The sunset in Zadar

Best Things To Do in Zadar

Sightseeing and Museums in Zadar

The old town is small and easy to explore by foot and you shouldn’t miss the following sites: St. Donat’s Church, Cathedral of St. Anastasia, Land Gate and Walls, Church of St. Chrysogonus, St Mary Church and Convent, St Simeon’s Church, Archaeological Museum, Permanent Exhibition of Religious Art, Museum of Ancient Glass, Archbishop’s Palace, Treasury of Franciscan. You can choose between several tours to discover historical Zadar:

• ZADAR CITY TOUR 90 MIN WALK
• ZADAR HISTORICAL GUIDED WALKING TOUR

Walking Around Zadar’s Ancient Squares

The Five Wells Square (Trg pet bunara) with five wells lined up in a row. Once, in the 16th century, a huge drinking water tank with five ornamental wellheads was built on the square to help Zadar to survive Turkish attacks.

People’s Square (Narodni trg) is the heart of the old town lined with caffe bars and small shops, where locals gather through the centuries. The People’s Square is a home of The Venetian City Hall, Ethnographic Museum and Church of St. Lawrence.

Roman Forum is one of the main squares in Zadar with ancient history and Roman ruins. It is built between 1st century BC to the 3rd century AD, and it  represents an example of forum complex of public life in ancient Roman Empire.

The Main Street – Kalelarga

Jump into the crowd and promenade along Kalelarga Street (The Wide Strret) – the main artery of Zadar’s Old town lined with bars, restaurants, fashion shops and galleries.This vibrant street of Zadar goes right through its heart, spreading from People’s Square to the Forum, seemingly splitting the Zadar Peninsula in half. Many famous Zadar monuments are situated nearby, including The Greeting to the Sun, and the The Sea Organ. Explore Zadar by getting around or just take a seat, have a drink and enjoy „people watching“.

Listen to The Sea Organ Music

This is one of the biggest attractions in the whole Croatia. From above it looks like marble steps leading to the sea, but something much more phenomenal is happening down there:  the Sea Organ is an installation of narrow channels connected to 35 organ pipes playing different notes from the wave energy and producing beautiful random music.

No chaotic tones, just real music that you’ll enjoy and come back to listen every day during your stay in Zadar. The Sea Organ installation won the European Prize for Urban Public Space 2006.

The Pentagonal Captain’s Tower

The Pentagonal Captain’s Tower is much better known as Bablja Kula, located on The Five Wells Square, built by the Venetians to strengthen the town from Turkish attacks. Today it’s used as an exhibition place with possible climbing to the tower’s terrace for the best view over the whole town and nearby islands!

Watching the Sunset at The Greeting to the Sun

Another big attraction of Zadar, located just next to The Sea Organ, is a contemporary art installation The Greeting to the Sun – the best possible spot for the most beautiful sunset view in the world.

The installation includes three hundred multi-layered glass plates covering 22 m diameter, absorbing the Sun rays during the day and activates the lighting elements in the circle at the sunset to produce an imposing show of light.  

Discover Zadar by Bike Tour or Tuk – Tuk

Consider to take Zadar tour by bike to learn about 3000 year history of the city and find out important tips and secrets for your better city experience whilst on holidays in Zadar at the same time. Or you can explore Zadar by  Tuk Tuk: Zadar Panorama guided tour eco tuk tuk

Watch out! The Sphinx is sitting in Zadar’s garden!

Zadar is full of surprises – in the garden of Villa Attilia you can face the Sphinx built by local artist and historian Giovanni Smirich who dedicated this statue to his wife Attilia. The Sphinx is located in the Bay of Maestral.

Join the Annual “Millennium Jump” into the Sea

Every July thousands of enthusiasts dive into the sea from the waterfront in Zadar’s city center. For this unique experience you’ll need an accreditation that is available for everyone –just look for it at Zadar’s squares few days before you jump.

Take a Barkajoli Ride

The gondoliers are in Venice, the Barkajoli are in Zadar! The Barkajoli have been connecting two ends of Zadar’s port for more than 800 years with their small rowboats. Their tradition has been passed on from father to son for centuries and has survived many challenges of modern times. Just take a Barkajoli ride for different perspective of Zadar, or for pure fun.

Get Confused in The Museum of Illusions

Enter the fascinating world of illusion which will trick your confidence in senses, but amaze you by doing it; the world that will confuse you completely, but also educate you… nothing is what it seems in The Museum of Illusions. It’s open every day from 9am till midnight in summer season.

Things to do in Zadar: The Museum of Illusions

The Best Day Trips from Zadar

Exploring the Islands of Zadar Archipelago

The islands of Zadar Archipelago – Ugljan, Pašman, Silba, Dugi Otok, Molat – are gems of untouched nature with stunning beaches and crystal sea you can easily reach by Jadrolinija ferry or local boat operator Mia Tours.

For more info on ferries in Croatia check our Getting around Croatia by ferry page and Jadrolinija ferry schedule.

If you prefer to join a guided day trip by boat to the Islands of Zadar Archipelago, you can choose between many excursions organized by local agencies and some of these fantastic experiences you can BOOK HERE:

Discover Famous Sandy Beach – Sakarun on Dugi Otok Island (Long Island)

Spend a day to remember and take a private boat trip to famous Sakarun Beach. Set off from Zadar and explore the beauty of Long Island in style with this private speedboat adventure. Don’t worry about rigid itineraries—as it’s a private tour, the schedule is flexible and completely customizable based on your preferences. Places to visit include Cave Golubinka, Veli Zal, and Saharun beaches, with free time to go snorkeling near a sunken vessel too.

Read more about this amazing private boat tour and BOOK HERE: Private speedboat tour – Sakarun beach, Dugi otok, Golubinka Cave

Sailing to Kornati Archipelago National Park

Kornati Archipelago of 89 islands, islets and reefs is a hot sailing destination in Croatia. Spectacular raw beauty, untouched nature and crystal clear water attract yachting and sailing enthusiasts, scuba diving fans and numerous other visitors interested in the experience of this sea attraction.

Don’t miss sailing around Kornati Archipelago if you stay somewhere in Zadar region. Join one of sailing excursions organized by local tourist agencies for your perfect sailing experience. You can book one of fantastic boat trips HERE:

• HELLO KORNATI – SMALL GROUP DAY TRIP TO KORNATI
• EXCURSION TO KORNATI NATIONAL PARK 
• KORNATI AND TELAŠICA BAY WITH LUNCH
• KORNATI ISLANDS SNORKELING EXCURSION 

Day trip to Kornati Archipelago

The Old Town of Nin

Nin – the old town nearby Zadar is located on the small island in the middle of shallow lagoon connected to the mainland by two stone bridges. Nin is small but very exciting – it’s famous for its 3000 years history, sandy beaches, rewarded Zaton Holiday Resort, birdwatching, a salt factory and open activities possibilities. If going to Nin, don’t miss to visit Salt Museum of Nin and take home a piece of premium salt. One of the best sandy beaches is in Nin – Queen’s Beach (Kraljična plaža). You can combine a tour of Zadar and Nin if you join this tour: 2 in 1 ZADAR CITY TOUR & NIN.

Adventure at Zrmanja River

Inland from Zadar, the emerald-green Zrmanja River is a white-water playground for rafters and kayakers. Originating in the Velebit Mountains, the Zrmanja flows for 43 miles (69 kilometers through spectacular limestone canyons before emptying into the Adriatic Sea. Visitors are drawn to the rivers’s crystal-clear water, hidden swimming holes, and picturesque waterfalls. Book your adventure HERE:

• KAYAKING AT ZRMANJA RIVER
• CANOE SAFARI RAFTING ON ZRMANJA RIVER
• PHOTO SAFARI THROUGH THE WINNETOU CANYON

Amazing Krka Waterfalls National Park Near Šibenik

If you are a waterfalls fan, Croatia is a top choice to visit – not just for an art of nature Plitvice Lake, but also for Krka Waterfalls National Park located less than an hour drive from Zadar on south. Krka National Park is a spectacular natural attraction of Krka River and its seven magnificent waterfalls and total drop attitude of 242 meters. The most famous waterfall of all is Skradinski Buk – the magnificent collection of 17 waterfalls that range in height by over 45 meters is one of Croatia’s most visited sites.  Roški slap is another waterfall attraction consisting of 12 waterfalls in a space of 450 meters.

• KRKA WATERFALLS FROM ZADAR – TICKETS RESERVED, SIMPLE AND EASY
• KRKA WATERFALLS AND ŠIBENIK DAY TRIP FROM ZADAR 
• KRKA WATERFALLS EXCURSION 
• KRKA WATERFALLS PRIVATE TOUR – PICK UP INCLUDED

Discover Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park  is an outstanding natural phenomenon of 16 lakes inter-connected by over 90 magnificent waterfalls, many caves and caverns, and set in deep woodland populated by deer, bears, wolves, boars and rare bird species. The lakes are divided in two groups – 12 Upper Lakes and 4 Lower Lakes. You can get there in your arrangement but if you do not feel like diving you can join an excursion organized by local tourist agency or book online your Day trip to Plitvice Lakes via global company Viator.

• PLITVICE LAKES GUIDED TOUR WITH PRE BOOKED TICKETS 
• PLITVICE LAKES DAY TRIP FROM ZADAR WITH A GUIDE – SIMPLE, COMFORTABLE AND SAFE
• PLITVICE LAKES PRIVATE FULL DAY TOUR

Trekking and Climbing Around Paklenica National Park

Paklenica National Park is the most attractive part of southern Mountain Velebit for trekking and rock climbing. Paklenica National Park is a pilgrimage spot for climbing enthusiasts, but there’s plenty to experience for travelers of all stripes. Here, you’ll find two massive canyons, the Mala Paklenica Educational Center, which has displays about local flora, a few old abandoned village structures, a cave, and plenty of hiking opportunities.

• PRIVATE PAKLENICA HIKING TOUR FROM ZADAR 

Visit Mostar and Međugorje in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Take a day trip to Međugorje, a Catholic center where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared, and historical old town of Mostar, a meeting point of different cultures and religion on the Balkan with its famous city symbol –the old bridge from Ottoman Era.
Read more about Mostar and Međugorje private tour from Zadar and BOOK ONLINE.

6 Tips for Day Trips from Zadar in Your Own Arrangement

If you prefer to travel in your arrangement more than in organized tour, here are some tips for your better travelling experience:

TIP 1. If you travel by car, you can easily reach many coastal places by hitting the main motorway A1 in any direction: to the South – towns Šibenik or Trogir UNESCO World Heritage Site  and incredible Split, as well as many other small coastal towns and settlements.
TIP 2. If you consider visiting Šibenik don’t miss to explore nearby Krka Waterfalls.
TIP 3. Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park from Zadar is definitely worth of your 120 km ride and crossing to other side of Velebit Mountain.
TIP 4. If you plan a day trip to the islands of Zadar Archipelago – Ugljan, Pašman, Silba, Dugi Otok or Molat, the best way to explore the island is by scooter but you can just get there and enjoy a day on the beach.
TIP 5. For buying ferry tickets for islands in Zadar Archipelago go to national company Jadrolinija, or you can board a catamaran from company Mia Tours operating from Zadar to the islands of Premuda, Silba and Olib.
TIP 6. Finally, if you plan to make your day trips by bus, there are numerous bus companies travelling to all places around and you just have to pick a date and time. For more information check bus timetables on official Zadar Bus Terminal web.

Getting to Zadar – Where is Zadar and How to Get There

Getting to Zadar is easy by air, car or bus. It’s perfectly located – when you drive from the North on A1 motorway called Dalmatina, just after passing tunnel through Velebit Mountain you are almost there – Zadar is just below the mountain.

If you prefer flying, numerous European airlines service their flights to Zadar Airport during the summer season. You can fly to Zadar from Zagreb Airport as well.

Getting to Zadar directly by ferry from Ancona in Italy is possible only in summer with national company Jadrolinija, other times in year you need to get from Ancona to Split by ferry first and then travel by bus to Zadar (less than two hours drive).

Read more on getting to Zadar on our Travelling to Northern Dalmatia page.

Car Rentals in Zadar

Renting a car for travelling around Zadar is great idea! The motorway A1 will take you to numerous fantastic places in any direction, on North or South. The most important is to plan your travelling in advance and book your car on time, especially in main summer season!

Before you hit the road, get to know General Croatian traffic law, toll charges, your driving license validity, Green Card Car Insurance, etc. All these answers and more information for your better driving experience and safety, you’ll find on our Car Rentals in Croatia page.

Download FREE CROATIA TRAFFIC INFO APP from Croatian Auto Club from iTunes with detailed traffic and travel information including roadside assistance service (available in English, Italian, German and Croatian).

Need a car? You can compare car rental deals and book easily your car at lowest rate HERE.

Accommodation in Zadar – Where to Stay

In Zadar you’ll find all types of accommodation for all budgets and tastes – hotels, resorts, private apartments and villas – you can choose from luxurious to affordable holiday spending.

The most of our accommodation selection is located in the heart of the city for your best experience of easy exploring sites and attractions, shops, bars, fine dining and street food restaurants.

Falkensteiner Hotel Adriana 
Falkensteiner Hotel Adriana is a deluxe base in Zadar. The location and ambience are superb – an English garden, right by the sea with year-round sunshine. The on-site restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine in a charming setting. Each evening, guests are invited to enjoy a drink in the cosy lounge bar.

Hotel Kolovare 
Hotel Kolovare is located within a 10-minute walk of city center, in the area called Kolovare (on south from city center). Hotel Kolovare is a great base while visiting Zadar with the beach just below the hotel.

Hotel Bastion Hotel Bastion is a stunning boutique hotel located in old town on Venetian castellum from 13th century. This amazing hotel offers luxury rooms, two beautiful terraces and wellness centre.

Beaches in Zadar

Take a break from all this fabulous sites and places in Old town and hit one of the popular beaches for relax or fun.

Kolovare Beach – a pebbled public city beach south from city center, surrounded by pine trees giving you shade in hot summer days. Along 2 km of Kolovare beach you can swim in clear sea and enjoy a high quality of services and facilities.

Puntamika Beach – a pebbled beach with the wonderful view over the Zadar, located on Puntamika peninsula, just next to the lighthouse.

Borik Beach – a mixed pebbled-sandy beach located in northern part of Zadar with waterpark, few bars and many water sports. This is a great beach for families with kids, where the popular hotels in Croatia, Falkensteiner Club Funimation and Falkensteiner Hotel Adriana are located.

Dražica Beach – a pebbled beach located just 5 minute walk from city center.

Vitrenjak Beach – a small family beach near the sailing club in Zadar.

Diklo – a beach area in peaceful Zadar’s residential area of Diklo, a perfect place to relax and swim, or enjoy sport activities.

Zaton Beach – a pebbled-sandy beach with all facilities you need for a perfect day on the beach, located just a few kilometers away from Zadar to the north, in the famous Zaton Holiday Resort, the owner of many international tourism awards.

Soline Beach – beautiful sandy beach with pine trees is a great place for families with kids, located in Soline camp in Biograd area.

Pinija Beach – located 12 km to the north from Zadar in settlement Petrčane.

Crvena Luka Beach – beautiful pebbled beach surrounded by pines, located 7 km to the southeast of Biograd.

Sandy Beaches of Nin

The Royal Beach, Zdrijac, Zaton Holiday Resort Beach and Prodorica are famous sandy beaches of town of Nin, all with Blue Flag and suitable for all ages, especially for kids. The Queen’s Beach, also called Nin’s Lagoon, is 3 km long sandy beach with dunes and incredible view over The Velebit Mountain at the mainland.

Amazing Beaches of Zadar’s Archipelago

Dugi Otok Island – Sakarun sandy Beach
Novalja, Pag Island – Zrće beach (the biggest party beach in Croatia)
Ugljan Island – Mala Lamjana Beach, Uvala Luka, Jelenica Kukljica Beach, Sabusa Beach
Pašman Island Beaches
St. Catherine Island – nudist beach FKK (reachable only by rent a boat)