Aerial view of Zadar Old Town and the sea

Zadar travel guide

Zadar — what to see, where to swim and where to eat

More than 3,000 years of history, crystal-clear sea and sunsets people talk about. Our tips for your stay in Zadar.

Why Zadar?

A Mediterranean city that wins you over at first sight

Zadar is one of the most beautiful towns on the Croatian coast, known for its historic centre, sunsets and clean sea. Sightseeing, swimming and good food come together easily here — without huge crowds.

The Old Town sits on a peninsula surrounded by the sea on three sides. The Roman Forum, Romanesque churches and Venetian walls stand next to cafés and small restaurants at every turn.

3,000+years of history
1.5 kmfrom our apartments to the Old Town
11 kmto Zadar Airport
4town beaches in this guide

Swimming in Zadar

The best beaches

Zadar is surrounded by the clean Adriatic Sea. These four beaches are worth a visit:

Kolovare, Zadar
Town beach

Kolovare

The best-known town beach, a few minutes' walk from the Old Town. Pebbles, showers, cafés and plenty of shade.

→ For a quick swim between sights

Punta Bajlo, Zadar
Local favourite

Punta Bajlo

Pine trees and rocks, a more relaxed atmosphere. A beach locals often recommend.

→ For peace and a local feel

Uskok, Zadar
Maintained beach

Uskok

A well-kept town beach with clean water and a lovely seaside promenade.

→ For a swim and an evening walk

Borik, Zadar
Family beach

Borik

Shallow water and plenty of facilities; easy to reach by bus or car.

→ For families with children

What to see

Sights and attractions

The Old Town is full of history — do not miss these.

Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun — Zadar Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun — Zadar
Zadar icon

Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun

The Sea Organ, designed by architect Nikola Bašić, plays music with the waves and wind through pipes beneath the waterfront — an instrument unique in the world.

Right next to it is the Greeting to the Sun, a 22-metre solar installation that lights up in colour after dark. This is where, the story goes, Alfred Hitchcock saw the most beautiful sunset in the world.

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Landmark

St. Donatus Church

The symbol of the city and one of Croatia's most important pre-Romanesque churches, from the 9th century, beside the Roman Forum.

Historic square

Five Wells Square

A square with five 16th-century wells — lovely for a stroll and photos.

Park

Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

Shade on summer days and views over the town and harbour.

Ancient heritage

Roman Forum

One of the largest Roman forums on the eastern Adriatic coast — the heart of the Old Town.

“Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world, more beautiful than the one in Key West, Florida.”

— Alfred Hitchcock

Food

Where to eat in Zadar?

Zadar cuisine is built on fresh fish, seafood and home-style Dalmatian recipes. A few places we recommend:

Fresh fish
Scampi
Sardines

Bruschetta

Mediterranean · by the sea

Fresh fish and Mediterranean dishes in a lovely seaside spot.

4 Kantuna

Dalmatian cuisine

Traditional Dalmatian dishes, homemade pasta and seafood specialities.

Butler Gourmet & Cocktails

Gourmet · cocktails

Modern cuisine and cocktails in a pleasant garden — for a night out.

Mamma Mia

Italian cuisine

Wood-fired pizza and homemade pasta in the town centre.

Pizzeria Šime

Pizzeria · local classic

One of Zadar's longest-running spots, simple and homely.

Kužina

Dalmatian · homestyle

Traditional recipes and seasonal produce in a warm, homely atmosphere.

Day trips from Zadar

Staying more than two days? Set aside a day for Dugi otok and Sakarun beach, or visit nearby Nin, known for its sandy beaches and shallow sea.

Where to stay in Zadar

Four apartments at Put Gazića 4, about 1.5 km from the Old Town, with free parking.

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