The intriguing city of Zadar has a special alluring charm because of its unique mix of cosmopolitism, Roman ruins, medieval and Venetian architecture. This dynamic Dalmatian port town is perfect for adventurers looking for a place with distinct personality and unique vibrant atmosphere.
Tourism
Take a walk along the pedestrian promenade in the Old Town and gaze at the beautiful Fosa harbor. Marvel at one of the main symbols of Zadar – the Byzantine/Romanesque style circular church of St. Donatus built in the 9th Don’t forget to take a look at the remains of the Roman Forum built in the 1st-3rd centuries BC located nearby. Admire the beautiful Romanesque St. Anastasia Cathedral and its ornate décor. Climb up the bell tower and enjoy the breathtaking view. Take a look at the precious medieval St. Simeon’s Chest made in 1381 in the small Baroque Church of St. Simeon. Go to the Land Gate and Walls and admire the Renaissance decorations of one of the 8 city gates. Get enchanted by the mystical sounds of the unique Sea Organ that transforms the movement of the sea waves into music that sounds ethereal. At night, it is accompanied by light show. Take a look at the precious collection of glassware and learn about glass-blowing in the Museum of Ancient Glass. Take a walk in the beautiful Queen Jelena Madije park and Five Wells Square (Trg Pet Bunara). Admire the precious collection of religious artifacts at the Benedectine Monastery of St. Mary. Go shopping, have fun and socialize at the busiest street of Zadar – Kaleraga. Learn more about Dalmatian culture, history and nature at the National Museum. Take a day trip to the beautiful Krka waterfalls. Set up for a small adventure and fall in love with the beautiful nature of Croatia at the National Park Kornati.
Zadar became one of the favorite vacation spots in Croatia because of its iconic beaches too:
Riva beach is situated at the very center of the Old Town and offers refreshing and clear waters. Punta Bajlo is one of the most beautiful beaches of Zadar. The shore is pebbles mixed with rocky sections. Borik beach is a large and popular pebble beach which provides natural shade under the nearby pine trees. Beach camp Borik is perfect for families and is situated at the camping site. Kolovare beach is perfect for swimming and offers fine pebble shore. Puntamika beach is perfect for people who prefer calmer beaches. The shore is pebbly and the waters are very calm.
Food and drinks
Enjoy the freshest seafood and sip a glass of local wine at Bracera Fish Restaurant. Try the iconic traditional Croatian dishes at the cozy and elegant Butlers Gourmet. Sip some wine and try traditional lamb dishes and shrimps at Bruschetta. Have a romantic dinner at cozy La Gavun.
Zadar is the second largest city in Dalmatia and one of the most popular holiday destinations in the country. The medieval city center is located on an island connected to the mainland by beautiful bridges. The history of the city has more than 3000 years, so there are many architectural monuments in Zadar. In fact, by and large, Zadar is a great architectural monument. The old Zadar is a beautiful city. The buildings are built of stone in a gentle pastel color. The old town has a perfect size for a walk. The layout of the city is Roman rectangular, so it is easy to stroll around leisurely. Another unique attraction of the city is the beautiful promenade with the famous Sea Organ.
There are two marinas in Zadar. The first is Tankercommerce. To get from the marina to the old town you can use the pedestrian bridge deep in the bay or for a small fee by boat at the entrance to the bay. The marina is very tight, and small collisions occur regularly, usually without damage. Care must be taken when entering and exiting. The second D-Marin Borik, located on the west side of town. From it to the old town you have to take a bus no more than 15 minutes, or 40 minutes on foot. It should be said that the city marina is designed for the yachts of the local charter company, so on Friday, Saturday and Sunday there is no room. But in D-Marina you can enter on any day. Pre-call or VHF to make reservations, especially during the high season.
In addition, you should pay attention to the ferries, which go from the mainland of Croatia to the islands.
The bishop of Zadar, Donatus – a Dalmatian saint, who was also a diplomat of the 8th and 9th century and built the iconic church of the Holy Trinity that was renamed in his honor in the 15th century during the Venetian reign. He visited Frankia’s legendary king Charles the Great and Constantinople and that explains the similarities between the main landmark of Zadar and the Aachen Cathedral. On the 25th February people celebrate his Feast Day.
