter winds are brutal. The isolation and wildness reflect an antiauthoritarian streak that goes back hundreds of years: when the ruling Austrians came to record the islands’ names, the local people gleefully told them that one was named Babina Guzica (“Grandmother’s Arse”) and another Kurba Vela (“Great Whore”). Happily, both those islands bear these names today.

As we returned to Dugi Otok, relieved by the sight of trees again, Caroline pointed out a sheep dozing on a headland. Our skipper said this matted beast was something of a celebrity, an escaper from a nearby island that had swum the narrow strait and successfully evaded recapture for 10 years. Her pursuers have long since given up; the sheep has won her freedom. In November 2023, a stranded sheep in Scotland was “rescued” and taken to a petting zoo, and was later used to front a rural loneliness campaign. In Dugi Otok, this proud loner is left to her own feral life, sunning herself beside some of the cleanest waters in the Mediterranean. The naked older ladies would approve. It perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the island.

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Bucket list travel on a budget: Expert tips for airfare, loyalty programs, credit card perks and more

Nicky Kelvin from The Points Guy dives into ways to save this summer.

Many travelers have their sights set on summer getaways , but with everything from baggage fees to fuel costs impacting the price of a ticket, "Good Morning America" is asking travel experts to share tips for booking bucket list destinations on a budget and finding savings along the way.

Travel expert Nicky Kelvin, senior director of content for The Points Guy, offered his tips for affordable travel techniques.

Where to find the best flight deals

Kelvin encourages travelers to utilize Google Flights and other free price-tracking tools to compare fare prices and snag the best deal.

He also suggests using both the calendar and map features within Google Flights to see which airports, dates and destinations how the lowest fare.

From the Google Flights homepage on a computer, click "explore destinations" and select a departure city without adding a destination. Then zoom out on the map to see the best prices for destinations all over the world.

Get the most out of free travel loyalty programs

Travelers should be earning points for anything and everything that they are buying or booking from airline and hotels to car rentals, Kelvin said.

In addition to the points that can can help travelers earn free flights and hotel stays, Kelvin said to look for extra perks just for joining.

Hyatt rewards, for example, offers all guests free breakfast.

For Thrifty Car Rental and Dollar Car Rental, he said you can add your spouse or domestic partner as an additional driver for free.

Loyalty programs are great for airlines too. JetBlue, for example, allows enrolled customers -- even if they don't have enough points for a flight -- to use points for discounts. Plus, with any airline, as you accumulate points to earn status, you can get free seating upgrades.

Travel credit cards with cash back perks

Along with earning points, travel credit cards give you protection for your trip like insurance to help with lost or damaged baggage and trip cancellation protection

Chase debuts new airport lounge: Gourmet menus, sleek interiors, free facials redefine hospitality for airport travel

As for credit cards, The Points Guy team suggests the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card as an all-around pick -- you get 75,000 miles after meeting your minimum spend in the first three months. Which Kelvin said is a value of over $1,300.

If you're looking to earn the most miles, he said look to the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

"You'll earn the most points on all your purchases with this one," he said.

Finally, if you want a credit card with no fee, Kelvin suggested the Bilt Mastercard, which he said is particularly great for renters because you can earn points on what's likely someone's biggest expense.

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Save money on international phone plans for summer trips

If someone's trip is taking them out of the country, using a cell phone internationally can cost $10 to 15 per day. For a family of four, that's more than $400 for a week.

If your phones support eSIM, Kelvin suggested purchasing a data plan for your destination through an app such as Airalo, Truphone or GigSky.

For example, one of Airalo's global SIM plans costs $9 for one week, which could save a family close to $350 dollars, depending on their existing international coverage.

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US issues level 3 travel advisory to China amid safety concerns. Here's what to know

Are you thinking about traveling to China to visit or study abroad? The U.S. government suggests reconsidering your trip for now. 

According to the U.S. Department of State , traveling to China is under a level 3 travel advisory , warning Americans to reconsider. The State Department has four warning levels. The fourth is “Do not travel.”

Is it safe to travel to China right now?

The U.S. is asking Americans to reconsider traveling to China due to various reasons, including concerns about health and safety, such as the prevalence of contagious diseases like COVID-19, as well as political tensions or security risks in certain regions.

As of April 12, there are some specific areas that the U.S. is asking people to reconsider travel to. Those areas include:

• Mainland China due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws, including exit bans and the risk of wrongful detentions.
• Exercise increased caution when traveling to the Hong Kong SAR due to the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
• Reconsider travel to the Macau SAR due to a limited ability to provide emergency consular services. 

Additionally, the U.S. government may issue travel advisories based on factors like civil unrest, natural disasters, or other hazards that could affect travelers' well-being.

Americans detained in China

Mark Swidan — a man from Houston, Texas — has been detained in China for over 10 years on drug charges. According to The Texas Tribune , Swidan was detained in China in 2012 while on a trip looking for materials for his home and business in Houston. Chinese authorities arrested him after his driver and translator were found in possession of drugs. The driver blamed Swidan, who is accused of trafficking and manufacturing methamphetamine.

A review of Swidan’s case said there were no drugs on him or in his hotel. Last year, the Republic of China’s Jiangmen Intermediate Court denied Swidan’s appeal and upheld his death penalty with a two-year suspended death sentence.

Other Americans considered wrongfully detained include Chinese American businessman Kai Li from Long Island, N.Y., and California pastor David Lin.

What countries have a Level 3 travel warning?

• Trinidad & Tobago
• El Salvador
• South Sudan
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Papua New Guinea
• Saudi Arabia

What countries have a Level 4 travel warning?

• Afghanistan
• Central African Republic
• North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)
• Burkina Faso

Traveling abroad? Here are some safety tips

U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll in the State Department’s free  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  and to prepare contingency plans for emergencies. 

Safety tips if you're traveling outside the U.S.:

• Don't travel alone.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Keep a low profile.
• Try not to be flashy.
• Avoid going to places at night, especially by yourself.

• April 25, 2024

Tips for affordable travel

Nicky Kelvin from The Points Guy shares where to look to save big on summer travel.

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Venice now charging visitors entrance fee to combat overtourism, biden administration sets new airline rules over refunds for canceled flights, where you can score summer travel bargains.