In and around Zadar: how to explore one of the coolest cities in Croatia

Thinking of a Vacation in Croatia? Think Zadar! 

Zadar is rapidly evolving as an ultra-modern tourist destination for its culture, art, history and nature. Located in the northern part of the Dalmatian coast, Zadar’s rich Venetian, Hungarian and Byzantine cultural influences are best explored through wandering in its marbled streets. However, what sets this Romanesque port city apart is its UNESCO protected old town, slow-paced café culture and one-of-their-kind art installations. 

Moreover, the Dalmatian city is an ideal location to reach many cultural and natural jewels of Croatia, including pristine natural parks and islands. A holiday destination of such diverse experiences is waiting to be explored and discovered. If you don’t know where to start, here is a list of the things to do in and around Zadar!

Appreciate the Old Town and Cafes at Narodni Trg 

Walking around Zadar’s old town, you’ll find the ancient Roman Forum with a distinct Byzantine-style architecture of the Church of St. Donatus. A little further ahead is Narodni Trg, a public square full of terraces with open-air cafes surrounding Dalmatia’s largest cathedral, St. Anastasia. Climb up the cathedral’s bell tower for the city’s breathtaking panoramic view reaching all the way till Zadar archipelago!

Explore Modern Seafront Art Installations

A minute’s walk away from the old town are the two unique art installations that attract many visitors to Zadar. Situated on Riva, a seaside promenade buzzing with the most fashionable crowds, the first installation is the Sea Organ. As its name suggests, the organ fills the soothing Mediterranean atmosphere of Zadar with a magical melody when sea waves strike against its marble footsteps, providing a truly magical experience. A few steps ahead is the second installation called Greeting to the Sun, a modern monument that transforms into a lighted waterfront dance floor at night! 

Experience Typical Dalmatian Cuisine and Zadar’s Nightlife 

The experience of a place is incomplete without diving into its local cuisine. So when you are in the city, taste Madarica (a layer cake) and Fritule (a Croatian doughnut) served at cafes in Narodni Trg. Try Pašticasa (beef stew) and Peka (meat-potato stew) if your taste buds love savoury more. Zadar’s fruity brandy, Rakija, is another delight. Pop open a bottle and relish Zadar’s sunsets, which were once touted as one of the best by Alfred Hitchcock. Then, enjoy Croatia’s popular white wines, along with the city’s nightlife at La Bodega in the Varoš neighbourhood. 

From Zadar to Sakarun Beach or Zrce Beach

Easily reached via a short boat trip from Zadar, Sakarun Beach on Dugi Island is the most famous beach in Zadar County. Its white-sand beach, swimming and snorkelling in emerald waters will surely make you spend an entire day here. But if the party animal in you is howling out loud, then make your way to Zrce Beach, located at just an hour’s drive from Zadar. Zrce is a blue flag beach that sets the perfect party scene, with discos and beach bars operating for long hours. Apart from party boats and clubs like Aquarius, and Calypso, you’ll also find bungee jumping, jet-skiing, and inflatable catapults that add to the delights of unwinding here.

From Zadar to Beautiful Nature

Drive around the Dalmatian region and you will find that it has national parks that are otherworldly and have a spellbinding beauty. Therefore, you can’t miss a visit to either the Plitvice Lakes National Park with enchanting lakes or the Krka National Park with a natural swimming area beneath seven cascades! Although a hard choice to make, visiting either of the places will undoubtedly be worth your while as both of them are within two-hours driving distance from Zadar.

The Croatian city may not as yet be as visited as Dubrovnik or Split, but it is increasingly finding its fair share of travellers searching for the unique. Thus, less crowded and more budget-friendly, Zadar should surely be on your list the next time you visit Croatia.

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