Zadar in Croatia is a city that does not need to be loud to make an impression. After a short time, you will notice that many things come together here: ancient walls, bright stone alleyways, the sea right on your doorstep and a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for a holiday on Croatia’s Adriatic coast. The city is located in Northern Dalmatia and is an ideal destination if you would like to experience culture, enjoy relaxing hours at the beach, discover regional cuisine and take trips to the surrounding nature parks.
How versatile Zadar is often becomes clear after the very first day. In the morning you can stroll through the old town, head to the beach at midday, take a boat tour in the afternoon and enjoy the sunset on the waterfront promenade in the evening. The city is compact enough to explore much of it on foot, yet still offers enough variety for several days.
In this article, you will find ideas for what to see and do in Zadar: from historic sites and modern landmarks to beaches, restaurants and trips into nature.
Following Zadar’s historical trail
The old town of Zadar is located on a peninsula and is one of the best places to get to know the city’s character. Between cafés, small shops and narrow alleyways, you will repeatedly come across traces from different eras. Roman ruins, medieval churches and Venetian city gates are close together here, without the city feeling like an open-air museum.
A central spot is the Roman Forum, whose origins date back to the 1st century BC. The remains of the ancient square are a reminder of Zadar’s Roman past and are among the city’s most important historic areas. Right next to it is the Church of St Donatus. The round building from the 9th century is one of Zadar’s best-known landmarks and stands out clearly from the surrounding buildings.
Zadar Cathedral (Cathedral of St Anastasia) is also well worth a visit. Its origins date back to early Christian times, while its present Romanesque form was largely shaped in the 12th and 13th centuries. If you climb the bell tower, you will also be rewarded with a fantastic view over the rooftops of the old town, the sea and the offshore islands. Other sights in Zadar include the Land Gate, the Five Wells Square, People’s Square and the City Loggia. If you have a little more time, you can also add a visit to the Museum of Ancient Glass to your walk through the old town.
Between sea sounds and a play of light
Two of the best-known sights in Zadar are located right by the sea: the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun. Both are modern landmarks of the city and show that Zadar does not live on its history alone.
The Sea Organ is a sound installation on the waterfront promenade. From the outside, it initially looks like a wide set of steps by the water. Beneath the steps, however, there are pipes through which the waves push air. This creates tones that change depending on the movement of the sea. It is not a classic concert, but rather a calm, sometimes surprising soundscape that perfectly suits its waterside location.
Just a few steps away is the Greeting to the Sun. The installation consists of glass panels that absorb solar energy during the day and transform it into colourful light displays in the evening. At sunset, this part of the promenade reveals its special atmosphere. The steps gradually fill with people, while the Sea Organ accompanies the moment with its sounds and the sun disappears behind the horizon.
Both places are among the experiences you should not miss in Zadar. It is best to plan your visit for the evening, as that is when the promenade is at its most atmospheric.
The most beautiful beaches and outdoor activities in Zadar
In Zadar, a city break and time at the beach can be combined very well. Around the city, you will find beaches to suit different travel plans.
Kolovare Beach
Kolovare Beach is one of Zadar’s best-known city beaches and is not far from the old town. After sightseeing, it is ideal for an easy swim break; depending on the section, there are showers, toilets or sun lounger rental.
Borik Beach
Borik Beach is a good choice for families and anyone looking for more facilities. In some areas, the water shelves more gently, and there are also restaurants and leisure options for a longer beach day.
Vitrenjak, Puntamika and Diklo
Vitrenjak is also family-friendly thanks to its shallower entry. Puntamika and Diklo, on the other hand, are ideal options if you are looking for quieter swimming spots away from the immediate bustle of the old town.
As many beaches around Zadar consist of pebbles, rocks or concrete sunbathing areas, water shoes are often recommended.
Outdoor activities on the water
In addition to classic beach days, you can go kayaking, snorkelling, try stand-up paddling or take a boat tour. If, on the other hand, you are looking for more nature and tranquillity, the island of Ugljan is a recommended excursion destination.
Cuisine in Zadar: restaurants and regional specialities
Zadar is also worth discovering from a culinary perspective. Dalmatian cuisine combines fresh fish, seafood, olive oil, herbs, vegetables and simple, aromatic dishes. If you enjoy eating locally, it is worth visiting a konoba, where grilled fish, calamari, mussels, black risotto or dishes from the wood-fired oven are often served.
As a guide, here is a small selection of restaurants that showcase different sides of Zadar’s dining scene:
Restaurant Bruschetta
Centrally located, Restaurant Bruschetta is a well-known address in Zadar and offers Mediterranean cuisine in a modern style.
Pet Bunara
Pet Bunara combines regional ingredients with modern cuisine and is a good choice if you are planning a relaxed yet high-quality dinner.
Restaurant Kornat
If you enjoy fish and seafood on your plate, Restaurant Kornat is an ideal address. It is known for Dalmatian fish dishes and slightly more upscale cuisine.
The Botanist
If you would like to eat vegetarian or vegan, The Botanist is an interesting option. The venue complements Dalmatian cuisine, which is otherwise often fish- and meat-heavy, with modern plant-based dishes.
Typical specialities of the region include Dalmatian ham, cheese from the island of Pag, peka with meat or seafood, as well as fresh bread and olive oil. If you would like to discover regional products yourself, you can also visit Zadar’s market. There you will find fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, cheese, olive oil and other regional ingredients – ideal for souvenirs or if you would like to cook for yourself in your accommodation.
Nature experiences around Zadar
From Zadar, several impressive natural areas can easily be explored as day trips, including Krka, Paklenica, the Kornati Islands and the Plitvice Lakes.
Krka delights with waterfalls, wooden walkways and a lush river landscape. The Plitvice Lakes, by contrast, are among Croatia’s most impressive natural destinations thanks to their turquoise lakes, waterfalls and trails through an extraordinary landscape.
If you enjoy hiking or climbing, Paklenica is a first-class choice. There you can expect gorges, rock faces and trails in the Velebit Mountains. For a day on the water, the Kornati Islands are ideal, best discovered as part of a boat tour.
This way, during your stay in Zadar, you can not only discover the city itself, but also experience some of Croatia’s most beautiful natural destinations.
Discover Zadar at a relaxed pace
In Zadar, the old town, the sea, good food and trips into nature come together in an uncomplicated way. The city is suitable for relaxed days on the Adriatic as well as for small discovery tours in the surrounding area. So, what are you waiting for? Come to Dalmatia and experience Zadar for yourself.
And Dalmatien Haus will be happy to support you in your search for suitable accommodation. We offer holiday homes, villas and apartments in Dalmatia, including accommodation by the sea, with a pool or with space for families and groups – the ideal base for a successful stay in the region.
