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Croatia Destination Highlight – Zadar
Experience the captivating city of Zadar in Croatia. Set against the shimmering Adriatic Sea, this remarkable destination offers a blend of ancient heritage, innovative art installations, and a lively cultural scene.
With a history dating back over 3,000 years, blended with contemporary features and amenities, Zadar offers a lively cultural experience. The influence from the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Austrians is evident from the unique architectural and cultural landscape of the city, especially in Zadar’s old town.
Here at Adventures Croatia, we will help you plan the best holidays in Zadar and the surrounding areas. With an extensive knowledge of Croatia, we offer pre-planned private journeys or tailor-made vacations, crafted to match you and your dreams. that are completely tailored to your preferences.
Is Zadar Worth Visiting?
The easy, laid back pace of life here is inviting for all travelers, perfect for those wanting to unwind on vacation. There is also an abundance of things to do in Zadar, ranging from wandering through museums, art galleries, and ancient sites to swimming and hiking on the nearby islands.
Whether you’re a history buff, a culture aficionado, or simply seeking adventure in a new destination, Zadar promises to enchant and inspire you at every turn.
Our Popular Tours to Zadar
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- Adriatic Wonders: A 21-day tour through the highlights of the Adriatic region.
- Active Multi-Sport Vacation: A 15-day custom itinerary perfect for the active adventure seeker.
- Croatia Grand Tour – Land and Cruise: A 20-day tour from the north to the south of Croatia on land and by sea.
- AC 106 Deluxe Cruise – Northern Croatia: A 7-day cruise along the charming Croatian coastline and islands.
Things To Do in Zadar
There are many different things to do in Zadar, ranging from exploring the ancient streets and architecture to appreciating the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Here’s what you should do in this beautiful coastal city:
History
The Zadar old town is a captivating labyrinth of winding streets and alleyways, filled with cafes, shops, and historic landmarks. We recommend taking a walking tour of the city on your holiday in Zadar, where you can learn more about the rich history and culture of the city.
During your tour, you’ll visit the Roman Forum in the heart of Zadar’s old town, where the ruins of the Capitolium and the Forum’s basilica offer a reminder of the city’s enduring legacy as a crossroads of civilizations.
The Church of St. Donatus, a distinctive example of early medieval architecture in Croatia, stands tall nearby. Step inside to admire the ancient stone carvings and intricate decorative motifs from the ninth century.
Nearby Islands
The Zadar archipelago, a tapestry of over 300 islands and islets, is filled with pristine beaches, ruggard coves, and beautiful turquoise waters. The perfect way to explore these islands are through a private charter, giving you the freedom to plan your own itinerary.
During your holiday in Zadar, head to Dugi Otok, a hidden gem in Croatia, which has an abundance of idyllic landscapes, including Telašćica Nature Park, Mir Lake, Sakarun Beach, and Telašćica Bay. Visit Kornati Islands National Park for hikes through the sparse terrain with views out over the sparkling Adriatic sea. There is an abundance of sandy beaches and secluded bays for a dip to cool off. The dramatic cliffs are just low enough to jump off if you are feeling adventurous.
Modern Marvels
The city’s waterfront is filled with vibrant sights and sounds. Listen to the Sea Organ, an architectural sound art object, creating harmonious sounds created by the waves interacting with the underwater pipes.
Besides the Sea Organ, the Greeting to the Sun installation uses the sun’s captured energy during the day to create a light installation in the evening, which represents the motion of the solar system.
Sit here and slow down, soaking up all that your surroundings have to offer. Sunset is a wonderful time to relax by the city’s quay, where you can listen to the gentle tunes of the Sea Organ while watching the sun transform the sky.
Cultural Delights
Zadar hosts many of Croatia’s various events and festivals throughout the year, including the Zadar Summer Theatre Festival, which features open-air performances, and Musical Evenings in St. Donatus, showcasing classical music performed by local and international musicians.
Zadar’s culinary scene offers a delicious journey through the flavors of Dalmatia, where fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional recipes blend seamlessly to create a memorable dining experience.
Savor traditional Dalmatian dishes at local restaurants or Konobas, including seafood delicacies, black risotto, and Pašticada (a slow-cooked beef dish). Sample fresh produce, local cheeses, and other regional produce at the bustling Zadar Market, where you can learn more about traditional ingredients from the vendors.
Natural Beauty
The Velebit Mountains stand tall to the northeast of Zadar, with many opportunities for recreational activities in Paklenica National Park. Deep gorges, rugged cliffs, and dense pine forests cover this area, where hiking trails lead to panoramic viewpoints and hidden waterfalls. Rock climbing is also a popular activity here, attracting climbers from all over the world.
The countryside surrounding Zadar offers a glimpse into rural life in Croatia, dotted with olive groves, vineyards, and traditional Dalmatian villages. Spend an afternoon exploring the area where you can walk through the olive groves or perhaps sample the local Croatian wine.
Like many other beach towns in Croatia, Zadar has an abundance of breathtaking beaches, with clear, shallow waters. Visit Kolovare Beach, which has stretches of both pebbles and sand covering its shores, or Borik Beach, which has resort facilities.
If you are looking for something more secluded and away from the crowds, Punta Bajlo Beach and Puntamika Beach are great options.
How to Get to Zadar?
Zadar is well connected to the rest of the country by air, land, and sea. Zadar Airport (ZAD) serves both domestic and international flights and located just five miles outside of the city center, it is a very convenient destination to fly into.
Alternatively, Zadar can also be reached by car via the A1 motorway, accessible from northern or central Croatia. Arriving by boat is also possible, which is especially convenient via private charter or cabin charter.
Our friendly and experienced team are here to help you with any queries or questions you may have about transport options to and from Zadar.
What to Expect From a Holiday in Zadar
Zadar offers an immersion into Croatian culture and history, without the crowds that other popular destinations attract in the summer months. The combination of historic sites, mouth watering food, outdoor recreational activities, modern installations, and proximity to the nearby islands makes for an exciting and memorable vacation suited to everyone.
Planning a Zadar Holiday with Adventures Croatia
Are you looking to begin planning your dream holiday in Zadar? At Adventures Croatia, our team is here to help you craft the perfect holiday, tailored to you.
To start the planning process give us a call at 1-800-818-8015 or email [email protected] to learn more about our exclusive deals and tour options to Zadar.
If you are a travel professional with clients seeking an unforgettable experience in Zadar, Croatia, we would be happy to work with you. Become one of our qualified agents to hear more.