Zadar

Zadar is the main city in North Dalmatia, with about 75,000 inhabitants. Most famous for its Old Town, set in a peninsula that is completely pedestrianised, the town has numerous Roman and other wonderful sights – some rather modern – and is a delight to visit.

A classic view of Zadar – St Donatus Church and the Belltower

The town is also very easy to reach, whether flying in from elsewhere in Europe (it has its own airport) or by bus from other destinations in Croatia. There are also internal flights to the town’s airport from other places in Croatia.

Zadar is perhaps sometimes overlooked as a place to visit in Croatia, possibly because it is slightly out of the way of the delights further south in Dalmatia. However, it really is a charming town and you won’t regret spending some time here. Why not start your holiday here before heading further down the coast? It’s also a very suitable base for day trips to locations such as Plitvice Lakes, the Kornati islands or Krka National Park.

Read up more on the town, how to get there and what to see in our guide below.

Guide to Zadar

  • History
    What a fascinating history this town has – with rule by the Romans, Venetians and others over the years
  • Zadar Airport
    Advice on how best to travel to and from the airport, car hire, ATMs, money exchange and more
  • Getting to Zadar
    With great transport connections, find out how to get there from other parts of Croatia by bus, train, plane and ferry, as well as details of international flights and ferry services.
  • Sightseeing
    What to see and do in the town
  • Eating and Drinking in Zadar
    Some of the best places for food and fun!
  • Day Trips from Zadar
    Information on where to visit and how – including the National Parks of Plitvice, Krka and Kornati, plus Dugi Otok, Pag island and more
  • Two Days in Zadar
    Follow our itinerary for how best to spend 48 hours in this gorgeous town
  • Map of Zadar
  • Zadar Photos

Accommodation

Please see our Accommodation in Zadar section for details of hotels and boutique hotels (there’s a wide range), and private accommodation options in the town.

Additional info