Zadar Old Town captivates with ancient marble streets that reveal centuries of history at every turn. The unique Sea Organ creates haunting melodies as waves push air through underwater pipes. Roman columns stand beside medieval churches and Venetian architecture, creating a living museum on this Adriatic peninsula. This walkable district invites exploration with its car-free pathways and stunning seaside views. Cathedral of St. Anastasia and circular St. Donat's Church showcase the area's rich religious heritage. At sunset, the Sun Salutation disc installation pulses with colourful light along the waterfront promenade.
Borik is a sun-soaked resort area along Zadar's Adriatic coastline where pristine pebble beaches meet crystal-clear waters. Pine-shaded walking paths wind along the waterfront, offering spectacular sunset views and peaceful evening strolls. The area centers around modern resort complexes with excellent amenities. The area shines with its beach-focused attractions including Beach Puntamika and Borik Beach. Water sports enthusiasts can rent kayaks and paddleboards while resort spas offer relaxing wellness treatments. Though dining options primarily exist within hotels, they serve fresh seafood and Croatian specialities with beautiful sea views.
Arbanasi offers a peaceful retreat just outside Zadar where traditional stone houses with red-tiled roofs line quiet residential streets. This suburb combines Albanian cultural heritage with Croatian coastal charm. Modest area parks and private gardens dot the landscape. Walk along the Adriatic shoreline to discover less-crowded beaches with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. The area has few tourist attractions but provides authentic interactions with welcoming locals. Central Zadar's historic sites remain easily accessible by car or bus.
Knež offers a quiet retreat from Zadar's tourist bustle. This welcoming residential area gives visitors a glimpse into authentic Croatian suburban life. The area features a mix of modern housing and traditional stone homes with terracotta roofs along tree-lined streets. Small local konobas and family-run cafés serve delicious home-style Croatian cooking at modest prices. While Knež itself has few attractions, nearby Preko Harbour and Fort Saint Michael make worthwhile day trips. Travellers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and budget-friendly accommodation just a 25-30 minute walk from Zadar's Old Town.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Zadar
Sea Organ
9.4/10 (622 reviews)
This unique architectural marvel transforms sea waves into melodious tunes through underwater pipes. Sit on the white marble steps at sunset to experience the ever-changing symphony while watching the Adriatic horizon.
This Blue Flag beach offers clear, calm waters and pine-shaded spots just steps from Zadar's centre. Arrive early to secure a prime position under the trees, or rent sunbeds for all-day comfort.
This 16th-century Venetian archway showcases intricate carvings and the iconic winged lion emblem. Admire its historical inscriptions commemorating the Battle of Lepanto while exploring Zadar's ancient heart.
Borik Beach's Blue Flag status guarantees pristine Adriatic waters perfect for family swimming. Rent a paddleboat or indulge in parasailing before relaxing at a beachside café with local Croatian cuisine.
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Petrcane Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Petrcane. Stroll along the seaside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.
Walk across ancient paving stones where Romans gathered 2,000 years ago in Zadar's historic centre. Nearby cafés offer perfect vantage points to admire the surrounding medieval architecture.
The Cathedral of St. Anastasia, Dalmatia's largest church, blends Romanesque and Gothic architecture with ancient relics. Climb the bell tower for sweeping views of Zadar's old town and the shimmering Adriatic beyond.
"Nice onsite restaurant, we enjoyed a delicious chicken salad & wine.
We were leaving early before breakfast & they packed us food to go for our drive. It was most appreciated.
Room was clean & comfortable. Parking onsite."
"This was a perfect location and apartment. If I had to complain about something is that there is no washer/dryer. And for someone that has been travelling for longer than a week, it would be helpful. It was very pretty and only 1 floor up with is also good when lugging luggage. I would return again"
"Clean, modern room with practical amneties. Super kind staff. Delicious breakfast. Central location for travelers and people that want to explore the city of Zadar. Perfect for business travellers."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
In Zadar, visit the Supernova Shopping Centre for a mix of shops, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. If you're up for a drive, explore nearby markets for unique local crafts and souvenirs that showcase the region's heritage.
Recreation
At Visnjik Sport Center, immerse yourself in vibrant sports activities and maintain your fitness regime. For culture and entertainment, the Croatian National Theatre offers captivating performances, perfect for a romantic evening. Indulge in serenity at Salvia Spa Medical Wellness, located 27.4km away, for rejuvenating treatments and ultimate relaxation.
Adventure
The Ilirija Aquatic Center, located 27.4km from Zadar, offers thrilling water activities and relaxation by the pools. For tennis enthusiasts, the Ilirija Tennis Center, also 27.4km away, provides excellent courts and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for sharpening your skills or enjoying a friendly match.
Nightlife
Zadar boasts a vibrant nightlife, with the lively Kalelarga street offering numerous bars and cafes. For a more energetic vibe, visit The Garden Lounge for cocktails and music, or head to Arsenal for live performances. Don’t miss the breathtaking sunset at the Sea Organ along the waterfront.
Find the best attractions in Zadar
Zadar, with its stunning outdoor scenery and rich cultural heritage, offers a delightful vacation for adventurous travellers. Explore iconic landmarks such as the historic Gate Arch, the Zadar Cathedral, and charming squares. The picturesque Dalmatian coast provides a perfect backdrop for those seeking a blend of culture and outdoor experiences, making Zadar a captivating destination for every visitor.
City Galleria: Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural atmosphere of City Galleria, a modern shopping and entertainment hub in Zadar. With a diverse range of shops, cafes, and events, it's an ideal spot to experience local life and creativity.
Palace of the Governor General: Step back in time at the Palace of the Governor General, a stunning example of historic architecture. This majestic palace offers a glimpse into Zadar's past, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and exquisite design.
Chain Gate: Explore the Chain Gate, an impressive historic arch that once formed part of Zadar's ancient fortifications. This landmark not only represents the city's storied history but also provides a picturesque backdrop for photographs.
Best time to go to Zadar
The best time to visit Zadar is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Zadar
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Zadar.
Consider traveling to Zadar during the low season (January to March) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Zadar holiday package cost?
You can snap up a holiday package to this destination on Expedia. However, how much your holiday to Zadar costs will depend on factors like the length of stay, hotel choice and season.
What are the cheapest months to go to Zadar?
You can usually find lower prices and better availability in January, February and November. Take a look at our cheap Zadar holiday packages and you could get some great off-season discounts.
How many days is enough for Zadar?
With around 3 days, you'll have enough time to visit popular neighbourhoods like Zadar Old Town and Briševo during your Zadar holiday. Be sure to also add Knight's Palace and Palace of the Governor General to your sightseeing itinerary. Up for some more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Zadar on day trips and tours.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Zadar?
It's no wonder a Zadar holiday is on the to-do list of many travellers. Major attractions like Forum are just the beginning of what you can explore here.
How to find the best Zadar package deals?
Use Expedia's handy filters to find some terrific Zadar package deals. When you begin your search, just set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you want to save, plan your adventure for midweek, or search for Zadar package deals in the low season. Play around with your travel dates and you may score even bigger discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's usually best to book your holiday package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book a Zadar holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could land you great savings when compared to arranging flights and hotels individually. Better still, you can customise your Zadar getaway to fit your exact needs. Choose your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Check out our great deals to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Zadar?
If you've got your Zadar travel dates confirmed, book as early as you can to grab some unbeatable deals. With Expedia, you can typically reserve some flights up to one year in advance. Prefer spontaneous trips? Our last-minute deals are great for impromptu escapes.
How to plan a trip to Zadar?
Choose your dates: The things you plan to do in Zadar and your favourite season can help you decide when to travel.
Set your budget: Factor in expenses like flights, transportation and food when calculating how much to save for your trip to Zadar. Then, select a property that works with your budget, whether that's an economical option or a deluxe getaway.
Decide your trip length: Think about how long you'd like to spend discovering Zadar. Plan your itinerary so you can get to all the experiences and attractions you're interested in at a leisurely pace.
Combine your accommodation and airfare: After you've nailed down your travel dates and duration, book the perfect Zadar holiday package for you.