Located along Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian coast, Zadar is a charming city that combines rich history with beautiful landscapes, making it the perfect destination for travelers looking for a peaceful getaway. We spent a week exploring this hidden gem, and we’re excited to share our experiences and some valuable tips for anyone planning a visit to Zadar.

Getting to Zadar

Zadar’s airport is small and only serves a limited number of flights, particularly during the off-season. During our trip, we flew from Lisbon, Portugal, with a layover in London Stansted before continuing on to Zadar. If you’re traveling during the off-season and can’t find a direct flight, another good option is to fly into Zagreb or Split, both of which have larger international airports. From there, you can take a direct bus to Zadar, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Zadar’s bus station is conveniently located just a 20-minute walk from the old town.

For those arriving at the airport, it’s only a short 20-minute drive to the city center. A bus connects the two, but if you’re traveling with multiple people, using a car-sharing service like Uber or Bolt might be more economical.

Discovering Zadar’s Old Town

At first glance, Zadar may seem like a quiet and somewhat plain city, but that’s far from the truth. The old town, located on a small peninsula, is the heart of Zadar, where you’ll find winding medieval streets, historic ruins, and beautiful coastal views.

The city’s history dates back to Roman times, and evidence of its past is scattered throughout the old town. Some of the most notable sights include the impressive Terraferma Gate, a Venetian entrance, and several ruins and columns that remind you of the city’s rich heritage. There are also plenty of parks offering shade on hot days.

For a truly unforgettable experience, head to the waterfront and explore the Obala kralja Petra Krešimira IV, a beautiful stone promenade that stretches along the old town. The water is incredibly clear, offering a glimpse of the seabed, and you can often spot small fish swimming by. It’s also safe for swimming, with ladders at intervals along the promenade to help you get in and out of the water. We found this spot perfect for enjoying a quiet morning with breakfast from a local bakery while watching the waves crash against the pier.

As you continue walking along the promenade, you’ll reach one of Zadar’s most famous landmarks, the Sea Organ. This unique installation uses pipes beneath marble steps to create music from the waves. While it’s not a traditional melody, the sounds are surprisingly pleasant and calming. Nearby, you’ll also find the Monument to the Sun, a stunning circle of glass panels that lights up at night to create a mesmerizing light show.

Dining in Zadar

While Zadar offers incredible sights, dining out can be pricey. Expect to spend around €15-20 per dish, so a meal for two, including drinks, will likely cost €40-50. For those on a budget, consider booking an apartment with a kitchen. It may cost a bit more than a hotel room, but cooking your own meals will save you money, especially if you’re staying for a week.

For affordable yet tasty eats, we recommend Richard Gyros and Sweets, a small, local spot near the harbor serving delicious gyros, and Crazy Pizza, located near the old town, offering huge, reasonably priced pizzas, either by the slice or whole.

Island-Hopping from Zadar

Zadar is an excellent base for exploring Croatia’s nearby islands. Most ferries depart from the harbor behind the old town, though there’s also a larger pier, Zadar Gaženica, for car ferries. Keep in mind that ferry schedules are limited outside of the high season, so plan accordingly.

We took a ferry to Ugljan, the nearest island to Zadar, and spent a day hiking and exploring. The highlight was Fort Saint Michael, a historic Byzantine stronghold accessible via a 2.3-mile (3.8 km) hike. The trail is easy to walk but becomes steep in parts, offering a great workout. The fort itself offers breathtaking views, though caution is advised due to the risk of falling from its crumbling walls.

Why Zadar Should Be on Your List

Zadar is one of our favorite Croatian destinations. The peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for families, slow travelers, and digital nomads who want a calm base from which to explore. The city is well-connected to other major Croatian cities, such as Rijeka, Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik, making it a great hub for further travel. Plus, it’s close to natural wonders like Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park, both of which are easily accessible by car.

While Zadar doesn’t have the vibrant nightlife of places like Split, it’s an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the coastline. If you’re seeking a lively party scene, head to Split, which offers a much more youthful atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

We loved every moment of our time in Zadar. Whether it was grabbing a coffee by the water, wandering the medieval streets, or hiking on nearby islands, the city offers a relaxing pace that’s hard to beat. It’s the perfect destination for those who want a mix of history, nature, and tranquility, all while being well-connected to the rest of Croatia.

Zadar is definitely a place we’ll return to for future trips—whether to recharge, work remotely, or simply enjoy the stunning views. If you’re looking for a peaceful Croatian destination with lots to offer, Zadar should be at the top of your list!