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 colorful 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 neighborhood 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 specialties 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 neighborhood 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 neighborhood has few tourist attractions but provides authentic interactions with welcoming locals. Central Zadar's historic sites remain easily accessible by car or bus.
Komoševa offers a glimpse into authentic Croatian daily life away from tourist crowds. This quiet residential neighborhood serves as a peaceful retreat with tree-lined streets and traditional stone houses mixed with modern buildings. Local families go about their routines while church bells chime in the distance.
The few family-run konobas here serve delicious Dalmatian cuisine at reasonable prices. While lacking specific attractions, Komoševa provides an affordable base for exploring nearby Preko Harbor and Fort Saint Michael. Most visitors appreciate the genuine hospitality from local apartment owners who share insider recommendations.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Zadar
Photo by Adam Kownacki Kovnatzky
Open Photo by Adam Kownacki Kovnatzky
Kolovare Beach
8.4/10 (216 reviews)
This Blue Flag beach offers clear, calm waters and pine-shaded spots just steps from Zadar's center. Arrive early to secure a prime position under the trees, or rent sunbeds for all-day comfort.
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.
Sea Gate
9.0/10 (231 reviews)
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.
St. Donat's Church
9.0/10 (178 reviews)
This 9th-century Byzantine masterpiece sits atop Roman ruins, blending medieval design with historic columns. Experience its remarkable acoustics during summer concerts.
Port Gate
8.8/10 (137 reviews)
This Renaissance entrance to Zadar's Old Town celebrates a historic naval victory with its Venetian lion emblem. Admire the blend of Roman and Renaissance architecture before exploring beyond.
Borik Beach
8.2/10 (20 reviews)
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.
Forum
8.8/10 (363 reviews)
Walk across ancient paving stones where Romans gathered 2,000 years ago in Zadar's historic center. Nearby cafés offer perfect vantage points to admire the surrounding medieval architecture.
Cathedral of St. Anastasia
9.0/10 (127 reviews)
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.
"Situation exceptionnelle, chambre confortable , grande douche et réchauffe serviette, mais qui m’a été tres utile lorsque j’ai lavé quelques morceaux de vêtements.
Excellent choix de déjeuner !"
"The hotel is very dated. The Airconditioning in the room was ineffective and looked like it was very old. The shower holder was broken and only one light was working in the room. The welcome at the front desk, however, was very professional and friendly.
There was parking outside."
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.
You can snap up a vacation package to this destination on Expedia. However, how much your vacation 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?
October, November and December are the best times to search for cheap Zadar vacation packages. Choosing to travel in less busy periods means you can generally find reduced prices on flights and hotels.
How many days is enough for Zadar?
Zadar vacations come in various shapes and sizes, but to get a real feel for this destination, we reckon 3 days is about right. This will mean you can visit major attractions like Cathedral of St. Anastasia and National Museum Zadar and seek out some underrated spots. Don't skip cool neighborhoods such as Zadar Old Town and Briševo either. If you're smart with your time, you can even allow for a day trip or two from Zadar too.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Zadar?
It's easy to see why a Zadar vacation is on the must-do list of many travelers. Well-known 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 vacation package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book a Zadar vacation as a package?
An Expedia vacation package could land you great savings when compared to arranging flights and hotels individually. Better still, you can customize 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 vacation 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?
Pick your travel dates: What you plan to do in Zadar and your preferred season will help you decide when to travel.
Figure out your budget: Ensure you have enough money to pay for everything from transportation and dining out to activities and airfares. Your hotel will probably be the biggest expense during your trip to Zadar.
Organize your Zadar escape with Expedia's trip planning tool: Look for and book hotels and experiences all in one place. You can also collaborate with friends and family to plan an unforgettable trip to Zadar together.
Set the duration of your trip: Start by making a list of all the attractions you want to get to in Zadar. Then, estimate how long you'll need at each, along with any travel time.
Bundle your flights and hotel: Epic destination, check. Length of stay, check. All that's left is to pick a Zadar vacation package that brings all your bookings together.
Book experiences or activities in advance: Whether it's a ticket to a big attraction or a day trip in nature, you won't have to worry about missing out on Zadar's highlights. Find all the fun things to do in Zadar with our dedicated travel guide.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Zadar vacation packages?
Your Zadar break is meant to be a relaxing escape from your busy life, not a source of money-related stress. So to give you extra flexibility, we've partnered with online lender Affirm to bring you our Book Now, Pay Later vacations. Pick one of our vacation packages with payment plans and spread the total cost over 3, 6 or 12 months. Plus, there aren't any late payment fees or hidden costs to worry about.
Zadar offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it perfect for vacationers. You can explore recreational areas, enjoy shopping, and embark on exciting day trips or boat tours. Whether you're looking for thrilling road tours or relaxing activities, Zadar has something for everyone to enjoy during your visit.
Shopping
In Zadar, check out the Supernova Shopping Center, which offers a vibrant mix of stores, entertainment, and dining. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting the nearby City Center One in Zara and the Mall of Split for an even broader shopping experience.
Recreation
The Croatian National Theatre in Zadar offers a cultural retreat with its captivating performances and romantic ambiance, perfect for an evening of entertainment. For sports enthusiasts, Visnjik Sport Center and Stanovi Stadium provide vibrant atmospheres and opportunities for active recreation amidst the local community.
Adventure
The Ilirija Tennis Center offers an exciting opportunity to play on well-maintained courts, perfect for both beginners and seasoned players, located 17 miles from Zadar. Meanwhile, the Ilirija Aquatic Center features thrilling water activities, including slides and pools, also 17 miles away, ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone.
Nightlife
Zadar's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Start at the popular Arsenal for drinks and live performances. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the unique Café Bar Dva Ribara by the waterfront. Don’t miss the lively nightclubs like The Garden Lounge, where you can dance under the stars.
Find the best attractions in Zadar
Zadar, Croatia, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Explore historic sites like the Gate Arch and charming piazzas, or visit beautiful churches that showcase the city's rich heritage. Whether you’re interested in the stunning Dalmatian coast or the nearby Zadar Archipelago, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet the friendly people of Zadar during your visit.
Kolovare Beach: Experience the relaxing beach vibes at Kolovare Beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline in Zadar. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and taking leisurely strolls along the promenade lined with cafes and bars.
Forum: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Zadar at the Forum, a vibrant piazza that showcases ancient Roman architecture. It's a perfect spot to enjoy local events or simply relax while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the city.
Sea Gate: Discover the historical significance of the Sea Gate, an impressive arch that serves as a gateway to Zadar's past. This stunning structure offers a glimpse into the city's architectural heritage and is a great photo opportunity.
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.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.