A Quick Guide to Zadar in 2019
Are you an absolute Zadar beginner so you wouldn’t like to miss the top must-do’s? Or are you a passionate Zadar fan who cannot resist coming back and always likes to be reminded of its buzz and attractions? Check out the overview of Zadar basics and plan your trip more easily:
Top attractions
Roam the streets of Zadar’s historical peninsula to get to know the city! Take a walking tour to truly appreciate its story, the tale behind all those centuries- if not millennia-old monuments.
Feel its pulse as you are walking along Široka ulica street (locally referred to as Kalelarga), past St Donatus’ Church and Roman Forum, through monumental gates such as the Land Gate and along the defensive walls (UNESCO World Heritage Site) until you reach the city’s most famous modern attractions: Sea Organ and Greetings to the Sun (also known as Sun Salutation).
The best view of the city
Every single one out of 183 steps you take to reach the top of the Belltower is absolutely worth it! The Belltower of the adjacent St Anastasia’s Cathedral is the best lookout in the city and offers you a wonderful view of the historical peninsula, the islands and Velebit mountain in the distance.
A choice of museums
Looking for history and culture or just plain fun, Zadar has it all! From the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Ancient Glass and the ‘Gold and Silver of Zadar’ permanent exhibition to the Museum of Illusions, everyone can get their share of fun and informative insight into the city.
Places to relax
Take a break in the city’s oases of pleasure! Go for a refreshing swim to Borik or Kolovare beaches, rest in the first public park in Croatia opened almost 200 years ago – Queen Jelena Madije Park or re-energize over a coffee or your favourite drink on Zadar’s most popular squares – Narodni trg (People’s Square), Petar Zoranić Square or Five Wells Square.
Great places to eat and go out for a drink
Hang out with Zadrans on the peninsula! Head to the historical neighbourhoods such as Varoš or Kampo Kastelo for a drink or two or stop by the Famous bar in Borik where you can also grab a bite to eat. Not far you can also find one of the best pizza places in town, Mamma Mia.
Should you feel like having a bit of grill, OX Meat and Eat is your place, just as Konoba Malo misto, Pet bunara, Bruschetta or Proto Food & More will thrill you with its Mediterranean cuisine. For an unforgettable dining experience as recommended by the Michelin guide, go to Foša or Kaštel.
Getting around
Walk & cycle in Zadar! There’s no better way to get to know the historical core than on foot, just as a bike can take you even wider to explore other parts of the city, the beaches and amazing places in the vicinity such as Nin. Also, don’t miss the barkajoli boat ride from the peninsula to the mainland.
The one and only Zadar
Aaaah, the sunset. Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the world-famous sunset in a city that is impossible not to fall in love with, the original and vibrant city of Zadar.