23 Most Amazing Things to Do in Zadar, Croatia

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Many people who travel to Croatia, head to the coastline, dreaming of gorgeous islands, stunning beaches, and cute little old towns. Many of the best things to do in Zadar will give you exactly this, with a little bit extra!

Located on the northwestern Dalmatian coast, this is a stunning city that has a lot to offer. It’s the perfect place for those who want some sun and relaxation, as well as those looking for an exciting adventure.

It also has plenty of beautiful beaches and is ideal for island hopping and exploring some of Croatia’s stunning National Parks. But Zadar also has lots of rich history and some curious architecture.

So, from getting around to food, drinks, and the top attractions, these amazing things to see in Zadar are sure to make your trip extra special.

P.S. If you’re planning on visiting other destinations in Croatia, I also recommend Pula, Istria, and Trogir.

23 Incredible Things to Do in Zadar

I actually feel that the city of Zadar is a pretty underrated part of Croatia.

It has a real mix of historic, cultural, and natural attractions. Plus, it has plenty of beaches to relax on after a day spent exploring this beautiful city. 

So, here are some best places to visit in Zadar, Croatia!

1. Explore the Roman Forum

The remains of the Roman Forum can be found bang smack in the middle of the city.

It was built by the first Roman emperor, Augustus between the 1st century B.C.E. and the 3rd century C.E. It was a former temple dedicated to Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva.

Both in the past and in modern times, the forum has been used for local gatherings. Today, it’s still very much an open-air museum of the Roman Empire with some visible mosaics and remains of historic buildings that are now gone.

2. Listen to the Sea Organ at Sunset

This architectural sound art installation was designed by local architect Nikola Bašić and opened in April 2005. It is the perfect place to visit when you want some peace in the city. Although, at sunset, many other tourists and locals gather here to watch the sun sink below the horizon.

The most unique thing to do in Zadar is arguably its famous Sea Organ, which was built into the shoreline next to the Church of St. Donatus. It consists of 35 organ pipes that sound like a musical instrument when waves wash over them. The ocean is literally making music!

This sound it makes has been compared to a whale, making it a perfect accompaniment for watching the best sunsets over Zadar’s amazing coastline.

You’ll also find the Sun Salutation here. Situated on the waterfront promenade, this iconic installation consists of 300 multi-layered glass plates embedded into the pavement. This mirrors the sun’s movements throughout the day.

As dusk descends, the Sun Salutation comes alive in a symphony of colour and light, powered by energy collected in the solar panels throughout the day. It’s mesmerising.

3. Climb the Bell Tower

If you enjoy beautiful panoramic views, then this is easily one of the best things to do in Zadar. The bell tower is part of the Cathedral of St Anastasia and is very centrally located, so it’s easy to combine this with other attractions in Zadar.

The narrow spiral staircase can be a bit of a challenge in places, but the views are well worth it. Once you reach the top, you can see all the terracotta rooftops of the old town, the Adriatic Sea stretching to the horizon, and the distant islands bathed in golden sunlight.

It’s a beautiful spot and a must-see.

4. Take a Day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes was one of my favourite places I saw in Croatia. It’s around a 1 hour and 45-minute drive, so I recommend setting off early in the morning, especially if you want to beat some of the crowds at the lakes. But it’s so worth doing; this place is honestly beautiful!

When you arrive. you can park in the vast car park on the island. Once you’ve paid the fee to enter the park, you’ll have to board a bus which will take you to the most popular trailheads. You’ll also be given a map where you can see the different routes that you can take.

Then, you can start your hike. arrival, Following the network of wooden boardwalks and footpaths, you can meander through a labyrinth of emerald pools and cascading waterfalls. It looks like a scene straight from a fairytale.

You’ll probably need a full day here. If you want to do multiple hikes, you could even spend multiple days exploring the park. But on a day trip from Zadar, one day it was pretty easy to manage.

If you don’t have a car, there are also lots of guided tours that will take you to the National Park from the coastal city.

✅ I recommend this tour to Plitvice Lake from Zadar

5. Explore St Donatus’ Church

St Donatus’ is one of the most iconic buildings in Zadar old town with its beautiful exterior and stunning mosaics. It’s also one of the oldest churches in Croatia, so it has a lot of history behind it. 

This church’s name comes from Donatus, the Croatian King. He began building it in the 9th century and finished it on the northeastern edge of the ancient Roman Forum – another of the city’s top attractions.

A beautiful example of pre-Romanesque architecture, it is beautiful inside and out and is well worth seeing.

6. Wander Around People’s Square

When you’re ready to grab a bite or some food, People’s Square is the place to go. It has an interesting history as it was once the city’s main shopping area and where all sorts of different goods were sold.

Today, this square is home to many cafés and restaurants that will give you great local cuisine at very affordable prices.

7. Admire The Land Gate

Zadar’s Land Gate is a great place to start a walking tour of the vibrant city. This ornately carved stone gate served as the city’s primary entrance in 1543.

It is one of the most notable monuments of the Renaissance in Croatia. The structure was built in the form of a triumphal arch, following the plans of Venetian architect Michele Sanmicheli.

8. Explore St Anastasia’s Cathedral

Of course, you’ve already climbed the bell tower of this magnificent building, but heading inside this cathedral itself is also well worth doing.

Another of Croatia’s beautiful Medieval churches is St Anastasia with its wonderful architecture and detailed decorations inside. The Cathedral is a fine example of Gothic architecture.

It’s also the main Roman Catholic Cathedral, the seat of the Archdiocese of Zadar, and Dalmatia’s biggest church. Located centrally in the city, it’s a great addition to any city tour.

9. Explore The Archaeological Museum of Zadar

Another of the city’s must-see attractions is its Archaeological Museum, which houses many ancient artefacts from the city and surrounding area.

It has some impressive displays that’ll show you just how long people have been living in this region. Exhibits date back to the prehistoric era right through to Roman times.

10. Stroll Around the Old Town

The old town of Zadar is quaint and atmospheric with narrow alleyways that lead to hidden courtyards, boutique shops, and local restaurants.

As you wander around this area you’ll get a good feel for how the city once was and can imagine what life was like here centuries ago.

11. Take a trip to Dugi Otok

If you really love island escapes, then you’ll love a trip here. This is honestly one of the best places to visit near Zadar as you get to explore one of Croatia’s most pristine and unspoiled islands.

Once again setting sail from the bustling harbour, the ferry journey across the Adriatic offers stunning views of the coastline before arriving at the shores of Dugi Otok. Once you’re ashore, you’ll be greeted by rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and beautiful turquoise bays.

Dugi Otok is a wonderful place to explore the natural beauty and laid-back charm of Croatia. Make sure to visit Telascica Nature Park, where you’ll find dramatic limestone cliffs and a tranquil saltwater lake, providing a haven for wildlife.

✅ I recommend this tour to Dugi Otok

12. Visit Kornati National Park

If you love nature and the great outdoors, don’t miss this spot on your Zadar itinerary. Kornati Islands is a selection of nearby islands, islets, and reefs. You’ll most likely depart from the harbour to reach this place; the journey is pretty beautiful.

When you arrive, it’s an incredibly peaceful landscape. You’ll find rugged limestone cliffs, adorned with vegetation, a labyrinth of water channels and hidden coves, vibrant corals, and beautiful marine life.

Each island within the archipelago has its own unique charm. You can wander ashore many of them and discover ancient Roman ruins, secluded beaches, and panoramic viewpoints.

A stark contrast from many of the cities and coastal destinations in Croatia, it’s wonderful to experience a place that’s so untouched by humans.

✅ I recommend this trip to Kornati National Park

13. Visit the Museum of Ancient glass

For a curious museum in Zadar, head to the Museum of Ancient Glass. Housed within the beautifully restored Cosmacendi Palace, the museum’s collection shows a dazzling array of glass artefacts dating back to the Roman period.

Many of these have been unearthed from archaeological sites across the region, and they’re all pretty fascinating. You can see delicate vessels, intricate jewellery, ornate mosaic fragments, and more.

14. See the Church of St. Mary

The Church of St Mary is a great place to visit if you’re a fan of Gothic architecture. It was built in the 14th century with its design inspired by French cathedrals. It’s one of Zadar’s most impressive churches. 

The benedictine-style monastery is located near the Roman Forum in the heart of the city. It was constructed in 1066 on the town’s old Roman forum’s eastern side.

Inside, it has some wonderful stained-glass windows that were added during the Renaissance period giving the church an even more beautiful look.

15. Relax on Punta Bajlo Beach

Punta Bajlo Beach is one of Zadar’s best beaches and it can be found just outside the city. It has fine golden sand, clear blue water, and some amazing sunsets to enjoy at night too.

The beach also has a cafe with plenty of seating right on the seafront that will give you great views while you relax with a drink.

Top Tip: Punta Bajlo Beach is located on the southern side of the city. and you can get there by car or bus. The beach also has some on-site parking available to use if needed.

16. Wander Around Zadar’s Harbor

Zadar is a beautiful coastal location. You can tell its importance as a port city by the main harbour.

There are plenty of bars, cafes, restaurants, shops, and hotels to explore here along with some lovely views out over the Adriatic Sea at the boats and beyond.

17. relax on Kolovare Beach

If you’re a lover of beautiful beaches, then you’ll adore visiting Kolovare Beach. Located just a leisurely stroll from the historic centre, Kolovare Beach is one of the best beaches near the city with soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters.

It’s ideal for relaxing on a towel and catching a tan or partaking in exhilarating water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing. There are also designated swimming areas for families, so it’s great for everyone.

The vibrant promenade near the beach is also lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants offering a taste of local cuisine and refreshing beverages. This makes it a great spot for a beach day, or simply a place to go for a drink as the sun sets over the ocean.

18. Explore the City Walls

Zadar is full of rich history, including the fascinating walls that surround the city.

Spanning centuries of architectural evolution, these imposing walls were constructed by various rulers, including the Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians.

Today, they are no longer used as a defence but are instead a great way to see the city’s history.

19. Go Island-Hopping

Zadar is also a great base for exploring a lot of the islands that surround Croatia. You can easily take a ferry or catamaran from the marina for an island-hopping day tour if you have time.

This will give you a chance to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands and sail the Croatian Riviera.

✅ I recommend this island-hopping tour from Zadar

20. Visit the Blue Cave

One of the most popular attractions in Croatia is actually located just off the coast of Zadar, on the east side of the island of Biševo.

The Blue Grotto Cave is a sea cave in the tiny bay of Balun that has been filled with water. Known as a wonder of nature, it’s a lovely place to visit for those who love the outdoors.

It has been said that this blue light shining inside the cave is one of nature’s most beautiful sights.

Top Tip: You can find Blue Cave tours that will take you inside this grotto for a once-in-a-lifetime experience if you’re visiting in peak season.

21. Visit Krka National Park

This is easily one of my favourite things to do in Zadar. It’s only about an hour from the city, but it was definitely one of the highlights of visiting this area. Krka National Park is a large park with stunning waterfalls, lakes, and rivers that make for a perfect day trip.

It’s one of Croatia’s most popular national parks thanks to its breathtaking natural beauty.

There are some wonderful places to visit within the park too. For example, Skradinski Buk, Roški Slap Waterfall, Visovac Monastery, and Visovac Island are all worth a visit.

To get there, you can take public transport or drive yourself there which takes around half an hour each way. Alternately, there are a lot of guided tour trips you can do to the National Park.

Top Tip: There are some boat trips available to take you around the park or to Visovac Island that will give you an even better way of exploring it. But be sure to give yourself plenty of time – the shortest boat ride is 2 hours long.

✅ I recommend this day trip to Krka From Zadar

22. Take a Day Trip to Split

Split is one of my favourite Croatian cities and, since it’s only 1 and a half hours away from Zadar, it’s well worth a day trip.

In all honesty, you’ll need longer than a day to see Split properly and I recommend spending at least 3 days there, but if you’re short on time, it’s still easily worth a day trip instead of not seeing it at all.

Split is completely beautiful. There’s a reason it’s my favourite city as there’s so much rich history and fantastic attractions here.

First, explore the majestic Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that shows the city’s Roman origins. Then, wander through the maze of cobbled streets of the historic old town. You’ll find ancient temples, medieval churches, and vibrant markets.

Head to the lively Riva promenade where you’ll find bustling cafes and seafront charm. I also recommend climbing the bell tower of the Cathedral of Saint Domnius for panoramic views of the city and its surrounding islands.

23. Take a Day Trip to Trogir

Of all the places I visited in Croatia, Trogir was probably my second favourite after Split (if you exclude the National Parks). It’s almost like Split’s little sister and a much calmer and less crowded version of the popular city but with just as many cute old-town vibes and natural beauty.

It’ll take you about 1 hour and 25 minutes to get to Trogir after a scenic drive along the Adriatic coastline. The historic streets are another great place to get lost with countless alleyways, medieval churches, and Venetian palaces to explore.

The crowning jewel of Trogir is the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, with its intricate Romanesque architecture and stunning views from its bell tower. It’s also worth exploring the waterfront, where you’ll find an imposing fortress and a bustling harbour filled with boats and charming cafes.

Where to Stay in Zadar, Croatia

Zadar is a great city to visit and, since it’s right on the coastline, there are lots of great places to stay in this beautiful coastal town. From self-catering apartments to luxury oceanfront hotels, here are some of the best places to stay.

• £££ – Penthouse Dolcevita – This 5* penthouse is ideal for those who love home comforts but also want a touch of luxury. You’ll find beautifully designed suites with ocean views and contemporary facilities.
• £££ – Falkensteiner Hotel and Spa – Although not located in the centre of Zadar, this hotel is a wonderful option for those looking for a relaxing break. The staff are very attentive, the breakfast is delicious, and the hotel has a private beach area, and spa, and a bar serving delicious cocktails.
• ££ – Apartments and Rooms Mareta – With a gorgeous free-standing bathtub and a balcony with views across the city, these apartments are roomy and modern, and have a handy kitchenette for whipping up a delicious breakfast.
• £ – City Premium Heritage – An affordable 4* hotel, ideal if you’re travelling to Croatia on a budget. You’ll find spacious rooms, a modern design, and everything you need for a comfortable stay.

✅ Discover more of the best places to stay in Zadar

How Much Time Do You Need In Zadar?

Overall, you’ll need 2 days in Zadar to see the city’s main attractions. But while you can see much of what the city has to offer in a day or two, if you have more time, you could take a few day trips from the city, such as to the beautiful Krka National Park.

We spent 3 days here in total, but one of those days was the day we drove to Krka. It was well worth the trip and a must-see if you’re visiting the country. However, I also felt that we could’ve stayed longer to go on a few more boat trips around the Croatian coastline.

So, all in all, I think you’ll need at least 3 days in Zadar, but up to 5 would be ideal if you also want to see the best of the surrounding area.

Which is Nicer: Split or Zadar?

Whether Split or Zadar is nicer is honestly a matter of opinion. However, he’s a little bit of information to help make that decision easier for you. 

Zadar is less crowded and has a smaller-town feel than Split. You can navigate the town’s narrow cobbled alleyways without colliding with about a million other tourists. It does have more tourists visiting in the summer months, but it’s still nowhere near as busy as Split, and overall, it’s quieter.

Nonetheless, Split’s old town has a much more vibrant atmosphere. When we visited, there was live music in the evening in the Diocletian Palace and more live music along the promenade. So, if you’re looking for a more lively city, Split may be better for you.

Overall, we preferred Split by a tiny margin, mainly due to the atmosphere in the evening. However, it really is a matter of personal preference. 

If you have the time, why not visit both? They’re only just over an hour apart and easily reachable by car or public transport.

Is Zadar Worth Visiting?

Yes, Zadar is absolutely worth visiting! It may not have as many attractions or museums compared to other cities in Croatia, but it has a lot of character and a beautiful coastline.

There are also some great beaches, as well as a pretty old town to explore. In addition, it’s very easy and affordable to get here from many of the other top Croatian destinations such as Split, Zagreb, or Dubrovnik.

Just make sure you have time for at least two days in Zadar to visit its top attractions and explore the character of this city.

How To Get Around Zadar

Zadar is an easy city to walk around since most sights are within walking distance. 

If you don’t fancy walking, the only form of public transport you can use to get around the city is a bus. There aren’t any trains or trams like other cities in Europe, and the buses or cars don’t run through the old town.

Nonetheless, as they are fairly reliable and affordable, you can easily get from one side of town to another. You can also use the local taxi service, or order an Uber to get about.

There’s also an airport in Zadar (with connections to and from lots of destinations in Europe) if you want to fly directly.

Plus, whilst you can’t drive in the old town, Croatia is an easy country to drive in with beautiful scenery and well-kept roads. It’s easy enough to hire a car to reach other destinations in Croatia.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Zadar, Croatia

Overall, Zadar is well worth adding to your Croatia itinerary. The city is stunning and there’s a lot to do there from magnificent history to beautiful oceanside scenery.

The Sea Organ is easily one of Croatia’s top attractions and I also loved how much history there was in the centre of the city.

If you’re considering going to Zadar, don’t hesitate, because I’m sure you’ll love it.

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