The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Zadar

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Zadar, Croatia

We arrived in Zadar, in central Croatia, on a beautiful, warm, spring day. From the tiny airport, we took a bus to the old town. When making our way to the accommodation, little did we know that we were passing over an ancient sacrificial alter! More on that later… Zadar is packed full of history, has many beaches, awesome eateries and a super cool vibe. Read on to find out more of the very best things to do in Zadar, Croatia.

Where is Zadar?

Zadar is in central Croatia, between the Velebit mountain range and the Adriatic Sea. It is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia. This lesser know seaside town is a great place to go if you want to avoid the summer sunseekers to the south in Dubrovnik or Split.

How to Get There

Reaching Zadar is fairly simple from most cities in Europe. The town has its own airport and good connections from the terminal to the city. We took the local bus from the airport and arrived in the old town in around 20 minutes. A one way ticket cost about €3.

Low cost airlines have flights from many European cities and fares are really reasonable. We flew from Edinburgh for €40. However, we met two fellow Scots who had managed to book return flights from Edinburgh to Zadar for €20 – bargain!

If you are already in Croatia, you can reach Zadar by bus from most of the main cities. There is also the option of taking the train from some of the main European hubs – such as Vienna – to Zagreb and then travelling onwards to Zadar from there.

The Best Things to Do in Zadar

As we already mentioned, there are so many incredible things to do in Zadar. To make the most of your trip, we would recommend being quite well organised so you can cram is as much as possible. However, if that’s not your style, head to one of Zadar’s beautiful beaches for relaxation and awesome parties.

The Best Things to Do in Zadar – Wander Through the Roman Forum

Walking through the Roman Forum is absolutely one of the best things to do in Zadar – and it’s free! It was founded by the first Roman Emperor Augustus. Dating back to the 1st century BC, the stones in this square must have so many stories!

The forum is right in the centre of the old town and you will likely find it without even trying. We absolutely loved strolling through the ancient columns and admiring some of the faces that remain on the Roman stones.

The Roman Forum is lit up at night and is next to some great bars, cafes and restaurants. You can really easily spend a lot of time just chilling here. Ancient history is alive and well in Zadar!

Address: 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Experience the Ancient Roman Temple

For us, this was so fascinating! It’s like something from an old movie! There is not a lot left of Zadar’s Roman temple. However, the sacrificial alter still remains largely intact. There are 3 short pillars that remain and they depict 3 gods – Jupiter, Juno and Minerva – that the Romans worshiped and made sacrifices to.

There is still a dip in the stone on the top of each pillar. This is thought to be to contain the pooling blood.

There are not really any signs around providing information but you can find the area at the address below. As a bonus, there is no entry fee and you can walk through the area freely.

Address: Ul. Ivana Tanzlingera Zanottija 4, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Stop at the Giant Pillar in the Roman Forum

This seemingly random pillar in the forum was repurposed from the Roman Temple in medieval times. If you look closely at the pillar, you will notice old chains are still attached. In the middle ages this was used as the “Pillar of Shame“. Criminals were chained up here for days and jeered by crowds – brutal.

Visit the Archaeology Museum

Still can’t get enough ancient history? Take a look around Zadar’s Archaeology Museum. All the very best bits of Zadar’s history are kept in here. Tickets cost HRK 30.00 for adults and it is open Monday to Friday (NB closing times vary depending on the time of year).

Address: Trg opatice Čike 1, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

The Best Things to Do in Zadar – Hang Out at Five Wells Square

The five old wells provided the Venetian city with clean water. The city was heavily defended so not many supplies could pass freely in and out. These five wells provided an ideal solution to the water supplies of the city.

Nowadays there are eateries nearby as well as the beautiful Queen Jelena Madijevka Park.

Address: Trg pet bunara 1, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Climb Zadar’s Defence Walls

Getting into the ancient city of Zadar used to be a lot more difficult! Like it’s southern cousin, Dubrovnik, Zadar was once a well defended, walled city. These walls evolved with the city and there are still parts of the Roman walls, the ancient 12th and 13th century walls and the Venetian walls surrounding the city.

The city walls are still largely intact. These formally defensive walls are now used as parks and walkways. Take a stroll along Zadar’s walls for some awesome views of the old town and harbour.

Try the below address for an off the beaten track part of the city where you can see two different layers of the wall. Also, if you’re hungry, stop in at House of Pancakes for a quick bite to fuel your exploration! They are just around the corner and do delicious sweet or savoury crepes.

Two walls – Trg pet bunara BB, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

House of Pancakes – Ul. Špire Brusine 16, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

The Gate of Leo

Of course, with an immense wall surrounding the city, there must also be a gate, or two. Zadar was one of the few cities in this part of the world that was never successfully invaded by the Ottomans. This is mainly due to it’s location and impressive defences.

The main gate that stands today was constructed by the Venetians. Their symbol of the lion still stands watch over the city. It is thought that the lion symbol with an open book means that the Venetians were at peace when it was built. A closed book would suggest war.

There is also a clue in the lion’s tail that indicates the Venetian’s fortunes at the time. It is said that if the tail is pointing up, the war is being won. However, if the tail is down it suggests that it might not be going quite so well. Make sure you take a good look when you visit!

Address: Trg pet bunara 1, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Zadar’s land gate – Lion’s Gate – is the most impressive of the surviving gates. However, if you get the chance, you should also check out the sea gate on the other side of town.

Address: Ul. Vrata Svetog Krševana, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

The Best Things to Do in Zadar – Stroll Through Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

The oldest park in Zadar is something not to miss on a hot summers afternoon. It is a beautiful place to relax in the shade and enjoy some of the city’s wildlife. There is also a nice little hill in the middle that gives a decent view of the old town.

St Simon’s Church

This partucular church is not much to look at from the outside. Well, not in comparison to some of the other churches in Zadar. The beauty of St Simon’s lies within. The relics of body of St Simon can be found at the church alter along with other religious artefacts and treasures.

Address: Poljana Šime Budinića, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Drink Coffee in a Church

For the unassuming passer-by, Caffe Bar Lovre might look like an ordinary coffee house. However, take a wander inside to the far end of the café and you will find yourself in an ancient church. What a place for a pit stop!

Address: Narodni trg 6, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

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Discover a Traditional Croatian Church

There are many grand churches in Zadar. However, this little church is a traditional Croatian design. It’s a little hidden but worth a look if you are in the area. There are also some nice boutique shops and cafes along this narrow street.

Address: Ul. Brne Karnarutića 1A, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

The Best Things to Do in Zadar – Marvel at Zadar’s Cathedral of St Anastasia

Now on to one of the grander buildings in Zadar. The Cathedral of St Anastasia was founded in the 3rd century and the building that stands today dates back to 1100. However, the bell tower was not completed until the late 1800s.

Pope John Paul II was in Zadar in 2003 and visited the cathedral. This was one of his last international trips.

There is also a story involving the bell tower, the angel and a student. Urban legend tells us that a local guy climbed up the tower in 1973. Not too impressive so far, until you hear that he climbed right to the very top of the angel on the roof! Apparently there were eye witnesses who still live in the city and will verify this story.

You can still go inside the tower and up to the top. However, most people stop at the balcony below the roof…

Address: Trg Svete Stošije, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Admire St Donatus Church

The church of St Donatus dates back to the 8th Century. Some of the remains of the Roman Forum were used in the construction of this church. The unorthodox, circular Byzantine-style building has become a symbol of Zadar and was named after the bishop who commissioned it.

It is often used for performing medieval music due to its phenomenal acoustics. Classical music concerts are also held outside the church, in the forum, during the summer months.

Address: Grgura Mrganića, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Peruse the City Market

Don’t miss this vibrant outdoor market selling amazing fresh produce. The market operates on Mondays to Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sundays, holidays and public holidays from 7 a.m. to noon. Olive oil, rakija and honey are great souvenir options!

Address: Ul. pod bedemom 1/A, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Listen to the Sea Organ

This is another really unique thing to do in Zadar. Spend an evening by the water and listen to the soothing Sea Organ. The tranquil noise is created as waves go into the specially constructed tubes which then blow air out at different pitches. Somehow, it creates a beautiful oceanic harmony.

Address: Obala kralja Petra Krešimira IV, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Orgulje Cafe is very close to the Sea Organ. If you fancy a cocktail with your sunset view, this is the place to be. It is a little bit more pricey than other bars in Zadar. However, we would say the view was worth it.

Address: prilaz hrvatske čitaonice, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

The Best Things to Do in Zadar – Watch the Mesmerising Sunset

The famous Zadar sunset was highly praised by Alfred Hitchcock. He once proclaimed, “Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world, more beautiful than the one in Key West, in Florida, applauded at every evening.“

For once, the hype is justified. The Zadar sunset is truly something not to miss! For the best places to watch the show, check out our dedicated post HERE.

Experience the Greetings to the Sun

Once the sun has gone down, turn you attention to this spectacular light show. This installation lies just along from the sea organ and is a fabulous place to spend the evening.

Address: Istarska obala, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Take a Free Walking Tour in Zadar

As you can see, there are SO many amazing things to do in Zadar. In a city packed with this much fascinating history, sometimes it’s easier to have someone break it down for you. We took a free walking tour with ANITA, a Zadar local. She has an amazing knowledge and passion for her beautiful town.

The Best Things to Do in Zadar – Hit the Beach in Zadar

Time to relax? Make sure you visit one of Zadar’s beautiful beaches. Riva Beach is just by the old town so is super convenient. This beach is also close to the sea Organ and Greetings to the sun installation so you can easily do all of these in one afternoon.

Address: Obala kralja Petra Krešimira IV, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

If you walk a little further from the old town (like, 15 minutes) you’ll find Kolovare Beach. It has loads of amenities, such as showers and changing rooms, and there are also plenty of cool bars and restaurants nearby.

Address: Kolovare UI 11, Croatia

Take a day Trip

Exploring historic Zadar is great fun. However, there are also loads of amazing day trips to take! Close to Zadar are five of Croatia’s eight National Parks as well as loads of historical sites and outdoor activities. There are too many to list here, it requires an entire post (we got you – click HERE)

Here are a few of the very best –

• Krka National Park
• Paklenica National Park
• Pag Island
• Island of Dugi Otok
• Historic Town of Šibenik

When to Visit

Zadar is not a tourist hot spot like Dubrovnik, so crowds are not really a problem. In the summer, Zadar has a pretty good party vibe going on. So, if that’s your thing, it might be worthwhile visiting then.

To avoid any extreme temperatures, try spring or autumn or visit during the summer to hit the beach. The cooler winter scares off many people so you might have the place to yourself…

What is the Weather Like?

During the summer, Zadar is hot! Being a coastal city the winters are mild but temperatures can still dip to around 5°C.

What Currency Should we Use in Zadar?

The Euro is the currency of Croatia and therefore the currency used in Zadar. You can take cash out from ATM machines but avoid the ones in tourist areas as they charge a huge commission and give a poor exchange rate. Consider using a bank like Revolut to give you currency flexibility and lower fees.

How Long to Stay in Zadar?

It is definitely possible to explore the small, historic city in a couple of days. However, to really get a feel for Zadar, and the surrounding area, we would recommend a four or five day visit.

Zadar is also a great base for exploring other parts of Croatia such as Zagreb and Split. Not to mention the fab day trips you can take from here.

How Expensive is Zadar?

Having also visited Dubrovnik and Split, we found Zadar to be pretty inexpensive for Croatia. However, like most places, you can find better quality for an even lower price as you come away from the tourist spots.

Transport and accommodation were very reasonable and flights from Europe on Ryan Air can be super cheap!

Is Zadar Safe?

Zadar is a very safe town but take the usual precautions when travelling. We travelled as two females and found people incredibly kind, welcoming and hospitable.

Interesting Facts about Zadar

Here is a little bonus section. We learnt a few interesting facts anout Zadar on our journey so we would like to share them.

• Georg Joannes Ritter von Trap – from the Sound of Music – was born in Zara (now Zadar) on April 4, 1880. It was then part of Austria-Hungary (now Croatia)
• Zadar has another local celebrity. He lives on a boat in old harbour. He is known locally for his epic taste in music and friendly dog.
• As we mentioned earlier, Alfred Hitchcock stayed in Zadar in 1964. One quote from Alf about the beautiful sunsets made it famous! He and his wife stayed in room 204 at the Hotel Bristol. Unfortunately, the hotel is no longer open for guests but can be seen from the water or some parts of the beach.

The Croatian Language

Many Croatians in the cities speak a little English but it is useful to learn a few phrases in Croatian. It is certainly not an easy language for English speakers, but any attempt is greatly appreciated by the locals. Here are a few words to try out:

English	Croatian	Sounds Like
Hello	Bok	bohk
Goodbye	Doviđenja	doh-vee-jen-yah
Please	Molim	moh-leem
Thank you	Hvala	hva-lah
Yes	Da	da
No	Ne	ne

More information

• For Zadar tourist info click HERE

Where to go next

Ready for more vacation ideas? Check out our our post on Unusual and Unique Things to do in Dubrovnik .There is plenty more history and nature to discover in beautiful Croatia.

Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.

Have you visited Zadar or anywhere else in Croatia? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Zadar