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Here are the 5 things to do Zadar. This is a city almost directly in the middle of the Dalmatian Coastline of Croatia. It’s well known for the party scene, however, there’s so much more that Zadar offers. We’re sharing things to do in Zadar all relatively close to the center, along with day trips from Zadar, and where to stay in Zadar. Enjoy these five things to do in Zadar, and if you think there’s more to add, leave us a comment below!
1. Enjoy the Sea Organ As The Sun Sets
One of the two major attractions in Zadar is the Sea Organ. This is an organ played by none other than the Adriatic Sea. Sitting along the water’s edge and listening to the sea play music is unlike anything else. Bring a bottle of wine or your favorite bubbly and enjoy the sun setting as the sea plays you a song!
{Traveler’s Tip… Get here early to get a seat. Even when we traveled in the off-season, there were loads of people. If you want to dangle your feet over the edge, or have room to get comfy, you’ll need to arrive well before sunset!}
2. Witness The Greeting To The Sun
Located right next to the Sea Organ is the Greeting to the Sun. This is a piece of art illuminated by the sun after the sun charges its solar lights all day long! You’ll feel like a kid again running around this huge, solar art piece! There are 300 glass plates, each soaking in the sun’s rays for the fun light show after the sun goes down!
{Traveler’s Tip… Sit and enjoy your drink near the Sea Organ until the crowd clears away. The longer you wait after sunset, the more vibrant the colors of the Greeting to the Sun will be, and you won’t have as many people gathered around you!}
3. Walk Along the Seafront
Whoever made Zadar’s Riva or seafront had people in mind when doing so! It’s a huge walking space with parks, benches, and restaurants all along the water! It’s a great place to have dinner and take an evening stroll, or even go for a morning run! You’ll see lots of other active people here!
{Traveler’s Tip… Sit back and take in the views with gelato from Eva. They have delicious gelato, and if you ask nicely, they’ll even make you an affogato! Even their vanilla ice cream was to die for! Expect to pay around 10 HRK (1.5 USD) per scoop.}
4. Visit The Forum
The Roman Forum is an area of Old Town Zadar that’s full of rich history. You’ll find it right in the middle of the peninsula where the Greeting to the Sun and Sea Organ are located. There are a couple of churches and some cool Roman ruins to check out here! Hike up the bell tower for great 360-degree views of Zadar.
5. Wander Around the Marble Streets
Zadar’s marble streets aren’t nearly as crowded as Dubrovnik’s, however, they’re in our opinion just as cool. You’ll find old buildings and great shopping walking around the marble streets! Try and find both the Sea and Land Gates while wandering around! And don’t forget to look out for Five Wells Square right next to the Land Gate!
While we aren’t too big on going to museums, there is a rather cool museum in Zadar, The Museum of Ancient Glass, . It’s located on the top of the city walls in a 19th-century palace! How cool is that?! The images are pretty cool, and glass blowing is done there too, so this may be a fun place to visit with * well-behaved* kids!
Where to Stay in Zadar
Art Villa Ines:
If you’re looking for a place to stay with loads of character and a great swimming pool, the Art Villa Ines is the place for you. It’s a darling place with more places to relax than one can imagine, the sweetest host, and is a little slice of relaxation in the city! Check out this post for more information on the Art Villa Ines.
Villa Diana Zadar:
If you’re looking for a modern apartment look no further than Villa Diana Zadar. Villa Diana Zadar is a villa with mini apartments and a modern, yet extremely cozy feel. It’s the perfect place to be able to make your own meals while on the road, and really feel like you’re at home! Check out our review for more information on Villa Diana Zadar.
Day Trips From Zadar
Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park is the uber-famous waterfall national park in Croatia. The drive from Zadar to Plitvice is less than two hours, making it a perfect day trip from Zadar! In the hotter months, it’s worth noting that there is no swimming at Plitvice Lakes, so if you’re looking for a place to swim, Krka is a better option. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is extremely busy! If you plan on making a day trip from Zadar, leave as early as possible to try and beat the crowds at Plitvice!
WATCH MORE | A Day at Plitvice Lakes National Park
LEARN MORE | Your Complete Guide to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Zadar to Krka National Park
Krka National Park is a lesser-visited national park in Croatia, but we aren’t sure why. At Krka National Park, you used to be able to get into the water and swim around at the bottom of the falls, making it the perfect day trip from Zadar when trying to beat the heat! We say used to, because a reader informed us this is no longer the case. The drive from Zadar to Krka National Park is only about an hour, making it a closer day trip from Zadar than Plitvice Lakes.
Zadar to Kornati National Park
While we didn’t do this trip ourselves, visiting Kornati National Park is quite a popular day trip from Zadar. This is a full-day adventure via a boat tour and some time exploring the national park. Kornati National Park is a cluster of islands off the coast of Zadar and seems to be a great experience to have. Read about the top Kornati NP tours here.
Dugi Otok from Zadar
During our ten days in Croatia, we had a hard time deciding which island to visit, but we ultimately decided to visit Hvar. If you don’t make it don’t to Hvar, Dugi Otok is a great alternative! Make sure you bring your camping gear though, as there’s not much accommodation on the island!
READ MORE | The Most Perfect Stay on Hvar
Recommended Gear for Zadar
While you don’t need any specific gear for Zadar, we recommend this travel gear for your trip to Croatia.
This camera is what we used for the photos in this post as well as the video in the beginning. Taking good-quality photos is a great way to capture all the memories! We always, always travel with this backpack. It’s the perfect carry-on size pack with shelf-like compartments to organize all your belongings. And this water bottle keeps drinks cold for 24 hours! The best way to beat the heat in Croatia!
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