Zadar
Country: Croatia · Region: Adriatic
Zadar is Croatia's oldest continuously inhabited city and a major cultural hub in northern Dalmatia, named 'entertainment center of the Adriatic' and 'Croatia's new capital of cool.' The UNESCO-listed Venetian city features historic churches, Roman ruins, and modern attractions along a picturesque waterfront.
Top sights
Church of Saint Donatus, Zadar Cathedral with bell tower, Sea Organ, Pozdrav Suncu (Greeting to the Sun), Roman Forum, Archeological Museum
Things to do
- Church of Saint Donatus
- One of the best preserved pre-Romanesque buildings in the world and Zadar's most recognizable symbol, now a museum with summer classical music concerts.
- Sea Organ
- A man-made organ activated by wave motion with 35 pipes that creates musical soundscapes, accompanied by a light display.
- Roman Forum
- One of the best preserved Roman forums in existence, a common gathering place for locals and tourists.
- Archeological Museum
- Houses artifacts spanning Zadar's long history from prehistory through post-Roman periods across three floors.
Beaches
- Kolovare
- Popular beach close to the city centre, a favorite for locals.
- Borik
- A massive hotel complex beach hosting numerous water activities such as parasailing and water slides.
Where to eat
- 2Ribara (Dva Ribara)
- Small restaurant in the historic center near the Roman Forum offering decent food at fair prices.
- Konoba Tovar
- Small tavern serving real local food with good atmosphere ensured by the chef and staff.
Bars and nightlife
- The Garden
- Fancy open bar with a view over the harbour, opened by UB40 drummer Jimmy Brown and hosts an annual electronic music festival.
Getting around
The old town center is easily walkable; local buses (Liburnija) serve the wider city with single rides at €1.59, and taxis are available at multiple ranks including the ferry quay.
What to eat
Try local Croatian Mediterranean cuisine at mid-range restaurants like 2Ribara and Konoba Tovar, or grab fresh pizza at budget-friendly spots like Crazy Pizza.
Tips
Visit the Sea Organ and Pozdrav Suncu at sunset for one of Europe's best views, and enjoy the relaxing waterfront atmosphere that makes Zadar special.
Best for
Historic sites, beaches, sunset views, culture
More ports in Adriatic
Bari · Dubrovnik · Kotor · Ravenna · Split · Trieste · Venice