22 Unforgettable Tourist Places, Beaches to Visit and Things to Do in Zadar

September 1, 2023 Mustafa Natalwala 2457 Views

Zadar is a city in the Dalmatian region of Croatia. It is the oldest city in the country that has been continuously inhabited. Hence the majority of the best places to visit in Zadar, Croatia are historical sites.

At the same time, it is a beautiful coastal city surrounded by beaches, islands, forests, lakes, and of course the Adriatic Sea. So there are a lot of fun things to do in Zadar as well. Let’s explore both of these aspects of Zadar travel.

Also known as Zara, this city has a history going back to the Neolithic Age. You will find things to see in Zadar, Croatia from a variety of periods of history. Over the ages, the city has been home to several civilizations including Illyrians, Romans, Venetians, and many more. You will see the influence of these cultures on many sites that are now Zadar tourist attractions.

The beautifully architectured and opulently decorated historical sites take nothing away from the modern Zadar attractions. You will see incredible monuments that work in harmony with the ocean and sunlight to create magical experiences for those who visit Zadar.

But that is not all that is modern in this city. The beachside location has also given rise to a happening nightlife culture. The beach clubs and bars are top attractions in Zadar in their own right. However, these beaches are a place for leisure, adventure, and incredible scenic beauty.

While there are numerous beaches in Zadar and around it. There are also quite a few beautiful ones on the islands with some of the best things to do near Zadar. The island beaches also have seclusion and are far less crowded. For those who want to enjoy scenic ocean views, these are the best beaches in Zadar, Croatia.

You can take a simple boat ride to get to these islands. Or you can take a beautiful sailing cruise for Zadar sightseeing and island trips. Aside from beaches, the islands are home to an abundance of wildlife, aquatic life, and natural wonders. They are also the hub for adventure activities in Zadar such as surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, swimming, and more.

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Table of Contents

Top 22 Tourist Places to Visit in Zadar, Croatia

1. St. Mary’s Church

This Benedictine convent dates back to 1066, however, the current structure was built around the 16th century. It primarily exhibits Romanesque architecture with various other elements added to it over the years.

It is also one of the best places to visit in Zadar, Croatia to see classic interiors hailing from different periods. Furthermore, the church is home to a vast treasury that boasts a huge collection of Gold and Silver Coins, religious artifacts, artworks, and more. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore this church when you visit Zadar in Croatia.

2. Archaeological Museum Zadar

This is the second oldest museum in the country with an impressive collection of more than 100,000 objects from different periods. It is among the best things to do in Zadar, Croatia for history lovers.

You will see artifacts from the prehistoric period, Stone Age, medieval times, Roman reign, and so on. You will also get deep insight into the history and culture of Croatia between the 7th and 12th centuries. You will find some of the most interesting things to see in Zadar, Croatia in this museum. It takes at least 2 hours to tour this place.

3. Roman Forum

This structure was commissioned by Augustus, the first Roman Emperor. It is dated between the 1st century BCE and the 3rd century CE. It is believed to be a temple dedicated to Jupiter, Minerva, and Juno.

The site is also considered to be the spiritual heart of the city as it is surrounded by many important religious sites as well as many Zadar tourist attractions. You will need an hour to explore the archeological site.

4. Church of St. Donatus

This church is dedicated to the 9th bishop Donatus of Zadar. Much of the church was designed by the bishop himself. The design inspired the court chapels of Charlemagne. Hence it is among the most unique-looking Zadar attractions.

You can take a guided tour that covers the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the church. You will need 20 to 30 minutes from Zadar travel for this tour.

5. Zadar Cathedral

This 12th-century cathedral is one of the most impressive ancient structures in the city. The cathedral is known for its beautiful architecture with an elaborate facade design. It is one of the most beautiful places to see in Zadar, Croatia.

The interiors of this cathedral are even richer than the exterior. It is home to several incredible pieces of religious art including a relief of the Madonna & Child, a Gothic Style Rose Window, 12th-century Crypt, an Altar of St. Sacrament, and more. The church is a major highlight of Zadar sightseeing and you need at least an hour to explore it.

6. Sea Organ

This structure is a feat of architectural creativity. It is a series of steps that play to the tune of ocean waves. It is among the top things to do in Zadar’s old town. The structure was designed by Nikola Basic to harness the music of the ocean and winds.

The Sea Organ produces a deep soothing sound as the ocean plays it. Take a few minutes to sit by the place and enjoy the sight and sound of the sea. This is one of the most under-appreciated activities to do in Zadar.

7. Monument to the Sun

This is yet another wonderful contribution of Nikola Basic to Zadar. The monument consists of 300 glass panels of 22 meters in diameter. The solar panel stores electricity which is then used for a light show after sunset. It is among the best things to do in Zadar at night. You should take a few minutes to enjoy the show.

8. The Land Gate

This stone gate was built in 1543 and was the main entrance of the city for several years. It is also among Zadar’s top attractions for its beautiful carvings and sculptures. You need 10-15 minutes or so to admire it when you visit Zadar.

9. 5 Wells Square

Just as the name suggests, this public square was built on 5 wells. These had great significance for the city as they supplied fresh water to the residents. The wells were built by Venetians over a moat and were built alongside the city’s fortification.

The wells supplied water to a large cistern, which was then used by the city. They are among the most important historical Zadar attractions. You need 10-15 minutes to explore this square.

10. Museum of Illusions (Muzej Iluzija)

The museum is just as advertised. It consists of exhibits that create an optical illusion. Some of them are also interactive, you can be part of the illusion. It is among the most fun things to do in Zadar, Croatia.

You can see yourself in different sizes, appear to be walking on the wall, overcome the vortex tunnel, survive the rotating room, and more. You need 30 to 45 to enjoy this museum.

I suggest you should get your Entry Ticket to the Museum of Illusions in advance.

11. Museum of Ancient Glass

Outside of Italy, this museum has the largest collection of ancient Roman glassware artifacts. The majority of the exhibits were discovered during archeological excavations in the Dalmatian region.

You will find some of the most interesting things to see in Zadar at this museum. There are a variety of practical and decorative glass items dating back to the Roman rule. You will need about 2 hours from Zadar travel to tour this museum.

12. People’s Square

This public square came to be during the Renaissance and bears several hallmarks of the era. It is among the best places to visit in Zadar for people-watching. You can take a seat in one of the cafes, restaurants, or bars and enjoy the view of people going about their business or the architecture of Zadar tourist attractions surrounding the square. You won’t need more than a few minutes to explore this square.

13. Market Zadar

This market sells all kinds of things, but the majority of shops give you locally produced items. You can buy fresh meats, vegetables, fruits, and seafood. You can also buy food products, handicraft items, dairy, baked goods, and more.

Trying out the various street foods and snacks is also among the most fun things to do in Zadar Old Town. You will need an hour or so to explore this market.

I suggest you should try a Market Tour with a Cooking Class in Zadar.

14. Church of St. Chrysogonus

This 12th-century church is dedicated to St. Chrysogonus, the patron saint of the city. It was built on the site of a Roman Emporium. The church is included among Zadar’s top attractions for its architecture, history, and cultural significance.

The interiors of the church got a major uplift during the Renaissance. It is adorned with paintings, frescoes, carvings, sculptures, and so on. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore the church.

15. Sea Gate

This gate was built in the 16th century to honor of the Battle of Lepanto. Much like the Land Gate, this arch also bears several carvings and sculptures including Venetian lion and St. Chrysogonus.

Overlooking the ocean and the port, it is one of the most beautiful places to see in Zadar. Take a couple of minutes to admire this structure while exploring the waterfront.

16. Boat Cruises

Among all the best things to do near Zadar in Croatia, there is nothing more picturesque than taking a boat cruise to explore the archipelago. You get to pick from a variety of boat types including cruise boats, sailing boats, and speed boats.

The trips can take you for Zadar sightseeing or to explore the ocean or to get to nearby islands. You can also combine the trip with fun activities to do in Zadar such as scuba diving and island hiking tours. No matter what you pick, you will need at least an hour for the experience.

Below I am suggesting some of the popular Boat Trips in Zadar:

17. Kolovare Beach

This is considered the best beach in Zadar, Croatia. You enjoy the golden sands, pebbled shallows, and an expansive ocean view. You can get umbrellas and sun loungers for leisure. This Zadar beach also has massage centers, bars, cabins, and more.

You can easily spend a couple of hours at this beach when you visit Zadar. However, owing to its popularity, the beach is often populated. You can head to the islands to find more seclusion.

18. Sali Island

Speaking of which, Sali is a beautiful island in the Zadar Archipelago. You can take a boat to get to this absolute paradise. Surrounded by turquoise water and with a beautiful lake within its lap, the island is gorgeous.

It is home to a coastal village as well as the Telascica Nature Park. This is the place for a lot of outdoor things to do around Zadar. The nature park is blessed with incredible beauty. You can enjoy hiking, swimming, cycling, scuba diving, and many other activities on the island.

Sali is also home to some of the most amazing Zadar beaches. The best part is that these beaches are hardly ever crowded. You can make a day trip to Sali Island during Zadar travel.

19. Adventure Activities to do in Zadar

Surrounding the city, there are a variety of places to visit around Zadar. You have forests, islands, lakes, hills, islands, beaches, and the ocean. So naturally, you also get to enjoy a whole lot of outdoor and adventure activities when you visit Zadar.

Each terrain offers something for thrill seekers and nature lovers. Some of the top things to do near Zadar include scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, row-boating, canoeing, bungee jumping, and more.

You can also go hiking through forests or nature trails and swim in lakes and oceans. No matter whatever activity you do in Zadar, you will need at least an hour.

Here below I have listed some of the top adventure activities to do in Zadar:

20. Borik Beach

While other beaches in Zadar are popular daytime activities, Borik Beach is a happening nightlife venue. You can visit the sea-facing bars, clubs, resorts, and more. If you want to spend an evening partying, Borik Beach is the best Zadar attraction for it.

21. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Possibly the most scenic things to see in Zadar trip. The National Park has beautiful hiking trails through forests and boardwalks. You will be surrounded by streams, lakes, grasslands, and waterfalls.

You will also come across aquatic life, animals, and birds during the trails. It is among the best things to do near Zadar in Croatia and you need at least 3 hours for the experience.

I suggest you should book a Full-Day Guided Tour of Plitvice Lakes with a Boat Ride in advance.

22. Kornati National Park

This national park spans across several islands in the Zadar archipelago. You can get here by boat to explore the hiking trails and wildlife on the island. Or venture to the ocean for snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving. You will need 3 to 4 hours for this nature excursion.

I suggest you should book a Full Day Boat Trip to Kornati National Park with Lunch and Swim Stop in advance.

If you are looking for more places to see in Zadar, check out the sections below. We have created a complete list of attractions and activities that you can enjoy in the city and around it.

Things to do in Zadar, Croatia

Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Zadar, Croatia

Church of St. Donatus
Roman Forum
Cathedral of St. Anastasia
Museum of Ancient Glass
The Five Wells Square
The Land Gate
Archeological Museum of Zadar
Benedictine Monastery of St. Maria
National Museum Zadar
Duke’s Palace
Fort St. Michael
Arsenal Zadar MS
Bell Tower
Church of the Holy Cross
Church of St. Krsevan
Zadarska Sfinga
Zadar Archdiose
Solana Nin Salt Museum
Captain’s Tower
Zadar National Museum
Sea Gate
Church of St. Simon

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Zadar, Croatia

Musapstan Forest Park
Zadar Archipelago
Pltivice Lakes National Park
Dugi Otok
Kornati National Park
Zrmanja River
Sakarun Bay
Golubinka Cave
Velebit Mountains
Krka National Park
Telascica Nature Park

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Zadar, Croatia

Degarra Winery
Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
Riva Zadar
Zatonino
Museum of Optical Illusions
Buffalo Bill Western City
The Park of Vladmir Nazor
Park Vruljica
Wibit Park
Biograd Fun Park
Zadar Puppet Theatre
Maraska Factory

Shopping in Zadar, Croatia

Market Zadar
Advent du Zadar
Radman Peninsula
Kalelarga Street
City Galleria
Zadar Shopping Capital
Supernova Zadar

Islands & Beaches in Zadar, Croatia

Kolovare Beach
Borik Beach
Zrce Beach
Punta Rozica Plaza Beach
Petrcane Beach
Maestrala Beach
Osljak Island
Punta Bajlo Beach
Plage de Podbrig
Punta Bibinje Beach
Punta Skala Beach
Otok Rivanj Island
Plaza Mostir
Beach of Children’s Paradise
Zaton Holiday Resort Beach
Galevac Island
Jaz Beach
Batalaza Beach
Plaza Kozino Beach
Karma Beach
Prtljug Beach
Plaza Prodorica Beach
Plage de Lipauska
Mala Sabusa Beach
Plaza Uskok Island
Lipauska Plaza Beach
Sepurine Plaza Beach
Plisa Plaza Beach
Mali Zdrelac Beach
Plage Beach
Golden Wave Beach
Pineta Beach
Mul Beach
Punta Zelena Beach
Lamjana Beach
Plage de Bibinje
Beriknica Beach
Rucica Beach

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventures in Zadar, Croatia

Scuba Diving
Snorkeling
Surfing
Swimming
Hiking
Birdwatching
Rowboating
Kayaking
Canoeing
Bungee Jumping
Boat Cruise
Jet Skiing
Sea-Plane Tour

Sightseeing in Zadar, Croatia

Sea Organ
The Greetings to the Sun
Narodni TRG Square
Port Authority Zadar
Zdrelac Bridge
Gradski Most Bridge
Zadar City Walls

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Zadar, Croatia

Famous Beach Bar & Grill
Fosa
Beach Bar Bamboo
Art of Raw
Bistro Gourmet Kalelarga Beach
Arsenal Zadar MS
Pet Burana
Kornat
2Ribara
Bruschetta
La Famiglia
Niko
Karoca Gre
Proto Food & More
Stari Most
The Garden Lounge
Kastel
Mamma Mia
Art Kavana
Pasta & Svasta
Tinel
Maguro
Atrij
Restoran 4 Kantuna
Lungo Mare
Buffet Kod Stipe
Konoba Rafaelo
Harbour CookHouse & Club
TriBunara
Konoba Dalmacija

Where to Stay in Zadar?

Here we have listed the Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range, and Budget Hotels in Zadar. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Zadar.

Luxurious Hotels

Mid-Range Hotels

Budget Hotels

Custom Tours Package in Zadar

How to Reach Zadar, Croatia?

By Air

The city is served by Zadar Airport. It receives direct flights from Belgrade, Vienna, Brussels, Munich, Zagreb, Amsterdam, Berlin, London, Milan, Cologne, Stuttgart, Dusseldorf, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Luxembourg, and several other cities in Europe. You can get buses and cabs from the airport to get to the city.

By Road

Lovinac and Gracac are the closest train stations to visit Zadar. You can get a bus from either of these towns. The bus network to reach Zadar is far more widespread. You can basically get a bus from several cities and towns in the country.

If you are planning to reach Zadar by road, you should head for route E65 and then turn to route 424.

By Water

You can get boats to get to several islands on the Zadar archipelago. You can also get boats from Dubrovnik and Rijeka to get to Zadar.

Image Reference

St. Mary’s Church – luka992 / PixaBay
Archaeological Museum Zadar – AnatolyPm / Wikimedia Commons
Roman Forum – Palauenc05 / Wikimedia Commons
Church of St. Donatus – dronepicr / Flickr
Zadar Cathedral – Henrik / PixaBay
Sea Organ – dronepicr / Flickr
Monument to the Sun – Larry Koester / Flickr
The Land Gate – Fred Romero / Flickr
5 Wells Square – Fred Romero / Flickr
Museum of Illusions (Muzej Iluzija) –
Museum of Ancient Glass – urban_lenny / Flickr
People’s Square – Larry Koester / Flickr
Market Zadar – michael clarke stuff / Flickr
Church of St. Chrysogonus – Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Sea Gate – Ciocolli / Wikimedia Commons
Boat Cruises – Richard Clifford / Flickr
Kolovare Beach – dronepicr / Flickr
Sali Island – vlasta2 / Flickr
Adventure Activities to do in Zadar – Niksy / PixaBay
Borik Beach – Joadl / Wikimedia Commons
Plitvice Lakes – xuhuibjcn / PixaBay
Kornati National Park – Josef Grunig / Flickr