Explore Zadar's Historic Charm, Zadar

Overview

Explore the often-overlooked star of Dalmatia, the historic seaside city of Zadar. As the largest city on Dalmatia's northern coast, there's a lot to see and do. You can stroll the marble streets of Zadar's famous Old Town—once the mightiest fortress city in the Venetian Republic—or wander beyond its Venetian gates and stone walls. You'll find Roman and Byzantine architecture examples in the 1st-century Roman Forum, the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, and the 9th-century Church of St. Donatus.

Another noteworthy site to check out is the baroque St. Simeon Church to view the Queen Elizabeth-commissioned sarcophagus. Be sure to stop for lunch and a glass of wine in the center of town at a konoba restaurant like Stomorica

After touring the city by day, walk to the waterfront just before dusk to witness another of Dalmatia's most beautiful sunsets. During this time, you can marvel at Croatian artist Nikola Bašić's 72-foot Monument to the Sun art feature while you listen to the nearby Sea Organ play its unending melody, fueled by the ebb and flow of the Adriatic Sea's current. And in the evening, partake of Zadar's to-die-for seafood. There are plenty of great restaurants in the historic center.

Discover more unique experiences in and around Zadar

Itineraries with Explore Zadar's Historic Charm

Croatia Luxury Tour: Zagreb, Zadar, Split, Hvar & Dubrovnik - 14 Days

Spend two weeks experiencing Croatia's cities, the Adriatic islands, and the Dalmatian coast in luxury. Begin with a private tour of Croatia's dynamic capital, Zagreb, to see trendy neighborhoods, unique museums, and magnificent architecture. In Zadar, take in an unforgettable sunset while dining on world-class seafood and wine. Dive into Roman history in Split and savor local delicacies on an exclusive food tour, then spend time discovering the wines and beaches of Hvar and Korčula.

Northern Dalmatia: Zagreb, Plitvice, Zadar, & Split - 6 Days

Uncover Croatia's colorful history and culture on this 6-day itinerary focused on Northern Dalmatia. From the lively capital of Zagreb you'll find your way to the country's most popular park, Plitvice Lakes National Park, and continue to historic Zadar along the Adriatic coast. Cap off your trip with three nights in fascinating Split.

Magical Istria: Zagreb, Rovinj, Zadar & Plitvice Lakes - 10 Days

Often referred to as "Tierra Magica," Istria's vineyards, olive groves, Venetian-style coastline, and hilltop towns await on this 10-day self-drive itinerary. Your Croatian trip uses Rovinj as your base, with stops in Zagreb, Zadar, and Plitvice Lakes National Park. You'll wander amid Venetian-influenced architecture as you pass under archways and along alleyways in Rovinj, visit Tito's former home on Veliki Brijun, and dine on plenty of fresh seafood.

Croatia Multisport: Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, Plitvice & Zagreb - 14 Days

Discover the rugged and ethereal beauty of Croatia on this complete two-week multisport adventure. You'll cover three historic cities along the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik, Split, and Zadar, as well as spend two nights in the capital, Zagreb. You'll hike and bike island terrain on Korčula and Hvar islands, zip-line over the Cetina River Canyon, and walk amid waterfalls and emerald-green lakes in stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park.