Zadar is a compact coastal city where Roman ruins, medieval churches and modern art installations meet the Adriatic Sea. It is one of the main gateways to northern Dalmatia, with easy access to islands, beaches and national parks. This makes Zadar an excellent choice for city breaks, relaxed holidays and road trips along the Croatian coast. Zadar easily fits into most Croatia itineraries, whether you stay for a weekend or a full week.
In this guide, discover where Zadar is, what the old town is like, the best things to do, where to swim, top day trips and practical tips for planning your stay.
Where is Zadar in Croatia?
Zadar lies on the Adriatic coast in northern Dalmatia. The historic city centre sits on a small peninsula connected to the mainland by bridges and a modern harbour area.
It lies between Rijeka and Split, south of Rijeka and north of Split, and is the main urban centre of Zadar County. The location is ideal if you want a base between famous sites like Plitvice Lakes, Krka National Park, Pag Island and the Kornati archipelago.
Zadar is easy to place on the Croatia map. Look for the middle section of the coast, under the Velebit mountain range and opposite a group of small islands. From here, boats and ferries fan out in many directions.
Why visit Zadar
Zadar offers a mix of history, culture, sea views and modern design. It feels lived-in and local, yet tourist friendly. For many visitors it is less crowded than Split and Dubrovnik, but still packed with things to see and do.
It brings together sunset views, café culture and island day trips into an easy, manageable base on the Adriatic.
Reasons to visit Zadar include:
A walkable old town packed with Roman, medieval and Venetian heritage
Unique modern attractions like the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun
City beaches and easy access to sandy bays nearby
Boat trips to islands and national parks
Good connections by air, road and sea
A relaxed atmosphere with plenty of cafés, bars and konobas
If you are planning a route along the coast, Zadar is a great stop on a longer Croatia road trip. It also works well as a base for at least three or four nights.
Zadar old town: history, sights and main attractions
Zadar old town sits on a compact peninsula surrounded by historic city walls. Inside, you find layers of history in a tight network of stone-paved streets, squares and churches.
Walk through the main Land Gate and you enter a world of Roman ruins, medieval bell towers and Venetian palaces. At the same time, there are small boutiques, cafés and modern art details around every corner.
Land Gate and city walls
Start your visit at the Land Gate, the most ornate entrance into the old town. Built in the 16th century under Venetian rule, it shows the winged lion of St Mark and classic defensive details.
From here, it is easy to see how important Zadar once was as a fortified city. The surrounding city walls, part of a wider Venetian defence system, are now on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
As you walk along the edge of the peninsula, look for bastions, gates and viewpoints over the harbour. The walls now form a pleasant green belt and promenade instead of a military structure.
Roman Forum and Church of St Donatus
The Roman Forum is one of the most striking places in Zadar. It sits right next to the sea, with broken columns, stone slabs and carvings from the ancient city.
Above the ruins rises the round Church of St Donatus. This early medieval church, built in the 9th century, is one of the symbols of Zadar. Its simple stone walls and circular shape create a strong presence over the forum.
Today, the church is used for concerts and special events. Even if you do not go inside, it is worth walking all around it to take in the contrast between ancient Roman stones and early medieval architecture.
St Anastasia Cathedral and views from the bell tower
Not far from the forum stands St Anastasia Cathedral, the largest church in Dalmatia. The Romanesque façade and rose windows stand over a small square, often busy with tour groups and local life.
Inside, the cathedral feels light and airy. For many visitors, the real highlight is the bell tower. Climb the steps and you are rewarded with one of the best views of Zadar old town, the harbour and nearby islands.
Squares, streets and everyday Zadar
Zadar is a city of squares. As you walk, you will pass People’s Square, Five Wells Square and several smaller open spaces where locals meet and children play.
Five Wells Square, with its row of old stone wells, reminds you how important water once was to the fortified city. Today it is a pleasant place to sit, rest and enjoy a coffee.
The city’s most famous street is Kalelarga, also known as Široka ulica. This long, straight street runs across the peninsula and is lined with shops, cafés and gelato stands. It is ideal for evening walks and people watching.
Museums and churches in Zadar
Beyond the main landmarks, Zadar has several museums and churches worth adding to your itinerary.
The Archaeological Museum presents artefacts from prehistory to the Middle Ages. It is a good place to deepen your understanding of the city’s long history.
The Museum of Ancient Glass is more unusual. Housed in a historic palace, it shows a large collection of Roman glass and glass objects from other periods. Demonstrations of traditional glass-blowing techniques add a live element.
For religious art, look for exhibitions of gold and silver objects linked to the city’s churches, as well as small chapels and monasteries scattered around the old town. Many are quiet spaces away from the busier streets.
Taken together, Zadar old town feels like an open-air museum you can explore at your own pace. Spend at least half a day between squares, churches and the waterfront. If you like more context, join a guided walking tour with a local guide.
Waterfront, Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun
Zadar’s waterfront is one of its most memorable features. The long seaside promenade, or Riva, wraps around the old town with open views of the sea and islands.
Here, modern design meets natural elements. At the tip of the peninsula you find two unique installations by architect Nikola Bašić: the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun.
Sea Organ
The Sea Organ is a set of steps and pipes built into the waterfront. As waves move under the steps, air flows through the pipes and creates random but gentle sounds.
You can sit on the wide stone steps, listen to the music of the sea and watch boats and ferries pass by. It is especially atmospheric at sunset, when the light softens and the sound seems to float over the water.
Greeting to the Sun
Next to the Sea Organ lies the Greeting to the Sun, also called the Sun Salutation. It is a large circular installation made of glass panels and solar cells.
During the day, the panels collect energy from the sun. After dark, the surface lights up in colourful patterns and sequences. Children love to run across it, while adults enjoy the playful light show against the night sky.
Sunsets in Zadar
Zadar is often praised for its sunsets. On clear evenings, the sun sinks behind the silhouettes of the islands and paints the sky in deep colours.
The best place to watch the sunset is along the waterfront near the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun. Many people gather there every evening, turning it into a relaxed open-air event.
Beaches and places to swim in and near Zadar
While Zadar is best known for its history and waterfront, you also have plenty of places to swim.
City beaches in Zadar
Within walking or short bus distance from the centre, you will find several city beaches.
Kolovare Beach is the classic choice. It stretches along the coast south of the old town and offers concrete platforms, pebble sections, shade from trees and easy access to cafés and beach bars. It is popular with both locals and visitors.
To the north, Borik Beach is part of a larger hotel and resort area. It offers a mix of pebbles, small sandy sections, platforms and water sports. This area is ideal if you are staying in seafront hotels or apartments.
Nearby Puntamika and Punta Bajlo offer more relaxed alternatives with views of the city and islands.
Sandy beaches near Zadar
If you are looking for softer sand underfoot, plan a short trip beyond the city.
The small town of Nin, north of Zadar, is famous for its long, shallow sandy bays such as Queen’s Beach. Warm, shallow water makes this area very popular with families and young children.
Further away, the island of Dugi Otok hides Sakarun Beach, one of the most photogenic sandy bays in northern Dalmatia. You can visit Sakarun on a day trip from Zadar by boat and bus, or as part of a wider island stay.
Remember that along most of the Zadar coast, beaches are pebbly or rocky with clear water. Water shoes can make swimming more comfortable.
Islands, national parks and the Zadar archipelago
One of the main reasons travellers choose Zadar is its position among islands and national parks. It is a perfect base for boat trips and nature excursions.
Kornati National Park
South of Zadar lies Kornati National Park, a dense group of rocky islands and islets often described as a “nautical paradise”. The landscape is stark but beautiful, with dry stone walls, cliffs and hidden bays.
Most visitors join an organised boat tour from Zadar. These full-day trips usually include cruising among the islands, swimming stops and lunch on board or in a simple restaurant.
Telašćica Nature Park
Adjacent to Kornati is Telašćica Nature Park, located on the southern tip of Dugi Otok. The park is known for its deep bay, high cliffs and a saltwater lake.
Some tours combine Kornati and Telašćica in one day, while others focus on one area. Either way, you get a strong feeling of wild nature and open sea just a few hours from Zadar.
Dugi Otok, Ugljan and other nearby islands
Dugi Otok is the largest island in the Zadar archipelago. It offers quiet villages, bays, hiking trails and the already mentioned Sakarun Beach. You can reach it by ferry or catamaran from Zadar and explore by car, bike or scooter.
Closer to the city, Ugljan Island sits directly opposite Zadar. Regular ferries make it easy to visit for a day of walking, swimming and cycling through olive groves and small settlements.
Pag Island, known for its lunar landscapes, beaches and cheese, and smaller islands like Pašman and Iž are also within reach from Zadar.
National parks near Zadar: Plitvice Lakes and Krka
Two of Croatia’s most famous national parks are within day-trip distance from Zadar.
Plitvice Lakes National Park lies inland, in a forested karst region full of turquoise lakes and waterfalls. From Zadar, you can reach the park by car, bus or guided tour. A full day is enough to follow the marked routes and enjoy views from wooden walkways and paths.
Krka National Park, located near Ĺ ibenik, offers another series of waterfalls, riverside paths and viewpoints. Boat rides on the Krka River and visits to historic mills and monasteries add variety.
If you prefer to avoid driving, several agencies in Zadar offer organised day trips to both parks, with transport and guiding included.
Other day trips from Zadar
Beyond national parks and islands, you can use Zadar as a base for exploring historic towns and coastal landscapes.
Nin, with its tiny island old town and long sandy beaches, makes a relaxing half-day or full-day trip.
Ĺ ibenik, south of Zadar, is a charming stone town with a UNESCO-listed cathedral and two restored fortresses overlooking the sea.
To the north you can follow the coast or inland roads to explore Pag Island, the Velebit mountains and small villages.
How many days do you need in Zadar?
You can get a first impression of Zadar in a single day, especially if you focus on the old town, waterfront and a short sunset stroll along the promenade.
However, most visitors find that two or three days work much better. This gives you time to explore the main sights, fit in a museum or two, relax at a city beach and enjoy evenings on the Riva.
If you plan to add boat trips or national park excursions, think about a stay of four to five days or longer. Zadar can then become your comfortable base between active days and slower pauses.
Who is Zadar good for?
Zadar appeals to many types of travellers.
Couples appreciate the mix of romantic sunsets, historic streets, waterfront walks and bars for evening drinks.
Families enjoy the safe, walkable centre, relaxed city beaches and easy day trips to sandy bays and islands. Children usually love the Sea Organ, the light show of the Greeting to the Sun and boat excursions.
Backpackers and budget travellers find hostels, apartments and affordable food options, especially outside the main summer peak.
Zadar also suits road trippers and island hoppers who want a practical base between stops.
Where to stay in Zadar
Zadar offers a good range of accommodation, from simple hostels to boutique hotels and seafront resorts.
Your ideal base depends on how you travel. Couples often prefer the old town. Families like coastal districts with beaches and pools. Road trippers choose apartments or villas with easy parking.
Zadar old town
Staying in the old town means you are close to most sights, restaurants and bars. You can walk everywhere and enjoy the atmosphere from early morning to late evening.
Accommodation in the old town is mainly in smaller hotels, guesthouses and apartments. Rooms can be compact, and parking is usually outside the historic core.
Borik, Puntamika and other coastal areas
If you prefer more space and direct access to the sea, look at Borik, Puntamika and other coastal districts north of the centre.
Here you will find seafront hotels, family resorts and many holiday apartments, often with balconies and shared pools. These areas are linked to the old town by local buses, taxis and walking paths along the sea.
Further along the coast and in nearby villages you will find villas with pools, campsites and quieter apartment clusters. These suit longer stays and guests with a car.
Top Rated Hotels in Zadar
🔍Hotel Sky
Review score & reviews: 9.0/10 – 1,690 reviews
Short description: Located in a quiet residential part of Zadar, about 2 km from the Old Town. Modern, comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, LCD satellite TV and free Wi-Fi. A great fit for couples, drivers and business travellers wanting calm surroundings.
Neighborhood/landmark: Residential area, approx. 1.2 miles from city centre.
Key facilities: Air-conditioned rooms, LCD satellite TV, free Wi-Fi.
Why it stands out: Excellent value and friendly service just outside the city core.🔍Hotel Delfin
Review score & reviews: 9.0/10 – 1,160 reviews
Short description: Mediterranean-style hotel in the Diklo district, only a few steps from the sea. Features en-suite rooms and a cosy covered terrace restaurant. Ideal for couples and mature travellers seeking a peaceful seaside stay.
Neighborhood/landmark: Diklo area, directly on the seafront.
Key facilities: Private bathrooms, outdoor terrace restaurant, seafront setting.
Why it stands out: A charming, intimate waterfront hotel with a relaxed local feel.🔍Hyatt Regency Zadar
Review score & reviews: 9.4/10 – 325 reviews
Short description: A new upscale hotel just a short walk from Maestrala Beach. Offers contemporary rooms, a restaurant, bar, terrace and private parking. Guests highlight the pool, spa, excellent dining and spacious rooms—ideal for couples and premium leisure travellers.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near Maestrala Beach and close to the seafront promenade.
Key facilities: Pool, spa, terrace, restaurant, bar, private parking.
Why it stands out: A luxury beach-adjacent hotel with full spa and resort facilities.🔍Miramare Hotel
Review score & reviews: 9.0/10 – 975 reviews
Short description: Located near Kolovare Beach and a 15-minute walk from Zadar Old Town. Features a seasonal outdoor pool, terrace, restaurant and free private parking—great for families and couples wanting both beach and pool access.
Neighborhood/landmark: Kolovare Beach area, walking distance to Old Town.
Key facilities: Seasonal outdoor pool, free private parking, terrace, restaurant.
Why it stands out: Combines beach proximity with a modern pool hotel atmosphere.🔍Almayer Art & Heritage Adults Only Hotel and Dépendance Rooms
Review score & reviews: 9.0/10 – 540 reviews
Short description: A boutique adults-only property located in Zadar’s Old Town. Offers individually styled rooms with strong design character, plus an on-site bar and restaurant—perfect for couples and solo travellers seeking an atmospheric heritage stay.
Neighborhood/landmark: Old Town Zadar, close to main historic sites.
Key facilities: Adults-only stay, on-site bar and restaurant.
Why it stands out: A stylish and intimate heritage boutique hotel in the heart of the old city.
Top Rated Villas in Zadar
🔍Holiday Home Don
Review score & reviews: 9.8 – Exceptional (100+ reviews)
Short description: A standalone one-bedroom house in a quiet residential part of Zadar, about a 10–15 minute walk from the Old Town and seafront. Bright, modern and fully equipped, with a terrace and small garden. Best for couples or a small family who want privacy close to the centre.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near Maestrala Beach and the Palace of the Governor General.
Key facilities: Free private parking, free Wi-Fi, kitchen, washing machine, terrace, garden, BBQ, air conditioning, pet-friendly, family rooms.
Why it stands out: A cozy private house with exceptional cleanliness, warm hosts and a top location.🔍House “Mediterrian spirit” with jacuzzi in Zadar
Review score & reviews: 9.7 – Exceptional (25 reviews)
Short description: A large four-bedroom villa with stylish Mediterranean decor, big living spaces and a private jacuzzi terrace. Set in a peaceful residential area just a short drive from Zadar Old Town. Ideal for bigger families or groups of friends who want comfort and space.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near central Zadar and the main sights.
Key facilities: Free private parking, fast Wi-Fi, jacuzzi, terrace, balcony, garden, air conditioning, washing machine, indoor and outdoor play areas, airport shuttle.
Why it stands out: A beautifully decorated villa that feels both luxurious and homely.🔍Villa Lisinski
Review score & reviews: 9.6 – Exceptional (31 reviews)
Short description: A spacious 4-star holiday home with five bedrooms and three bathrooms, split into two apartments in one house. Offers a sun terrace, garden and outdoor fireplace. Perfect for large families or multiple couples travelling together.
Neighborhood/landmark: Excellent central location near Maestrala Beach, Zadar National Museum and the Old Town.
Key facilities: Free private parking, free Wi-Fi, kitchen, terrace, balcony, BBQ, washing machine, air conditioning, family rooms, outdoor fireplace.
Why it stands out: A big, super-clean villa in one of Zadar’s best-rated areas, praised for comfort and hosting.🔍HACIENDA MIA with pool, BBQ, free parking
Review score & reviews: 8.9 – Fabulous (38 reviews)
Short description: A classic three-bedroom villa with a large private pool, sun terrace and outdoor BBQ area. Modern interior, spacious rooms and a fully equipped kitchen make it ideal for families or groups seeking a “pool holiday” atmosphere.
Neighborhood/landmark: Located in Zadar (Ive Kerdića), around 2 km from the Old Town and Maestrala Beach.
Key facilities: Outdoor pool, free private parking, free Wi-Fi, kitchen, garden views, BBQ facilities, terrace, family rooms, air conditioning, private beach area.
Why it stands out: A fun villa with a great pool area and highly praised hosts.🔍Kuća za odmor Nikola
Review score & reviews: 9.2 – Superb (11 reviews)
Short description: A charming stone-style one-bedroom holiday home with sea views, a terrace and a peaceful garden setting. Smaller but very cozy, with thoughtful details and excellent cleanliness. Best for couples or a small family looking for a quiet coastal base.
Neighborhood/landmark: Jovići Zapadni, a calm coastal area near a top-rated local beach and within driving distance of Zadar and Paklenica.
Key facilities: Free private parking, free Wi-Fi, terrace with sea view, kitchen, washing machine, dishwasher, microwave, air conditioning.
Why it stands out: A warm, welcoming little house with exceptional hosts and a home-like atmosphere.
Top Rated B&B in Zadar
🔍Mirabilis Residence
Review score & reviews: 9.5 (102 reviews)
Short description: Elegant B&B in a quiet residential part of Zadar with modern, hotel-style rooms and a boutique feel. Guests enjoy a seasonal outdoor pool, garden and terrace, plus spotless rooms with flat-screen TV and quality linens. Best for couples and travellers who like a calm base with higher-end comfort and excellent breakfast.
Neighborhood/landmark: Put Plovanije area, about 2.3 km from Zadar centre and 2.9 km from Maestrala Beach, convenient for drivers and day trips.
Key facilities: Outdoor pool, free private parking, free Wi-Fi, airport transfer, non-smoking rooms, terrace, garden, room service, air conditioning, buffet or continental breakfast.
Why it stands out: Combines very high guest ratings with a stylish pool area and a quiet but accessible location.🔍Villa Liburnum
Review score & reviews: 9.3 (642 reviews)
Short description: Modern B&B with a pool on a slightly elevated hill above Zadar, around 2.5 km from the Old Town. Bright, contemporary rooms come with air conditioning, balcony, LCD satellite TV, floor heating, safe and minibar, and breakfast is served with views. Best for couples, drivers and small families who do not mind a short drive or taxi to the centre.
Neighborhood/landmark: Put Plovanije 15, residential hillside area east of the Old Town, about a 5–10 minute drive to the city walls.
Key facilities: Outdoor swimming pool, free parking, free Wi-Fi, airport shuttle, non-smoking rooms, terrace, garden, room service, tea and coffee maker in all rooms, highly rated breakfast.
Why it stands out: Strong pool and breakfast combination with hotel-style comfort in a quiet area, ideal for guests touring by car.🔍Luxury rooms Zadar old town
Review score & reviews: 8.5 (785 reviews)
Short description: Stylish city-break B&B right in the pedestrianised heart of Zadar’s Old Town. Compact but comfortable rooms feature private bathroom, fridge, desk and modern finishes, with self-check-in and responsive host communication. Perfect for couples and solo travellers who want to walk everywhere and do not need on-site dining or a pool.
Neighborhood/landmark: Ulica Biskupa Jurja Divnića 2, in the centre of the Old Town, a few minutes’ walk from People’s Square, the Roman Forum and the seafront.
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, private bathroom, nearby public parking (paid), family rooms, airport shuttle, non-smoking rooms, access to nearby beach areas.
Why it stands out: One of the most central B&B-style options in Zadar, with an outstanding location score for guests who want to be directly in the Old Town.🔍D8 B&B
Review score & reviews: 8.4 (1,213 reviews)
Short description: Larger, modern B&B a short drive from central Zadar, popular for overnight stays and road-trip stops. Rooms are simple, clean and comfortable with air conditioning, work desk, streaming-ready TV and some with balcony or terrace; buffet breakfast is frequently praised. Good for families, self-drivers and guests arriving late from the airport.
Neighborhood/landmark: Ulica Stjepana Miletića 2, quieter suburban area about 10 km from Zadar Airport and around 4 km from the Old Town.
Key facilities: Free private parking, free Wi-Fi, family rooms, sea or city views from some units, terrace or balcony, non-smoking rooms, air conditioning, child-friendly buffet and kids’ meals.
Why it stands out: Excellent value for money with very clean rooms, strong breakfast and easy parking, ideal for one-night stays before or after flights and ferries.🔍Giardin exclusive rooms and suite
Review score & reviews: 7.9 (331 reviews)
Short description: Small B&B-style property in a historic building close to the marina and the footbridge into the Old Town. Offers modern, soundproofed rooms with private entrance, safe, flat-screen TV and walk-in shower; some units include a balcony or terrace with sea or city views. Best for couples and city-break travellers who prioritise walkability over extensive on-site facilities.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near Zadar marina and the bridge into the Old Town, around 1.2 km from Maestrala Beach and 1.7 km from Kolovare Beach, with many rooms overlooking the bay and city walls.
Key facilities: Bar, airport shuttle, non-smoking rooms, terrace, air conditioning, breakfast available, free Wi-Fi, parking options as indicated on site.
Why it stands out: Combines a very walkable location just outside the Old Town with renovated, contemporary rooms and views towards the harbour.
Top Rated Apartments in Zadar
🔍Borelli Palace & Borelli Blue
Review score & reviews: 9.2 (1,270 reviews)
Short description: Located in Zadar Old Town inside an 18th-century Baroque stone palace. Stylish, modern apartments set within a heritage building, ideal for couples and travellers wanting a central, historic base.
Neighborhood/landmark: In the very centre of Zadar Old Town, about 200 m from the Roman Forum.
Key facilities: Air-conditioned apartments, kitchen/kitchenette, modern decor, Wi-Fi, historic building.
Why it stands out: A highly rated Old Town apartment stay set in a beautifully renovated Baroque palace.🔍Casa MiA Apartments with parking
Review score & reviews: 9.7 (147 reviews)
Short description: Modern, clean apartments with city views and stylish interiors. Guests highlight the new furnishings and exceptionally friendly host, making it a great choice for couples, families and road-trippers.
Neighborhood/landmark: In the Zadar area with easy road access, convenient for day trips around the region.
Key facilities: Air conditioning, Wi-Fi, modern decor, city views, on-site parking.
Why it stands out: Exceptionally rated apartments offering modern comfort and private parking.🔍The Bridge City Luxury Apartments
Review score & reviews: 9.1 (565 reviews)
Short description: Contemporary apartments about 1 km from Kolovare Beach, praised for cleanliness, comfort and location. Ideal for couples, small families and travellers who want a modern city base with convenient amenities.
Neighborhood/landmark: Near Kolovare Beach and within easy reach of Zadar Old Town.
Key facilities: Modern apartments, private garage parking, air conditioning, Wi-Fi.
Why it stands out: Combines a strong central location with stylish interiors and secure private parking.🔍Apartments Ivano & Leo Zadar – Private Parking
Review score & reviews: 9.7 (around 100 reviews)
Short description: Spacious, home-style apartments in a quiet residential neighbourhood with a garden, terrace and excellent kitchens. Guests often mention the “home away from home” feeling and extremely helpful hosts.
Neighborhood/landmark: Ulica Gospe Maslinske, a residential area within reach of the seashore and Old Town.
Key facilities: Kitchen, terrace, garden, washing machine, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, free private parking, family-friendly amenities.
Why it stands out: Exceptionally equipped, family-friendly apartments with outstanding hosts and on-site parking.🔍Apartman Petra
Review score & reviews: 10 (113 reviews)
Short description: A spotless, modern apartment with a terrace and patio, praised for comfort and thoughtful welcome touches. Great for couples and small families thanks to its quiet surroundings and nearby amenities.
Neighborhood/landmark: In a convenient neighbourhood with shops and parks close by; the beach is about 2 km away.
Key facilities: Terrace, patio, free private parking, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, modern furnishings.
Why it stands out: One of Zadar’s highest-rated apartments, with a perfect score and an exceptionally welcoming host.
Food, drink and nightlife in Zadar
Zadar’s food scene combines classic Dalmatian flavours with a growing choice of modern bistros and wine bars.
What to eat in Zadar
Local menus often highlight fresh fish and seafood, grilled meat, risottos and pasta dishes. You will also see traditional Dalmatian stews, seasonal vegetables and olive oil from nearby islands and hinterland.
Look out for Pag cheese from the island of Pag, prosciutto from the hinterland and local wines from Zadar County.
Zadar is also famous for maraschino, a sweet cherry liqueur with a long history in the city. You can taste it in classic form or in modern cocktails.
Where to eat and go out
In the old town you will find many konobas, small tavern-style restaurants, as well as pizzerias, bakeries and street-food options. Narrow streets hide cafés and wine bars with outdoor seating.
In the evening, the waterfront and nearby squares fill with people enjoying drinks, live music and a relaxed Mediterranean pace. Bars and clubs cater to different tastes, from quiet wine bars to livelier venues.
Is Zadar expensive?
Compared with some other coastal cities, Zadar can feel slightly more affordable, especially outside high season.
Prices rise in July and August, when demand for rooms, restaurants and tours is highest. If you visit in late spring or early autumn, you often find better value and a calmer atmosphere.
Getting to Zadar
Zadar is easy to reach by plane, bus, car and ferry.
By air
Zadar Airport lies inland, a short drive from the city. It is served by a mix of national and low-cost airlines, especially during the main tourist season.
From the airport, you can travel into the city by shuttle bus, taxi, private transfer or rental car.
By bus
Zadar is a major stop on the coastal bus route. Regular buses link it with Zagreb, Split, Rijeka and many smaller towns.
The main bus station stands outside the old town. From there, local buses and taxis connect you to the centre and coastal districts.
By car
If you are driving, the A1 motorway links Zadar with Zagreb in the north and Split to the south. Exit roads lead down to the coast and the city.
Driving in Zadar is straightforward if you are used to city traffic. Parking is available in zones around the old town and in hotel and apartment car parks.
By ferry and boat
Zadar has a ferry port and several smaller docks for local lines. Car ferries and passenger boats connect the city with nearby islands such as Ugljan and Dugi Otok, as well as some longer coastal routes.
In summer you will also see excursion boats offering day trips to islands and national parks.
Best time to visit Zadar
The best time to visit Zadar depends on what you want from your trip.
Late spring and early autumn
May, June, September and early October are ideal for many travellers. The weather is usually warm and sunny, the sea is pleasant for swimming, and the city is lively without feeling too crowded.
High summer
July and August bring the hottest temperatures, warmest sea and the busiest atmosphere. This is peak season for festivals, events and nightlife, but also for crowds and higher prices.
Winter and off season
In winter, Zadar is much quieter. Some island ferry schedules are reduced and certain tourist services pause for the season. However, the city remains alive, with local life, cafés and an occasional winter event or Christmas market.
If you prefer mild weather, cultural sightseeing and lower prices, the shoulder months and off season can work very well.
Practical tips for visiting Zadar
Pack comfortable shoes for walking on stone streets and along the waterfront
Bring water shoes if you have sensitive feet on pebbly or rocky beaches
Book accommodation and boat trips in advance for July and August
Check ferry and bus timetables ahead of travel, especially outside main season
Respect local rules about swimming areas and protected nature in national parks
FAQsÂ
Is Zadar worth visiting?
Yes, Zadar is worth visiting for its mix of history, waterfront life, beaches and easy access to islands and national parks. It offers a rich experience in a compact area.
Is Zadar good for families?
Zadar suits families thanks to its walkable centre, safe swimming spots, family-friendly apartments and many easy day trips. Children usually enjoy the Sea Organ, light installations, beaches and boat rides.
Is Zadar good for couples?
Couples will find plenty of romantic corners, from sunset spots along the Riva to quiet squares and sea-view restaurants. Boat trips and island visits add variety to a longer stay.
Can you swim in Zadar?
Yes, you can swim at several city beaches and nearby coastal areas. Water is usually clear, with pebbly or rocky shores. Sandy options lie a short drive or boat ride away.
Does Zadar have sandy beaches?
Sandy beaches are limited in Zadar itself, but nearby Nin and some island bays offer long, shallow sandy stretches that are ideal for families and non-swimmers.
How many days do you need in Zadar?
Two to three days are a good minimum for Zadar city and local beaches. Add extra days if you want to visit islands or national parks on day trips.
Is Zadar safe?
Zadar is generally considered a safe city for tourists. Normal travel common sense applies, especially in busy areas and at night.
Can you visit Plitvice Lakes or Krka from Zadar in one day?
Yes, both Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Park are possible as day trips from Zadar. You can drive yourself, use public buses where available or join organised tours.
Final thoughts and trip planning
Zadar combines a historic old town, modern waterfront art, beaches and easy access to islands and nature. It is large enough to keep you busy, yet small enough to feel personal.
Use this guide to plan your own Zadar itinerary. Choose the right area to stay, pick a mix of city sights and day trips, and then book your flights, accommodation and tours in advance. With a bit of planning, Zadar can become one of the highlights of your Croatia journey. Save this guide and compare Zadar with your other Croatia stops. Then build a route that combines city life, islands and waterfalls.
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