Zadar, a city on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, is known for the Roman and Venetian ruins of its peninsular Old Town. There are several Venetian gates in the city walls. Surrounding the Roman-era Forum is 11th-century St. Mary’s Convent, with religious art dating to the 8th century. There’s also the grand, 12th-century St. Anastasia’s Cathedral and the round, 9th-century pre-Romanesque Church of St. Donatus.
May to June / September to mid-October:
Ideal weather, warm seas, and fewer crowds
July–August:
Peak season with vibrant nightlife and festivals, but very hot and busy
April & late October:
Pleasant for sightseeing, light crowds, lower prices
Winter (Nov–March):
Quiet, many seasonal services close, but great for budget travelers and locals-only vibe
Zadar Airport (ZAD):
15 minutes from city center
Seasonal flights from cities like London, Berlin, Vienna, and more
Shuttle bus or taxi to Old Town
Direct buses from Zagreb (3–4 hours), Split, Rijeka, and other Croatian cities
Central bus station is a short walk from the Old Town
Easy access via A1 highway
~3 hrs from Zagreb
~1.5 hrs from Split
Ferries and catamarans connect Zadar to Ugljan, Dugi Otok, Ancona (Italy), and more
An architectural sound installation on the waterfront
Waves create natural, haunting melodies — truly unique
Solar-powered light display near the Sea Organ
Comes alive at sunset with a glowing light show synced to the music
9th-century round church built on Roman ruins
Center of ancient Zadar, great for history and photography
Largest cathedral in Dalmatia
Climb the bell tower for panoramic city views
Unique collection of Roman glassware and live demonstrations
Zadar’s main pedestrian street, full of life, shops, and cafés
Ugljan – quiet beaches, olive groves, just 25 minutes by ferry
Dugi Otok – home to Saharun Beach and Telašฤica Nature Park
Sunset watching at the Sea Organ (Alfred Hitchcock called Zadar’s sunset the world’s best!)
Island hopping by ferry or private boat
Cycling along the coast or inland villages
Join a kayaking tour around the city or to nearby islands
Day trip to Plitvice Lakes or Krka National Park
Swim at Kolovare Beach — a city beach just 10 minutes from the Old Town
Sample Maraschino liqueur – a sweet cherry liqueur native to Zadar
Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera – 5-star resort with spa and sea views (just outside town)
Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel – boutique and artistic, inside the Old Town
Teatro Verdi Boutique Hotel – modern, central, walkable to all attractions
Hotel Kolovare – beachfront, ideal for families and relaxation
Boutique Hostel Forum – modern, affordable, right in the center
Downtown Boutique Hostel – stylish rooms at a good price
Black risotto (crni riลพot) with cuttlefish
Pasticada – Dalmatian beef stew with gnocchi
Grilled fresh fish and octopus salad
Pag cheese – from nearby Pag island
Maraschino liqueur – famous Zadar cherry spirit
Pet Bunara – farm-to-table Mediterranean cuisine
Proto Food & More – innovative, modern takes on Croatian dishes
Restaurant Bruschetta – sea views and local seafood
Harbor CookHouse & Club – stylish with international and Croatian fusion
Pizzeria Tri Bunara – delicious and local-favorite pizza
Konoba Skoblar – traditional tavern with hearty meals
Old meets new – ancient Roman ruins live side-by-side with cutting-edge installations like the Sea Organ
Locals value family, community, and easy living
Festivals & music: From classical concerts in churches to modern street performers and electronic music nights
Religious heritage is strong; St. Donatus and other churches are still central to community events
Coffee culture: Long chats over coffee, especially along Kalelarga or the Riva (seafront)