The 9 things to do in Zadar

Go to this Croatian port city where it makes good living. To accompany you on your journey, here are the 10 things to do in Zadar!

In this special Croatia guide, we give you an appointment north of Dalmatia. There you will find a small charming and picturesque port city: Zadar. With its three thousand years of history and its still preserved heritage despite the ravages of war, Zadar has become a privileged tourist spot.

Moreover, it is necessary to go back to the second half of the twentieth century to see the first national and European tourists coming to relax in the city!

You spend a few days in Zadar and don't want to miss anything? We listed the 10 essential things to do in Zadar for a successful stay.

1. The historic centre

The old town of Zadar, which forms a peninsula on the Adriatic Sea , full of treasures. Fortified, it is also pedestrian and allows a very pleasant walk in the alleys that compose it. There you can witness the Italian influence with an ancient architecture that reminds the Republic of Venice. In addition, the majestic fortifications of Zadar are classified as Unesco World Heritage!

To start your journey in the old town of Zadar, enter the fortifications from Petra Zoranica Square and admire the captain’s tower. Then discover the former Place des Cinq-Puits.

Once lost in the serpentine paved streets, let yourself be charmed by the charm of this historic centre, which is essential to do in Zadar. You will pass through Roman vestiges including an old forum, many churches, some columns, and small colorful houses.

2. Religious heritage

Zadar has many churches and cathedrals, although not all are open to the public. This religious heritage also gives a lot of charm to the port city! Don’t hesitate to make any stops during your visit to Zadar!

Sveta Stosija Cathedral

Sainte-Anastasie Cathedral, or Sveta Stosija in Croatian, is located in the peninsula of Zadar. Romanesque style, this building to be discovered during your visit to Zadar dates from the 12th or 13th century. The cathedral includes the remains of Sainte-Anastasie. It also exhibits sumptuous furniture of times.

Do not hesitate to climb to the top of the cathedral to have a panoramic view of Zadar (except Sunday).

Saint-Donat Church

At the same place as Sainte-Anastasie, is the church of Saint-Donat. Reconverted to the concert hall of sacred music thanks to its acoustics, the impressive Saint-Donat church deserves a thorough visit during your visit to Zadar.

In this holy place you can discover a Byzantine and pre-Roman architectural style, but also observe the Roman forum on which the church is built.

3. L’Orgue des mers

If you continue your walk from the marina, and on the seaside, you will fall on a funny experience: the Sea Organ. This hydraulic organ structure designed by artist Nikola Bašić consists in the development of different pipes to emit sounds to each water movement.

The place is therefore ideal to sit for a moment and listen to the marine melodies that escape. Enjoy this moment of hearing beauty during your visit to Zadar!

If you are novices but want to discover the seas of Zadar through the eyes of an expert, we advise you to go to "Explora Project" , the agency that offers you unforgettable escapades. With their stay « Croatia: the Kornati archipelago by kayak » , you will dive into the heart of Croatia. Accompanied by a local guide, it is a program for small onions that awaits you: breathtaking landscapes, kayak tours of the region and night in tipi. Unbelievable!

4. The beaches

Who says port city, also says beach! During your visit to Zadar, leave the city centre for a moment for a tanning and swimming session in the Adriatic Sea.

Kolovare

This pebble beach to discover in Zadar is taken from locals like tourists. First, it is very close to the city center, which makes it an ideal spot to refresh you between two tours. Then it allows to practice water sports such as water-polo, or pedalo.

However, think about arriving early in high season, because Kolovare is quickly taken on!

Ninska Laguna

You want to get away from the centre? Then go to Ninska Laguna, located in the village of Nin, at a 20 minutes By car from Zadar. You can enjoy water at excellent temperature and explore the surrounding small bays.

Also note that the seabed is not deep, making it a spot ideal for children .

Podbrig

Let's go back to the city of Zadar to discover our third beach recommendation to discover: Podbrig. This small discreet cove is very pleasant and remains safe from the sea winds.

There you can swim at your ease in turquoise water and enjoy a very quiet and peaceful environment surrounded by cliffs.

5. A boat ride

From Zadar, you can go to the surrounding archipelago or explore national parks on the day. For example, you can make a trip 8 - 9 a.m. to the wonderful Plitvice lakes and waterfalls Krka . Also, many agencies offer to take you to explore the Kornati archipelago and its 147 islands, islets and reefs in a medium-sized boat.

Some boat rides can be coupled with snorkeling, as the marine fauna and flora around Zadar are very rich. If you're lucky, and a little patience, you can even cross dolphins!

You can also opt for a boat rental, with or without a skipper, to discover the archipelago and vogue according to your desires!

6. Market discovery

Let's get our feet on the ground to go to new activities. In Croatia, markets are important events. And Zadar doesn't deviate from the rule. We invite you to walk through the different scales of the old town market, but also to discover the flea market.

Frequented by the inhabitants, this market is a must-see during your visit to Zadar to discover unusual objects, and to understand a little more the local culture.

The most popular market is Trznica for fresh products and Ribarnica for fish.

7. The marina

Imagine a sunset approaching. Listen to the soft clapotis of the waves. Close your eyes and breathe the salt air... No doubt: a stroll around the marina is a must to do in Zadar to discover your senses!

The place allows you to enjoy a splendid view on the edge of the Adriatic. We also recommend that you rest in the surrounding small parks, or sit at one of the coffee or restaurant terraces.

In addition, if you look at the horizon, you can see a remote archipelago!

8. Greetings to the sun

A few steps from the seas’ seas, go to the “Salutation au soleil”, a curious work of art, also signed Nikola Bašić. This latter form a circle composed of solar panels that allow impressive light games.

9. The antique glass museum

Looking for a unique museum in the world? So don’t skip the stage of the antique glass museum in Zadar! This cultural institution gathers thousands of glass objects, whose origins cross the ages. The museum also allows you to understand the various blowing techniques of the time.

If you like this type of decoration, you can even go back with a memory (fragile!) in your pocket.

How to get to Zadar?

From France

Zadar has an airport. You can go directly from here Paris , and with companies low-cost in particular. There are also flights from Lyon or Marseille but with stopovers Frankfurt . To help you in your search, use Ulysses , a powerful flight comparator that will save you time, and money.

In addition, you can land to Split or Dubrovnik from France, and reach Zadar by land via bus or car rental. It takes 2 hours from Split and 4 hours from Dubrovnik.

Move on site

On foot, by car, by bicycle or by bus: all types of transport are available in Zadar. Note that the old town is mostly pedestrian .

Where to stay in Zadar?

Hotel

In Zadar, you can choose between luxury hotels, intermediate hotels, and cheap hotels. The advantage is that you can choose accommodation according to your budget. For one night in a very well located hotel, and with pool, count between 100€ and 150€ at night. You will also find hotels with swimming pool and terrace for a budget 50€ to 100€ at night and Villa Julian or Villa Lipa .

The hotels are particularly popular during the summer season, so make sure to book in advance. Think about using a Compare hotels to choose the accommodation of your dreams!

♪ Airbnb

Give yourself a more personalized experience in Airbnb for your visit to Zadar! You will find rooms at home for about 30 Euros per night, or entire accommodation for a budget 50€ to 70€ . And if you're a big group, choose to rent villas on the platform!

Enjoy your relaxing holiday in Zadar and explore the little corners of this Adriatic bead. Do you have any questions or comments about Zadar? Let us know in comment !