14 best things to do in Zadar, in Croatia, in 1 to 4 days

Zadar Travel Guide

Zadar is a coastal city in Croatia, famous for its breathtaking sunsets and charming old town. Unlike some of Croatia’s other historic cities, Zadar blends ancient ruins with a more modern urban landscape, uniquely contrasting past and present. While the historical center is relatively small, it’s surrounded by a lively, contemporary city.

We visited Zadar in August 2021 during a road trip from Plitvice to Split, spending a few hours exploring its highlights. Here’s what we discovered!

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How to get there

Zadar is well-connected by air, road, and sea, making it an easy destination to reach whether you’re traveling from within Croatia or abroad.

By Plane:

Zadar Airport (ZAD) is located about 12 km from the city center and offers domestic and international flights, especially during the summer.
From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus (25 HRK / ~3.30€) or a taxi (~150 HRK / ~20€) to the city center.
Car rental is also available at the airport if you plan to explore beyond Zadar.

By Car: Driving is one of the best ways to reach Zadar, especially if you’re on a road trip along the Croatian coast.

From Zagreb: 285 km, ~3 hours via the A1 highway.
From Split: 160 km, ~1.5-2 hours via the coastal road or A1 highway.
From Plitvice Lakes: 130 km, ~1h 45min.
From Dubrovnik: 350 km, ~4-5 hours.
If you are coming by car, you can easily park in Zadar, a great and cheap parking is the one called [P] ZADAR PARKING.

Car Rental: If you’re flying in and need a car, you can rent one from major cities like Zagreb, Split, or Zadar Airport via Rentalcars.com.

By Bus: Croatia has a well-organized bus network, and Zadar’s main bus station connects it to all major cities.

Buses from Split, Zagreb, and Dubrovnik run frequently.
From Zagreb: ~3.5 hours.
From Split: ~2.5-3 hours.
From Dubrovnik: ~6-7 hours.

You can check schedules and book tickets at Arriva Croatia or FlixBus.

By Ferry: Zadar is also accessible by ferry, with connections from the surrounding islands and Italy.

Jadrolinija operates ferries between Zadar and islands like Ugljan, Dugi Otok, and Pašman.
In summer, there are also ferries from Ancona, Italy (~4-6 hours).

For schedules and booking, visit Jadrolinija’s website.

No matter how you arrive, Zadar is a fantastic city to explore, whether as a stop on a road trip or a base for island hopping!

Moving Around

Once you arrive in the city center, exploring Zadar is best done on foot. The old town is compact, and all the main attractions are within walking distance of one another.

If you plan to visit areas outside the old town, such as Kolovare Beach, Diklo, or the Zadar Archipelago, here are some additional options:

Local Buses: Zadar has a reliable bus system operated by Liburnija Zadar. Tickets can be bought directly from the driver or at kiosks.
Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available, but they can be pricey. Ride-sharing apps like Bolt often offer better rates.
Car Rental: If you’re planning to explore beyond Zadar, renting a car is a great option. Parking in the old town is limited, so it’s best to park in designated lots outside the city walls.
Bike Rental: Zadar is a bike-friendly city, and you can rent bicycles for a fun way to explore the coast and nearby beaches.

However, for a one-day visit, all the must-see sights in Zadar can be easily covered on foot!

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Zadar depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Here’s a breakdown of each season:

Spring (March – May): A fantastic time to explore Zadar’s old town, coastal promenades, and nearby islands without the summer crowds. Temperatures range from 15–22°C (59–72°F), making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer (June – August): The peak tourist season, ideal for beach lovers and boat trips to the nearby islands. Expect warm temperatures between 25–30°C (77–86°F), lively nightlife, and bustling streets. However, this is also the most crowded and expensive time to visit.
Autumn (September – October): A great time to visit with fewer crowds and pleasant weather (20–27°C / 68–81°F). The sea is still warm for swimming, and prices start to drop, making it a great balance between summer vibes and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Winter (November – February): A quiet and peaceful time to enjoy Zadar’s historic center and local culture. Temperatures range between 8–15°C (46–59°F). While some tourist activities shut down, it’s perfect for slow travel and budget-friendly visits.

Best Months to Visit: May, June, September, and early October offer the perfect mix of great weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices!

Where to Stay

Zadar offers a variety of accommodations, whether you’re looking for a charming stay in the old town, a beachfront hotel, or a budget-friendly option. Your choice depends on what kind of experience you want:

(€): Sea View Studio Apartment
(€€): Apartment Stella
(€€€): Bastion Heritage Hotel – Relais & Châteaux

Things to do In Zadar

The Land/sea Gate & City wall

Zadar is famous for never falling to the Ottomans during their conquests. Its impressive defense system, built by the Venetians in the 1500s, consists of a series of fortified walls and grand gates that once protected the city.

These fortifications played a crucial role in keeping Zadar secure and are now a significant part of the city’s historical charm. Walking along these ancient walls gives you a glimpse into Zadar’s past as a strategic stronghold in the Adriatic.

The Five Wells Square

The Five Wells Square in Zadar was designed to supply the city with water in case of an attack. The five wells are connected to an underground cistern, which provided a crucial water source during sieges.

Built by the Venetians in the 16th century, the square sits between the medieval city walls and the Captain’s Tower, making it a historically significant site. Today, it’s a charming spot to explore, offering a glimpse into Zadar’s past while being a peaceful place to relax.

St. Simeon’s Church

Crkva sv. Šimun (St. Simeon’s Church) is a significant historical and religious site in Zadar, best known for what it holds within its walls—the Chest of St. Simeon. This extraordinary wooden sarcophagus is covered in silver and gold, featuring incredibly detailed reliefs and inscriptions that showcase remarkable craftsmanship for its time.

The chest, a masterpiece of medieval goldsmithing, is believed to contain the remains of St. Simeon, making the church a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.

People's Square

People’s Square (Narodni trg) is the main square in Zadar’s old town, serving as the heart of the city. Lined with charming cafés, restaurants, and shops, it’s a lively gathering spot where both locals and tourists enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the City Guard and City Loggia, making it a perfect place to soak in the local culture while admiring the blend of old and modern architecture.

Church of St Donatus

Crkva sv. Donat (Church of St. Donatus) is a remarkable Byzantine church dating back to the 9th century. Built during the rule of the Byzantine Empire, it is one of the best-preserved early medieval churches in Croatia.

Its unique circular design and impressive stonework make it a standout landmark in Zadar’s old town. Today, the church no longer functions as a religious building but serves as a venue for music events, thanks to its incredible acoustics.

Unfortunately, during our visit, it was under renovation, so we couldn’t explore the interior.

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum of Zadar is the largest in the Adriatic region, built under Emperor Augustus at the turn of the 1st century. While only fragments of the original structure remain, it once stood as the heart of ancient Zadar, serving as a central gathering place for political, religious, and social activities.

Unfortunately, much of it was destroyed over time, particularly during World War II bombings. However, by the 1960s, efforts were made to restore and highlight its historical significance.

Today, you can walk among the ruins, admire its remaining columns and stone foundations, and get a glimpse into Zadar’s rich Roman past.

St. Mary’s Church

The Benedictine Monastery of St. Mary was founded in the 11th century and has stood as a symbol of Zadar’s religious and cultural heritage for centuries. Like much of the old town, it suffered significant damage during World War II but was later restored to its former glory.

Today, the monastery is home to a permanent exhibition of Religious Art, showcasing a remarkable collection of gold and silver relics, religious paintings, and sculptures.

Cathedral of St. Anastasia

One of the best things to do in Zadar for an incredible panoramic view is to visit St. Anastasia’s Cathedral. Built in the 12th century on the site of an old Christian Basilica, this stunning Romanesque cathedral is the largest in Dalmatia.

The highlight of the visit is its bell tower, which you can climb to enjoy a breathtaking 360° view of Zadar and the surrounding Adriatic coast. The ascent may be a bit of a workout, but the spectacular view at the top makes it well worth the effort!

Sea Organ & Greeting of the Sun

At the very end of Zadar’s waterfront, on the tip of the old town’s peninsula, you’ll find two of the city’s most famous landmarks: the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun.

The Sea Organ is an award-winning architectural marvel. It consists of a series of large marble steps leading down to the Adriatic, with a system of underwater pipes beneath them. As the waves crash against the shore, they push air through these pipes, producing a haunting yet mesmerizing melody—essentially music played by the sea itself.

Right next to it is the Greeting to the Sun, a large circular installation made of photovoltaic glass panels. During the day, it absorbs sunlight, and at night, it transforms into a dazzling light show, pulsating in vibrant colors to mimic the rhythm of the waves and the movement of people nearby.

Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

This park is the largest green space near Zadar’s old town, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s bustling streets. It dates back to 1829, when Austrian commander Governor Baron Franz Ludwig von Welden, a passionate nature lover, envisioned it as a romantic garden.

Though the park suffered damage during World War II, it remains a beautiful and relaxing spot where locals and visitors can take a break, stroll along shaded pathways, and enjoy panoramic views over Zadar.

Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s oldest and largest national park, famous for its stunning turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. Located in the mountainous Lika region, it spans over 296 square kilometers and is home to 16 interconnected lakes, divided into the Upper and Lower Lakes.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, Plitvice is one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in Europe. The park offers well-maintained wooden walkways and hiking trails, along with electric boats and panoramic trains to help visitors explore its scenic beauty. Whether you visit for a day trip or stay overnight, Plitvice Lakes is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

More things to do

If you have extra time in Zadar, you should definitely consider those attractions:

Island-Hopping Speedboat Tour: Experience the beauty of the Croatian Adriatic coast on a half-day adventure from Zadar by speedboat. Go swimming or snorkeling, and explore the scenic island landscapes and beaches.nati Boat Trip with Lunch and Swim Stops
Kornati Boat Trip with Lunch and Swim Stops: Admire the natural beauty of Kornati National Park and soak up views of the Telašćica Nature Park. Stop to swim and explore the island and enjoy an included breakfast and lunch.
Zrmanja River: Half-Day Guided Kayaking Tour Near Zadar: Enjoy kayaking on the Zrmanja River near Zadar, encountering waterfalls, easy rapids, and hidden swimming pools. Enjoy this perfectly clear water that flows through a spectacular canyon.

Itinerary

Since we only spent a few hours in Zadar, we didn’t follow a set itinerary—just strolling around the old town was enough to see the main sights in a short time.

However, if you have more time, you could easily spend 2 to 4 days exploring at a more relaxed pace. Beyond the old town, consider visiting nearby islands, national parks, and beaches to make the most of your stay.

Day 1: Old town of Zadar and Zrmanja River: Half-Da
Day 2: Island-Hopping Speedboat Tour
Day 3: Kornati Boat Trip with Lunch and
Day 4: Plitvice Lakes full day excursion

Žuri polako ‘Hurry slowly’: More speed, less haste.

About the authors

We are Alex and Tina, a French-Serbian couple who met in China back in 2014. We spent three incredible years there before making France our home. Our shared passion for travel has been the heartbeat of our relationship for over 12 years, taking us across 44 countries and counting.

We launched TheDailyPackers in 2019 as a way to document our adventures. In 2026, we reached a major milestone by officially turning our blog into our full-time job. While we are still growing toward financial independence through this platform, every article we write is fueled by our mission to make your voyages easier through in-depth guides, honest advice, and the lessons we’ve learned from our own mistakes.

Our journey has not been without its storms. In 2023, our world changed forever when our first son, Poppy, was stillborn on November 25th. It was, and remains, the hardest chapter of our lives. In 2025, we were blessed with our second little boy, Milo. He has since joined our traveling tribe, and you’ll be seeing him—and the reality of traveling with a little one-on the blog more and more.

We hope to inspire you to explore the world with curiosity and resilience. Thank you for being part of our story.