one day trip from zadar

The Amazing Traveler

14 Incredible Day Trips From Zadar (2024 Guide!)

Looking for the very best day trips from Zadar, Croatia? 

My husband was born in Zadar, and we have a house just outside the city where we spend several months a year. So, I know a lot about this beautiful area – including some amazing spots that even some locals don’t know about.

We’ve explored all around Zadar and found some fantastic places that are perfect for a day out. In this guide, I’ll share these hidden gems with you. Whether you’re into quiet beaches, old villages, or tasty local food, there’s something for everyone. 

Most of these places are just a short drive away, so you don’t have to spend all day traveling.

How to organize a day trip from Zadar

You’ve got six main ways to get around: renting a car, public buses, guided tours, boats and ferries, or private transfer. Let’s look at the pros and cons of each option.

This gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. But heads up, I only recommend renting a car if you’re pretty experienced behind the wheel. Driving around Zadar, especially in the summer, can be a bit of a headache. 

If you’re not in the know about those little parking spots where locals park for free, you might end up paying a hefty 20 euros just for parking, and that’s no fun. 

Btw, last summer I parked in one of those ‘local’ spots, thinking I was all set as police usually ignore it if they see local plates. Not my luck, though – I ended up with a 35-euro parking ticket, and you can’t pay these on the spot. You have to go to a bank or post office.

Trying to find a parking spot in Zadar during summer is like trying to find a needle in a haystack, no matter what time it is. So, if you’re thinking about hiring a car, just be ready for these kinds of things.

Public Buses

There are a variety of day trips you can do from Zadar using ‘public transport’. 

Buses are the most affordable way to travel to places like Šibenik, Split, or Nin, but the schedules can be a bit limited and the trip will take longer than other options.

So, if you’re planning a day out and want to save some cash, just be prepared for a slower pace.

Guided Tours 

These are great for when you want everything planned out for you. You’ll learn heaps, especially on trips focused on culture or history, since you’ll have a local guide to show you the ropes. These tours, whether private or in small groups, are an efficient way to explore.

The beauty of guided day trips is that they often include multiple stops, letting you see and do more in one go. 

There are some places around Zadar that you just can’t get to without a car and for those spots, day tours are your go-to option if you’re not driving yourself.

Boats and Ferries 

For island destinations like Ugljan Island, Dugi Otok, or the Kornati Islands, taking a ferry or a boat is necessary. Check with local ferry services like Jadrolinija for schedules and tickets. Some guided tours to islands also include boat transportation.

Private Transfers 

For a more comfortable and personalized experience, you can book a private transfer. This is a more expensive option but offers convenience, especially for less accessible locations or if you’re traveling in a group.

As a final option, for those nearby destinations or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike. Zadar and its surrounding areas are laced with some scenic bike routes, perfect for day trips. 

14 Best Day Trips From Zadar

Zrmanja canyon & rafting.

If you’re in Zadar you can’t miss the Zrmanja Canyon rafting experience.

The trip begins in Kastel Zegarski, a quaint village about an hour from Zadar. Here, the Zrmanja River, with its crystal-clear waters and untouched surroundings, awaits to take you on a thrilling ride. Known for its contrasting scenery of white rocks and lush greenery, the river flows through the heart of the canyon, creating a spectacular setting for your adventure.

The great thing about Zrmanja rafting is that it’s suitable for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a complete newbie, the river caters to all levels. Even kids as young as six can safely enjoy the rafting experience, making it a fantastic option for a family day out.

The rafting trip covers about 14.5 kilometers and usually lasts between 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll navigate through Grade 2 rapids, which might occasionally reach Grade 3. Don’t worry if that friendly even for beginners. Along the way, you’ll encounter moments of serene calmness and sudden rushes of excitement as you hit the rapids. It’s an exhilarating balance that keeps the journey interesting.

Before you set off, you’ll be kitted out with all the necessary gear – helmets, life jackets, and neoprene suits. The guides, who are registered with the Croatian mountain rescue service, ensure you’re well-informed with a safety briefing. Their top priority is to make your adventure both fun and safe.

To make the most of your day, pack a swimsuit, an extra T-shirt, suitable water shoes, and a towel. It’s also a good idea to bring along some snacks, water, sun protection, and a bit of cash. And don’t stress about your phone or camera; they’ll be safe in waterproof boxes provided at the start.

The adventure is reasonably priced, usually around 50 EUR for adults, with discounts available for kids. This includes all your equipment and insurance, but remember, transport to the starting point and meals are extra.

Dugi Otok (Long Island)

Reaching Dugi Otok is easy, with regular ferries from Zadar. In Sali, the largest town, you’ll find everything you need, from amenities to delicious local food.

The island is packed in summer as each village celebrates its heritage. Traditional festivities like the donkey race in Sali highlight the island’s history, where donkeys were essential in daily life.

Visit Saharun Beach, known for its clear waters and pine-fringed shoreline, perfect for a relaxing day. Telascica Nature Park is a highlight with its inviting coves, impressive cliffs, and the warm Lake Mir. This park also serves as a home to a variety of wildlife, including a group of donkeys.

Don’t miss the Veli Rat Lighthouse, the tallest in the Adriatic. Climb up for amazing views or enjoy the nearby beaches. It’s a spot that combines history with natural beauty.

For those who love the outdoors, Dugi Otok is a playground. Enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, or simply swimming in the clear waters. The less crowded roads make for perfect cycling adventures with views of the sea.

Kornati National Park

My first visit to Kornati National Park in the late ’80s is something I’ll always remember. 

On the ferry ride there, an Italian family taught me how to play rummy, which was fun. What stood out to me the most, though, was how salty the lake was on one of the islands. It was so different from the sea around it.

Kornati National Park is an archipelago in the Adriatic Sea, remarkable for its raw and rugged landscapes. 

With over 140 islands and islets, it’s a haven for those who love the sea, nature, and exploring. The islands, with their cliffs diving into the deep blue, create a stunning visual.

The park is rich in biodiversity, both underwater and on land. It’s a dream spot for snorkelers and divers. On the islands, you’ll find a variety of birds and unique plant species.

It’s the largest natural lake in Croatia and a protected nature park, ideal for bird watching and fishing, especially for carp.

What makes Lake Vrana unique is the contrast in flora.

On one side of the road, you’ll see Mediterranean vegetation typical of the Adriatic coast, and on the other, a freshwater ecosystem.

This creates a remarkable visual and ecological divide. The area also has hiking and cycling paths.

Krka National Park 

I don’t have to describe the waterfalls of Krka National Park.

You’re probably already familiar with them, or someone you know has been there. What I can share, though, are tips on how to see these wonders without spending too much. 

The cheapest option is the ferry from Skradin. Last summer, the fare was just 10 euros, but this year it might be higher. If you’re thinking about other entry points, like near the Krka Monastery, prices are, well,  tourist prices. 

My sister paid 40 euros there. And I’ve heard that some routes to the waterfall can even ask for up to 100 euros. I’ll make sure to update this article with the new season’s prices as soon as they’re available.

Nin is just a short trip from Zadar and is the oldest Croatian royal town.

Here, you’ll find the Church of the Holy Cross from the 9th century and the statue of Bishop Gregory of Nin. 

The town has museums like the Museum of Nin Antiquities and the Museum of Salt. When in Nin, try the “cvet soli” or flower of salt. It might be a bit pricey, but it’s probably the saltiest thing you’ll ever taste, at least it was for me.

Ugljan Island

Ugljan Island is a 25-minute boat ride from Zadar. This lush, hilly island is covered with olive groves. It’s a favorite escape for those in Zadar, especially over the weekends.

In Preko, the island’s main hub, life revolves around the harbor. For a bit of adventure, a hike up to St Michael’s church offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding archipelago.

Then there’s Kali, a traditional fishing village southeast of Preko. It’s a place where narrow streets twist up hills, leading you through a living history of seafaring and fishing. The harbor, crowded with fishing boats, speaks of the village’s enduring connection to the sea.

Not far from Kali, Kukljica greets visitors with its sparkling bay. This area is particularly known for its beautiful beaches.

Pag Island is worth visiting on a day trip . The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge.

The Town of Pag is this medieval settlement is a window into the past, with narrow streets lined with stone houses. The town is also famous for its intricate lacework, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. 

The Pag Lace Gallery in town is the perfect place to learn more about this traditional craft. Pag is also celebrated for its carnival, featuring traditional folk dances like the Pasko kolo.

The island is known for its delicious Pag cheese, made from sheep’s milk and often served with local white wine Žutica. The cheese’s distinct flavor is attributed to the sheep’s diet of sea-salted herbs and grass. Pag’s lamb is also a culinary highlight, considered some of the best in Croatia.

For young folks looking for nightlife, Novalja town is the go-to destination, especially the famous Zrće Beach. Known as the Croatian Ibiza, Zrće is packed with beach clubs and music festivals. During the day, the beach is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy water sports.

The island’s rocky, barren landscape is often compared to the lunar surface, and provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. Hiking, cycling, and exploring the rugged terrain are popular, as is swimming and enjoying the beaches. Pag’s beaches are known for their clear waters and are ideal for family outings.

Pag has a long history of salt production, dating back to Roman times. The traditional methods of salt harvesting contribute to the island’s unique economy and culture.

Velebit Mountain

On the way from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes, you can stop by the impressive Velebit Mountains and Paklenica National Park. 

The Velebit Mountains feature striking peaks and lush forests while Paklenica National Park is known for its dramatic cliffs and canyons. It’s a favored spot for hikers and nature lovers.

Besides its scenic beauty, here you will see various plant and animal species.

Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most expensive national parks to visit, and there’s a good reason for it. The main attraction here is a series of cascading lakes and waterfalls that seem almost otherworldly.

The ticket prices vary. Outside the peak season, the adult ticket costs 15 euros, but during the summer season, it’s 60 euros. The ticket price includes rides on the panoramic train and electric boat, as well as visitor accident insurance.

The price also depends on the time of entry to Plitvice Lakes National Park.

For example, if a visitor enters at 10 AM, they will pay a different price compared to someone who enters at 6 PM. The lower price applies from 4 PM onwards in June, July, and August, and from 3 PM onwards in September.

Parking is charged from April to October for cars, campers, and buses. Motorcycle parking is free. The price for cars is 1.5 euros per hour.

Šibenik is known for its stunning medieval architecture, including the famous Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

The city also has beautiful fortresses like St. Michael’s and St. Nicholas’, offering great views. Šibenik is not as crowded as some other Croatian coastal cities. 

Side note: Dražen Petrović was born in Šibenik, so if you are interested in the NBA, this is an interesting fact for you.

Just before reaching Split, you’ll come across the charming town of Trogir.

The town’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. As you wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter stunning architecture, including a beautiful cathedral and a fortress with panoramic views of the town and the Adriatic Sea.

One of the highlights of Trogir is its waterfront promenade, where you can enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant. And if you’re a fan of boats as I am, the marina is filled with yachts of all sizes.

While you can reach Dubrovnik from Zadar in a day, I would not recommend going further than Split.

The roads can get pretty jammed, especially during the summer heat.

The largest Dalmatian city, Split, is famous for one thing in particular: Diocletian’s Palace, a 4th-century Roman structure and UNESCO World Heritage site. 

In Split, you will see cultural experiences in its cafes, restaurants, and shops within historic walls, the scenic Riva waterfront, Mountain Marjan, Bacvice beach, and views of the islands across it.

Located just half an hour outside of Zadar, this place is different from others on the list. There are many things to do in Benkovac that are not connected to a summer vacation.

This is a place where East meets West. It once had the most cafes per capita in the former Yugoslavia, but nowadays it looks like a ghost town.

The famous landmarks of Benkovac are Kastel Benkovic, Asseria, and Benkovac Wells, but I would say the best attraction is the abandoned houses. You will see dozens of ruined houses, with trees growing from them. These are not some poor homes; most of them are mansions from the 18th and 19th centuries.

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10 Destinations That You Can Visit as Day Trips From Zadar

If you have one or more days to spare while in Zadar, I encourage you to explore some of the most amazing places that Croatia can offer to its visitors. The day trips presented in this article offer a mosaic of experiences that enrich and complete your Zadar adventure, whether you’re drawn to history, beautiful scenery, or cultural immersion.

ℹ️ Since you’re based for at least a few days in town, first read my ultimate guide to Zadar , which has all the info you need on how to get there, when it’s the best time to visit or what are the most important sights, just to make sure you don’t miss anything important.

1. The Historic Splendor of Nin

Nin, a charming town with centuries-old history, is only a short distance from Zadar, about 15 km away. Therefore, quick trip to this historic Croatian royal town is probably the easiest to do from this list.

Situated in the center of Nin is the Church of the Holy Cross, a small yet impressive structure that is deemed as the world’s smallest cathedral. With fragments of historic architecture and cobblestone streets whispering stories of its Roman origins, the town offers a fascinating window into Croatia’s rich past.

Nin’s allure extends beyond its historical significance. It is the location of the renowned Queen’s Beach, which is well-known for its healing mud and golden beaches as well as its blue waters. Guests enjoy this natural spa, rubbing in the mud rich in minerals for a restorative and revitalizing experience.

How to get from Zadar to Nin:

• By bus (25 minute drive)

🚍🚏 To get the latest info about bus options and make reservations, check Omio .

• By car (30 minute drive)
• With a guided tour

1️⃣ Visit the centuries-old town of Nin and swimming and return to Zadar 2️⃣ Private Tour: Nin and Royal Vineyards from Zadar

2. Boat Tour to Kornati National Park

Set out on a day trip from Zadar to the stunning Kornati National Park, a pristine archipelago dotted throughout the Adriatic Sea with over 100 stunning islands and islets. Even though a direct trip to Kornati from Zadar requires a boat expedition, the trip is well worth it due to the park’s outstanding beauty. Discover the awe-inspiring majesty of these generally uninhabited islands, characterized by rugged cliffs, clear waters, and unspoiled habitats. Admire the impressive rock formations and secluded bays that are ideal for snorkeling or diving into the rich marine life below the surface as you navigate through the labyrinth of islands.

How to get from Zadar to Kornati National Park :

ℹ️ The only way to get to Kornati archipelago is by boat, therefore car, bus or ferry is out of the question.

1️⃣ Excursion to Kornati National Park from Zadar 2️⃣ Private Speedboat tour to National Park Kornati Islands

3. Explore or Relax on Ugljan Island

Just a short ferry ride away from Zadar, Ugljan makes an easy and hassle-free getaway option. Ugljan beckons tourists with its picturesque fishing towns, olive trees, and breathtaking coastline scenery. With its picturesque fishing towns, olive trees, and breathtaking coastline scenery, Ugljan beckons tourists. Explore Preko, the main village on the island, and its winding lanes to find old buildings and take in the relaxed vibe. or go on a quest to discover secluded coves and charming beaches that are ideal for a leisurely day by the crystal-clear waters. If you want to explore the island on a bike, consider this self-guided bike tour .

How to get from Zadar to Ugljan:

• By ferry (25 minutes)

ℹ️ There are plenty of ferries that run everyday between Zadar and Preko (the port of Ugljan). Check the timetables here .

• By guided boat tour

1️⃣ Fun Swim and Snorkel on Ugljan Island. 2️⃣ Private half day speedboat tour to Ugljan Island, Osljak Island, and Skoljic Island. 3️⃣ Private tour to Islands Ugljan, Ošljak and Preko from Zadar. 4️⃣ Molat & Ugljan Boat Tour- Best Zadar Islands,Half-day, Snorkeling, Sandy beaches.

4. The Hidden Gems of Dugi Island

Experience the captivating Dugi Island (Dugi Otok) , a picturesque treasure in Croatia’s Zadar archipelago, on an enthralling day trip from Zadar. This island is reachable by boat or ferry from Zadar’s harbor. You can visit Božava, Sakarun beach, Brbinj or Telašćica Nature Park, although you probably won’t be able to cross the island from north to south to see everything there is. Therefore, I propose a few itineraries. If you go during the summer and want to swim in the sea, you can go directly to Sakarun beach and spend a whole day there. If you want to see as much as you can in the northern part of the island, go to Božava, then to Sakarun beach, return to Božava and then take a bus to Brbinj. If you’re more interested in getting a chance to spot dolphins playing around the coast of Telašćica Nature Park, you can start a boat tour directly from Zadar, or take a ferry to the harbor town of Sali and then take a guided tour from there.

How to get from Zadar to the northern part of the island:

• By ferry (1 hour 20 minutes)

ℹ️ The ferries run everyday from Zadar to Božava, but their frequency depends on the season, so make sure you check the timetables before your trip.

1️⃣ Sakarun Beach by Speed Boat Private Tour from Zadar 2️⃣ Private Speedboat tour “Hidden Gems of Dugi otok”

How to get from Zadar to the southern part of the island:

ℹ️ The ferries run from Zadar to Brbinj, but their frequency depends on the season, so make sure you check the timetables before your trip.

If you want to kill two birds with one stone, you can take one of these tours that combines Telašćica Nature Park with Kornati National Park:

1️⃣ Kornati – Suha Punta – Telascica from Zadar 2️⃣ From Zadar: Kornati – Telašćica – Kukljica

5. Relax on the Small Island of Molat

Set out on a charming day excursion from Zadar to the tranquil Molat Island (Otok Molat) , a magical haven tucked away within the Zadar archipelago. This island gem, which is reachable from Zadar by boat or ferry, offers a peaceful refuge away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Molat welcomes guests with its pristine beauty, offering quiet coves, quiet beaches, and blue waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. See the little villages on the island, where it looks as though time has stopped, to learn about a tranquil way of life surrounded by beautiful scenery and lush vegetation.

How to get from Zadar to Molat:

• By ferry (1 hour)

ℹ️ Zadar is connected to Molat Island through the Brgulje port and Molat port. The ferry runs everyday, but the departure hours differ, depending on the day of the week and the season you’re visiting in, so make sure to check the timetables carefully when planning this day trip. Here are the timetables for Brgulje port , as well as for Molat port .

🛥️ Molat & Ugljan Boat Tour- Best Zadar Islands,Half-day, Snorkeling, Sandy beaches

6. Chase the Waterfalls at Krka National Park

Take a day trip from Zadar to the captivating Krka National Park, a natural wonderland that perfectly captures Croatia’s stunning scenery. This natural oasis, renowned for its emerald pools, lush greenery, and tumbling waterfalls, is only a short drive or bus ride from Zadar. When you first arrive, you’ll be enthralled with the park’s focal point, the stunning Skradinski Buk waterfall, where you can explore nature’s untamed beauty thanks to a network of wooden trails. Enjoy the peace and quiet of the park by relaxing on the riverbanks or by taking reviving swims in the glistening clear waters.

How to get from Zadar to Krka National Park:

• By car (1 hour)
• By bus (1 hour)

⚠️ Although there are 4 bus companies operating this route, Google Maps won’t give you information about any of their schedules. Go to Zadar Bus Terminal and ask on how to get to Skradin (Krka NP) to get the latest info on departure hours. Alternatively, you can get tickets from here .

7. Admire the UNESCO Sites of Šibenik

Although Šibenik is a small town, it has not one, but two UNESCO heritage sites. The first one is the Cathedral of St James – the most important architectural monument of the Renaissance in Croatia! And a little piece of information for all the Game of Thrones fans out there: the cathedral was used as a backdrop for the Iron Bank in one of the show’s episodes (S5 E9). The second UNESCO site is a new addition to the list of protected monuments – The Fortress of Saint Nicholas. This is also where the river Krka flows into the Adriatic Sea.

How to get from Zadar to Šibenik:

• By bus (1 hour 20 minutes drive)
• By car (1 h)

1️⃣ Krka Waterfalls and Sibenik Day Trip from Zadar 2️⃣ From Zadar: Krka Waterfalls and Sibenik City, Private Tour

8. Experience the Cultural Heritage of Trogir

Embark on an enriching day trip from Zadar to the captivating town of Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exquisite medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. Admire the beautifully preserved Romanesque and Renaissance buildings dotting this quaint town; notable examples are the imposing Kamerlengo Fortress, which provides sweeping views of the town and surrounding areas, and the magnificent Cathedral of St. Lawrence. Because of its small size, tourists may easily see Trogir in a single day and take in its dynamic atmosphere. Trogir is fairly close to Split, so with a guided tour it’s even possible to do both cities in a day.

How to get from Zadar to Trogir:

• By bus (2 1/2 hour drive)
• By car (1 1/2 hour drive)

🚘 Hit two birds with one stone with this guided tour to Trogir and Split .

9. Discover the Marvels of Split

Split is a multifaceted city, where you can easily spend a few days, but if your schedule allows only one day, it’s doable to get a taste of it. Just like Zadar, Split is located on the Dalmatian coast.

If there’s one thing you should do in Split is head to the old town, which is a labyrinth of narrow streets brimming with charming cafes, vibrant markets, and historical landmarks. In the heart old town is the most impressive landmark of Split – the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Diocletian’s Palace.

As you explore Split, stroll along Split’s beautiful Riva promenade, lined with palm trees. Enjoy stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, feel the breeze, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city.

How to get from Zadar to Split:

• By bus (between 2 1/2 hour and 3 hour drive)

🚘 Because Split is a major destination, you might want to go alongside an experienced guide. If that’s the case, consider seeing Trogir and Split in the same day with this tour .

10. Plitvice Lakes National Park

If you have to pick only one day trip from this list and you’re a nature lover, then you should probably pick this one. A scenic drive or organized tour from Zadar transports you to this natural wonderland, renowned for its cascading waterfalls, emerald lakes, and lush forests. Admire the park’s spectacular landscapes, as wooden pathways guide you through a labyrinth of sixteen connected lakes, each more charming than the last and embellished with captivating waterfalls.

How to get from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park: You can reach the park only by car or bus. Both options will take around 1 hour and a half.

• By bus (1 hour 30 minutes)

⚠️Unfortunately, you’ll find little information online about the buses, so you’ll have to ask around at the Central bus station. The last bus from Plitvice to Zadar is pretty early in the afternoon and we were close to missing it, so make sure you’re there on time.

There is also the option to book a day trip with a knowledgeable guide.

1️⃣ Full-Day Tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park from Zadar 2️⃣ Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour from Zadar 3️⃣ Plitvice Lakes Day Tour from Zadar-TICKET INCLUDED Simple, Safe 4️⃣ Plitvice lakes self guided tour with booked tickets

Wrapping up…

In the tapestry of travel experiences you can have in Croatia, these ten day trips from Zadar stand as vibrant threads, each weaving its own unique story and allure. These locations provide a variety of experiences that are easily accessible from Zadar, from the historical grandeur of Nin and the cultural wonders of Split to the scenic beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park and the peaceful serenity of neighboring islands. These day activities enhance the Zadar experience by offering layers of depth and diversity to every traveler’s adventure, whether it be through engaging with ancient history, enjoying the tranquility of nature, or indulging in beach paradises.

• ← The Ultimate Travel Guide to Zadar, Croatia
• 11 Must-Visit Wineries in Cyprus and Best Regional Wines (2024) →

The Perfect One Day in Zadar Itinerary

Last Updated on January 25, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Often overshadowed by the Adriatic gems of Split or Dubrovnik , the lovely city of Zadar located in the northern Dalmatia region of Croatia is a wonderful destination to visit in its own right. Compact and filled to the brim with history, you can see so many of the sites of the city by planning just a one day in Zadar itinerary, making it a perfect destination to break up the drive down the coast or as a day trip from Split .

Situated on a picturesque peninsula in the centre of the country’s Adriatic coast, Zadar is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia and has evidence of people living there dating back to the Stone Age.

However, Zadar has more to offer than just its history — its beautiful Old Town, seaside vibes and inviting promenade make it the perfect destination for those looking for a quieter side of Croatia. Though growing in popularity as a tourist destination, its visitor numbers still don’t hold a candle to those of hotspots further south.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Zadar?

Zadar is quite small and compact and the top sites of the city can be seen in just one day, so if you want to make sure that you have time to visit other places in Croatia , you don’t have to worry about not dedicating enough time to Zadar — it’s definitely worth visiting but you don’t need to carve out a significant portion of your itinerary for it.

That being said, though you can see the highlights of Zadar in one day, the city also makes an excellent base to explore not only several incredible sites along the Dalmatian coast, but it can be a good jumping-off point to explore some islands and even the incredible national parks of Krka or Plitvice Lakes !

Getting To & Around Zadar

Though the historic centre of Zadar is quite small in size, it is actually the fifth-largest city in Croatia and the second-largest in Dalmatia. It’s also quite a sought-after holiday destination for European tourists, even if it’s not necessarily on the radar for those from further afield.

There is a small international airport located a few kilometres out of Zadar that has seasonal connections across Europe.

You can get a taxi or private transfer from the airport to the city centre, or hire a car from the airport – countless companies operate there (browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices!). Regardless, it will take around 15 minutes to reach the city centre.

Otherwise, Zadar is located about a 2-hour drive from Split and a 3-hour drive from Zagreb. You can also easily reach Zadar from most major cities in Croatia via direct bus, meaning that it’s easily accessible.

There is also a ferry terminal in Zadar that can take you to nearby islands. Note that there is a ferry port in the Old Town of Zadar and also a larger one a little bit south of the city centre – about 10 minutes driving or by taxi.

Once in Zadar, it’s very easy to get around the old town on foot. In fact, the majority of the historic centre is completely pedestrianised. If you’re venturing further afield, having your own car to explore nearby attractions (such as Sibenik or Krka National Park) can be helpful.

One-Day Zadar Itinerary

Whether you’re visiting Zadar as a day trip or are using the city as a base to explore the splendours that lie in central Croatia, this itinerary is the perfect route through this historic city.

Everything here is within easy walking distance of each other and allows enough time to be able to chill out and just enjoy the atmosphere of the city, as well.

Tržnica Zadar

A great place to begin your time in Zadar is at the city’s central market. Located in the old town, this is a lovely open-air market that sells plenty of fresh fruit, local produce, cheese and other products. It’s a great way to see what is seasonal, fresh and important in the local cuisine.

There is also a covered fish market area where you can see all of the incredible fresh seafood that comes from the waters surrounding Zadar.

Beginning your day at the market is an excellent way to get a good insight into the local culture.

Cathedral of St Anastasia

The next stop is the incredible and beautiful Cathedral of St Anastasia, also simply just called the Zadar Cathedral. As the largest church in the Dalmatia region, this beautiful Roman Catholic Cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of Zadar.

The church itself is worth entering and touring (keep note that it is closed to tourists on Sundays), but one of the real highlights of the Zadar Cathedral is its bell tower.

Construction of the bell tower began in 1452 but it wasn’t fully completed until 1894. Visitors have the opportunity to climb the stairs (which can be a bit windy and rickety!) to the top of the tower and enjoy an incredible view of Zadar and its surroundings. Climbing the tower is definitely one of the best things to do in Zadar.

If you’re visiting in high season during the summer months, it’s best to get here as early as possible so you can avoid crowds at the top of the tower and on the stairs.

Roman Forum

Just about a two-minute walk from the Cathedral of St Anastasia, you will find one of the biggest highlights of visiting Zadar and some of the evidence of just how long this small city has been inhabited — the Roman Forum.

First constructed between the years of 1 BCE and 3 CE, this ancient forum is well preserved and can serve as an excellent insight into ancient Roman life and are filled with fascinating Roman ruins.

Though not everything is completely intact at this forum, there are still remnants to explore of temples to Minerva, Jupiter and Juno and even a well-preserved pillar that was later used as shame post for public humiliation during the Middle Ages.

Set adjacent to the Church of St Donatus, the Roman Forum is a fascinating place to explore and really serves as a testament to just how historic and ancient the settlement of Zadar really is.

Church of St Donatus

Located behind the Cathedral of St Anastasia and to the left of the Roman Forum lies the Church of St Donatus, another major landmark worth exploring. This circular church is the largest pre-Romanesque building in Croatia and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Zadar.

Founded in the 9th century and named for Donatus of Zadar — the bishop who commissioned the church — this unique building is most definitely worth exploring. With views of the Cathedral’s bell tower behind it and the Roman Forum in the front, it is yet another reminder of just how historic Zadar is.

Zadar Archaeological Museum

If you want to learn more about Zadar’s vast history with a bit more context, then a visit to the Zadar Archaeological Museum is a must-do.

Located about a two-minute walk from the Church of St Donatus, this makes for an excellent pre-lunch stop where you can see ancient artefacts and learn a lot about the ancient history of Zadar, dating back to the Neolithic period.

Plan to spend at least an hour going through the museum, and more if you’re particularly interested in archaeology.

Narodni Trg & the Old Town

In the second half of your day, it’s time to take in more of the energy and unbeatable atmosphere of this beautiful city, and there is no better place to begin to do this than in the Narodni Trg, or the People’s Square.

As the main square in the city, this is a historic meeting place in Zadar and it is lined with inviting cafes and ice cream parlours for you to be able to people watch and take the edge off of a hot Croatian day.

After taking in the energy of the lovely square, it’s time to let your feet guide you and to wander along Kalelarga, the main drag in the old town, and get a bit lost in the backstreets. Take the time to admire the lovely architecture, find some hidden gems, and browse some local shops.

If you’re looking for an excellent, affordable place to eat, then consider heading to Bistro Pjat for lunch. They have set menus featuring local seafood and other delicacies for great prices. You can also order a la carte if that suits you more.

Another great option is Trattoria Mediterraneo , a small restaurant serving delicious Adriatic meals.

Land Gate & Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

At the entrance to the Old Town peninsula lies the Land Gate, one of the original city gates attached to the old city walls of Zadar.

Constructed in the 16th century, this gorgeous stone gate once served as the main entrance to the city and can really harken you back to a time when cities were walled and protected by fortifications.

Right behind the gate lies Queen Jelena Madiejevka Park, which is located atop the old fortifications of ancient Zadar and is not a lush green space in the urban centre. Especially if it is in the middle of summer, this park can offer a cooling respite from the hot Croatian sun and a quiet escape from the throngs of tourist crowds further into the Old Town.

If you want to see all of these above sites (and more!) with an experienced guide, consider booking this walking tour of Zadar!

Zadar Riva, Sea Organ & Greeting to the Sun

And finally, end your day by enjoying one of the city’s best attractions, its absolutely lovely seaside promenade.

Known as a Riva in Croatian, this waterfront promenade surrounds the peninsula of Zadar from the Adriatic side to the Foša Harbour and beyond. It is incredibly pleasant to stroll along, especially as the sun begins to sink in the sky and many locals are also out for a pre-dinner walk.

One of the top attractions located on the Zadar Riva is the Sea Organ. What initially may look simply like a series of shallow steps leading into the Adriatic Sea, this art instalment is actually a musical instrument that plays melodic tunes with the water crashing into it.

This is also an ideal spot to settle yourself to watch the sunset, which legendary film director Alfred Hitchcock once described as “the world’s most beautiful.”

After the sun has sunk below the horizon, then you must check out another art instalment just behind the sea organ, and this is the Greeting to the Sun. This may look like a circular patch of solar panels by day but by night the sun powers a lovely light show on this very spot — making it the perfect place to end your one day in Zadar.

Have 2 Days in Zadar?

If you have 2 or even 3 days in Zadar, then you have a lot of options for what to do to spend your time.

As I mentioned earlier, Zadar makes for a fantastic alternative base for exploring a lot of what Croatia has to offer and it’s central location actually makes it more ideal to visit places like Plitvice Lakes National Park as a day trip rather than from Split or Zagreb.

Zadar is also a perfect jumping-off point to visit another fantastic Croatia national park, Krka! Though many visit as a day trip from Split, this park is just a far from Zadar and makes for a perfect day out.

You can visit both Plitvice and Krka independently, but if you want to go on an organised tour, check out this tour to Krka and this guided day tour to Plitvice Lakes .

Alternatively, spend another day in Zadar lounging on the beach – the nearby Kolovare Beach is a popular option.

And though it’s located only a short ferry ride from Zadar, a great day trip option if you want to get a bit off the beaten path, consider visiting the lovely island of Uglijan. You don’t even need a car to enjoy the main town of Preko or the laid-back village of Kali, everything is within easy walking distance.

And if you want to learn more about Croatia culture and cuisine, then consider going on a day trip to nearby Pag Island, famous for its delicious Paski Sir, or Pag cheese.

Or, if you want to get out on the water and explore the archipelagos that lie off the coast of Zadar, then this full-day sailing trip is a great option. Alternatively, if you want to fit in some more activities, consider taking this four-hour sailing trip instead.

Where to Stay in Zadar

Teatro Verdi Boutique Hotel – Located in the heart of Zadar’s historic old town, this luxury hotel is located within easy reach of everything the city has to offer. They have luxe rooms available, a fantastic breakfast included each morning and numerous other amenities to ensure that your stay is a great one.

Rooms Tisa Old Town – This lovely hotel located in the centre of the Old Town is perfect for mid-range travellers. They have a range of comfortable and clean rooms available to suit all kinds of travellers and a location in Zadar that cannot be beaten.

Private Rental – If you’d rather find yourself staying in your own apartment then there are countless properties available — like this superior sea view apartment in the city centre — that can suit all travel styles and budgets.

Downtown Boutique Hostel – If you’re a backpacker, travelling solo or on a budget, or just want a more social atmosphere, then this hostel is a great option for you. They have a range of private rooms and dorm beds available, excellent and clean facilities, and a killer location in the heart of Zadar.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Zadar hotels!

Whether you’re planning a Zadar day trip or want to spend more time here, there is no denying that this historic Croatian city on the Adriatic is worth visiting! There is so much to do in Zadar that it needs to firmly cement itself as a can’t-miss destination on Croatia’s coast!

Are you planning to visit Zadar? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

7-Day Istria Itinerary: Explore Pula, Umag and Rovinj

7 Best Places to Stay in Hvar for Tourists

Plitvice or Krka: Which Croatian National Park to Visit?

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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The Balkans and Beyond

Balkan travel inspiration and practical travel tips

The Ultimate Day Trips from Zadar, Croatia

The Most Awesome Day Trips from Zadar

Historic Zadar sits on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, in northern Croatia. The town is packed full of Roman ruins, great places to eat and incredible sea views. However, Zadar is also perfectly placed to explore the gems of Northern Dalmatia. Close to Zadar are five of Croatia’s eight National Parks as well as loads of historical sites and outdoor activities. We will introduce you to the most awesome day trips from Zadar, including how to get there, what to bring with you and loads more useful tips.

Visit Krka National Park from Zadar

Krka National Park is a fantastic day trip from Zadar. One of the many phenomenal National Parks in this part of Croatia, Krka is a natural beauty not to be missed! We followed the 3km elevated wooden path around the park admiring the brilliant greens and icy blues of the waterfalls and flora. After walking for a while, and taking hundreds of photos, we found the star of the show, Skradinski Buk waterfall.

The park is located towards the southern portion of Croatia on the Krka River. It is 77km from  Zadar , 87km from  Split  and only 10km from beautiful  Šibenik .

There is a bus from Zadar to Krka National Park. This leaves from Zadar bus station, takes about an hour and costs €10 each way. There are 5 buses per day so plan your times carefully. It is cheaper to book in advance online and we used  GETBYBUS . There is then a ferry at Skradin to take you to the National Park entrance.

Day Trips from Zadar – Discover Beautiful Pag Island

Pag Island has a rather unusual landscape for an Adriatic Island. While parts look like the surface if the moon, there are also beautiful beaches. Pag town is traditional and relatively unchanged for several hundred years. It is know for making beautiful lace and pungent cheese! However, there is also a decent party scene at Zrće beach during the summer.

It is possible to reach Pag town by bus from Zadar. A ticket costs €7 and the journey is under an hour.

Day Trips from Zadar – Plitvice Lakes

One of the most popular day trips from Zadar is a visit to the spectacular Plitvice Lakes. It’s easy to see why! Plitvice is Croatia’s largest national park and has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list  since 1979. During the peak seasons it can be busy and the ticket prices increase. However, plan your trip well and it will be a phenomenal day trip from Zadar!

There are regular buses from Zadar to Plitvice. The journey is around 3 hours and tickets cost about €12 each way.

Explore Paklenica National Park

To the North of Zadar is the phenomenal Paklenica with its rocky canyons, rugged mountains and beautiful wildlife. Hiking in Paklenica National Park is one of the best things you can do in this part of Croatia. And it’s so easy to take a day trip from Zadar!

The National Park is also home to the biggest climbing site in southern Europe as well as being home to extraordinary wildlife and some amazing places to eat.

The bus departs from Zadar bus station and drops you at Starigrad Paklenica. Check it out  HERE.  The early bus leaves at 8am and arrives at 8:50. Our return ticket € 17 each and was bought online with  GETBYBUS . After getting off the bus, there is a 20 minute walk to the park entrance. From this point, there is a further 2km to walk to the canyon where the fun really starts!

Take a Day Trip from Zadar to Split

Split is one of the most popular destinations in Croatia! There is plenty of history to explore in the city’s ancient centre. Make sure you check out the Diocletian Palace and take a stroll along the beautiful promenades.

A day trip from Zadar to Split is super easy by bus as there are several companies running services between the two towns. Typically, it will take a little under 3 hours and cost between €10-15 each way.

Day Trips from Zadar – Relax on the Island of Dugi Otok

Beautiful Dugi Otok is one of the largest islands in the Adriatic Sea. At 45km long, the name translates as “Long Island”. It is also home to part of the spectacular Kornati National Park, stunning Telašćica Bay and many dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches. Dugi Otok is definitely a bit of a hidden gem making it one of the best day trips from Zadar!

Getting to Dugi Otok from Zadar is pretty easy – with enough planning. There are 4 ports on the island but the most popular is Sali. There is a ferry from Zadar to Sali quite regularly throughout the day. Tickets can be bought online  HERE  and cost about €3 each way.

Currently, the Port at Sali is under restoration . This is due to be complete thus year – 2024. The ferry will take you to Zaglav where you will find a bus to Sali. If you miss the bus, like we did, you can walk. However, a portion of the route is on quite a busy road. The bus will also take you back again and runs in time with the ferry departures.

Try a Day of Cycling from Zadar

To the south of Zadar, in the town of Biograd na moru, there is a 50km circular bike route. Along the way you will discover the charms of rural Croatia. It is also possible to take your bike on the ferry to some of the larger island such as Pag and Dugi Otok. Cycling is a great way to explore the islands.

There are many places in Zadar where you can hire bikes for the day and enjoy a bit of exercise as well as the stunning scenery.

Visit the Historic Town of Šibenik

Historic Šibenik is the oldest native Croatian town on the shores of the Adriatic and makes an excellent day trip from Zadar. Don’t miss the Cathedral of St James while exploring the old town. Šibenik is not too far from Krka National Park. If you plan well, you can fit both into one day.

To ride the bus from Zadar to Šibenik will take you around 1h 20min. The ticket prices vary but start from €5 each way.

Day Trips from Zadar – Kornati National Park

One of the ultimate day trips from Zadar is a visit to Kornati National Park. Made up of 109 islands, the scenery around Kornati National Park is breath-taking.

The only way to get to Kornati is with a guide. In the peak season, many companies offer guided tours and most things are included in the price.

Work up an Appetite by Kayaking for the Day

Kayaking is a really cool way of exploring the Zadarian islands. There are plenty of places to hire a kayak for the day. Or you might consider a guided tour by kayak that will take you to all the hotspots!

Discover Nin City from Zadar

Nin is little city in Zadar county. It is very important in the history of this area and a real treat for history fans, as it is the oldest royal city in Croatia. The city is on a small island connected to the mainland by two beautiful bridges. Don’t miss the old town which includes Sveti Kriz Cathedral – the world’s smallest cathedral – and be sure to visit the incredible beaches.

There are regular buses from Zadar to Nin and you can be there in under 30 minutes. Another option, if you’re feeling energetic, is to cycle from Zadar.

After a busy day of exploring the amazing sites around Zadar, you will be welcomed back to the town by the most phenomenal sunset – if you time it right. The famous Zadar sunset was once highly praised by Alfred Hitchcock. He proclaimed, “ Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world, more beautiful than the one in Key West, in Florida, applauded at every evening. “ What a way to end the day!

What to Pack for your Day Trips from Zadar

We have put together a convenient packing list for your awesome day trips from Zadar.

• Hiking boots or shoes
• Snacks for travel
• Mini handheld fan (buses get incredibly hot in the summer!)
• Book/audiobook/music
• Water bottle
• Weather appropriate clothing, such as windbreaker and fleece for hiking OR swimsuit and towel for hitting the beach
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Map or downloaded GPS or map application on your phone
• Charging pack if needed
• Decent camera (phone) with plenty of space for pictures of the spectacular scenery
• Cash (Croatian Kuna)
• Driving licence and passport – if hiring a car

Should I Rent a Car for my Day Trips from Zadar?

This is a tricky one, and definitely down to personal preference. North Croatia’s public transport is actually pretty decent and most places are accessible by bus. However, there are very few railways in Croatia. The buses are great for travelling between towns and cities and are fairly priced. However, the timetable can be a bit restrictive, especially out of the busy tourist months. If you are short on time, hiring a car might help you make the most of your day trips from Zadar.

If you decide to rent a car in Zadar, please make sure you take out the full insurance. Drivers in the Balkans have their own unique style…

Plan your journey in advance as there are many small roads and these places can get super busy in peak season.

If you take the plunge and decide that driving is best for you, try  Avax Rent a Car . They are really handy if you are based in Zadar old town and provide a great service.

The Croatian Language

Many Croatians in the cities speak a little English but it is useful to learn a few phrases in Croatian. It is certainly not an easy language for English speakers, but any attempt is greatly appreciated by the locals. Here are a few words to try out:

More information

• For Zadar tourist info click  HERE

Where to go next

Ready for more day trip ideas? Check out our Awesome Day Trips from Tirana, Albania . There is plenty of history and nature to discover in beautiful Albania.

Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.

Have you visited Zadar or anywhere else in Croatia? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!

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This is such a helpful post. I am planning a trip to Croatia very soon (hopefully), and I am saving this for future reference.

I hopefully get to return to Croatia next year on a business trip. I can’t wait. I love this country. I definitely will save this post. I only saw the airport when I traveled through Zadar.

Great ideas to explore beyond Zadar which everyone should do.

What fantastic options there are I love Plitvice Lakes, Pag Island and Split, will be adding these to the Plan…thank you

This is so helpful! I am hopefully planning a trip to Croatia next year so I am saving this for when I go!

This is helpful for my next trip in the Balkans. Thank you 🙏

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8 Fantastic Day Trips From Zadar, Croatia

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The historic town of Zadar, Croatia sits proudly on a peninsula on the Adriatic Sea. The city’s once-necessary defensive walls still encircle most of the old town Zadar. Inside the fortifications is a blend of old and new – from well-preserved Roman ruins to modern convivences.

Why Take Day Trips From Zadar?

Zadar old town is comfortable, with enough sights to entertain, but plenty of opportunities to relax over a coffee at an outdoor café. However, it isn’t just the city itself that makes Zadar such an appealing vacation spot.

Zadar’s location, on the northern Dalmatian Coast, makes it an ideal base for exploring more of Croatia. Stunning islands, national parks and some of the region’s most picturesque places can be reached on day trips from Zadar, Croatia.

8 Best Day Trips From Zadar, Croatia

Our list of day trips from Zadar include the area’s top destinations. For each of the Zadar excursions, we include details regarding transportation and links to book the Zadar day trips via a tour. Even with only one day in Zadar, there may be enough time to take a quick trip from Zadar!

Pin, Save or Bookmark our Zadar Day Trips for your visit to Croatia!

#1 Zadar to Krka Waterfalls

The Zadar to Krka Waterfalls trip was our favorite jaunt while staying in Zadar. Krka National Park is an aqueous wonderland – and an easy excursion from Zadar.

The Krka River, which tumbles in a succession of waterfalls, is surrounded by 42-square miles of protected parkland. Within the boundaries of the Krka National Park are ruins, churches, islands and caves, which are all reachable by organized tours or a DIY day trip.

However, the main attraction is Skradinski buk, the longest waterfall on the Krka River. The single sight alone is worth making the day trip from Zadar to Krka! 

Note : In the past, visitors have been able to swim at the base of the falls, but that is no longer permitted!

How to get from Zadar to Krka : We took a bus from Zadar to Krka, which conveniently stopped near the Krka National Park ticket office in Skradin (admission includes the boat ride from Skradin to Krka).

The Zadar-Krka bus online timetable was not correct during our visit. We bought our tickets directly from the bus station and we suggest others do the same. Be sure to confirm the times on getting to Krka National Park from Zadar by bus (and return) during your trip!

Zadar to Krka National Park Tours : Booking an organized Zadar to Krka National Park Tour can save you the trouble of figuring out how to get from Zadar to Krka Waterfalls – and can increase your time enjoying the wonderful scenery!

Book a top-rated, full day tour from Zadar to Krka National Park on Viator .

Other guided tour options include: a Krka from Zadar Private Tour and a Zadar to Krka Tour of Waterfalls and Wine Tasting . 

{Read all about our Krka NP Trip }

#2 Kornati National Park from Zadar

The Kornati Islands are a Zadar must-see natural attraction! Kornati National Park encompasses 89 islands, islets and reefs – and is best reached by Zadar boat tours; however, the park can also be viewed from the sky with a panoramic flight!

The Kornati Islands beckon adventures with plenty of opportunity for swimming (snorkeling and scuba diving, too!), hiking and wildlife watching.

How to get from Zadar to Kornati : Visitors can get to the park via boat trips from Zadar or personal watercraft (permit required). There is no Zadar to Kornati Islands Ferry. That said, it is one of the best places to visit from Zadar, so it’s worth joining a tour!

Zadar to Kornati Islands Tours : Book Zadar tours to Kornati NP from the docks or in advance. In the busy summer season, we highly recommend booking early so you ensure you get a spot on the tour! 

This  highly-rated 8-hour KNP tour is a fantastic boat trip from Zadar! The full day tour includes breakfast on the way to the Zadar national park, incredible scenic vistas along the route, sights at the Telascica Nature park and time for swimming, too!

#3 Zadar Boat Trips

Spending a day on the water is one of the best things to do in Zadar – and a Zadar boat trip is an excellent way to do it! There are a multitude of options – from ferry rides to Zadar sailing trips to boat excursions to sea kayaking Zadar.

Ferry Trips from Zadar 

Using the ferry is fabulous for visiting the islands off Zadar. Ugljan on the island of Preko is directly across from Zadar and ranks one of the best islands near Zadar for a boat ride and island exploration. A day trip to Dugi Otok from Zadar is also possible with the ferry. 

How to get from Zadar to Ugljan and Dugi Otok : The ferries make these Zadar trips both easy and inexpensive. Find schedules online at the Jadrolinija Ferry official site . 

{Read about our Boat Trips from Zadar to Ugljan and Dugi Otok }

More Islands To Visit from Zadar

There are 140 islands in the Zadar archipelago (including the 89 of Kornati NP). The best way to visit many of these islands is on a boat tour. 

Booking Zadar Boat Tours : Book other Zadar boat excursions in advance, like the half-day sailing tour , a romantic sunset sail or a day trip to Sakarun Beach, Croatia .

Another option is to set sail for the Zadar archipelago aboard a yacht. The small group Sailing Trip  is a full day adventure!

#4 Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park

A trip to Plitvice Lakes is one of the best day trips from Zadar! Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most popular Croatia tours. Sixteen lakes of intense blue water are connected by a series of tumbling waterfalls. The water flow has carved a deep canyon into the limestone rocks and natural tufa barriers pool the water before it streams over the edge into the next pool.

Wooden boardwalks built just above the water enable visitors to have an up-close experience (although, swimming is not allowed at Plitvice NP).A trip to Plitvice Lakes is one of the best day trips from Zadar!

How to get from Zadar to Plitvice NP : The distance from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes is about 120km; the Zadar-Plitvice bus takes 1 hour 45 minutes each way. It is possible to take the public bus from Zadar to Plitvice, visit the park and take the Plitvice to Zadar bus back in one day.

Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour : Alternately, travel with an organized group on a Zadar to Plitvice Lakes tour. Book this highly-rated PLNP tour in advance!

{Read about our trip to Plitvice Lakes in the Winter and Visiting Plitvice Lakes NP in the Autumn }

#5 Sibenik, Croatia Tours

A day trip to Sibenik is one of the popular Zadar tours because of the close proximity of the two cities. The hillside coastal Old Town of Sibenik boasts a fortress, several churches and the remains of it’s defensive walls.

The compact Sibenik Old Town center is a pleasant day trip for anyone looking for things to do near Zadar.

How to get from Zadar to Sibenik : Zadar-Sibenik buses run multiple times a day, making this an easy Zadar DIY Day Trip. Inquire at the Zadar bus station for current timetables. 

{Be sure to read our guide on Things To Do in Sibenik on day trips from Zadar}

#6 Zadar to Split and Trogir (UNESCO Heritage Sites)

South of Zadar, in Central Dalmatia, is Split – one of our favorite cities in Croatia! In the Old Town that fronts the harbor are the remains of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Diocletian’s Palace . Split is also known for its many beaches , nature trails , historic neighborhoods and the long string of cafes that line the buzzing Riva.

Just 29km from Split is the UNESCO Heritage city of Trogir. The historic town occupies a small island, which is connected to the mainland via a short bridge. The best way to explore Trogir is to wander aimlessly through the narrow alleyways of the Old Town.

How to get from Zadar to Split : The bus from Zadar to Split (and Split to Zadar) takes 2.5 hours each way, but there are several buses that make the trip daily. Some buses stop in Trogir, but many do not. Again, we recommend checking schedules at the Zadar bus station for times and stops prior to setting off for the day.

Tours from Zadar to Split : Guides do offer private tours from Zadar to Split and Trogir, which eliminates the hassle of trying to figure out bus schedules! Book Zadar, Croatia tours to Split and Trogir in advance on Viator .

{Read our guide on Split Sightseeing and more on our 3 Day Split Itinerary }

#7 Game of Thrones Locations Tours from Zadar

Game of Thrones fans will be thrilled to visit Croatia, as many of the television show’s scenes have been filmed in the country. With the popularity of the show, there are GOT Tours, including GOT day trips from Zadar, Croatia.

Zadar to Game of Thrones Film Locations : Walking in the footsteps of the show’s characters is best done on private day tours from Zadar, as there are multiple stops in some hard-to-get-to locations. Book a GOT Tour here!

#8 Mostar Day Tours from Zadar

Want to explore beyond Croatia? Take a day trip from Zadar to the fascinating town of Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina. Not a short day trip (it takes 3 hours to drive each way), the beautiful Mostar Old Town is definitely worth it!

The iconic Mostar Old Bridge is draped over the emerald green Neretva River and minarets pierce the blue sky. Cafes and restaurants cling to the riverside cliffs and line the cobblestone lanes of Mostar, enticing you in for a coffee or meal.

Tours from Zadar to Mostar : Zadar excursions to Mostar are best done via car or hired guide – and you can search here for a Mostar Tour . There are no bus routes between the two cities that would allow for Zadar day trips.

{Read our guide to Visiting Mostar: 27 Things To Do } 

More Things To Do in Zadar, Croatia

Zadar is one of the best places to visit in Croatia ! An entire week vacation could be filled with day trips from Zadar, but there are things to see in Zadar, too!

Zadar Walking Tour

Zadar sights can easily be discovered by strolling the lanes of the Old Town. However, for more information about Zadar sightseeing, use our free Zadar Self-Guided Walking Tour (which includes a Zadar tourist map of the route) to the top Zadar tourist attractions.

If you would rather a guide lead you on a tip-based free walking tour Zadar, you can join the tour by Free Tours  – or book a guide for a walking tour in advance. 

Looking for more things to do around Zadar, Croatia? Get on two wheels and go on the Zadar Bike Tour. Book it in advance !

Find a Zadar Beach

Kolovare is the Zadar, Croatia beach closest to the center and one of the Zadar top attractions in the summertime. However, there are many beaches along the coastline and on the islands near Zadar. 

Planning A Trip to Zadar, Croatia

There is a lot more to planning a trip to Zadar than deciding which day trips to take! 

Get started with our tips for Planning a Croatian Vacation – where we highlight need-to-know travel info. 

As you research your trip, you will need to stay organized. With our printable Travel Planner , you can download the 26 pages and get started right away!

Deciding between Zadar or Split as a base in Croatia?

We like both Zadar and Split as bases for discovering more of Croatia – and think both cities offer a lot to see on their own! For tips on activities and day trips in Split , read our 3-Day Split Itinerary .

Top Tip: For the Best 2 Weeks in Croatia, read our Ultimate Guide To Croatia !

Where To Stay in Zadar, Croatia

The best place to stay in Zadar is in the historic Old Town. We stayed in an Airbnb Apartment , but there are many Zadar Old Town hotels to choose from, too!

Check out these top-rated hotels (based on guest reviews!) for the upcoming trip: Art Hotel Kalelarga , Hotel Niko and Bastion Heritage Hotel . 

Budget travelers can search for Zadar Hostels – like Boutique Hostel Forum and The Hostel . 

Before making your reservation, read our tips for Booking Hotels at the Best Rate .

Getting To Zadar, Croatia

Visitors can travel to Zadar by plane, boat, bus or car.

Our preferred method of getting anywhere is by flying (we are JetSetting Fools, after all!) and when we need to purchase cheap plane tickets , we start our search for the best deals on airline tickets on Skyscanner .

Flights to the Zadar Airport are seasonal, and are offered from Frankfurt , Amsterdam , Dublin and London (amongst others).

Although there are no trains to Zadar (at least not ones that are efficient for travelers), buses are a good option for reliable transport. Our preferred bus company is FlixBus – as it is economical, clean and comfortable with on-board Wi-Fi,

If arriving by bus, the bus station is not very convenient to the Old Town ( map ), but within reasonable walking distance. Although not 100% reliable, bus schedules can be searched on Bus Croatia and Get By Bus .

How To Get Around Zadar: Transportation

It’s best to get around Zadar on your own two feet – as most of the Old Town is a car-free zone. 

However, travelers may want to consider renting a car for some of the day trips from Zadar. Having a rental can often save time and money (especially when traveling with more than two people) – and allows for greater discovery.  

Pro Tip: Read our Top Tips for the Best Car Rental Rates before you make your reservation.

What To Pack for Travel To Zadar

Now that you know the top Zadar things to do and have planned your Zadar itinerary, it’s time to pack your bags! Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you can use our pro packing tips! Find all of our advice on our Packing Tips page – and be sure to grab your FREE Packing Checklist !

Durable Shoes

Be sure to  pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable travel shoes for your trip! I am most comfortable walking in historic Croatia cities in my versatile sneakers – but bring flip flops for the beach, too. Kris prefers wearing these shoes by Merrell .

Travel Camera

Croatia is gorgeous – and the stunning scenery can be seen on many of the day trips from Zadar. Rather than relying on your mobile phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for higher quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel (which takes amazing photos and is a great budget camera for travelers ). 

Croatia Guidebook and Map

Good research often equals a great vacation! It can be helpful to have a guidebook for Croatia prior to arriving – as well as a map !

Croatia Travel Insurance

If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.

Start planning your trip to Croatia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

More Croatia Travel Resources

Visiting other Top Destinations in Croatia ? Fantastic! Get ready with all the best tips with our complete guides!

• Best Things To Do in Dubrovnik
• Explore Split on a Free Self Guided Tour
• Top Things To Do in Zagreb
• What To Do in Romantic Rovinj
• Sightseeing in Historic Pula

Looking to go on an Croatia Island Hoping Adventure ? Super! Get set with our detailed guides to Hvar , Korcula , Brac and Vis !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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15 Amazing Day Trips from Zadar You Won’t Forget

Situated on the dazzling Dalmatian coast, Zadar is a captivating city that combines ancient history with a vibrant modern pulse. But the magic of Zadar doesn’t stop at its borders; a web of exciting day trips await just a stone’s throw away.

From the enchanting waterfalls of Plitvice National Park to the cultural richness of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, these expeditions promise to add diverse layers of discovery to your Croatian adventure.

Ready to embark on unforgettable journeys? Let’s explore the best day trips from Zadar together!

Plitvice National Park

Trip Highlights

• Full-day tour from Zadar.
• Includes transport, professional guide, and insurance.
• Exploration of Lower and Upper Lakes.
• Boat ride across the Big Lake and a panoramic train ride.
• Flexible pricing with student and child discounts.
• Punctual and helpful driver.
• Opportunities for amazing photos at the park.
• Potential for crowd during summer season.
• Possibility of tour cancellation due to weather.

Are you looking to add a memorable day trip to your Zadar itinerary? Then consider embarking on a full-day tour to Plitvice Lakes National Park. With its mesmerizing cascade of 16 terraced lakes , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a wonder you don’t want to miss.

Imagine departing Zadar at 8:00 AM, the sun just beginning to ascend in the sky, embarking on a journey into the heart of Croatia’s natural beauty . This tour doesn’t just offer transport; it gives you an experienced professional guide and insurance coverage, ensuring you have a safe and insightful journey.

Keep in mind that meals and entrance tickets to the park are not included in the package, allowing you the freedom to choose your preferred food options and pick the entrance package that suits your needs best.

Your day at Plitvice Lakes National Park will be filled with exploration of the Lower and Upper Lakes, showcasing the variety of waterfalls and vivid colors that change from azure to green, grey, and blue.

Don’t miss the unique experience of a boat ride across the Big Lake, giving you a panoramic view of this breathtaking natural spectacle. To end your exploration, a panoramic train ride awaits, offering a different perspective on the park’s enchanting scenery.

Regarding pricing, there’s a range to accommodate everyone. For adults, the tour costs 69 €, depending on the provider. For students, it’s 64 €, while children between 7-18 years can enjoy this unique experience for 39 €.

Once you’re in the park, you’ll have ample time to relax and explore the lakes, falls, and woods by foot or boat. Remember, this tour is not just cost-effective but also an efficient and comfortable way to reach and explore the park. Your driver, known for punctuality and clear instructions, will be there to assist and ensure you have a seamless experience.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is renowned for its beauty , with countless waterfalls and photo opportunities at every turn. However, keep in mind that it can get crowded during the summer season.

Planning your route ahead of time is highly recommended to maximize your visit and enjoy the most beautiful areas of Plitvice. Finally, be aware that weather conditions could lead to the tour being canceled, but rest assured, every effort is made to ensure the tour goes ahead as planned.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Plitvice National Park from Zadar:

Krka National Park

• Approximately 9-hour tour from central Zadar.
• Options for both guided and self-guided tours.
• Round-trip transportation included.
• Activities include hiking, swimming, and boat tours.
• Tour prices start from 40 € per adult.
• Krka’s stunning waterfalls are a must-see highlight.
• Bring a swimsuit and towel for swimming.
• Possible room for improvement in tour organization.

If cascading waterfalls and lush, green landscapes sound like your idea of a perfect day , then a trip to Krka National Park should be on the top of your Zadar day trip list. This stunning natural wonder is an increasingly popular destination, offering a myriad of activities to cater to all types of adventurers.

The journey to Krka National Park takes approximately 9 hours, beginning and ending in central Zadar. Whether you’re an independent explorer who enjoys the thrill of self-guided tours or you prefer the expertise and insight of a professional guide, there’s a tour option perfectly tailored for you. The tour includes round-trip transportation, meaning you can sit back, relax, and take in the picturesque views while you’re whisked away to the park and back.

Once inside the park, your options for exploration are plentiful. You can hike along well-trodden paths, breathe in the fresh air, and marvel at the park’s natural beauty at your own pace. One of the standout attractions are the park’s magnificent waterfalls that offer excellent photo opportunities.

And for those who fancy a dip, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and towel – swimming in certain parts of the park is a refreshing experience you won’t want to miss. Additionally, boat tours provide a unique perspective on the park’s beauty and are a great way to further immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings.

In terms of cost, prices vary based on the tour provider and the package you select. However, for an approximate idea, tour prices start from around 40 € per adult.

While the park’s allure is undeniable, it’s worth mentioning that some visitors have suggested room for improvement in terms of tour organization. Furthermore, the driver’s conduct was an issue for some. But these things can be subjective, and it doesn’t mean every tour experiences these issues.

Despite these occasional hiccups, the overall experience at Krka National Park, with its captivating scenery and activities , remains overwhelmingly positive and truly unforgettable.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Krka National Park from Zadar:

Šibenik and Krka Waterfalls

• Full-day tour to Šibenik and Krka National Park.
• Visit to UNESCO World Heritage Site, St. James Cathedral.
• Exploration of Krka Waterfalls and an opportunity to swim.
• Comfortable coach bus transfer with a guide.
• Priced at around 80 €, free for children under 4.
• Multi-language options (content might vary slightly).
• Does not include meals and drinks.
• Known for punctuality and great customer service.

Seeking a blend of nature and history for your day trip from Zadar? Then set your sights on Šibenik and Krka Waterfalls. Uncover the historic charm of Šibenik and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Krka National Park in just one day.

This full-day guided tour invites you to step back in time as you roam the cobblestone streets of Šibenik . Marvel at the architectural wonder of St. James Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to the city’s rich past.

The tour departs from Zadar in a comfortable coach bus. Known for punctuality, the tour ensures a prompt pick-up, making for a seamless start to your day. Though the journey offers multiple language options, including English and German, it’s worth noting that the information may differ slightly between the languages.

Next, get ready to be awed by Krka National Park. Here, you’ll not only see the park’s dramatic waterfalls but also have an opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear river . The scenic walk along the river and a visit to the historic stone watermills and workhouses add depth to your experience. And, don’t worry about the entrance fees – they’re covered in your tour price.

As for pricing, adults can embark on this adventure for around 80 €, while children under 4 years can join for free. Please note that meals and drinks are not included, allowing you to explore local culinary delights at your leisure.

Now, what about the tour’s difficulty? It’s an easy one compared to Plitvice Lakes, making it perfect even for families with young kids . And, while you may feel that you could get a tour with a boat for the same price, remember the unique mix of history and nature that this tour offers is second to none.

Rest assured, the tour company is known for its helpfulness, ready to assist you in case of any issues. With an informative guide, the trip is well-organized and promises to leave you with lasting memories.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Šibenik and Krka Waterfalls from Zadar:

Split (and Kils Fortress)

• Explore Split, Croatia’s second-largest city.
• Visit the UNESCO-protected Diocletian’s Palace.
• Experience the historical Klis Fortress.
• Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Wheelchair-accessible tour with service animals allowed.
• Free cancellation up to 1 day before the tour.
• Mobile and paper tickets accepted.
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Add a sprinkle of culture and history to your Croatian adventure with a day trip to the fascinating city of Split and the ancient Klis Fortress . Picture this: departing from Zadar in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, your destination is Split, the second-largest city in Croatia, and a significant cultural and tourist hub on the eastern Adriatic coast.

Upon arrival, you’ll have approximately 2 hours to discover Split’s architectural treasures and vibrant atmosphere. Dominating the cityscape is Diocletian’s Palace, a 4th-century Roman monument, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you explore its labyrinthine streets, you’ll step back in time, witnessing the centuries-old monuments, buildings, and a multitude of other attractions that contribute to Split’s enduring allure.

After soaking in Split’s vibrant energy, the next stop on your itinerary is the medieval Klis Fortress. Perched above a village bearing the same name, this fortress tells a tale of a turbulent past . Here, you’ll have another 2 hours to explore and marvel at an extensive collection of weapons, armor, and traditional uniforms from bygone eras. Remember, the admission ticket to Klis Fortress is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to purchase this separately.

This day trip is wonderfully accessible. It’s suitable for all physical fitness levels , and the tour caters to wheelchair users, with all areas and surfaces fully accessible. Service animals are welcome to join, and specialized infant seats are available for the smallest adventurers. Plus, public transportation options are conveniently located nearby.

To maximize flexibility, the tour accepts both mobile and paper tickets. After you’ve confirmed your booking, you’ll receive your voucher via email. And, to give you peace of mind, free cancellation is available up to 1 day before the tour. However, keep in mind that cancellations made less than 1 day prior will incur a 100% cancellation fee, and partial cancellation is not permitted.

Please note, any cravings for coffee or tea during your journey will need to be covered separately, as these are not included in the tour.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Split and Klis Fortress from Zadar:

Dugi Otok (Long Island)

• Full-day boat tour from Zadar.
• Visit to Sakarun Beach and the Veli Rat Lighthouse.
• Swimming and snorkeling at the Golubinka Sea Cave.
• Professional guide providing interesting facts and stories about the island.
• Lunch stop at a local tavern (meal cost not included).
• Small group size for a more personalized experience.
• Suitable for families, groups, and individuals.
• High praise for its beautiful views and great experience.
• Remember to bring sunscreen and a hat.

If you’re looking for a seaside adventure that perfectly encapsulates the Croatian island experience , look no further than the full-day boat tour from Zadar to Dugi Otok, also known as Long Island. This trip takes you to the most spectacular spots on the island, including the world-renowned Sakarun Beach, all under the watchful eye of a professional guide.

Your journey commences from Zadar at 8:30 AM, setting course for an exciting day of exploration and leisure. With an inclusive package priced at 60 € per person, you’ll enjoy boat transport, the services of a professional guide, and insurance coverage for your peace of mind.

The tour promises a day of discovery, including a visit to the Golubinka Sea Cave, a natural marvel where you can swim and snorkel, immersing yourself in the crystal-clear Adriatic waters. Furthermore, you will get to marvel at the Veli Rat Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in the Adriatic , offering incredible views of the surrounding seascape.

To ensure a personalized experience, the tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 12 people per boat, making it perfect for families, groups, or even solo travelers seeking a social experience. As you traverse from spot to spot, your guide will enrich your journey with interesting facts and stories about Dugi Otok, its culture, and history.

Halfway through your adventure, the tour offers a lunch stop at a local tavern, where you can savor authentic Croatian cuisine (meal cost not included in the tour price). This pit stop not only offers delicious food but also gives you a taste of the local culture and hospitality.

While the highlights of Dugi Otok are many, previous travelers single out Sakarun Beach as a must-visit. With its pristine white sand and turquoise waters, it’s no surprise that many regard this stop as the highlight of their trip to Zadar.

Finally, remember to bring sunscreen and a hat. While the stunning views and warm sun are part of the charm, you’ll want to protect yourself from sunburn during the tour.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Long Island (Dugi Otok) from Zadar:

Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park

• Full-day trip from Zadar.
• Small group experience with maximum 12 travelers.
• Includes lunch, snacks, beverages, and snorkeling equipment.
• Visit to a Roman village, Salt Lake “Mir,” and opportunities to swim and hike.
• Various price ranges with discounts for children.
• Departure from either Obala kneza Trpimira 2, Zadar, or Zadar Bridge.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Friendly and professional crew.
• Delicious and plentiful food onboard.
• Balanced schedule of relaxation and exploration.

Planning your escape from Zadar into Croatia’s natural wonders? Let us introduce you to a spectacular day trip to the Kornati Islands and Telascica National Park. Comprising over 100 islands , this paradise is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and exploring.

This is not a typical tourist tour; it’s an intimate, small-group experience limited to a maximum of 12 travelers. This ensures that every guest gets personalized attention , fostering a closer connection with nature and fellow travelers alike.

Your journey begins at either Obala kneza Trpimira 2, Zadar, or the Zadar Bridge, depending on the tour provider. To ensure a smooth start to your day, boarding is also available from the center of Zadar and Bibinje.

Once onboard, prepare yourself for an immersive adventure into nature’s beauty. From visiting a quaint Roman village to hiking to scenic viewpoints , your day will be filled with activities. Don’t miss out on the unique experience of swimming in Salt Lake “Mir” or in the sea, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the parks.

Are you a fan of underwater exploration? The tour provides snorkeling equipment, enabling you to take a deep dive into the clear waters and encounter beautiful marine life.

Worried about staying fueled for your adventure? The tour ensures that you’re well-fed and hydrated throughout your journey. It includes a welcome drink, breakfast, lunch, snacks, and beverages. Unlimited wine, juice, and water are provided throughout the trip, keeping you refreshed as you traverse the enchanting landscapes of Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park.

With a duration of approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, the tour makes the most of your day, offering a balance of relaxation and exploration. Prices range from 120 € for adults, while children between 3-12 years can join the tour for around 40 €. Children aged 0-3 years can participate for free. This offers excellent value for money, considering the range of experiences and amenities included in the tour.

The boat crew contributes significantly to your experience, renowned for their friendliness, professionalism, and excellent service. They ensure that your tour is well-organized, comfortable, and filled with interesting insights about the area. The food served onboard is renowned for its deliciousness and plentiful quantities, keeping you satisfied as you soak in the stunning views.

For your peace of mind, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. This allows you to book with confidence, knowing you have the flexibility to adapt to any unforeseen changes in your plans.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park from Zadar:

Paklenica National Park

• 6-8 hour day trip from Zadar, available from April to October.
• Includes a professional guide, entrance fee to the park, transportation, and insurance.
• Hiking and rock climbing opportunities for all experience levels.
• Visit to Manita Peć cave and Velebit’s highest peaks.
• Four educational trails offering immersive learning.
• Diverse landscapes and wildlife.
• Challenging hiking trails with steep and rocky sections.
• Park facilities including a cafeteria and a souvenir shop.
• The park’s app for easy navigation.
• Cost-effective and enriching experience.

If your adventures have brought you to Zadar and you’re thirsting for a memorable day trip , the stunning Paklenica National Park awaits. Located northeast of Zadar, nestled in the southern Velebit mountain range, Paklenica National Park is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, enchanting wildlife, and exciting activities.

This day trip is ideal for nature lovers and adrenaline seekers alike. From April to October, you can take a 6-8 hour journey to the park from Zadar. Once there, you’ll have the opportunity to explore flower-filled meadows, age-old burial sites, atmospheric caves, and historic ruins, all set against the backdrop of the Velebit’s highest peaks, Vaganski Vrh (1757 m) and Sveto Brdo (1753 m).

Your expedition includes a professional guide, entrance fee to the park, transportation, and insurance, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The adult price ranges from around 80 € to 110 €, depending on your preferred provider, and there’s a special rate of 40 € for children aged 4-12 years.

The heart of your adventure lies in the park’s renowned hiking and rock climbing opportunities . Expect to tread along the rocky trails of Velika and Mala Paklenica canyons, leading to mesmerizing viewpoints. Visit the Manita Peć cave, a unique spectacle that promises to be a highlight of your tour. Take advantage of the park’s four educational trails – Velika Paklenica, Paklarić, Pjeskarica, and “Kratko putovanje kroz prošlost” for an immersive learning experience.

Be aware that some trails can be challenging, with steep, rocky, and slippery paths. Don’t forget to wear good hiking shoes for a safer and more comfortable experience. Even though trails are generally well-marked, some visitors found route markings to be less visible, so staying aware is advisable.

Make sure to bring your water bottles, as there’s drinkable water available in the park. Nature enthusiasts will love spotting boars, butterflies, and a variety of bird species, although keep in mind that bird sightings can be sporadic.

Though the park attracts many visitors, it rarely feels crowded, offering an intimate connection with nature. Rock climbers, especially, find this park a haven, with many areas dedicated to climbing. There’s also a small cafeteria for refreshments, and a souvenir shop to pick up a memento of your adventure.

Plan your day at the park using the park’s app, which provides pre-marked routes for easy navigation. The park is about a 40-minute drive from Zadar, accessible by car, bus, airplane, or even ferry, and it offers a cost-effective, enriching experience to its visitors.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Paklenica National Park from Zadar:

• Direct bus connections from Zadar with flexible timings.
• Exploring historic Kamerlango Castle.
• Visiting the impressive Cathedral of St. Lawrence.
• Savoring the sweet treat of Trogirksi Rafioli.
• Soaking up the sun at Pantan and Okrug Beaches.
• Shopping fresh local produce at the farmers market.
• Wandering around the UNESCO World Heritage Site town.

While there may not be official day tours from Zadar to Trogir, don’t let that deter you from experiencing the charm of this historic town on your own. Embarking on a self-guided journey from Zadar to Trogir promises to be a rewarding experience full of stunning sights and mouthwatering delights.

Getting there

Starting your day early, you can catch one of up to 18 daily bus departures from Zadar to Trogir. With the earliest bus leaving at 04:45 and the latest at 20:30, you’ve got flexibility to plan your travel. This journey covers a distance of 128 km, with the quickest travel time being just 2 hours and 10 minutes, while the longest stretches to about 3 hours.

Some buses stop briefly in Biograd na Moru, Bibinje, and Sukosan, turning your trip into a scenic adventure. The bus ticket prices vary, with adult tickets ranging from 10 € to 13 €. For children, it’s between 5 € and 9 €, while students and pensioners can find tickets ranging from 7 € to 13 €.

Exploring Trogir

Once in Trogir, a treasure trove of experiences awaits you. Begin your exploration at the Kamerlango Castle, a petite architectural marvel that promises to reward you with stunning views of the marina and town.

Next, head to the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, a Romanesque-Gothic styled Roman Catholic church that commands a panoramic view of the entire town, leaving you spellbound.

After you’ve taken in the sights, it’s time to tantalize your taste buds. Treat yourself to Trogirski Rafioli, a local sweet delicacy, that’ll provide a delightful taste of Trogir’s culinary tradition.

No trip to Trogir would be complete without basking on its beaches. Pantan Beach is a sandy oasis with shallow waters perfect for a relaxed sunbathing session. If you’re after a more dynamic atmosphere , Okrug Beach is the spot. It’s the most popular beach in the area, brimming with restaurants and bars that hum with life long into the night.

For a truly authentic experience, visit the local farmers market. Just 100 meters from the bus station, it offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and locally produced olive oil.

Finally, simply exploring Trogir’s UNESCO World Heritage Site town will present enchanting sights of beautiful architecture, sea views, and palm trees that seemingly dot every corner. Trogir is a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that offers a unique day trip experience.

Canoe Safari/Rafting on Zrmanja River

• Amazing adventure through beautiful landscapes.
• Options for both high-adrenaline rafting and peaceful kayaking.
• Guided tours with equipment and instruction included.
• Opportunity to swim at the stunning Krupa Waterfall.
• Varying durations to suit your schedule.
• Offers for both adults and children, starting from age 6.
• Well-organized tours with professional staff.
• Stunning views and photo opportunities.
• Great value for money.

Ready to embrace the adrenaline rush and dive into the cool, crystal-clear waters of the Zrmanja River? Offering an exciting array of water activities from thrilling rafting to relaxing canoeing, the Zrmanja River and its stunning Krupa tributary are waiting to be explored.

The adventure begins either in the idyllic village of Kaštel Žegarski or in the vibrant city center of Obrovac, depending on the tour you choose. Whichever location you start from, rest assured you’ll be in the hands of experienced guides who will provide necessary equipment, helpful instructions, and information about the river’s behavior.

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Zrmanja River canyon, with its clear waters and 200m high canyons, adorned with numerous rapids and waterfalls. Depending on the river level, you can choose between adrenaline-filled rafting during high waters (usually from April to June & September to October), or a more tranquil kayaking tour when the water is lower (typically from June to September).

After all that excitement, you can unwind with a break for swimming at the majestic Krupa Waterfall or use your free time to relax by the riverbank. Adventurous travelers might even enjoy jumping off rocks into the crystal blue water.

Don’t worry about comfort or safety; these tours come equipped with everything you need . Full equipment, a raft with a capacity of 6-12 persons, helmets, lifejackets, and even insurance are included. Plus, some tour providers offer extras like an air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board, and a lunch to replenish your energy.

Tours vary in duration, ranging from an intense 2.5 hours to a leisurely 7 hours. Please note that transport to the starting point may not be included in some options.

Prices vary but generally offer excellent value for money, with costs ranging from 40 € to 100 € per adult, and children enjoying a discount, sometimes as much as 50%. Always remember, this unique and incredible experience of paddling near the Croatian mountains is worth every cent

Check out latest prices for day trips to Canoe Safari/Rafting on Zrmanja River from Zadar:

• Full-day tour showcasing the unique features of Pag Island.
• Visit the UNESCO-recognized Pag lace gallery.
• Cheese tasting at the world-famous Kolan cheese factory.
• Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local “konoba”.
• Choose between two walking trails: “Life on Mars” or “Ancient Wild Olive Gardens”.
• Party at Zrce beach, known for its vibrant nightlife.
• Flexible order of visiting locations to maximize experience.
• Several convenient meeting point options.
• Affordable travel options from Zadar to Pag.

Looking for an unforgettable day trip from Zadar? Look no further than the island of Pag. Known for its moon-like landscapes , secluded beaches, and clear blue waters, Pag Island is a destination that is sure to take your breath away.

This full-day excursion starts in the town of Pag. Here, you’ll have the chance to visit the local lace gallery, recognized by UNESCO for its intricate and delicate designs. You’ll marvel at the craftmanship that has been passed down through generations, making the lace of Pag a cherished cultural heritage.

Next on the itinerary is the Kolan cheese factory, famed for producing some of the finest cheese in the world . A visit to the cheese factory is a must for foodies who want to understand the intricacies of artisan cheese production. Following this, you’ll have a chance to enjoy a sumptuous lunch in a traditional “ konoba “, where succulent local lamb is a specialty.

But this tour isn’t just about food and crafts. You’ll have the opportunity to choose between two distinct walking trails. The “Life on Mars” trail leads you to a secluded beach where you can swim in crystal-clear waters . Alternatively, the “Ancient Wild Olive Gardens” trail gives you a glimpse into the past, taking you through groves of olive trees that are up to 2000 years old.

No trip to Pag would be complete without visiting Zrće Beach, a hotspot for nightlife and dancing . The order of the locations may vary to avoid crowded areas and enhance your overall experience. Please note, the tour involves a combination of walking and driving, providing a balance of exploration and relaxation.

The duration of the tour is approximately 14 hours and includes guiding services, private transportation, and admission tickets to the Lace Gallery and the Kolan cheese factory. The tour does not cover personal expenses, souvenirs, food, drinks, and snacks, so it’s recommended to carry about 25 € for lunch. You can conveniently meet for the tour at multiple locations, including rail or bus stations, cruise ship ports, airports, and hotels.

If you decide to get to Pag on your own, getting there from Zadar is a breeze. You have multiple options. The bus is the most cost-effective choice, with a fare between 7 € and 9 € and a travel time of approximately 1 hour. Taxis are available if you prefer a faster route, although they’re a bit pricier at between 80 € and 100 €. Alternatively, you can drive, taking approximately the same time as a taxi but at a much lower cost of between 8 € and 12 €.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Pag Island from Zadar:

Trip Highlights:

• Ancient town of Skradin, with a history dating back to prehistoric times.
• Convenient location at the entrance of Krka National Park.
• Intriguing archaeological site, Bribirska Glavica.
• Traditional local dishes unique to Skradin.
• Easy and short journey from Zadar, with several transportation options.
• Flexible bus schedule with up to 7 departures daily.
• Option for private transfer or rental car.
• Experience the vibrant cultural and historical heritage.

Eager to venture outside Zadar and explore more of Croatia’s enchanting landscapes? Set your sights on Skradin, a historical gem that awaits just a short journey away. First mentioned in the 10th century and inhabited since prehistoric times, Skradin is more than just a town; it’s a portal into a vibrant history spanning over 6000 years.

Skradin, previously known as Scardona to the ancient Illyrians and Romans , is nestled at the entrance to Krka National Park, making it an essential stop for both nautical adventurers and land-based explorers. It once served as a significant Roman municipium, port, and stronghold, and later even became the capital of Croatia and Bosnia under the rule of the House of Šubić.

Over the centuries, Skradin has witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations , experiencing the influence of the Avars, Turks, and Venetians. This rich tapestry of cultural and historical interactions is mirrored in its stunning architecture and enduring traditions.

Today, Skradin offers a variety of attractions to captivate every traveler. Unleash your inner archaeologist at the Bribirska Glavica site, witness the breathtaking natural beauty of Krka National Park, and tantalize your taste buds with traditional local dishes that are as much a part of Skradin’s history as its ancient ruins.

There aren’t any guided tours from Zadar to Skradin alone, but getting there from Zadar is very easy. Whether you choose to take a bus or opt for a private transfer, your journey will be short and sweet, roughly an hour. With up to seven direct buses running daily from as early as 09:30 until as late as 18:30, you have the flexibility to start your adventure at a time that suits you. Bus ticket prices for adults vary between 5 € to 10 €, offering affordable options for every budget. For those wanting a more private experience, transfers from Zadar to Skradin start from 105 €.

If you prefer the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car is another great option. The journey covers 47 miles (76 km) and takes approximately an hour, allowing you to take in the Croatian scenery as you travel.

Ugljan Island

• Full-day tour, including islands of Ugljan, Ošljak, and Galevac.
• Boat ride, professional guide, and safety equipment included.
• Opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
• Biking and hiking trails across the island.
• Exploration of seven idyllic villages with rich traditions.
• Taste of local Dalmatian gastronomy.
• Easy access via a 30-minute ferry ride from Zadar.
• Stunning beaches and historical sights.
• Suitable for all seasons, with camping options for overnight stays.

Are you craving an island escape during your visit to Zadar? Look no further than Ugljan Island, fondly known as “The Green Island”. With its lush Mediterranean vegetation , stunning beaches, and idyllic villages, Ugljan offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and culture, all within an easy day’s trip.

Your full-day tour begins at 9:00 AM from the heart of Zadar, taking you on a picturesque boat ride to the islands of Ugljan, Ošljak, and Galevac. Under the guidance of a professional tour guide, you’ll be equipped with safety gear and offered an array of activities, making the most out of this 8-hour adventure that’s priced at just 80 € per person.

A highlight of this tour is the opportunity to plunge into the clear Adriatic waters, with swimming and snorkeling sessions in some of the most pristine aquatic environments.

For those more inclined to land-based activities, Ugljan Island is a paradise for biking and hiking. The island boasts numerous trails that traverse its verdant landscapes, offering stunning vistas at every turn. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a casual hiker, you’ll find trails that match your skills and stamina.

Ugljan Island is home to seven charming villages, each with a rich tradition in olive gardening and fishing . You’ll find a wonderful assortment of restaurants and shops here, offering you a taste of the island’s rich Dalmatian gastronomy and local produce. Don’t miss the chance to sample the local olive oil, seafood, and other delicacies!

Being only a 30-minute ferry ride away from Zadar, Ugljan Island is very accessible . The ferry costs approximately 2 € per person, offering a cost-effective alternative to boat tours. Once on the island, you can explore its historical sights, dive into various activities like cycling, snorkeling, and diving, or simply relax on one of the island’s stunning beaches.

Ugljan Island’s Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers, makes it a great destination year-round . For those wishing to stay overnight, there are several campsites offering an immersive experience in nature.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Ugljan Island from Zadar:

• Exploring the oldest Croatian royal town.
• Visiting the world’s smallest cathedral, Church of St. Nicholas.
• Trying out Nin’s medicinal mud for a natural spa experience.
• Watching traditional salt production at the local saltworks.
• Touching the big toe of the Grgur Ninski statue for good luck.
• Enjoying the modern amenities at Zaton Holiday Resort.
• Various transportation options from Zadar, with driving being the quickest and most economical.

Planning to add a dash of history, a sprinkle of relaxation, and a healthy helping of traditional Croatian culture to your holiday? Then let me introduce you to Nin, a charming small town cradled in a shallow lagoon, connected to the mainland by two whimsical stone bridges.

This tiny yet powerful place wears the crown as the oldest Croatian royal town and the birthplace of the Croatian state, making it a captivating destination for your day trip from Zadar.

Imagine wandering the cobblestone streets of Nin, absorbing the rich history that has seeped into every nook and cranny. Your first stop will be the Church of St. Nicholas, known as the smallest cathedral in the world and a testament to Nin’s religious and architectural heritage. A quick stroll away, you will find the statue of Grgur Ninski. Local lore has it that touching its big toe brings good luck, so don’t forget to partake in this charming tradition.

For those seeking a unique wellness experience, Nin’s medicinal mud is a must-try. Known for its curative properties, this mud is not just a part of the landscape, but a symbol of health and longevity. Take a break from exploring and indulge in this natural spa experience, letting the mud work its magic.

No visit to Nin would be complete without witnessing the traditional salt production at the town’s saltworks. As you watch the salt crystals glisten in the sun, you will appreciate the labor and love that goes into each grain.

Finally, for those seeking a more modern experience, the Zaton Holiday Resort, one of Croatia’s most renowned camps, offers a range of recreational activities and services. Indeed, Nin’s recognition as a European Destination of Excellence (EDEN) is well deserved.

Getting to Nin from Zadar is simple and offers options to suit different preferences. If you’re seeking a budget-friendly option, take a bus ride, which takes about 30 minutes and costs anywhere from 2 € to 11 €. If you’re looking for speed and convenience, a taxi ride will get you to Nin in approximately 22 minutes and will cost between 20 € and 25 €.

Lastly, if you have access to a car, a short 22-minute drive from Zadar will land you in Nin, making it not only the quickest but also the most economical option, ranging from 2 € to 5 €.

Silba and Olib Boat Tour

• Full-day tour to Silba and Olib from Zadar.
• Seven stops including bays, beaches, sunken sarcophagi, and art gallery.
• Swimming, snorkeling, and playing Picigin on the beach.
• Visit to the Tower of Love with panoramic views.
• Experienced captain and English-speaking guide included.
• Amenities like safety gear, first aid kit, snorkeling goggles, and windproof jackets provided.
• Light snacks, fruit salad, bottled water, and a beer or cider included.
• Prices range from 118 € to 126 € per adult, with discounts for children.

Bask in the stunning beauty of the Adriatic Sea with a full-day boat tour exploring two hidden gems – Silba and Olib. These islands, beloved for their turquoise bays, sandy beaches, and the refreshing absence of cars , promise an adventure away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

This tour isn’t just a visual feast. You’ll be making seven stops filled with invigorating activities. Get your snorkeling gear and explore underwater worlds, discovering ancient sarcophagi hidden beneath the sea. On land, enjoy playing Picigin, a Dalmatian unofficial beach sport that’s sure to bring out the child in you.

Not only does the tour offer an exciting array of activities, it also includes a visit to an open-air art gallery showcasing the works of Croatian sculptress Marija Ujević Galetović, adding a cultural touch to your day. But the artistic journey doesn’t stop there. You’ll also visit the romantic Toreta tower, known for its love story, offering breathtaking panoramic views that will etch themselves into your memory.

The tour leaves from two locations, either the Zadar Archipelago Office or Marina Tankerkomerc, at 9:00 AM, ensuring you have a full day of exploration and adventure. Your return to Zadar is scheduled for the evening, around 18:25 PM to 18:30 PM, leaving you with a day filled with stunning sights and memorable experiences.

Rest assured, your comfort and safety are a top priority. The tour price includes an experienced captain and local English-speaking guide, safety gear, a first aid kit, and even motion sickness pills for those who need them. Snorkeling goggles and windproof jackets are provided, as well as sunscreen to protect you under the Mediterranean sun.

Your palate won’t be forgotten either. Enjoy light snacks, a refreshing fruit salad, and bottled water throughout your journey. Juices for the kids, along with a beer or cider for the adults, are also included. The costs for anchoring, berthing fees, and tickets to marine protected areas are covered as well.

As for pricing, you can expect a range between 118 € and 126€ per adult, while for children, prices are typically around half that, between 59 € and 63 €.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Silba and Olib Boat Tour from Zadar:

• Private tour from Zadar to Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Stops at the Red and Blue lakes in Imotski town.
• Private walking tour of Mostar with an English-speaking local guide.
• Visit to the historic center, Old Bridge, and Ottoman district.
• Tasting of traditional local food.
• Optional stop at the Pocitelj fortress.
• Door-to-door service with professional drivers and sanitized vehicles.
• Optional sightseeing en route.

Embark on an extraordinary day trip from Zadar to the historical city of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, an experience that promises a deep dive into the rich history and culture of the region.

Your private tour commences with the convenience of a door-to-door service that ensures your comfort and ease. With professional drivers at the helm of sanitized vehicles, you’re set for a secure journey that covers approximately 3 hours of scenic landscapes. There are optional sightseeing spots en route, including the breathtaking Krka National Park, the historic city of Trogir, the bustling city of Split, the imposing Klis Fortress, the idyllic Makarska, and the spiritual Medjugorje.

One of the tour’s highlights is the detour to Imotski town. Here, you’ll find the Red and Blue Lakes, two stunning natural phenomena that are must-sees. Then, it’s time to dive into the core of Mostar with a 1.5-hour private walking tour. Led by an English-speaking local guide, you’ll traverse the historic center, cross the famed Old Bridge, and step back in time as you explore the district from the Ottoman era.

A trip to Mostar isn’t complete without indulging in traditional local food . The tour provides ample opportunities to taste iconic dishes like ćevapi (grilled dish of minced meat), pita (stuffed pastry), burek (filled pastry), and sweet treats like baklava and ormasice. To bring home a piece of Mostar, don’t forget to stop at the bazaar for unique souvenirs.

As the day winds down, you have the option to stop at the Pocitelj fortress before returning to Zadar. This historic castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, a perfect way to end your day.

Pricing for this day trip is as flexible as it is fair, starting from 72 € per seat. For smaller groups of 1-4 people, travel is arranged by car, while groups of 5-8 people are accommodated in a van. Plus, the flexible cancellation policy ensures a 100% refund up to 24 hours before departure, providing peace of mind and flexibility to your travel plans.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Mostar from Zadar:

Explore the Wonders of Zadar Itself

Didn’t find any day trip you like? As a seasoned traveler and a proud resident of Zadar, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring every nook and cranny of this beautiful city. I’ve compiled a list of must-visit spots and experiences in Zadar, all from my personal articles on Croatia Wanderlust. So, let’s dive into the magic of Zadar!

Discover the City’s Rich History and Vibrant Culture

Zadar is a city that beautifully blends the old and the new . From the ancient Roman ruins to the modern Sea Organ, there’s always something to discover. In my article, “Things to Do in Zadar” , I’ve detailed the city’s top attractions and hidden gems. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventurer, you’ll find something that piques your interest.

Relax on Zadar’s Best Beaches

If you’re a beach lover like me, Zadar won’t disappoint. The city is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. In my article, “Best Beaches in Zadar” , I’ve listed the top beaches in and around the city. Whether you prefer secluded coves or lively beach bars, you’ll find your perfect spot under the Croatian sun.

Stay in Style: Zadar’s Best Hotels

Finding the right accommodation can make or break your trip. Luckily, Zadar offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious 5-star resorts to charming boutique hotels, you’ll find your home away from home in Zadar. Check out my guide, “Best Hotels in Zadar: Stay in Style” , for my top picks.

So, are you ready to explore Zadar? With its rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, this Croatian gem is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime. As a local, I can confidently say that Zadar is a destination that deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list. Happy travels!

CroatiaWanderlust is the passion project of Dinko, Antonio, and Tomislav. They are the creators of the content on the site, using their combined skills in hospitality, marketing, and content creation to provide a unique and authentic exploration of Croatian tourism. Their work brings you closer to the enchanting beauty of their homeland. For more information about them, visit the About page on the site.

Perfect Day Trip to Zadar: A Tour Guide’s Picks

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Best Day Trips from Zadar Croatia

Being centrally located on the Dalmatian Coast, there are many great day trips from Zadar, including famous national parks, scenic islands, and some off the beaten path destinations.

We had the pleasure of staying in Zadar, Croatia for a month in the Fall. Many of these day trips we were able to do ourselves. For others, we brought in the expertise of our fellow travel bloggers.

8 Best Day Trips from Zadar

One of the best benefits of staying in Zadar is the number and variety of day trips you can take.

If you’re staying for a short time, I would recommend prioritizing at least one of the National Parks: Plitvice or Krka . Both have beautiful waterfalls and unique above-water pathways, so you can’t go wrong with either choice.

Zadar is also surrounded by islands. The quickest and cheapest island to access near Zadar is Ugljan Island .

Other island options include: Kornati Island and National Park , Pag Island , and Dugi Otok .

Our favorite city to visit from Zadar is Sibenik – in fact, you may want to stay a night or two.

The tiny town of Nin also has interesting attractions for a half day trip.

* Get access to our Zadar walking map here *

Last updated: 2023. Originally published: January 2020.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitviče National Park is probably Croatia’s most famous natural wonder. Plitvice and Krka are two of the best Zadar day trips , in our opinion.

This is where you’ll see the unique beauty of inland Croatia, with waterfalls at every turn!

Plitvice Visitor Tips

One thing I never realized was that Plitvice is located up in the mountains, which means it is quite a bit colder than the Dalmatian Coast. It is also frequently rainy in Plitvice (outside of peak summer months) – but don’t let that deter you.

I highly recommend checking the official website for any closures. When we visited, there was a pop up message on the website announcing which park entrances were open at the time.

It’s also recommended to book your ticket on the website , which you can do a day or more in advance, once you know roughly what time you’ll be arriving.

We visited Plitvice Lakes in early December. Though the week’s weather forecast was rain and snow, we lucked out with a fairly clear day. Still, temperatures were just above freezing so bundling up was definitely necessary. 

We rented a car from the Zadar airport at 8am that morning, with a 10am ticket for the Flora Auxiliary Entrance in Plitvice. Being off season , we were able to park for free near one of the hotels and walk a short way to the gate where they scanned our e-tickets.

Downloading offline maps for the area and our e-tickets helped, as cell service was spotty.

Hiking in Plitvice National Park

From the Flora Entrance, we did the “H Program” (very similar to C Program), a loop through the upper and lower lakes which included hiking, bus tram, and boat ride. H and C are 4 – 6 hour programs.

Each park entrance has different routes you may follow , varying in length and activity types. This keeps the flow of visitors manageable in the park.

For the H Program (see map above), we waited at the Flora Entrance for the shuttle bus to depart. It leaves every 30 minutes in winter, and we were the only ones on the bus that morning. It drove us to bus station 3, at the West end of the lakes, with some glimpses of the falls along the way.

Signs at each intersection make it easy to follow the program you’ve chosen. For us, this started with hiking downhill for about an hour toward P2, a boat dock.

Parts of this hike are through forest and around the edge of the large lake. The waterfalls are more spread out in this area.

There were a couple sections of the wooden path near the misting falls that were icy . This required treading slowly and carefully to avoid slipping and falling into the water.

We waited a little over 20 minutes for a ferry boat to arrive, so we broke out our pre-packed lunches. The ferry took us from P2 to P3, letting us off around 1pm.

The ferry boats are open air , which made it the coldest part of the day. At P3, there was a cafe with hot drinks and food open, as well as restrooms. Having already eaten, we continued on foot.

Our second and final hike only took about 50 minutes. The East section of trails has some of the most spectacular views, in my opinion, with more falls closer together.

Until reaching this section, we had probably seen only 15 people on the whole trail. Now there were a couple tour groups.

The hike ends with a climb up to some scenic overlooks and bus station 1, which has a small cafe counter and outdoor seating.

A bus arrived shortly, taking us back to the Flora Entrance, station 2. We wrapped up our stay at 2:15pm.

Cost: 39.80€ to as little as 10€ per adult, depending on the season, plus parking. June through September is the most expensive for tickets and hourly parking.

How to get from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes:

Drive via E71 and A1 (under 2 hours) or avoid the toll road by taking D27 to A1 (adds 20-30 minutes).

There are also 7 daily buses running from Zadar to Plitvice, April through October. In winter, however, the limited bus schedule doesn’t work for a day trip.

You can also book a Plitvice day tour package , which includes transportation from Zadar, a guide, and box meal.

Want to make it an overnight trip? Here are highly rated accommodations nearby:

– Plitvice L&L Leisure Apartment – Top notch, modern apartment 1.6 miles from Entrance 2, sleeps up to 4 people – Bramado Apartments – Cozy and clean studios or 2-bedroom apartments 3 miles from the park

Krka National Park

I personally enjoyed visiting Krka Park more than Plitvice (but that may be because I wasn’t freezing the whole time).

Plitvice is a bit further from Zadar than Krka, and the hikes tend to be longer there. If you’re on a real time crunch, then Krka National Park is perfect.

You can see the best side of the park on an easy loop hike in less than 2 hours .

Whereas Plitvice Park has lakes and the waterfalls are fairly spread out, Krka also has waterfalls but it’s on a rushing river.

There are other areas of the park you can visit, but nothing as spectacular as the loop around Skradinski Buk at the South.

In winter , Krka closes down many of its amenities, like cafes, ferry boats, and even some sections of the park.

For our first visit to Krka, we rented a car from Zadar for the day. We left Zadar at 11am and, avoiding toll roads, we arrived at the Lozovac Entrance at 12:30pm.

There is a large free parking lot, bathrooms, and cafes next to the ticket gate. In winter, the food places were all closed up. After buying a ticket, you can drive past the gate on a 4km winding road down to the river (outside of winter you would take a shuttle bus this way, or hike).

We parked in one of the few stalls by Reception, just a short walk from the start of the main attraction: the Skradinski Buk loop hike.

There were very few people visiting mid-day in mid-November and even fewer when we returned in early December at 9am. Walking on wooden walkways over the rushing water and admiring the various waterfalls was glorious without crowds!

Some corners of the pathway were flooded a bit, but it wasn’t an issue since we wore waterproof shoes .

Hiking in Krka National Park

The Skradinski Buk loop took us less than 90 minutes to complete. It’s not very strenuous, though there is an uphill section at the end to reach some look out points, the historic water mill, souvenir shop, and return to the parking.

We had just enough time before sun set to drive the 45 minutes further North to Roski Slap.

Arriving around 3pm, a ranger scanned our ticket once we parked and directed us to the Roski Slap viewpoint within a mini village – a quick out and back walk.

Then we made our way around the Roski slap circle loop trail, which included wooden bridges across the river’s “necklaces” and a couple side trails to climb up to overlooks. We were done in only half an hour, leaving the park by 3:30pm.

(We opted not to return to Roski Slap on our second visit, when my parents joined us. It might be more interesting to experience in-season when you can go by boat.)

We also enjoyed a quick wander through the little town of Skradin , Southwest of the Park. There is a separate entrance to Krka Park from the edge of town as well. I believe it’s primarily for taking boat rides, so it’s open in high season.

Cost: 20€ to as little as 6.64€ per adult per day, depending on the season. High season is June through September.

How to get from Zadar to Krka National Park:

Drive East via E65 from Zadar to Kirka (just over 1 hour), or avoid toll roads by taking D56. In season, there are direct buses from Zadar to Krka, however, during off season you would need to change buses in Sibenik and take a second bus to Lozovac. 

– Vicencin Place apartments – Two modern studios in the center of Old Town Sibenik, friendly owners (we stayed here twice) – Scardona Park Luxury Accommodation – Queen and King rooms in Skradin, on site restaurant and pool

Plitvice vs. Krka in Winter

 You may be wondering which Croatia National Park with waterfalls should you visit? Since we experienced both in the off season, we’ll share that perspective:

Pros for Plitvice:

– Larger park and easier to see more in a day on foot – Cafes and ferry boats stay open year-round (usually) – Might have snow in mid-winter – Closer to Zagreb

Pros for Krka:

– Not as cold in off season – Less chance of rain – Can see a significant part of the park in just 90 minutes – Closer to coastal towns, like Zadar, Sibenik, Split – Less than half the price of Plitvice in off season

Šibenik, Croatia

We loved Sibenik immediately. Sibenik’s Old Town starts at the water’s edge, framed by the Riva (seaside walkway), and continues uphill.

This beautiful, historic town remains relatively off the beaten path , seeing fewer crowds than even Zadar.

Just a little over an hour drive from Zadar, you can easily enjoy Sibenik in a day, though it’s worth staying longer if you can. 

For a quick self-guided tour , you can check out a bicycle from the NextBike Gat Krka station and ride along the Riva (street name: Obala Palih Omladinaca) Northwest to the Plaža Banj station.

As long as you return the bike within 30 minutes, it’s only 5 hrk ($0.75 USD). We recommend going through the app instead of trying to pay through the bike station.

From Plaža Banj beach, there’s a nice view back at Old Town. Next, return by foot on the waterfront path and take a left at the stairs that wind up into the little wooded park and the fortress wall.

Follow signs to St. Michael’s Fortress , an important historic monument as well as a modern concert venue. If you choose not to pay the entry, you can catch a glimpse of the view from the driveway gate on the North side, then continue walking around the back of the fort and start heading down hill.

Then enjoy winding your way through the ancient alleys of Old Town.

Be sure to stop through the square (Trg Republike Hrvatske on maps) and wander all the way around Saint James Cathedral (Katedrala sv. Jakova).

In the mornings, we recommend continuing on past the library and Gradski park to witness the vibrant outdoor produce market . And pop inside the fish market building, too.

If you  have a car and some spare time for a nature walk, you can drive out to Sv. Nikola beach. There’s a quiet playground and waterfront pathway that leads out to St. Nicholas Fortress on the water, though you can’t go inside the fortress from here.

Cost: About $12 USD by bus, or around $45 to rent an automatic car from downtown for 24 hours (cost is usually less from the airport or for manual cars)

How to get from Zadar to Šibenik:

The drive is slightly over an hour on E65 toll road, or avoid tolls and take the Jadranska Magistrala through the coastal towns (1 hour 15 minutes). There are also daily buses departing from each town’s central bus station.

Want to make it an overnight trip? Here are highly rated accommodations in Sibenik:

– Vicencin Place apartments – Two modern studios in the center of Old Town Sibenik, friendly owners (we stayed here twice) – Heritage Hotel Life Palace – Rooms and suites set on a beautiful square in Old Town, breakfast included

Ugljan Island

Of the many islands near Zadar, Ugljan (sounds like oogly-yawn ) is the closest and easiest to visit.

The island has a handful of little towns along its coast, an abandoned hilltop fortress in the middle, and plenty of unpaved roads criss-crossing through olive groves for mountain biking and long walks.

We enjoyed this self-guided bike tour of Ugljan island , compliments of Zzuum Active Vacation .

Getting to Ugljan Island from Zadar by Ferry

We picked up our two bikes and maps from their Old Town office at 8:30am. We biked to the ferry terminal in about 20 minutes, following roads and paths along the water most of the way. We waited in line with the cars for the 9am ferry to Preko and then parked off to the side of the boat’s vehicle deck.

The ferry’s second deck has an inclosed seating area, cafe, and bathrooms. The third deck offers more open air seating, which is great for the views. Zadar to Preko by ferry is about 25 minutes

Cycling around Ugljan Island

From the Preko terminal, we bought some pastries at Mlinar and then headed toward St. Michael’s Fortress .

There is one main, paved road that goes all the way from Preko town to the fortress. You can also bike unpaved roads if you feel more adventurous.

Either way, you’ll ride a short ways on and cross the 110 “highway,” which has no real shoulder. Then the ride is uphill, flattens out in the valley farmlands, and becomes uphill for the final climb to the peak.

We opted to lock up our bikes about 3/4 of the way up and hike the rest of the road to the fortress.

From the ferry to the fortress took us about an hour and was quite a work out.

As you approach the fort, instead of a stairway it’s more like a long pile of rocks you have to maneuver up. (If you drove up, you’d still need to traverse this section on foot.) But the view is definitely worth it. 

While the fortress is not maintained, and there is an ugly modern building built into it now, we felt it was a rewarding end to an aerobic climb.

We enjoyed our baked goods there, overlooking the water on all sides, with clear views out to many more neighboring islands.

On a whim, we decided to bike through the middle of the islands on more unpaved roads, heading North. Signs at each intersection directed us to the various towns. Then we returned to Preko along the coastal roads. We returned to Preko and caught the 3:30pm ferry back to Zadar.

Our self-guided bike tour was not as flat or easy as we anticipated, and we were not in very good biking shape. We definitely struggled.

If you’re like us, we recommend either conquering the fortress or the coastal towns, rather than attempting to do it all in one day. But it was a beautiful, fun adventure!

Cost: About $50 USD with Zzuum’s self-guided bike tour package (includes bike rental, ferry ticket, route map, instructions).

Ferry tickets alone were 15 hrk per passenger, plus 15 hrk per bicycle each way.

How to get from Zadar to Ugljan:

If you’re traveling to Ugljan as a pedestrian, you have the choice of taking a Jadrolinija ferry from either the Old Town terminal or the Gaženička terminal about three miles away.

If you’re crossing with a bicycle, motorbike, or car, you will need to take a ferry from Gazenicka. You can always stop in to the tourist information office in Zadar to check ferry times.

Nin, Croatia

Nin is a small, historic coastal town North of Zadar. The tiny town center is located on an islet connected to the mainland by stone bridges (both were under construction when we visited).

Nin’s Old Town is very charming with cobblestone streets, historic monuments, and churches. Being a tourist destination, there’s not much open in the off season. We mostly walked through the town and then around the islet on a waterfront walkway.

The Solana Nin salt shop seems to be open year round. There, you can buy various salt products and souvenirs. Next door is a museum, as this is where salt has been organically produced for 1500 years. You can see large rectangular pools or “pans” all around the factory from where the salt is extracted by hand.

Nin, being situated in a lagoon, also has nice, sandy beaches nearby. The water is fairly shallow, making Ninska Laguna and Ždrijac good beaches for families with kids.

How to get from Zadar to Nin:

Driving from Zadar to Nin takes about 20 minutes. There is a bike path along the way, which is not particularly scenic but a decent ride without too much change in elevation.

Daily public buses also go from Zadar to Nin. We couldn’t find real clear bus info online in English, but found Zadar’s tourist office to be helpful with bus time tables.

Be sure to download an offline map and tell the bus driver where you’re going, as Nin is not necessarily their final stop. For the way back, there is only one bus stop in Nin at the roundabout.

Cost: Around $2.50 USD per person each way by bus

Kornati National Park (islands)

Another set of islands near Zadar, Kornati Islands, also happens to be a National Park. The only way to get to Kornati National Park is by boat.

In addition to scenic boat rides through the maze of 100 secluded islands, Kornati is also great for swimming, snorkeling, hiking , and bird watching .

The park has two Reception Centers where you can purchase entrance tickets (though it may be more expensive than pre-purchasing), souvenirs, and permits for recreational fishing or scuba diving . There are also cottage rentals and several restaurants open in season.

If you don’t rent your own boat, you can charter a boat ride with a local service or take a day tour to Kornati National Park . This 9 hour excursion includes a guided scenic boat tour, a long swim stop, breakfast, lunch, and drinks.

How to get from Zadar to Kornati National Park: Private or chartered boat, or boat tour

Cost: Under $50 USD for a day tour package plus $14 park entrance per adult

– Long Island Olive Apartment – Modern 1-bedroom apartment in Sali on Dugi Otok island, friendly owners, beautiful terrace – Festa Kornati Glamping Resort – Family-friendly luxury tents on the island of Žut, with breakfast, waterpark, fitness center

Pag Island, Croatia

Info about Pag Island was kindly provided by Emma Pamley-Liddell from  Journey of a Nomadic Family

You’ll need to get up early and leave Zadar quickly for this amazing day trip up to Pag Island because it will take you nearly 2 hours in the car to get to some of these gem locations that most tourists haven’t yet discovered.

Head to the very north of Croatia’s 5th largest island and you’ll be presented with some of the clearest waters in Europe!

Although it has no natural sand beaches, they are small, rocky cove areas with shingle and stone, they’re an adventurers paradise. Make sure you take your snorkeling gear and a pair of shoes too.

Some of the beaches include: Plaza Lun, Plaza Tovarnele, Haluga, Crnika, Plaza Dudici, Plaza Puntine, Plaza Baracuda, Plaza Gajac, Plaza Orada, Galinec and Rucica Beach.

Top but lesser known restaurants include: Haluga Pizzeria & Restaurant Crnika, both bordering the water and serving mouth-watering cuisine.

P.S. Pag is also known for producing Pag cheese , which is made from sheep’s milk and aged, much like Italian pecorino.

How to get from Zadar to Pag Island: Drive about two hours North, crossing the Paški Most (Pag bridge).

Cost: Just fuel for car and meals.

Want to make it an overnight trip? Here are highly rated accommodations in Pag:

– B&B Marta and Tona – Comfortable accommodations and friendly hosts serving an exceptional breakfast – Villa Natura luxury apartments – Well equipped, just 4 minutes walk from a beach

Dugit Otok Island

Dugi Otok is a large island West of Zadar, hidden behind a chain of other islands, including Ugljan (mentioned above).

It has a population of 1,500 and is home to vineyards, orchards, beaches, and Telascica Nature Park. The town of Sali to the South is a common place to stay when visiting the neighboring Kornati Naitonal Park (also mentioned above).

Dugi Otok is fairly off the beaten path, and it’s not likely you’ll run into crowds.

There are a couple of daily ferry and catamaran sailings year-round, so going there and back is doable within a day with careful planning. You may also wish to stay a night there if the return boat time isn’t convenient for you.

Once on island, you can enjoy the secluded Saharun Beach. Or explore the coves, islands, cliffs, salt water lake, and donkey sanctuary at Telascica Nature Park . You may also wish to use Dugi Otok as a base for organizing a visit to the islands of Kornati National Park.

How to get from Zadar to Dugi Otok island: Take a Jadrolinija car ferry from Gaženička terminal in Zadar to Brbinj or Bozava, or go by catamaran with G&V Line Iadera to Sali or Zaglav (1 hour and 10 – 30 minutes, one way). 

Alternatively, you can book a package tour to take care of transportation on your visit Dugi Otok. Browse tours to Dugi Otok here >

Cost: Ferry is about $4.50 per person or $27 per car each way. Or about $100 USD per person for a full-day guided tour package .

Want to make it an overnight trip? Here are highly rated accommodations in Dugi Otok:

– Long Island Olive Apartment – Modern 1-bedroom apartment in Sali on Dugi Otok island, friendly owners, beautiful terrace – Apartment Ruza – Affordable studio in Zaglav with sea views, terrace, and garden

Paklenica National Park

Peklenica National Park is part of the dramatic Velebit mountain range to the Northeast of Zadar. It features the area’s largest forest as well as caves, canyons, and karst formations.

Guided visits are available for the enchanting Manita peć cave. You can also do self-guided walks on several trails, even trekking to mountain huts for an overnight stay, if you want.

How to get from Zadar to Paklenica National Park: Drive East (about 45 minutes) or take a bus to Seline/Starigrad.

Cost: 2.60€ – 10€ Park entrance fee per person depending on the season, plus parking

– National Park campsites are available mid-March to mid-November, beds are available for hikers in the mountain hut year-round – Apartments Paklenica – Nice self-catering apartments in walking distance to Park Entrance, helpful owner

Other Popular Zadar Excursions to Try

– Zadar 4-Hour Croatian Islands Boat Experience – Travel around Zadar’s closest islands on a 4-hour boat ride and enjoy a swim in the Adriatic Sea. Click here to learn more and check availability of this Sailing Trip >

– Half-Day Sailing Tour – Half day excursion exploring the Zadar archipelago by sailboat with stops to swim, snorkel, and fish.  Click here to learn more and check availability for the Half-Day Sailing Tour >

–  Sunset and Nighttime Boat Trip – A 90-minute cruise during Zadar’s spectacular sunsets. Sparkling wine provided. Click here to learn more and check availability for the Sunset and Nighttime Boat Trip >

– Zrmanja River: Full-Day Canoe or Kayak Trip  – This is an award-winning adventure in a spectacular canyon, appropriate for beginners (Note: you must drive yourself to Kaštel Žegarski, 1 hour from Zadar) Click here to learn more and check availability for the Zrmanja River Trip >

Where to Stay in Zadar

We think the best place to stay in Zadar is in Old Town, unless you’re purely there for the beach and have your own vehicle. We can highly recommend the lovely two-bedroom apartment where we stayed (offline since the pandemic), which is conveniently located on the main pedestrian street. 

For a traditional hotel experience, the nearby Art Hotel Kalelarga is a highly rated 4 star hotel also central to Old Town. It’s very modern and stylish, with continental breakfast included. 

Check rates and availability for Art Hotel Kalelarga >>

Zadar walking tour map

While you’re in Zadar, you might also appreciate our interactive walking route map for visiting Old Town. It includes photos and tips for the various sights, restaurants, and important places to know.

✈️ Protect your Zadar, Croatia trip with Travel Insurance – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

What travel restrictions and rules are in place in Croatia? Find post-pandemic travel updates for Croatia here: What you need to know about Croatia travel right now

For further reading:

Zadar on a Budget Dalmatian Coast Road Trip Itinerary Our Travel Packing List for Europe travel in Fall and Winter

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Day Trips from Zadar

Zadar’s location at the northern part of Dalmatia make it very suitable for visiting other towns and cities in this region, as well as some of the local islands and National Parks…and those slightly further afield. Here, we’ll take a look at the options for day trips from Zadar.

Day Trips from Zadar – Plitvice Lakes

Visiting the Plitvice Lakes National Park  is probably one of the most popular day trips for those staying in Zadar! Luckily, it’s very possible to visit the park in a day as there’s an early morning bus out to the National Park, and a return that gets you back to Zadar in the early evening. This means you’ll enjoy a good six hours or so in the Park. (See our guide to Exploring the Plitvice Lakes National Park  to find out what to see and do.)

Journey time is around 2 hours each way; check bus times on the Zadar Bus Terminal website. When buying your tickets at Zadar’s Bus Terminal, ask to purchase a return ticket to make the return journey easier for you.

For those that would prefer not to travel by public transport, it’s possible to join an organised excursion. For example, GetYourGuide has a number of Plitvice day tours:

Day Trips from Zadar – Kornati Islands

Zadar is ideally situated for visiting another of Croatia’s national parks, the Kornati Islands  (pictured below). However, due to the protected and isolated nature of the islands, they do need to be visited with an organised excursion as there are no ferries to the islands.

Because they are relatively close to the mainland, it’s easy to simply enquire at a local agency for details; alternatively, you can pre-book a tour with GetYourGuide – their ten-hour Kornati Boat Trip tour includes lunch with wine and several swimming stops.

Day Trips from Zadar – Pag island

The island of Pag  – famous for its lace making, cheese, salt production and nightclubs (what a combination!) is situated just north of Zadar, connected to the mainland by a bridge. There are several buses per day to Pag, again making it an easy place to visit on a day trip.There’s a mid-morning bus from Zadar to both Pag and Novalja (journey time to Pag – 1 hour 20 minutes; to Novalja, it’s 1 hour 55 minutes); see the  Zadar Bus Terminal  website for times. Ask the bus to stop at Kolan (see below) if you want to visit the famous cheese producer Sirana Gligora .

Pag Town has more sights than Novalja, whilst the latter is of course close to some of Croatia’s most famous beach clubs (which operate during the day and at night) on Zrce Beach – which, technically, could be visited by day to relax by the pools with a few drinks.

Kolan, just north of Pag Town, is home to Sirana Gligora which produces some of Croatia’s best-known sheep cheese and has won numerous awards for its many products. The dairy runs tours of its premises where you can see production of their cheeses and taste samples of it as well; this would be well worth a trip to the island.

Day Trips from Zadar – Krka National Park

Rounding off the trio of national parks easily reachable from Zadar is Krka National Park . There are direct buses to Skradin, where the entrance of Krka is, which take about an hour. If you find that these bus times aren’t suitable, we would advise travelling to Sibenik first (many buses per day; journey time 1 hour 35 minutes) and then change here for a bus to Skradin.

If you want to head directly to Krka National Park, an organised excursion may be best. Ask locally, or check out GetYourGuide’s 9-hour Krka National Park and Waterfalls Day Trip which includes transfers, entrance tickets and a guided tour.

Day Trips from Zadar – Sibenik

As indicated above, the lovely Sibenik is more than suitable as a day trip from Zadar. There are numerous daily buses that run between the two towns, and it’s roughly a 3-hour round trip. Amongst Sibenik’s sights are the Cathedral of St James, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day Trips from Zadar – Dugi Otok

Of the islands facing Zadar, Dugi Otok ( Long Island in English) is perhaps one of the nicest – its tranquil nature means it is one of the most relaxing to visit, and it is home to Saharun Beach, one of Croatia’s nicest (and off-the-beaten-track) sandy beaches, and Telascica Nature Park.

However, it’s a little hard both to get to the island and to travel around on it. Although there are Jadrolinija car ferries to Brbinj at times that would get you there and back in a day, transport from Brbinj to the rest of the island is limited. If you’re very keen to visit Dugi Otok, perhaps enquire locally in Zadar with regards to renting a car for a day to take onto Dugi Otok. Jadrolinija do also operate catamarans to Rava and Bozava on the island, but these aren’t possible to be utilised for a day trip.

Again, ask locally for organised day trips to Dugi Otok. Or, take a look at this Full-Day Boat Trip to Sakarun Beach & Dugi Otok or the 9-hour Dugi Otok, Kornati Park and Sakarun Beach Speedboat Tour which also includes some time on the Kornati Islands. If you want something a little more active, consider the Dugi Otok Half-Day Kayak Adventure which will allow you to explore part of the island by kayak and enter a secluded cave.

Other Trips from Zadar

If you fancy taking to the ‘seas’, check out this 4-hour 3-Island Hopping Boat Trip with Snorkeling and Drinks during which you will visit the islands of Osljak, Ugljan, and Galevac. Or the small-group Half-Day Sailing Tour , which includes some snorkelling time too.

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Best Day Trips From Zadar

No matter the season or the time of year, Zadar is a part of the world that seems to offer some truly incredible and unforgettable places to visit for you and your family. 

There are so many excellent day trips from Zadar. 

Whether it's beautifully scenic all-day boat excursions across the various islands, a party in Novalja, a winding hiking trip up the mountains , a tour through the coastal regions of Split or Trogir, or any of the amazing options through the Croatian archipelago, Zadar does have you covered.

Zadar offers in-depth guided tours, where you'll have a tour guide show you all of the highlights of the region, as well as the option of experiencing the area entirely on your own, letting you explore at your own pace and create your own adventure throughout the whole of Croatia. 

It's entirely up to you, with various options based on what you're interested in seeing and where you're interested in going.

Of course, unless you're someone who's already visited Zadar or Croatia, there's a chance you may not know what the country or region has to offer.

In this overview guide , we'll go over 11 of the best day trip options for any visitors planning to head to Zadar.

Not only that, but we'll also go over some really useful information including the overall booking prices and how much you can expect to pay.

Novalja  

Read this next: What are The Best Clubs on Zrće Beach?

Nestled on the Island of Pag , Novalja is a hidden treasure that offers a delightful contrast to the city vibes of Zadar. 

It boasts a remarkable landscape, combining a blend of barren rocky terrains and shimmering beaches. 

The lunar-like appearance, giving the island its nickname the Moonrock, is a result of the relentless Bora wind eroding its soil and vegetation.

For nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, this mix provides a refreshing break from Zadar's urban scene, immersing them in a setting where nature's raw beauty really is overwhelming and takes center stage.

Beyond its natural allure, Novalja holds another ace up its sleeve: Zrće Beach.

By day, until around 4 pm, this beach offers a perfect base for sunbathers and swimmers, but as the afternoons set in, Zrće’s FIVE world-class open-air superclubs fire up transforming the beach into one of the most talked about and reputable clubbing and festival destinations on the planet . 

The party doesn’t stop until 6 a.m. and operates daily from late May to early September

This wacky island duality ensures that every visitor, whether in search of tranquility or vibrant nightlife, finds something tailored to their personal vacation preferences. 

Kornati Islands

Read this next: Kornati National Park Croatia: Your ESSENTIAL NP Kornati Guide

Made up of around 150 different islands and regarded by many as an island paradise, the Kornati Islands surround the region of Zadar. 

The islands are relatively close to one another with the majority belonging to the Kornati National Park. 

This designation ensures that they have managed to remain protected since as late as the 1980s. As a result, the pristine nature of the islands has remained fully intact, furthering its reputation as a veritable paradise.

As a national park, the Kornati Islands have areas that have all but been left entirely untouched by the outside world. These portions of undisturbed natural beauty can be explored when taken on a boat tour. 

These tours also tend to include meals in their pricing while sailing and kayaking tours take the experience to a whole other level.

Trogir & Split

Read this next: Day Trips from Split: Discovering the Gems of the Adriatic

Found along Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, both Trogir and Split are two beautifully picturesque old towns that are certainly worth a day trip exploring.

Depending on how much time you have, each one can warrant its own day of exploration.

Split is particularly well known, being the second-largest Croatian city with incredibly scenic waterfront views and some magnificent buildings and structures.

Just as impressive is Trogir, which is a UNESCO World Heritage location with its old town shrines and visually stunning buildings and landscapes worth exploring all in its own right. 

In fact, some of these buildings are hailed from as early as the Baroque and Renaissance eras.

Krka National Park Waterfalls

Read this next: How To Get From Zadar To Krka National Park

Certainly, one of the more popular destination options on this list, the Krka National Park Waterfalls is easily a super fun and enjoyable day trip for anyone visiting Zadar or Croatia as a whole. 

The waterfalls are roughly 75 kilometers (46.6 miles) from Zadar itself and are home to the Krka National Park. 

It can be visited along a relatively short hike through a wooden footbridge that takes you over an incredible river landscape as you gaze over the whole of the national park and its remarkable ecological environment.

For those who want to do more than just look at the waterfalls, the destination is a perfect swimming spot during the summer months. 

This is especially the case at the Skradinski Buk waterfall which is particularly unique and is a well-worn location all on its own.

Velebit Mountains

Read this next: The Velebit Mountains: Croatia’s Natural Wonder

Velebit Mountains is a particularly popular location, particularly for those who love nature, hiking, or just being outdoors. 

The mountains are around 70 kilometers from Zadar and are considered one of the largest nature reserves in the entire Croatian country. 

They cover around 2,200 square kilometers (around 1,367 miles) and offer some truly awe-inspiring views over the country.

In addition to the mountains themselves, for hikers that love trekking up the mountain, there are several locations known as "Karl May Movies" which is a cool set of spots that hikers can enjoy along their journey.

The Velebit mountains are also the mystical backdrop to Novalja’s Zrće beach superclub. It really is an impressive site seeing the sun come over the mountains in the morning.

Unforgettable - if you have the party stamina!

Read this next: Things to do in Zadar: Novalja’s Closest City

Both, the "long island" of Dugi Otok as well as its beautiful sandy beach, Sakarun Beach, are one of the first things recommended for anyone visiting the Zadar region. 

Whether you're coming to Croatia for the first time or have made it an annual vacation spot, the Dugi Otok island is certainly a place you want to spend at least a day at, if not more!

During the holidays, the islands offer some great guided tours while the Sakarun beach prides itself on being beautifully crystal clear pretty much all year long. 

Whether you're looking for white sand, a beach with a bit of a Mauritius vibe to it, or simply an island that has a ton of scenery worth investigating (such as the Blue Grotto or the Telascica Nature Park), this island should be the first part of your visit, especially if it's your first time and you've got a few days to play with.

Read this next: Travelling by Bus From Zadar to Novalja

Regarded as a much smaller town compared to some of the other locations on this list, Nin is only about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from Zadar and is easily worth visiting and even making a day of it. This is because, despite its smaller size, 

Nin hosts some particularly gorgeous beaches that are both sandy as well as flat, making them perfect places to relax or go for a swim.

Nin is also known as the "cradle of Croatia" due to its incredible history.

The town itself is home to a variety of different sights and eras to show how the town has grown over the centuries. 

For those that want to enjoy the town on its own merits, there are a host of restaurants and shops where you can pick up a coffee and pastry in the town square, where you can sit back and enjoy the small-town hustle and bustle of Nin.

Old Town of Zadar

Read this next: Zadar Airport Transfers: Your Zadar and Novalja Transfer Guide

Considered by many to be a veritable pearl of the Adriatic Sea, the old town of Zadar is remarkably beautiful with a whole host of different sights and attractions to observe. 

It's often seen as one of Zadar's more famous coastal cities, even being recognized as the Sea Organ of Zadar.

Here, you can listen to the sonorous sounds of the waves as they crash against the stone slabs by the water.

Because the town is so compact it's very easy to see just about everything in only half of a day, while a guided tour through Zadar will go over many important pieces of history surrounding the old town and why it's such an incredible and interesting place.

Plitvice Lakes

Read this next: Croatia National Park Visitors Guide

Another place you definitely don't want to miss out on, the Plitvice Lakes is a perfect holiday excursion.

While a bit of a distance compared to some of the attractions on this list, the Plitvice Lakes can be booked as part of a complete touring experience. 

It's also worth visiting simply for the fact that it's one of the more visually stunning national parks throughout the entire Zadar and Croatian area.

There are a total of six separate lakes that are all connected via a network of rivers and waterfalls that pool together at various points. 

This is not only a great place for nature lovers and those that love the outdoors, but also a perfect spot for people that just love picturesque views and scenery.

Telascica Nature Park

Read this next: Renting a Luxury Motor Boat in Croatia (Novalja & Zadar Charter)

One of the other many national parks found in Croatia is the Telascica Nature Park. Found on the aforementioned Dugi Otok Island, the Telascica nature park has some of the most beautiful sights across the country and some of the best sights in all of Zadar. 

The reserve offers the warm Salt Lake Mir, breathtaking bays, and truly picturesque cliffsides that are worth standing and gazing over. 

The park also has some great hiking trails for those who love moving through the outdoors.

For those interested, the Telascica Nature Park can be explored either on your own or via a guided tour from Zadar. 

You can also move through the park on the water via ferry or by land with a car or on foot.

Zrmanja Canyon & Rafting

Read this next: Kayaking in Novalja: An Experience You Won’t Forget

The Zrmanja Canyon is a particularly impressive highlight for those interested in exploring the Zrmanja Karst River, which is roughly 40 minutes from Zadar itself. 

The canyon itself acts as quite the imposing gorge, even acting as a filming location for the famous Winnetou movies. 

The river offers some amazing river sights and kayaking as the water is a striking emerald color and accented by several amazing waterfalls that act as a compelling and noteworthy backdrop, ultimately creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Zadar Day Trip Prices

While all of these locations can have a variety of pricing options based on when you go, we've got some of the optimal price ranges you can expect to pay throughout most of the year: Please note prices here are variable and not guaranteed:

Novalja: In Novalja, the amount you can potentially spend will vary wildly. It all depends on what you choose to do. For a basic experience, which includes local meals, transportation, and beach activities, one can expect to pay between  €50-100 euros.

However, if you're planning to indulge in upscale dining, take part in watersports, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife, or even VIP service, at the nightclubs on Zrće Beach, expenses can quickly escalate

Kornati Islands: While you can explore the islands well enough on your own, standard tour rates are generally around  €30 a person while specialized sailing tours or kayak excursions are a bit more (though greatly recommended!).

The full-day tour lasts roughly 9 hours, regardless of whether you're doing the standard tour or sailing or kayaking.

Trogir & Split: Most trips from Zadar to Trogir & Split will usually take an entire day. This is true whether you're going on your own or taking a guided tour.

For those that do opt for a guided tour, they can expect to pay just under  €100 per person with the trip lasting just over 4 hours total.

Krka National Park Waterfalls: To get into the Krka National Park, you have to pay an upfront entrance fee. This fee pricing can vary based on the time of season.

Generally guided tours to the waterfalls start at around  €50 per person and are around 9 hours from start to finish.

Velebit Mountains: Meant as more of a hiking and mountain climbing experience, there aren't any established tours available. You can drive up to the Winnetou Rocks by car, but after that, you're going to need to be okay with hiking.

Dugi Otok & Sakarun Beach: To get onto the island, there are two ideal ways: either by way of a self-organized ferry ride or by driving directly there from Zadar. You can also book a guided excursion tour through an online booking site.

There are three different adventure options available. The half-day is around 8 hours while the full-day lasts roughly 11 hours and the full-day guided tour from Zadar meets in the middle at 9 hours.

Nin:   Nin can be visited relatively easily on your own. As such, there are no inherent booking prices to visit the town. Instead, you can visit either by car or by taking public transportation.

Public busses normally run hourly between the small town and Zadar.

Old Town of Zadar: Not only is traveling Old Town incredibly easy on your own, but guided tours are easy to obtain and incredibly affordable. Most guided tour options run for as little as €15 a person and can be picked up from most touring sites online. 

Tours take only around two or so hours, making them very easy to get through before having enough time to enjoy yourselves after the fact.

Plitvice Lakes: Excursion prices from Zadar to the Plitvice Lakes usually cost around  €50, though there is also a wide variety of different guided tours available online.

Both the full-day guided tour as well as the National Park tour take around 8 hours to complete, giving you enough time to have breakfast before and dinner after.

Telascica Nature Park: For those interested in visiting Telascica, excursion prices start at around  €40 per person. You can also have a sailboat tour through online sites like GetYourGuide.com whom we are partners with .

Zrmanja Canyon & Rafting: There are several rafting tours available along the Zrmanja River that all range at a starting point of €40 per person and are all around 5 or 6 hours.

Read this next: Luxury Transfer Croatia: VIP Travel and Transfers Novalja and Zadar

Day Trips From Zadar: Summary

Zadar, an ancient coastal city in Croatia, acts as the ideal headquarters for numerous day trips from Zadar, each promising a different experience and adventure.

From the tranquil lunar landscapes of Novalja and Pag Town to the adrenaline-inducing activities in Zrmanja Canyon, visitors are offered a blend of both serene and exciting experiences. 

In terms of financial considerations, travellers should be prepared for extremely variable expenses depending on what they actually end up doing. That’s kind of logical.

While some places like Nin or Old Town of Zadar can be explored relatively inexpensively, others like the Krka National Park or Zrće beach may require a more significant outlay - especially if you opt for any VIP services .

So to end, it's advisable to research and budget accordingly, ensuring a seamless and memorable day trip from Zadar.

About the author

Jelena is a Novalja Local. She is an expert in local tourism as she worked for a tourist agency for over a decade, received her tourist guide license, and also organized tours all over Croatia. Local cuisine is her forte as both of her parents are renowned chefs who specialize in Dalmatian food.

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10 Amazing Day Trips from Zadar!

The Zadar region offers its visitors an incredibly wide range of unforgettable excursions and day trips. A boat tour to explore the islands of the Zadar archipelago, a day trip to the waterfalls, hiking in the mountains, visiting the Winnetou-film locations, tours to Dalmatian Croatia’s costal pearls such as Trogir or Split are just a few of the highlights that can be discovered on a perfect day trip from Zadar. Whether on your own , or with a guided tour , in the area around Zadar you can really experience some exciting activities and visit some of the best tourist attractions in all Croatia. But what are the best tours in Zadar, what are the unique experiences, and which excursions should not be missed on any trip in this region?

In this travel guide, we will show the 10 ultimate best tours and day trips from Zadar . In addition, we will share useful tips and information about the most beautiful things to see, about how to book a tour and the prices.

Old Town of Zadar

The old town of Zadar is a true pearl of the Adriatic Sea . On a walk through the pretty town, you will discover plenty of beautiful sights and attractions. An ultimate highlight of the coastal city is the famous Sea Organ of Zadar. Here the sonorous tones are created by the wave movement of the sea under the large stone slabs. Since the old town of Zadar is very compact, you can easily visit everything in a half day. On a guided tour of Zadar, you learn a lot about the history and interesting facts about the old town.

Tip : Guided tours of Zadar Old Town are available for as little as 15 euros per person. You can also find and book a wide range of unique tours online !

Krka National Park Waterfalls

The most popular destination for day trips from Zadar are the Krka Waterfalls , which are located approximately 75 kilometers from the coastal town. The beautiful waterfalls are part of the Krka National Park and can be explored on a short hike. At wooden footbridges, you walk past some beautiful river landscapes and admire the intact ecosystem of the park. Do not forget your bathing suits! In the summer months you are allowed to swim in the Krka waterfalls , more precisely at the Skradinski Buk waterfall. The whole location is unique, and so it is no wonder that the waterfall has become a popular destination for excursions over the last few years.

Tip : The entrance fees change depending on the season. Guided tours to the Krka waterfalls are also offered from Zadar starting from 55,- Euro.

Telascica Nature Park

Another nature highlight and a popular spot for a wonderful day trip from Zadar is the Telascica Nature Park located on the picturesque island of Dugi Otok. This impressive national park is one of the most beautiful sights in the area around Zadar. The marvelous reserve inspires visitors with spectacular cliffs , beautiful bays, the warm salt lake Mir and the amazingly beautiful hiking trails through the natural landscapes. The Telascica National Park can be explored through a guided tour from Zadar, or of course by car and ferry.

Tip : Excursions to Telascica are available from around 35,- Euro per person. On GetYourGuide amazing tours by sailboat from Zadar are offered!

Nin is a small, dreamy coastal town about 15 kilometers from Zadar and a trip there is highly recommended. Uniquely beautiful are the many long flat sandy beaches, which invite you to swim and relax. Another highlight that should not be missed in Nin is the historic old town , which is considered the “cradle of Croatia”. During a stroll through the city, you will discover countless interesting sights from different eras. First and foremost, Croatia’s largest Roman temple , historic churches and a 4-meter-high statue of Gregory of Nin, which is said to bring good luck. Enjoy the hustle and bustle over a coffee in the picturesque main square, which exudes an extraordinary charm.

Tip : You can easily visit this destination on your own, either by car or by public bus, which runs hourly between Zadar and Nin.

Dugi Otok & Sakarun Beach

But also the rest of the long islands of Dugi Otok and its beautiful sandy beach, the famous Sakarun Beach , is really worth seeing on a day trip from Zadar. If you go on holiday to Zadar region, then you should definitely take an island tour to this beautiful sandy beach. The Sakarun beach thrills with incredibly crystal clear turquoise blue seawater , fine white sand and a Caribbean flair. But also the rest of the island Dugi Otok is lovely and worth visiting. Here you will find the already mentioned Telascica National Park, many more scenic dream-beaches, a stalactite cave and even a Blue Grotto for kayaking!

Tip : There are 2 ways to get to the “Long Island”. Either self-organized with ferry and car from Zadar, or you can also book a guided excursion .

Kornati Islands

The Kornati Islands are with around 150 islands , the most beautiful island paradise around Zadar. The majority of the islands belong to the Kornati National Park, which has been protecting the natural beauty of these islets since 1980. On a boat tour from Zadar to the Kornati Islands, you will have the opportunity to explore the untouched nature and beautiful beaches of the archipelago . Most of the island tours include entry to the National Park, and often meals are also included in the price. A boat trip to the Kornati islands is a wonderful holiday experience, and for many, this island excursion is one of the best in Zadar region.

Tip : Standard tours to the Kornati Islands start at around 30 euros per person. For the special experience, however, sailing tours or excursions by kayak are also recommended.

Zrmanja Canyon & Rafting

The Zrmanja is a spectacular karst river, located about 40 minutes from Zadar. The absolute highlight here is the Zrmanja Canyon , an imposing gorge, which once served as a film location for the famous Winnetou movies . The Zrmanja is also really popular for kayaking and rafting tours. When travelling on the beautiful, emerald-colored river, you will experience untouched nature, breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls and a fantastically spectacular backdrop. A truly unforgettable experience!

Tip : The exciting and unforgettable rafting tours on the Zrmanja River are available from 40,- Euro per person.

Plitvice Lakes

The Plitvice Lakes are a place that definitely shouldn’t be missed during your holiday in Croatia. Although the National Park is a bit further away from Zadar, there is also the possibility to book tours to the Plitvice Lakes from Zadar. Due to its unique beauty, the park is one of the most beautiful national parks in Croatia . And not without reason: a total of 6 lakes, which are connected by a network of rivers and waterfalls form a natural jewel, which seeks its peers. An absolute must for all nature lovers!

Tip : Excursions from Zadar to the Plitvice Lakes cost from 55,- Euro. You can also find a wide range of guided tours online at GetYourGuide .

Velebit Mountains

Another highlight and popular destination for hikers and nature lovers is the  Velebit mountain range, about 70 kilometers located from Zadar. It is one of the largest nature reserves in Croatia and covers a total of 2,200 square kilometers. On top of the summit, you can enjoy a magnificent view over the rocky mountain landscape of Croatia. Also on the Velebit are locations of some Karl May movies . An absolute must-visit for those who love hiking, mountains or just are searching for Winnetou locations!

Tip : Up to the famous rock of the Winnetou scene, you can even go by car!

Trogir & Split

Along the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, there are some picturesque towns and coastal villages to explore. Really recommended is here to do from Zadar a day trip to Split old town and Trogir . The famous coastal city of Split is amazingly beautiful and so enchants, the 2nd largest city in Croatia with magnificent buildings and a picturesque waterfront. But also the UNESCO World Heritage Trogir and its old town shines with beautiful buildings from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. These beautiful places should not be missed on a trip through Croatia!

Tip : For a trip from Zadar to Trogir and Split you should plan a whole day. Guided tours to these coastal towns cost from 95,- euros per person.

Find the best accommodation in Zadar:

More about zadar region:, where to stay in zadar: 10 best areas & hotels, the 12 best beaches in zadar, murter lsland: travel guide & things to do, vir, croatia: the small idyllic dream island, primosten, croatia: travel guide & things to do, keep exploring, read more about croatia.

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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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One Day in Zadar: A Comprehensive Travel Itinerary

When visiting Croatia , there is so much to see and do. So it’s understandable to only have one full day in Zadar. But be ready for a jam-packed day to get to see and do it all. With a rich history, walled streets like Dubrovnik, great national parks nearby, and a big nightlife scene, there’s something in Zadar for everyone. So, let’s dive into the perfect itinerary for one day in Zadar!

This guest post was written by Heather Arbour from ArboursAbroad (author bio below)

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. Without costing you anything extra, the small commission will help me produce more free content for you. For more information, please refer to my  privacy policy .

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Zadar

With only one day in Zadar, I recommend booking a stay at the Villa Diana, a cozy apartment rental in Zadar . Villa Diana offers a stay with a full, well-stocked kitchen so you can prepare breakfast and a lunch for your day exploring the national parks nearby. The apartment is located right in town, with free parking and an easy twenty-minute walk from both the beach and Old Town Zadar. It really is the perfect location in the city. 

The Perfect Itinerary for One Day in Zadar 

A day in Zadar isn’t complete without visiting one of Croatia’s famous national parks. I suggest renting a car in Croatia, saving money with these Croatia car hire tips , and then starting your morning bright and early heading into a park. 

Whether you’re spending one or two days in Zadar , it puts you in the perfect location for a day trip to one of Croatia’s National Parks. Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park are within a couple of hours’ drive from Zadar and are both popular places for travelers staying in Zadar to visit. It’s best to wake up extra early and visit the park of your choice. Then head back to Zadar for an evening in the city. 

Choosing a National Park to Visit from Zadar

Visiting plitvice lakes national park .

Plitvice Lakes National Park is the most famous national park in Croatia. If you’ve seen pictures of beautiful cascading waterfalls into pools of greens and blues, you’ve seen a picture of Plitvice Lakes. A short 1.5-hour drive from Zadar will get you to this bucket list destination. Be sure to leave Zadar as early as possible, as the crowds start to build at Plitvice starting around 10:00 am. 

There are loads of walking trails at Plitvice Lakes, and most of them are trails made of wood crossing over lakes leading visitors to nearly 100 different waterfalls! If you don’t do well with crowds, Plitvice Lakes isn’t the best option for you. Instead, check out Krka National Park. 

Visiting Krka National Park 

If you’d rather not give most of your day to visiting Plitvice or want to escape the crowds, Krka National Park is a great option. It’s right under a one-hour drive from Zadar and is a smaller national park, so you won’t be as tempted to spend as long there. 

While Plitvice Lakes National Park is clearly a much more popular national park than Krka, Krka National Park is still beautiful and offers areas to swim in the refreshing water. With that said, you can’t swim in all the areas. There are designated swimming zones, and you should double-check where swimming is allowed before jumping into the inviting waters. 

Returning to Zadar 

After wrapping up your time at one of the national parks near Zadar, return to your accommodation and freshen up before going out to explore the city. When looking at a map of Zadar, there’s a very obvious peninsula in the city. This peninsula is known as the Old Town of Zadar, and it’s full of rich history, a crazy nightlife scene, and some beautiful art pieces. 

The Old Town of Zadar is where you’ll want to spend your evening in the city. Similar to the walled city of Dubrovnik, Zadar’s old town also has a walled-in area. Getting lost in the marbled streets of Zadar is part of the fun of visiting this historic city. I say “getting lost” lightly here, because it’s really hard to get lost in Old Town Zadar. It is a peninsula after all, so in theory, all roads lead to the sea! 

Highlights of Old Town Zadar

Visit the roman forum .

The Roman Forum is a partially walled square right in the center of the peninsula. Built between the first century BC and the third century AD, this forum is believed to be the oldest Roman Forum in Croatia. It’s free to walk the grounds and is quite a historic site to see. If you’re lucky, you may visit this area when there’s a public market or even a concert going on. The Roman Forum is just as lively today as it was centuries ago. 

Climb the Bell Tower 

At the Roman Forum, you can climb the bell tower to St. Anastasia’s Cathedral. Climbing the tower gives you views of not just the Roman Forum from above, but also 360-degree views of all of Zadar. 

Pop into the Archeological Museum 

If you have time, and museums are your thing, pop into the Archeological Museum right at the Roman Forum. This museum is a great way to learn more about the history of this area and gain a better understanding of what you’re looking at in Old Town Zadar. If you fancy museums, there are quite a few other museums in Old Town. One that caught my eye when visiting Zadar was the Museum of Ancient Glass . It’s on the second floor of a building, so the views are nice, and you can even buy blown glass work done there! 

After wrapping up your time in this area, head toward the Sea Organ to catch the sunset and the last bit of light of the day. 

Sunset at the Sea Organ 

The Sea Organ in Zadar is a musical instrument built into the edge of the Adriatic Sea. This is a very popular place to catch the sunset in Zadar and for a good reason! Sitting on the edge of the sea, as the waves crash into the ground, the water moves through the organ built underneath, creating a beautiful sound. It’s the perfect place to sit and reflect on life and feel just waves of gratitude as the sea plays its song. 

Once the Light Fades, Turn to the Greetings to the Sun

The Greetings to the Sun is an art installment built directly into the ground right at the Sea Organ. This installment was created by Nikola Basic, an architect in Zadar. It’s an installation of hundreds of small solar panels that soak up the sun during the day. And then as the sun fades, the lights begin to illuminate through the night. Visitors can walk on the art installation and are encouraged to appreciate this unique piece of art. 

Grab Dinner Near the People’s Square 

The People’s Square is an important piece of Zadar’s history. This is the area where town meetings are held. And it’s the perfect place to grab some food in the evening. Multiple restaurants in this area have both indoor and outdoor seating, so you’ll find a mix of all sorts of different styles of both food and restaurants. 

Enjoy the Night Life 

While you’re exploring Zadar, pay attention to the amount of places that are open through midnight! The nightlife in Zadar is a major thing. Zadar is well known for its party scene. You’ll find places to go out late into the night all along the peninsula. After a night on the town, head back to your accommodation and rest up for your next full day of adventuring in beautiful Croatia! 

Best Time to Visit Croatia 

Shoulder seasons in croatia .

I visited Croatia in the shoulder season, and can honestly say that’s the best time to visit not just Zadar, but Croatia as a whole. There are two different shoulder seasons, one from May through early June and the other from mid-September through October. 

During these times, you’ll find much cheaper prices for accommodation, rental cars, and flights. And the crowds are less than half they are in the high season — June through September. If you’re hoping to spend more time in the sea, I recommend visiting in the later shoulder season. From September to October the Adriatic Sea is still warm from the hot summer temperatures, and you’ll be able to stay in the water much longer! 

High Season in Croatia 

During high season in Croatia, June through September, you’ll find masses of people and really crowded national parks. I know people who go to Croatia every year, and after one year of visiting in the high season, they’ll never return during that time again. As one can expect, everything is much busier during the high season, making all the things to do a bit less appealing. 

Off-Season in Croatia 

In the winter months in Croatia, you’ll find that everything dies down. A lot of the family businesses will completely close during the winter, as this is their time to have time off. I don’t recommend visiting in the winter, November through April, at all because while you can still do a lot of the things in this guide to one day in Zadar, a lot of the best parts of Croatia are closed and the weather isn’t so great. 

Don’t forget to save this post for your perfect day in Zadar!

Heather Arbour is a full-time travel writer who spent 2.5 years living in a van traveling through the United Kingdom and Europe. She and her husband currently live in a van in the United States with their cat, Georgie, traveling and finding nature escapes all over the western United States while sneaking in trips abroad when they can. 

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2 Days in Ljubljana: A Travel Itinerary For The Perfect City Trip

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Best day trips from zadar.

• Tea Gudek Šnajdar

Are you looking for the best day trips from Zadar? This lovely town has a perfect position in Croatia, making it a great starting point to visit some of the most fascinating Croatian national parks, islands and cities. Here is the Culture Tourist’s selection of the best day trips from Zadar you should take during your stay in that town.

This post contains some affiliate links. Read our  Privacy Policy  for more info.

There are so many interesting places located around Zadar, it’s great to explore them during your trip to that town. You can visit them on organised tours, public transport or by your own or rented car. I’ll list all the best options within the paragraph about each of these day trips from Zadar.

⤷ Read more : 15 Best things to do in Zadar

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes is one of the first things coming to anyone’s mind when thinking of Croatia . If you don’t know what I’m talking about, look at this Culture Tourist’s Instagram reel dedicated to Plitvice Lakes . It’s the oldest and largest national park in Croatia. This beautiful national park is home to sixteen lakes connected with waterfalls and surrounded by deep forests.

Distance from Zadar : 133 kilometres (83 miles)

How to get from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes : You can easily get from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park by car. You’ll need around 1 hour and 40 minutes to get there. You can visit them on a organised trip if you don’t have a car. Here is a link to the organised day trip tour from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park (which includes the transport from and to Zadar and entrance tickets to the national park).

⤷ Read more : Things to know before visiting Croatia this summer

Krka National Park

Krka is another fascinating Croatian national park making a perfect day trip from Zadar. It’s home to the Krka River and numerous waterfalls created by it. You can take a shorter tour around it (approximately two hours long), exploring its waterfalls and visiting the old windmills village. Or, you can take a longer one, including a boat ride to the Visovac Monastery located on a tiny island on a river.

Distance from Zadar : 77 kilometres (48 miles)

How to get from Zadar to Krka National Park : Krka National Park is nearby Zadar, so you can quickly get there by car. There are also numerous day trips from Zadar to Krka ( check out this link for some ).

Nin is one of the oldest towns in Croatia and its first capital. Back in the Middle Ages, this is where the Croatian kingdom was first established. The small picturesque town is located on an island surrounded by protective walls. Nin Saltery is an unmissable spot there because it still produces salt in a traditional and ecological way. You can learn more about it in a small museum there. Don’t miss the Church of the Holy Cross from the 9th century at the Nin Old Town. With so much history and culture, it is one of the best day trips from Zadar.

Distance from Zadar : 18 kilometres (11 miles)

How to get from Zadar to Nin : Being so nearby, Nin is one of the most accessible day trips from Zadar. It will take you only around 25 minutes to get there by car. You can also use public transport to get from Zadar to Nin. However, the buses are rare, so check their schedule in advance.

Ugljan Island

Located opposite Zadar, Ugljan Island is a lovely place to visit while there. It’s one of the largest and most populated Croatian islands. On the island’s top, you can see the Saint Michael Fortress from the 13th century. It was built by Venice after conquering and destroying Zadar in 1202. A few small villages are located on an island and are worth visiting. Exploring Preko (in Croatian meaning, Across ) is easiest because the ferry from Zadar will take you there. You’ll find nice restaurants, cafes and a lovely beach there. Perfect for exploring it on a day trip from Zadar.

Distance from Zadar : Around 40 minutes by boat

How to get from Zadar to Ugljan Island : Zadar is connected with the village of Preko on Ugljan Island by boat and a ferry. It’s one of the most frequent boat connections in Croatia. If you’re travelling without a car, you can get on a boat at the port outside Zadar Old Town. However, if you’re travelling by car, you should take a ferry in Gaženica Port in Zadar. You can buy your boat and ferry tickets on the Jadrolinija website online .

Kornati Islands National Park

Although one of the most famous Croatian national parks, I’m ashamed to say I only visited Kornati Islands this year. And it was on a boat day trip from Zadar! Kornati National Park consists of 89 islands and islets. The thing about it that was so fascinating to me was that the National Park is 100 % privately owned, primarily by shepherds from a nearby Murter Island. That’s why you’ll see so many dry stone wall constructions on it – it’s to prevent sheep from going to another farmers’ land. The islands are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia, so be sure to bring your swimming suit with you.

Distance from Zadar : Around 2 hours by boat

How to get from Zadar to Kornati Islands : You can visit Kornati Island by your own boat or on an organised day trip tour from Zadar. This is how I visited it this summer, and I advise you to do the same. Here is a lovely day trip from Zadar to Kornati Islands with entrance tickets and a visit to Telaščica Nature Park included.

Šibenik is one of the most beautiful Croatian towns , filled with art and history. Its Cathedral of Saint James is the most important Renaissance monument in Croatia and one of the most beautiful churches in Europe. That unique building has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2000. Šibenik Old Town has gorgeous stone houses, churches and other historic structures. The most interesting are its three fortresses, recently renovated and revived with great exhibition spaces, concerts and numerous cultural events.

Distance from Zadar : 95 kilometres (59 miles)

How to get from Zadar to Šibenik : Zadar and Šibenik are connected by highway, so it’s easy to go on a day trip from Zadar to Šibenik by car. You’ll need a bit more than one hour to get there. You’ll also find many bus connections between Zadar and Šibenik, and it will take you around an hour and a half to get there. You can buy your bus tickets at Zadar Bus Station or online at this link .

Pag Island is famous for its delicious cheese, lace, moonlike landscape and sand beaches. The island has been inhabited since Prehistory, and it’s filled with history and culture. If you’d like to explore some of it, visit the town of Pag on the island. It’s a great example of a planned Renaissance town. The Zrče Beach on Pag Island is one of Croatia’s most famous party destinations.

Distance from Zadar : 51 kilometres (32 miles)

How to get from Zadar to Pag Island : Pag Island is connected to the mainland by a bridge, so you won’t need to take a ferry to get there from Zadar. It will take you less than an hour to get there from Zadar by car. You can get from Zadar to Pag by bus, and it will take around one hour and forty minutes to get there. As with some previous day trips from Zadar, you can buy your bus tickets at the Zadar Bus Station or online.

⤷ Read more : What to do & visit in Croatia

With so many great day trips from Zadar, you can choose from islands, national parks or historic towns to enjoy during your visit to that beautiful town. Have you been to any of these places? Would you add any to this list? Let me know in the comments!

Explore more of Croatia:

Things to do in Zagreb 2024: Tips from a local

Rovinj Travel Guide: What to see & do in Rovinj

Weekend guide: Two days in Dubrovnik

Istria Travel Guide: The best places to visit in Istria

What to see in Labin

10 Best tours & activities in Istria

Fun things to do in Zagreb this summer

What to see in Central Istria

Visiting Veliki Tabor Castle

8 Places in Istria for Archaeology enthusiasts

Exploring the Hrvatsko zagorje region

Rijeka City Guide

What to do & see in Pula in a day

Medieval frescoes in Istria

Day trip to Brijuni Islands

croatia , Zadar , Zadar Day trips

One Day in Zadar Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Zadar, Croatia  

Croatia is indeed one of the most beautiful Mediterranean countries. And while you may have already heard of Dubrovnik or Split , there are hundreds (yes, hundreds) of beautiful coastal places to explore. Zadar still has an atmosphere of a smaller town, but boasts attractions and rich heritage. It also has the most magical sunset in the world, at least that’s what Alfred Hitchcock once stated. One day may not be enough to see everything this charming Mediterranean city has to offer, but you’ll be able to see quite a bit. Definitely a city that shouldn’t be missed on your trip to Croatia!

What’s the best time to visit Zadar?

Just like anywhere else on Croatia ‘s coast, you should come here in spring or summer . July and August are the peak season and maybe a bit crowded with tourists. However, this is the time of the year when there are loads of activities all along the country’s coast, including Zadar. Not to mention it’s when you absolutely must hit the beach – the weather is ideal for that. Early June and early September would be perfect for people who don’t want huge crowds and still but still want to experience fine weather and summer atmosphere. If possible, skip visiting during winter.

a Few facts about Zadar

Zadar stands for the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia. In the 4th century BC, it was founded as an  Illyrain settlement named Iader. Three centuries later, it became a Roman municipium and, later, Roman colonia. The Old Town of Zadar still holds the characteristics of an a ncient Roman city . During history, it used to be under the rule of Byzanth, Franks, Venice Republic, Austria, France, Italy and was finally brought back to Croatia after World War II. During that war, the whole city suffered a lot due to bombing, and more than 60% of the buildings suffered a lot of damage.

Today, 70 years later, Zadar has fully recovered. During the past few decades, it has established itself as one of the greatest Croatian student cities, so it’s quite easy to spot many young people living there. Rich heritage, newly opened museums and attractions like Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun attract more and more visitors every year.

One Day in Zadar Itinerary

All of the sights from the list are located on the Zadar Peninsula and are therefore within a walking distance from each other. Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Zadar.

Check out the Forum and drink coffee on this ancient square

Start your day on Zadar’s ancient square – Forum . One can describe it as an open air museum due to the number of artifacts that can be found on the site. When you look closely, it’s pretty easy to spot where the Roman streets and the square once used to be. There are also some very important buildings around the square – Cathedral of St. Anastasia, the iconic Saint Donatus church and the Archaeological Museum. The Forum is a perfect place to capture some amazing photos and do some people watching. Since there are many cafe bars around the square, it’s surely the best spot for your morning coffee.

Visit the church of St. Donatus

While still at the Forum, make sure to visit the St. Donatus church , one of the city’s landmarks. Constructed in the 9th century and dedicated to St. Donatus in the 15th century, the St. Donatus church is the largest pre-Romanesque building in Croatia.

The materials from the Roman forum were used in its construction. It’s built in a circular shape, with three radially situated apses and a circular gallery. Climb that gallery and explore the pretty unique interior and enjoy the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the church.

Visit the museums

Zadar may not be that big, but it still has a variety of amazing museums. Since you only have one day in Zadar, you’ll only have time to properly visit one museum. Archaeological Museum really is an excellent museum for those who enjoy history and arts. It holds a huge (three floors) collection of historical artifacts, especially those from the Roman time.

Another great museum is the Museum of Ancient Glass . It features some very unusual glass pieces and traces the history of the region through the prism of the glass treasures. On the top floor, you can learn about the glass blowing technique by watching a blower’s demonstration.

The last but not least is the Museum of illusions . It’s an interactive museum, full of optical illusions that will be extremely interesting to kids, but even adults can enjoy it. Bring the camera inside, since many illusions get more exciting with the use of a camera.

Stroll Kalelarga street and visit the People’s Square

After you’re done with the Forum, walk the Kalelarga street, also known as Široka street (Wide street). It’s the most famous street among locals and definitely the liveliest one. There are numerous shops, bars, bakeries, ice-cream shops, so it’s pretty easy to get distracted. At the end of the street you’ll reach  Narodni trg (People’s Square), another picturesque Mediterranean square. There are many important historical buildings here. You’ll easily spot City Guard, City Lodge, city hall and the pre-Romanesque church of St. Lawrence.

Check out the Five Wells Square and the park above it

Not far from the People’s square there is another one, but slightly different – the Five Wells Square known as Trg 5 Bunara. The cistern and these five wells, lined up in a row, were built by the Venetians during the 16th century to help the citizens withstand a Turkish siege. It’s definitely a great place to capture some amazing photos. Afterwards, climb the lush p ark above the square for a nice view and some refreshments during the warm months.

Walk the Promenade

Exit throughout the charming City Gate , built in 1543 in the Renaissance style. It has the shape of a triumphal arch with three entrances and was, at the time, the main entrance to the city.

Walk the promenade that goes all the way from that point to the top point of the peninsula. The promenade is the best spot to enjoy the most magical sunset in the world, which is how Alfred Hitchcock described it.

Finally, check out the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun

The most popular Croatian audio-visual attractions are definitely the  Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun. The best thing is – they’re located just next to each other, at the final point of the promenade. Sunset time is the best time to enjoy these artistic installations, especially the Greeting to the Sun, as the light that was absorbed during the day transforms into a light show at night. The Sea Organ, on the other side, will make the waves sound more melodic than ever. Overall, it’s an extraordinary experience and a great place to relax during a long day!

Dinner at restaurant Kornat

While there are many great Croatian dishes that include meat, while in Zadar you need to try some amazing seafood. The best restaurant, Kornat , is quite close to the sea promenade and really offers a wide selection of fish and seafood. Try the stuffed calamari, octopus salad, fish soup, but even just a grilled fished with some vegetables on the side would be a great pick.

If you crave some burgers or pizza, check out the restaurant  4 Kantuna . They offer super crispy pizza, but also some great risottos or pastas, tasty steaks and delicious seafood. Save some space for their delicious desserts.

Where to stay in Zadar?

Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel

Ulica Brace Bersa 2, 23000 Zadar

Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel is a modern and stylish hotel in the centre of the city, located only a block away from the Sean Organ and the Greeting to the Sun. Fine design, passion for detail and modern rooms full of light make it one of the best hotels in Zadar.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel Mediteran

Matije Gupca 19, 23000 Zadar

Hotel Mediteran is a small family run hotel perfect for those who plan to spend a day at the beach , since it’s located only 10 minutes’ walk from the beach. For those who prefer it, the hotel features a beautiful outdoor pool.

Boutique Hostel Forum

Široka ulica 20, 23000 Zadar

Boutique Hostel Forum can’t be more central – it’s actually located right next to the Forum square. The hostel is designed by a famous Croatian architect and is one of the most unique hostels in Croatia . The design and the colors in the interior fully reflect Zadar – blue color as the blue sky above and crystal clear sea below and the orange colour of the most beautiful sunset in the world.

Extra tips for visiting Zadar:

– Zadar is the perfect base if you want to make a day trip to Plitvice Lakes or Krka Falls,  since it’s located less than an hour from both of the National Parks.

– Croatia recently introduced the euro as their currency, so most European guest don’t have to worry anymore about exchanging money when they come here.

– You won’t find tips included in the price here, but tipping is customary although not obligatory. 10% will be fine.

PIN FOR LATER!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Zadar Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below! Save Save

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

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I plan to go to Zadar in May and explore the city and also go to Krka National Park. This will be in early May– will the weather be decent? Is it worth visiting during this time of the year?

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Day Trips from Zadar

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Not only is Zadar a fascinating place to visit (see 22 things to do in Zadar ) but it makes a great base to explore no less than four national parks, several relatively untouristed islands and a couple of World Heritage Sites. Whether by car, bus, boat or tour, experience these great day trips from Zadar:

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10 Day Trips from Zadar

• February 12, 2017
• Travelling Croatia

As Croatia’s fifth largest city with the population of almost 80,000 inhabitants, Zadar is one of the most visited tourist destinations in that part of Europe. If you have decided to visit this historically rich city, here are the 10 daily trips from Zadar we strongly recommend you to take!

But first, if you need more information about Zadar bus station , check our video where we take you step by step through all its amenities:

1) National Park Plitvice

Croatia’s largest national park is really a must-see for every visitor of this country. This breathtaking gem makes part of UNESCO World Heritage list since 1979. In peak season the admission fee to Plitvice goes up to 25€ per person, but you will get your money’s worth.

You have a few options to reach the national park:

• By bus: there are numerous of direct bus lines which take you from Zadar’s bus station to the national park. Most of the buses departure from the bus stop at entrance 1, some also from entrance 2 and Mukinje. In summer the departures are more often and the ticket price is approximately 12€. The journey time is a bit less than 3 hours.
• By car: Driving from Zadar to Plitvice by car takes 2 hours. In case you don’t have your own car, you can always rent one and have a wonderful day trip. However, in summer months, keep in mind to leave Zadar as early as possible since you’re likely to encounter traffic jams on highway so your journey will take longer than expected.

2) Ugljan and Pašman islands

The closest islands to Zadar are Ugljan and Pašman, the two pearls of the Adriatic Sea . Ugljan is covered with evergreen pine forests, vineyards and olive trees known for its 2000-year-old tradition of olive oil production of highest quality.  Pašman on the other hand is connected to Ugljan by the Ždrelac passage and due to the sea current direction changes every 6 hours, is possibly the cleanest sea on the Adriatic Sea. Both islands have great ferry connections to the mainland:

• By ferry to Ugljan: from the Zadar’s ferry port Gaženica go to port of Preko in the island of Ugljen. The journey time is approximately 25min. One way ticket costs 2,5€.
• By ferry to Pašman: it is necessary to board the ferry going to Ugljan, and after you exit in the Preko port, take the bus connecting the two island via the Ždrelac passage.

3) Saharun beach, Dugi otok

Although only the seventh largest island in Croatia, Dugi Otok has the most beautiful beach on the Adriatic Sea. It is one of Croatia’s hidden gems, so it is a perfect place for you if you enjoy not-overcrowded places in the shadow of dark green pinewoods with splendid sea.

To reach Dugi Otok and visit its spectacular beach, you have two options:

• By ferry: from Zadar’s ferry port of Gaženica, go to Brbinj (Dugi Otok). The journey takes 1h 20min and a single fee is 3€ per person.  
• By catamaran: from Zadar city centre take the catamaran to Bozava or Sali  (depending on which part of the island are you going to). The ride is 1 hour long.

Split is, together with Dubrovnik, probably the most popular Croatian destination. If you wish the see the famous Diocletian Palace and the historical core of Split which have been on the World Heritage UNESCO list , then this is a day trip you must undertake.

The Zadar – Split route has been well developed for years, so you can choose between a bus or a car:

• By bus: there are many bus companies which drive on the route between these two cities . The journey takes about 3 hours and one way ticket costs 10€ – 15€, depending on the company.
• By car: This is as beautiful as the picturesque ride with bus, yet a bit faster. You can reach the city of Split in less than 2 hours due to 120km long distance. If you don’t have your own car, you can always rent it, but this is the most expensive option.

Also called ‘Krešimirov grad’, Šibenik is a historic city in central Dalmatia. This small town is a real jewel of Croatian heritage as it’s the oldest native Croatian town on the shores of the sea.

There are few options to choose from when visiting Šibenik from Zadar:

• By bus: several companies provide the link between the two cities . A 89km long journey takes 1h 20min and the ticket price varies starting from 5€ up, depending on the company.
• By car: You can reach Šibenik in under an hour if you go via highway and this is definitely the fastest option. The pay toll is a bit more than 3€.

Kornati, an archipelago of Croatia , are situated in northern Dalmatia, south of Zadar. The national park includes 109 islands The park managed by the town of Murter, on the same named island, and is linked to the mainland by a drawbridge.

There is only one way of getting to the national park:

• By ship: there are few tourist agencies which organize one day trip to Kornati for a price from 200 to 300 kunas which includes transfer, a ticket to the national park, lunch and a tourist guide.

7) Paklenica

Zadar is really a perfect place to go for nature enthusiasts since five of eight Croatian national parks are nearby. Paklenica is located in Starigrad at the southern slopes of Velebit mountain. Hiking is the most popular activity for experiencing the real nature of the park, so Paklenica is t he most visited climbing site in Croatia and the biggest in Southeast Europe.

Reaching the national park is quite simple:

• By bus: there are few companies which connect the city of Zadar to Starigrad (Paklenica) . The journey time is 50min and the lowest price for a single ticket is 3,50€.
• By car: It takes 40 minutes by car to reach the national park. Take the E65/E71 road.

Skradinski buk, Visovac, Krka monastery and much more is waiting for you in Croatia’s national park named after the river nearby. It is exceptionally rich and varied in flora and fauna . The Krka Waterfalls has the second highest concentration of lavender per km squared in Europe, due to which there is a high number of bees and wasps as well.

National park is 80 km from Zadar. In the peak season there are direct bus lines to the park, but outside the season the best option is the following:

• By bus: first go to Šibenik and there change the bus for the one going to Skradin or Lozovac. The journey takes 1h 30min.
• By car: take the coastal route from Zadar to Sibenik, not only do you save the toll fees on the motorway, but you also get to see the gorgeous coastal line. The ride is about 1 h 15 min long, which is about 15 minutes more then via motorway.

9) Pag island

Pag is a Croatian island in the northern Adriatic which has the longest coastline . It is a very popular tourist destination, especially among the young who all go there for the Zrće beach, often referred to as ‘Croatian Ibiza’.

It is very easy to visit the island from Zadar:

• By bus: there are several direct connections between Zadar bus station and the city of Pag . The journey takes an hour and a single fee is 7€.
• By car: a 60km long distance requires less than an hour to reach your destination. If you do not have your own car, rent it online .

Nin is a small city in Zadar county, very important for its rich historical background. Do not miss out on on a real treat for all history fans among you.

You have few options to reach the city:

• By bus: it only takes 25 minutes to reach the city of Nin by bus. You can find the driving schedule at the bus station in Zadar.
• By car: definitely the fastest option, since you’re there in 15 minutes. Consider renting a car if you don’t have your own.

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Excelente, gracias por la información

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What To Do In Zadar In One Day Itinerary (2024)

Are you wondering what to do in Zadar in one day? I’ve got you covered!

I grew up in Croatia and I visited Zadar many times throughout the years. I usually only had a day in Zadar, so I came up with a perfect one day in Zadar itinerary that hits all the main things to see!

Zadar is a fantastic stop if you are on a Croatian road trip, as it is ideally located, in the middle of the Croatian coastline. 

Whether you’re into historical sites or beaches, there are things to do in Zadar for every type of traveler.

Let’s find out what to do in Zadar for a day!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, and I may earn a commission if you make a purchase using my link, at no extra cost to you. I hope you find the information here useful! 

Best Things To Do In Zadar In One Day

Zadar is worth a visit even if you only have one day to explore!

Since you only have one day in Zadar, we will start with the most important landmarks, and you can add the rest depending on how much time you have left.

1. Listen To The Music Of Nature At Zadar Sea Organ

Start your visit with the relaxing sounds of nature-made music at Zadar Sea Organ . This installation uses the waves to create the most incredible music.

The sound it makes sounds like an organ. It is truly a unique experience and a must-see (and hear) in Zadar!

If you are visiting in the summer, go early in the morning to enjoy the quiet and peaceful atmosphere while the Sea Organ is still in the shade. 

It is possible to swim next to the Sea Organ as well! If you want to jump in for a quick dip, there are ladders to easily go out all along the coastline. 

2. Admire St. Donatus’ Church

Make your way along the Riva to Zadar’s most famous landmark. The Church of St. Donatus was built in the 9th century and is the largest pre-Romanesque church in the country. 

However, it has not been used as a religious site for quite a long time. Because of its exceptional acoustics, today it is used as the venue for musical programs.

Check out the schedule for Donat Musical evenings if you are a classical music lover. 

3. See The Ruins Of An Ancient Roman Forum

Zadar was a Roman town known as Zara, and there are ruins dating back to Roman times all over the city.

As you walk around St. Donatus church, you can’t miss the remains of the ancient Roman Forum. It is the biggest Roman forum on the east coast of the Adriatic Sea.   

There is not much left of the Grand Roman Forum today compared to Pula and its majestic Roman ruins.

Yet, you can still see some of the original structures, including a pillar used as a pillar of shame in the Middle Ages. 

🏛️ Learn more about Zadar with a Historical walking tour!

5. Monastery of St Mary and Exhibition of Religious Art

Right across the St. Donatus Church stands the Monastery of St. Mary, built in the 11th century.

You can admire the architecture from the outside or check out the permanent exhibition.

The collection of Religious Art, Gold, and Silver of Zadar houses around 200 artifacts dating from the 8th to 18th century.

6. Stroll the most popular street in Zadar Kalelarga

The most famous street in Zadar must be Kalelarga Street.

There is even a famous Croatian song about the street that plays in my head every time I think of the street!

Kalelarga is now officially called Wide Street and is the main walking street in the old city.

Just like it has been since ancient times!

7. Admire St. Anastasia’s Cathedral

Impressive St. Anastasia’s Cathedral was built in the 12th and 13th centuries and is the largest church in Dalmatia. 

The whole area surrounding the Cathedral is very picturesque and full of hidden gems.

You can grab a coffee on the square in front of the church or wander the cobblestone streets and see what you might discover. 

8. Find all the historical gates of Zadar

Zadar City Walls, dating back to the 12th century, were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2017.

There are three Gates along the city walls -The Land Gate, the Sea Gate, and the New Gate. 

The Land Gate is the most famous of the three of them. Once the main entrance to the city, this impressive piece of Venetian architecture was built in 1543.

The gate features the carved figure of St Chrysogonus on horseback and St Mark’s winged lion – the coat of arms of the Republic of Venice

The Sea Gate was built in 1573 to signify the victory of the Christian Army over the Ottomans. It is located between the ferry port and the city market. 

Finally, the New Bridge gate, built during the Italian occupation of Zadar, is the most used today. It connects the bridge and a street that leads to Kalelarga Street. 

9. Climb the City Walls and read about the history of Zadar

It is possible to climb the city walls and admire Zadar streets from above.

It is free to walk the city walls! You can climb up the stairs next to the New Gate and descend next to the Sea Gate.

You can read all about the city’s history on the signs along the promenade. Also, you can find a miniature version of Zadar where you can plan what to see in Zadar in one day!

10. Check out the Farmers’ Market

To taste the most flavorful fruits and vegetables in Croatia, you should buy them at a farmer’s market.

These markets are common in Croatia, and you will find this traditional method of selling local food in almost every city.

Stroll through the Zadar’s Market and grab a quick and healthy snack.

11. See Five Wells Square And Zoranić Square

Petar Zoranić Square is one of the most beautiful squares in Zadar, with a column relocated from the Forum among the buildings.

Five Wells Square is exactly what it sounds like, a square with five wells. These old wells were constructed to get the water from the old water reservoir built by the Venetians.

This picturesque square is surrounded by medieval walls and the Captain’s tower, part of the Venetian defense system.

12. Check out the amazing view of Zadar from Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

Climb the stairs from Five Wells Square to Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This little green oasis in the city center is the oldest public park in Zadar and Dalmatia in general. 

This charming park offers the best view of the Land Gate and a little port next to it.

13. Have a delicious vegan ice cream in aRoma or Gelateria Eva

A day in Zadar is not complete without grabbing an ice cream!

While there are many ice cream shops in the city center, you’ll want to avoid those watery ice creams and go for the best ice cream in Zadar!

I love vegan ice creams and sorbets from aRoma gelato boutique . They have a wide variety of fruit sorbets and delicious vegan dark chocolate ice cream.

Another highly rated vegan ice cream in Zadar is from Gelateria Eva . They also offer a few sorbet flavors and dark vegan chocolate ice cream.

14. Relax in the Park of Vladimir Nazor

Just outside the city walls, in front of the Land Gate, is the peaceful, green Park of Vladimir Nazor.

It is a perfect place to relax, hide from the scorching summer sun, and escape the crowds. 

15. Discover Zadar’s history in the Archaeological Museum in Zadar

Zadar Archeological Museum is the best place to visit if you want to learn more about the long history of Zadar or hide away from the scorching summer sun. 

Check the current working hours and entry fees here .

Don’t forget to bring your student ID if you are a student to take advantage of the student discount!

16. Swim On Zadar beaches

Visiting Zadar in summer is not complete if you don’t see one of Zadar’s beaches.

If you visit Zadar on a stopover, you probably won’t have time for a beach. But, if you have a full day in Zadar, it is worth spending some time on a beach!

While you can theoretically swim in the city center, along the Petar Krešimir coast, I recommend you take bus 5 and visit Borik beach, outside of the city center. 

17. Try Vegan Dalmatian Food in the Botanist

If you spend the whole day exploring Zadar, you deserve to treat yourself to a delicious meal!

The Botanist is the only fully vegan restaurant in Zadar and a must-visit spot for every vegan looking to taste a vegan version of traditional Croatian food. 

The restaurant is on the coast, close to the ruins of Stomarica church. This fine-dining vegan restaurant is on the higher end but extremely well-rated and worth the money!

17. Watch the Sunset at The Greeting to the Sun

The Greeting to the Sun-light installation is a recent addition to Zadar’s tourist attractions. It is located right next to the Sea Organ, so you can see how this square looks during the day.

It is interesting to see both monuments together, as they are envisioned as complementary monuments, the Organ representing communication with nature by sound, and the Greeting symbolizes communicating with nature with light.

The Greeting to the Sun comes alive as the sun goes down.  When the sun goes down, the light installation lights up and makes for one of the best Instagram spots in Zadar . 

18. Go On A Sunset Cruise

Alternatively, you can escape the crowds and watch the sunset from a boat!

Zadar has one of the best sunset views in the world, and if you stay long enough in the city it would be a shame to miss it.

While Greeting to the Sun Monument is the most popular place to watch the sunset, going on a Zadar sunset cruise gives a unique twist to this popular activity.

There are many boat tours to choose from, but sunset cruises are usually under 2 hours so it’s great for those visiting Zadar in one day.

🌄 Watch Zadar sunset with this sunset cruise!

How To Get To Zadar

Zadar has an international airport, so it is the easiest way to visit if you are traveling from outside of the country.

Unfortunately, just like other smaller coastal towns in Croatia, you can only catch international flights during the summer. 

If you are already in Croatia, you can easily reach Zadar by bus. A bus ride from Zagreb to Zadar takes just under 4 hours.  

I also took a boat to Zadar from Pula once! It was the best way to get to Zadar in the summer and avoid traffic jams.

No trains are coming to Zadar. 

Can You Visit Zadar On A Layover?

Yes, you should visit the city if you have a layover in Zadar. I visited Zadar on a 7-hour layover once, and it was the best decision I could have made.

Zadar airport is approximately 15km from the city center, and the bus ride takes roughly half an hour. 

Zadar airport is small, with just five gates, and there is nothing to do. In fact, when I tried to pass through the security check 2h before my flight, they told me to come back in an hour because it was the last flight of the night and there was nothing to do at the gate!

If you have at least a 3-hour layover, and it is not a busy season (check how many flights are departing at the same time as yours), I suggest you visit the city while waiting on your next flight.

During a 3-hour to 4-hour layover, you will have time for a quick walk in the city center.

A 5-hour layover is enough time to visit all the main sights and to have a quick meal.

Zadar Airport To The City Center

You have a couple of options to get to the city center from Zadar airport, but the best and the cheapest one is an official shuttle bus. 

The bus stop is located on your right, just as you exit the airport. 

Bus departures are synced with flights, so you shouldn’t wait long for the next bus. The schedule changes every month, so make sure to check the updated airport bus schedule on the airport website . 

The bus driver sells the tickets as you enter the bus, and you have to pay in cash – euro ! A one-way ticket costs 5€ .

The bus stops at the central bus station and in the city center, Poluotok – Liburnska Obala.

You will go to the last stop. That way, you are immediately in the middle of everything. 

The ride from the airport to the city center takes about half an hour.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi to the city center, but I don’t think it is worth the money. 

How To Get Around Zadar

The best way to get around the city center of Zadar is by walking. The city center is relatively small, and public transport doesn’t even enter the city walls. 

Therefore, wear comfortable shoes and prepare for a lot of walking!

If your accommodation is not in the city centre, Zadar’s local bus company Liburnija has an extensive public transport system that runs from the city centre or the bus station to all the suburbs.

You can check out all the bus lines on the Liburnija website .  

Best Time To Visit Zadar

The most popular time to visit Zadar is during summer.

The city is bustling with backpackers and travelers, it is easy to meet other people, and the weather is perfect if you want to spend days on the beach.

However, if you want to visit Zadar on a budget, the best time to visit is in the shoulder season – May, June, and September.  

Why should you visit Zadar during the shoulder season?

Because the weather is fantastic and you can still enjoy the beaches, as it tends to be warm enough to swim. On the other hand, you avoid the scorching sun in July and August. 

The city is beginning to be busy with the first/last tourists of the season, but it is not yet crowded. 

Most importantly, the prices decrease.

Accommodation is usually half the price in the off-season. Restaurants and bars haven’t increased their prices yet, and tour operators want you to come on their tours and are willing to negotiate. 

Where To Stay In Zadar

If you only have one day in Zadar, the best place to stay is close to the city center.

Some of the best-rated hostels in the city center of Zadar are the Downtown Boutique Hostel and Boutique Hostel Forum . 

Both hostels have great reviews and are located in the city center, close to all the main sights. Furthermore, they offer dorm rooms or private rooms. 

Staying in hostels is one of the best ways to make friends when traveling , and you can always book a private room if you are not a fan of dorm rooms!

Alternatively, you might want to stay close to the bus station.

The Lazy Monkey hostel next to the bus station is one of the consistently best-rated hostels in Croatia. The rooms are fairly basic, but they make up for it by offering a great atmosphere. 

Vegan Restaurants In Zadar

Yes, it is possible to find restaurants with vegan options in Zadar. There is only one fully vegan restaurant, but many others offer some vegan options. 

As always, the Happycow app is your best friend!

The Botanist is the only fully vegan restaurant in Zadar. It offers a fine dining experience and veganized versions of Croatian specialties. They also serve Beyond Meat burgers!

The best vegan ice creams in Zadar are in aRoma gelato boutique and Gelateria Eva . 

• Check out my full vegan Croatia guide for everything you need to know about vegan food in Croatia!

Zadar Travel Budget

While the Croatian coast in the summer is getting pricier every year, it is still possible to visit Zadar on a budget.

One of the major expenses will be accommodation. Expect to pay anywhere from 25€ to 100€ per night if you spend a night in Zadar. Hostels are on the lower end of that spectrum, while apartments and rooms go for around 100€ per night in the high season.

If you are only doing a layover in Zadar, your only expense can be a bus ticket. That is approximately 7€ for a return bus ticket from Zadar airport to the city center.

Coffee with soy milk will cost around 3€, and the same goes for refreshing drinks like Cedevita. Vegan ice cream in artisanal ice cream shops is also around 3€.

If you’re going out for a drink, a cocktail goes from 8€ upwards, usually around 10€.

A meal in a vegan restaurant will cost you anywhere from 10-15€. 

Alternatively, you can get a quick vegan snack in Mlinar bakery for around 2€. My favorite is a potato pie or an apple pie .

To conclude, you should budget anywhere from 10€ to 40€ for a day trip to Zadar + the price of accommodation if you are spending a night.

FAQ: 1 Day In Zadar

Yes, Zadar is one of the most popular towns in Croatia, and it is certainly worth a visit. This small town is full of culture and history to discover, with a laid-back seaside town vibe to enjoy as you sip on coffee among the locals enjoying the sun.

While you could certainly spend more time here, one day in Zadar is enough to see the main highlights and get a taste of the city. The main tourist attractions are in the city centre, which is rather small and compact. Therefore, you can see all the main sights in one day! 

One day in Zadar is enough to see the main tourist attractions. If you want to base yourself in Zadar and discover the region, you should plan at least 3 days in Zadar.

Yes, you can expect that Zadar has a busy nightlife if you visit during the summer. As the summer season rolls around, there are events almost every night, and the city is full of people. Zadar is a student city, so you enjoy nightlife even during the off-season but mostly on the weekends.

Yes! Zadar and Croatia, in general, are safe destinations for solo female travelers. I did not feel unsafe at any moment walking alone. There are no dangerous neighborhoods, and it is safe to walk alone at night.  As always, stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, as pickpocketing happens. 

Final Thoughts: One day in Zadar itinerary

That concludes what to do in Zadar for a day!

This coastal town is a perfect day trip destination, with a compact city center and countless picturesque corners.

It is also small enough that you can see all the main tourist attractions in Zadar in one day!

If you have more time in Zadar, consider adding some day trips or boat excursions from Zadar to your itinerary.

Natali is the founder of She's Abroad Again. She is a solo female travel and backpacking expert who traveled to more than 30 country over 3 continents, mostly solo and on a budget! She is a lawyer turned travel blogger as she traded long office hours in Croatia for a digital nomad life and currenly calls France her home.

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One Day in Zadar: Best Things to See and Do in 24 hours

Last Modified: July 22, 2023 //  by  Anda //   29 Comments

Zadar is one of Croatia’s most attractive cities, so we decided to spend the last day of our Balkan itinerary visiting it. Many people visit Zadar as a day trip from Split or from Dubrovnik , but we were concerned that we won’t be able to do too many things in such a short time. Luckily, most of the city’s attractions and historic sites are located in the Old Town area, so we were able to see quite a lot.

Zadar is actually very easy to explore. That’s in part due to its many pedestrian-friendly streets, but also to the fact that most of its attractions are concentrated in small area, so they are easy to discover.

Table of Contents

1. Pass Through the Venetian Land Gate

2. visit the roman forum, 3. walk along the riva, 4. listen to the sea organ.

• 5. Send ‘Greetings to the Sun‘
• 6. Visit the Five Wells Square 

7. Stroll Through People’s Square

8. visit zadar cathedral, best things to do in zadar in one day.

Here are the best things you can do in Zadar in one day:

One of the first things you’ll probably do in Zadar is pass through the Venetian Land Gate. Once the largest city-fortress in the entire Republic of Venice, Zadar managed to retain its independence more than other neighboring cities due to its strong walls. Today only portions of the walls and eight gates remain.

The most impressive and elaborate one is the Land Gate, which is also the main entrance to the old town. The gate is decorated with a relief of the winged lion of St. Mark and the city’s coat of arms. 

The Forum is a  huge plaza in the middle of Zadar, holding the remains of the city’s Roman forum. The complex of historic churches and pieces of Roman ruins is still the center of civic and religious life in Zadar.

The Riva is a seaside promenade (also called Petra Kresimira IV) that passes through a beautiful waterfront park. The path is actually more like a garden walk that thrives with activity. Here you’ll find vendors’ stalls, traditional a cappella groups singing as they stroll, and people getting their daily exercise. When the weather is hot, people aren’t shy of stripping down their cloths to dip in the water.

Midway along the Riva, you’ll come across  The Sea Organ . This is not actually an organ, but an ingenious work of art that employs air and water movement to make sounds, rather than an organist. The magical ‘music’ is produced by the waves pushing air through 35 underwater pipes. And if you are curious how it sounds, watch this short clip:

The pipes are located underneath a set of large marble steps descending into the sea. The sounds produced are a little haunting, yet enchanting and quite relaxing. Listening to this architectural marvel created by Nikola Bašič is one of the most exciting things to do in Zadar, so you shouldn’t miss it!

5. Send ‘ Greetings to the Sun ‘

Perhaps the most popular attraction in Zadar is the Monument to the Sun , a solar powered work of art that explodes with an array of bright colored lights at night. The lights come from 300 multi-layered glass plates in the shape of a circle that is 22 meters in diameter.

This circle of glass stores the energy created by the sun rays during the day and emits it after dark as a magical light show. The flashing lights accompanied by the sound of the Sea Organ are quite dramatic and unique.

6. Visit the Five Wells Square  

The Five Wells Square dated back to the 16th century on the site of a former moat . The square takes its name from the five wells that supplied Zadar with water until 1838.

Today a beautiful park sits on top of the nearby bastion. The park serves as the gathering board for skateboarders.

This pretty little square is constantly buzzing with people who gather here for a chat and a drink in one of the many cafés. On one side of the square you can see the City Sentinel,  a clock tower that dominates the square since medieval times.

Also in this square is the Renaissance City Loggia , a splendid old building that functions today as an art gallery. 

Also known as the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, Zadar Cathedral was originally constructed in the 9th century by the Byzantines, but it was later rebuilt in Romanesque style.

The cathedral has a very beautiful façade with three entrances and numerous arches, as well two beautiful rose windows. 

Please pin this for later:

DON’T MISS OUT! READ NEXT:

• What Are the Most Beautiful Places in Croatia?
• Cheapest (Yet Beautiful) Countries to Visit in Europe
• 12 Things to Do in Split, Croatia (which are also free!)
• The 5 Most Interesting Things to Do in Nafplio, Greece

Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

Agness of eTramping

June 2, 2017 at 2:58 pm

It seems like you’re really enjoying the Balkans, Anda! Your posts are so inspiring!

Elaine J. Masters

May 10, 2017 at 12:16 am

Thanks for pointing the beauties of Zadar. We just might have to veer that direction. I’d love to see that light display and hear those haunting tones of the ocean organ. Beautiful new theme too, Anda (the old one was as well but I see some new additions. How I need to focus on re-doing mine!) Your recent posts about Croatia are a big help with our trip. Dave and I will be here through June 4th!

Anda Galffy

May 10, 2017 at 12:21 am

How exciting to be traveling to Croatia at this time of year. It’s perfect: not too crowded, yet beautiful weather. Can hardly wait to read about your travels. Have a safe trip.

Bryna | Dotted Line Travels

May 8, 2017 at 8:28 pm

The Venetian Gate looks amazing. I also love the idea of the solar powered art! What a cool idea!

May 8, 2017 at 12:14 pm

Your photos are gorgeous! I only knew about the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun, but now I want to go even more. Hope I can finally visit Croatia soon!

May 8, 2017 at 12:57 pm

Croatia is not too far from you, Vlad. If you decide to go you should drive rather than fly there and go during the low season. It’s going to be less crowded and also cheaper.

May 7, 2017 at 9:01 pm

Looks like it is doable to explore Zadar in one day. I have seen images of Greeting The Sun site – absolutely incredible! Great post, Anda, and as usual, I love your photos 🙂

May 8, 2017 at 1:00 pm

One day in Zadar is definitely not enough to explore the city in depth, but you can at least take note of what’s out there.

Corey at fifi + hop

May 7, 2017 at 4:06 pm

Croatia is a place I’d love to visit some day. I just recently read something on Zadar somewhere, and now your post, so perhaps that’s a sign I really need to try and get there soon!

Lyn aka The Travelling Lindfields

May 7, 2017 at 1:23 am

Zadar looks like a beautiful mix of the old world and the new. I love the idea of a town with something as historic as a Roman Forum and as modern as a solar powered work of art.

May 7, 2017 at 1:19 am

We also spent just one day in Zadar and it was definitely enough. Your picture to the Greeting of the Sun is stunning! Did you get up early to go? Looks like morning. When we went we had a gloomy morning, and by night it was so super crowded we didn’t want to stay till it cleared.

May 7, 2017 at 11:29 am

That picture was actually taken at sunset. We visited Zadar in April, when it’s not very crowded. I wish we could have stayed another day.

Ruth | Tanama Tales

May 6, 2017 at 2:35 pm

Excellent pick for a road trip stop. I am glad this place is not overcrowded even thought it is so beautiful and located next to the sea. Seems like you were able to get a good feel for the city even with limited time.

May 6, 2017 at 7:59 am

Great article and photos. I’m glad I had a few days there, to be nearer the airport after being based in Šibenik and Trogir beforehand. (Loved all three but Zadar was my fave). There’s also a superb green market – as with all Croatian towns, some divine restaurants, regular ferries to Ugljan, Silba, Olib, and other islands, superb bus connections in all directions and it’s no distance to gorgeous Nin, and an easy day trip to Pag, the sheep’s cheese and lace island and to Paklenica national park, for keen climbers, hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. I just loved the feel and vibe of the place, relaxed, friendly but ‘lived in’ – unlike say, Dubrovnik, which has turned into a Disney-esque type attraction. 🙁 Oh, and boat trips to Kornati national park are easily available from Zadar too.

May 6, 2017 at 3:28 pm

Thank you for your comment and for all this information. The few hours I’ve spent in Zadar left me yearning to return to this city and spend more time there. I know know how much more there is to see and do in Zadar, but this time around that was all we could do.

May 6, 2017 at 12:09 am

Can’t believe I hadn’t heard of Zadar before reading this post. Such rich history and beautiful architecture – definitely my kind of place! 🙂

May 6, 2017 at 3:30 pm

Well, I’m glad then you discovered my post. Zadar is one of the most important cities in Croatia and is jam-packed with historic sites and great attractions. Hope you’ll get to see it someday.

Mary {The World Is A Book}

May 5, 2017 at 10:08 pm

You guys had such an epic trip through these countries. Zadar looks absolutely beautiful! I love that Greeting of the Sun and Sea Organ. I don’t know much about Zadar but would love to visit now. It has such great architecture and history.

May 5, 2017 at 4:24 pm

That sunset shot is amazing. I love cities like this that you can explore by foot and just get lost. The sea organ is so neat too. Definitely adding this to my list for my Croatia trip (whenever that happens!)

May 5, 2017 at 6:52 pm

Hope it happens soon, Anisa. Croatia is one of the most beautiful European countries I visited.

May 5, 2017 at 2:46 pm

we visited Zadar and really liked it!! I have almost the same picture as your first one 🙂

May 5, 2017 at 7:00 pm

Hahaha, isn’t that funny? Did you use it in one of your posts about Zadar? I’d love to see it.

May 5, 2017 at 12:13 pm

What a great mix of modern and new – I love the idea of the Sea Organ! I didn’t realize that Zadar had been part of the Republic of Venice, very interesting

May 5, 2017 at 7:06 pm

Zadar is just around the corner from you, Sure. A good reason to go see it yourself.

May 5, 2017 at 1:09 am

I spent most of Zadar in bed recovering from the food poisoning that I got in Dubrovnik from eating seafood. I managed to get up late afternoon (we spent 2 nights there) and fell in love with the sea organ! It would have been a good place for cycling had I been feeling fitter. I don’t think you need more than a day there. Lovely photos.

May 5, 2017 at 7:15 pm

Ah, what a nightmare! I had food poisoning once from seafood in New York. Interestingly enough, at one of the most famous restaurants in Manhattan, but I was the only one who had it out of 7 people who tried the same dish. Which tells me that I am allergic to it. Since then I never tried it again. Thanks for dropping by.

Photo(Geo)grapher

May 4, 2017 at 11:28 pm

Zadar is beautiful. I visited this city two years ago and was delighted.

Alfred Hitchcock said: “Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world, more beautiful than the one in Key West, in Florida, applauded at every evening.” Even if they are not the most beautiful, they are certainly stunning…

May 4, 2017 at 10:05 pm

so many places to discover. sight! Have never been to that part of Europe. Like all places I haven’t been, i’d love to go.

May 4, 2017 at 1:31 pm

I have not been to Zadar. It looks very interesting and small enough to do in a day. I think you made a good choice to break up your drive between Montenegro and Hungary by stopping in this city. I like the sound of the Sea Organ. There is something similar to that in Auckland but it is not nearly as loud.

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Krka National Park

Lozovac, Sibensko-Kninska

Krka National Park is a top Croatia natural wonder, with about 88 square miles (142 square kilometers) of lush woodlands, cascading waterfalls, and travertine cliffs along the banks of the Krka River. Near the Dalmatian coast, Krka is a retreat for hikers, cyclists, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape Croatia’s tourist trail.

Most Krka National Park visitors are day-trippers. Tours run from Split, Sibenik, Trogir, and Dubrovnik, and typically include a walking tour of Skradinski Buk (the park’s largest and the river’s longest waterfall), a boat ride along the Krka River, and hiking or biking along the park’s network of trails. For the best value, combine a small-group or private tour with a visit to Sibenik town or wine tasting in Skradin.

You can see the park highlights in a few hours, but plan at least half a day for a more complete experience.

Lines for park tickets and Skradinski Buk entry can take more than an hour in peak season. Arrive early or book a skip-the-line tour to save time.

Bring comfortable shoes, summer sun protection, and a swimsuit. Water fountains can be found throughout the park.

Most areas of the park are wheelchair accessible, but some waterfalls and attractions are not due to uneven terrain.

Krka National Park is approximately 6 miles (10 kilometers) inland from Sibenik in northern Dalmatia; it is a 40-minute drive from there and about one hour from Split. There are five entrance points to the park: Lozovac, Skradin, Roški Slap/Laskovica, Burnum/Puljane, and Kistanje/Krka Monastery. The most popular entry point for tour buses is Lozovac at the south of the park, while boat cruises start out from Skradin.

Krka National Park is open year-round. Summer is the most popular time to visit, but each season brings its own highlights. Winter is calm and quiet. Spring brings rushing waterfalls and vibrant wildflowers. Summer heat makes swimming refreshing. And autumn colors along the not-as-busy trails are a treat. Off-season (Nov.–Mar.) is the cheapest, quietest time, but boat tours do not operate. In the busy summer, arrive early or stay until sunset.

Krka National Park’s star attraction is the spectacular Skradinski Buk waterfall, a sequence of 17 cascades that tumble 151 feet (46 meters) into a swimming lake. But Skradinski Buk is only one of seven waterfalls at the park, including Brljan Buk, Bilusšic Buk, Roski Slap, and Manojlovac Slap. Additional highlights include the old water mills along the Krka River, the Krnici Gornji viewpoint, Ozidana pećina cave, and Lake Visovac’s island and monastery.

Set aside at least half a day to explore Krka National Park. If you're coming from Split or Zadar, the trip is roughly one hour by car, and while you'd need a full day to see all seven of its waterfalls, you can visit a couple in half a day.

Yes, Krka National Park is absolutely worth visiting. One of Croatia's most popular and celebrated national parks, its series of waterfalls, swimming holes, and hiking trails offer extraordinary scenery. Don't miss the chance to visit Skradinski Buk—the park's most popular network of waterfalls—during your excursion.

That depends—if you want an overview of all seven of Krka National Park's waterfalls, then you do need at least one full day to explore (and more if you plan to do in-depth hiking). But if you're happy visiting a couple highlights, then just half a day is doable.

Yes, you can go to Krka National Park on your own. If you can, renting a car ensures you can reach parts of the park that can only be accessed by road. Alternatively, joining a guided tour makes exploring even easier, and it minimizes any logistical hassle.

That depends—for a general half- or full-day trip, sturdy sneakers with good grip should be satisfactory for exploring Krka National Park, and water shoes are advised if you plan to swim. But if you're embarking on a longer hiking trip, then it's worth investing in a good pair of hiking boots.

Yes, there are numerous toilets in Krka National Park. Those managed by the park itself are always free to use. Note that there are also some privately managed toilets in the park—including one near the popular Skradinski Buk waterfalls—which are not necessarily free to use.

Things To Do Available ( 103 )

Sibenik boat tour with krka national park, st. nicholas fort.

Duration: 5 to 8 hours

Makarska Private Krka NP Tour with Detour

Duration: 7 to 8 hours

Krka waterfalls tour from Split - blue & green oasis

Duration: 8 hours 15 minutes

Split, Trogir to Sibenik, Krka Waterfalls Private Tour, Pickup

Duration: 5 to 10 hours

Krka Waterfalls Private Trip From Split With Wine and Lunch

Duration: 6 to 7 hours

NP Krka waterfalls & Wine tasting - Private day tour from Split

Duration: 6 to 8 hours

Krka, Visovac Monastery, and Sibenik Tour from Split/Trogir

Duration: 4 to 12 hours

Full Day Private Tour To Krka National Park from Dubrovnik

Duration: 13 hours

Krka Waterfalls and Sibenik Day Trip from Zadar

Duration: 9 hours

Split to Krka National Park Group Tour

Duration: 10 hours

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Tour Details

Spend a glorious day on a boat tour to Kornati National Park, together with Nature Park Telašćica & sandy beach Lojena, places where the magic happens.

This group of more than 150 islands and cliffs extending on 320 km will seduce you at first sight as you ride on waves with M/B Arbiana . Stop to swim and explore the beauty of Salt Lake Mir , a miracle located above sea level somehow on the top of Nature Park Telašćica , enjoy the magnificent open panorama view from the vertical cliffs from where your eyes will reach every single point of National Park Kornati or take a swim in the crystal blue sandy beach Lojena inside of Kornati National park.

Pack your swimsuits and towels and we will take care of everything else. Enjoy pristine nature and be a part of the beauty of this pearl of the Adriatic.

For more info read  Natural Wonderlands of Zadar Region – Let Kornati and Telascica be a Part of Your Active Vacation

Departure location:

Zadar city harbor (Liburnska obala) Google Map

Departure time:

08:30 – departure from Zadar Google Map

The crew of the boat ‘ ARBIANA ‘ will meet you in the city harbor next to the bridge, boarding begins at 8:00, the boat will leave at 08:30 and if needed, will stop in the port of Dražanica and in Preko (island of Ugljan).

Price includes:

• National park entrance tickets
• Boat trip and fuel surcharge
• Drinks: welcome drink, wine
• Breakfast - freshly made sandwiches
• Lunch - grilled fish and meat with salad or vegeterian plate
• Local guide
• Live commentary on board
• Children under 3 years of age travel free of charge

What to Expect:

Excursion price:.

• €55 / Adult (Age 13-99)
• €28 / Children (Age 4-12)
• €0 / Infant (Age 3 and younger)

Cancellation Policy

• Cancel up to 1 day in advance for a full refund.

Know Before You Go

• It is preferred to make reservations a few weeks ahead of the trip.
• We recommend to take with you: swimsuit, aqua shoes, towel, snorkeling equipment, sunglasses, sun hat sunscreen, camera & good mood :)

We are not pirates… Yarrrrr

100% SATISFACTION

When you’re happy—we’re happy. If you aren’t 100% satisfied with excursion, let us know! We love hearing your feedback—the good, the bad and the ugly—we’re always looking for new ways to improve.

100% LOWEST PRICES

Best prices in the whole Zadar. Don’t believe it? Come and check out!

Great tour, great opening of the season!

Great tour from Zadar!

Great tour after all, we had a little cloudy day but it was superb after all. The best of all was atmosphere on board, our guide Nina was very kind and knowalable. Thank you and see you next year

We had a wonderful experience with this particular excursion. Salt lake is something significant to see and super recommended. Crews are super welcome and friendly, and fish mmm, I really started to like dalmatian cuisine.

Celine (France)

Une excursion sympa à faire avec 3 escales dont une où l’on peut se baigner dans une mer turquoise, les paysages sont magnifiques. Sur le bateau la guide était gentille, elle nous a accueilli avec un petit verre de vodka à 8h du matin “ai! ai!”, par contre personne ne parle le francais, vers 10h on nous sert un sandwich et le repas du midi était simple mais bon (poisson ou côté de porc grillé).

Staying COVID-secure

We confirm we have complied with the government’s guidance on managing the risk of COVID-19.

We are open and here to serve you as best as we can.

See you on board.

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