Sitting beside the rich blue waters of the Adriatic Sea, with beautiful mountains in the background, your first view of Zadar, Croatia will be stunning.

Your next view may include Roman ruins, trendy cafes, or fascinating museums. And as you continue to explore, you’ll come across beautiful beaches, tranquil national parks, and a wide variety of top-notch restaurants.

There are so many things to do in Zadar that you’ll have a hard time going back home!

1 – Listen to the music of the Sea Organ

Sea Organ, Zadar

Undoubtedly one of the most famous attractions in Zadar, the Sea Organ is a whimsical wonder with a healthy dash of science. Located near the ferry landing, this remarkable structure turns the rolling waves into a unique symphony.

As the wind and water pass through the pipes carved into the structure, they emit various notes and chords, creating hauntingly beautiful melodies that change with the tides.

As you stroll around the shore, take some time to listen to this unique creation in action, with the gorgeous Adriatic as a backdrop.

2 – Discover Zadar best beaches

best beaches in Zadar

Another advantage of being on the coast? Beautiful beaches, of course! You could easily spend a whole vacation just lounging around on various shores, but there are some beaches that truly stand out.

Head to Borik Beach for some excellent swimming, or to relax on the lovely, pebble-filled shoreline. For a more secluded experience, try exploring Puntamika Beach, which features a small cafe, scenic lighthouse, and lots of quiet coves.

If you’re looking for a scenic spot that’s also a hit with the townspeople, head to the pebbly shores of Kolovare Beach, which also provides plenty of little eateries nearby to enjoy a nice meal.

And for beautiful scenery with a dash of local flavor, swing by Punta Bajlo Beach, with its tranquil pine forest that makes a great place to kick back after doing some laps in the water.

Whichever option you choose, you’ll be guaranteed gorgeous waters and a mellow atmosphere to help you unwind.

3 – Sail around the Zadar Archipelago

boat tours in Zadar — the heart-shaped Island of Galesnjak in the Zadar archipelago

Since the city is right by the water, there are plenty of local activities that involve sailing. And boat tours are among the most interesting – and fun! – things to do in Zadar.

As you cruise around the Zadar Archipelago and the surrounding areas, you’ll be treated to gorgeous scenery and epic adventures. With a variety of half and full-day trips available, you’ll be able to enjoy the sights at your own pace.

Go on a full-day excursion to Telascica National Park, home to wild donkeys and the striking Lake Mir, which is filled with saltwater. If you want a little bit of a James Bond feel for your trip, book a half-day speedboat tour of some of the nearby islands.

The only thing more fun than checking out the quiet, idyllic shores of Ugljan Island, Osljak Island, and Skoljic Island will be the zippy ride to get there.

And for a more old-school experience, hop aboard a sailboat and head out to do some island-hopping and snorkeling.

You can even peek beneath the waves on a semi-submarine tour, where massive windows on the lower decks show off bustling neighborhoods and active residents of the aquatic world!

There’s nothing like a day on the water to kick your vacation off right!

boat tours in Zadar

4 – Hike around the Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes day trips from Zadar

A mere hour and a half north of town, Plitvice Lakes offers stunning views and adventures galore. This iconic national park is known for its beautiful bodies of water, whose clear, vivid colors make for incredible photo opportunities.

From picturesque waterfalls to its renowned series of lakes, the park offers a fantastic hiking experience from beginning to end. It’s also a rare slice of true European wilderness, hosting everything from bears to wolves to wild boar.

With a day trip from Zadar, you can explore this tranquil slice of wilderness in your own style. Join a guided tour to see some of the finest sites in the area, including scenic hikes and a boat ride through one of the lakes. Or take a self-led tour to enjoy the region at your own speed.

Your reserved transportation will drop you off and pick you up from the park, leaving you to explore the wonders of this area on your own time. This incredible visual gem will remind you why Croatia has become a tourist hotspot.

Plitvice Lakes day trips from Zadar

5 – Explore the history of the Church of St. Donatus

Church of St. Donatus, Zadar

With its circular design and impressive height, the Church of St. Donatus is hard to miss.

This 9th-century building has served stints as an archaeology museum and a warehouse, and is now a popular performance space used during the yearly International Festival of Medieval Renaissance Music.

It boasts an impressive religious pedigree as well; it was named for Donatus of Zadar, a bishop who once worked for Charles the Great and Constantinople.

Even if there are no performances taking place during your visit, you can still take some time to wander around the building and admire its unique architecture, as well as its storied past.

6 – Hang out in People’s Square

People’s Square, Zadar

Back in the city, you can absorb more of the local history with a trip to People’s Square. Since the 13th century, it has been a central point of civic life in the city, where people can converse and socialize before heading out to the markets, the Seafront, or other local attractions.

Keep an eye out for the City Sentinel, a 16th-century structure with a beautiful clock tower soaring overhead. This is also a prominent stop on the popular Word War II tours in town, which cover the fascinating history of the region in the mid-20th century.

As you explore the city, you can learn more about its complex trajectory over the course of the last century, as it bore witness to fascism, the Nazi regime, and the long era of Communism.

These poignant, powerful tours are a wonderful way to better understand the political upheavals that have influenced the area.

7 – Kayak around Dugi Otok

kayaking in Zadar

If all of the boats and harbors around town have you in a nautical state of mind, try booking a kayak tour for an extra level of adventure. One of the most popular places to go is Dugi Otok, a beautiful and somewhat more rural island off of the coast.

This splendid area offers everything from pristine beaches to striking cliffside views, and even the chance to snorkel near a shipwreck. You can also try a general sightseeing tour, which takes place closer to town.

Paddle past historic monuments and seaside promenades, seeing the town from a whole new vantage point as you enjoy the gentle waves of the water.

You might even make a stop at Saharun Beach, where famously soft sands and beautiful waters beckon you to take a relaxing dip.

With a great combination of exercise and exploration, a kayak tour will have you feeling like a million bucks – though it doesn’t cost nearly that much to book it!

kayaking in Zadar

8 – See some antique art at the Museum of Ancient Glass

Museum of Ancient Glass, Zadar — credit to Muzej antičkog stakla

If you like historical items with some nice aesthetic touches, take a trip through the Museum of Ancient Glass. As the name suggests, the museum specializes in glass specimens, some dating back to the 1st century BC.

With over 5000 items organized into several themed areas, this impressive collection offers a sweeping look at the story of glass in some of its earliest forms. In addition to world-class exhibitions, you can swing by the workshop area to witness live glass-blowing demonstrations.

Learn all about the techniques used by practitioners of the art, then watch them create replicas of the ancient works showcased throughout the museum.

As beads, laboratory glass, and unique decorative pieces begin to take shape, you’ll have a better understanding of how this beautiful artform continues to inspire creative movements to this day.

9 – Dive into culture at the Duke’s Palace

Duke’s Palace, Zadar — credit to Kneževa Palača

If you like seeing historic spaces take on new lives, then stopping by the Duke’s Palace is one of the great things to do in Zadar. This former home for nobility was built in the 12th century, and later withstood the violence of World War II and the Balkans battles.

It currently serves as one of the focal points for the community’s civic life, and is home to a concert hall and public library, as well as a small museum that showcases the history of the city.

Whether you want to learn more about the town, find some new reading material, or simply enjoy some beautiful tunes in a unique venue, the Ducal Palace has something for you.

10 – Explore the Kornati National Park

kornati national park day trips from Zadar

A close neighbor to Telascicia National Park, Kornati National Park boasts picturesque shores, beautiful flora and fauna, and some great opportunities for sightseeing.

The park is actually made up of 89 small islands clustered together, each offering their own opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, or swimming.

The snorkeling here is particularly excellent, with lots of great opportunities to watch for wildlife in the tranquil waters. Keep an eye out for beautiful schools of fish, as well as some incredible coral colonies.

Enjoy a day out in nature, but be warned: you may soon crave another!

Kornati National Park day trips

11 – Soak up the history of the Roman Forum

Roman Forum, Zadar

Among the many societies that have influenced Zadar and the surrounding area over the years, the Roman Empire was among the most distinctive. Sitting next to the Church of St. Donatus, the Roman Forum is a striking example of the architecture and culture that defined this prominent civilization.

Built between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century AD, the forum is thought to have included a temple that paid tribute to the ancient Roman deities of Minerva, Jupiter, and Juno.

It also serves as a social space for the community and features some beautiful ruins that are a treat for archeology enthusiasts. Don’t miss the chance to see some amazing artifacts up close, all while enjoying the general ebb and flow of social life in the area.

12 – Get deep into the past at the Archaeological Museum Zadar

Archaeological Museum Zadar, Croatia

Want to see Paleolithic tools, Roman artifacts, and religious items, all housed in a building that’s historic in its own right? Then be sure to stop by Archaeological Museum Zadar during your visit.

The institution is the second oldest museum in all of Croatia, and it contains a truly impressive collection of specimens from the earliest ages of human activity.

With over 100,000 pieces on display, you’ll never run out of things to learn about as you peruse displays from the Greek and Roman eras, admire Neanderthal artifacts, or observe relics from the height of the Byzantine Empire.

This unique and comprehensive space showcases just how far back the region’s history stretches and offers the chance to see some of the past’s treasures up close.

13 – Stroll around the Five Wells Square and the Old Town

walking tours in Zadar

If you’re looking for a fairytale setting to explore while in the city, swing by Five Wells Square.

As the name suggests, this beloved public area is best known for its five beautifully decorated wells, which were built in 1574 as a safe source of drinking water during the Ottoman invasion.

The square is part of the city’s lively Old Town area, which dates back to the 9th century. With so many historical buildings and striking bits of scenery, it’s well worth exploring the area on a walking tour.

Your guided excursion will take you past the square, the local churches, and many other beautiful spots around the city center, all while teaching you more about the evolution of the neighborhood over the centuries.

It’s a wonderful way to explore this charming section of town.

walking tours in Zadar

14 – Scale the stairs at the Cathedral of St. Anastasia

Cathedral of St. Anastasia, Zadar

As the largest church in the entire Dalmatia area, the Cathedral of St. Anastasia boasts an impressive pedigree dating back to the 12th century.

It has long served as a cornerstone of local religious life, and was once visited by Pope John Paul II. Be sure to check out the bell tower during your trip, as it offers spectacular views of the surrounding town and the Adriatic Sea.

Head inside and stop by the casket containing the remains of St. Anastasia herself, then scale the 180 stairs to enjoy the view from the top.

15 – Go to space (or Atlantis) at Fun Park Biograd

Fun Park Biograd, Zadar — credit to Fun Park Biograd

For some family-friendly things to do in Zadar, head 40 minutes outside of the city for a visit to Fun Park Biograd. This playful, creative theme park features dozens of attractions spread amongst four themed areas: Atlantis, Wild West, Pirate City, and Space.

Scream your way through thrilling rollercoasters, spark your imagination with trips through immersive worlds, or relax and unwind with the Ferris Wheel and the canoe ride. The park also features a 4D Theater, world-class simulators, and a gaming area stocked with plenty of arcade favorites.

As if all of that weren’t cool enough, you can also enjoy a steady stream of live entertainment around the park, from comedy performances and magicians to full-fledged circus acts!

It’s all part of the vibrant, energetic atmosphere that makes Fun Park Biograd a perfect place to spend the day.

16 – Go canoeing or rafting on the Zrmanja river

canoeing in Zadar

If you’re looking for some action, head out on the Zrmanja River to navigate its famous rapids, which are beloved throughout Europe.

Enjoy the spectacular scenery along the riverbanks, from waterfalls to wildlife, and try your hand at some gentle stretches of whitewater.

You can traverse the area by rafting with a group, or try a guided kayak excursion if you want a little more control over your experience. Whichever option you choose, you’re bound to enjoy your time in the currents!

canoeing in Zadar

17 – Invert your expectations whilst bungee jumping

bungee jumping in Zadar

On the lively shores of Zrce Beach, you’ll find a daunting but thrilling sport: bungee jumping!

Summon your courage and scurry up the 55 meter (80 foot) platform – then leap right off of it!

With your upside-down vantage point, you’ll certainly get some fun views… and great bragging rights!

And if you’re really looking for some memorable thrills, you can even jump at night!

Plunging through the darkness with rows of lights blinking all around, you’ll get a totally different sort of sensory experience – and an extra bit of adrenaline as part of the bargain!

bungee jumping in Zadar

18 – Enjoy some delicious Food tours

Food tours in Zadar

They say that there’s no accounting for taste, but when you try the whole variety of food tours available around town, you’ll certainly find plenty of things to satisfy every palate!

And given the whole range of treats and flavors that the Dalmatian region is known for, you’ll want to arrive on an empty stomach!

Olive oils, cheeses, and chocolates are all waiting to be sampled, with great new offerings at each venue.

And of course, you can wash it all down with another regional specialty… wine!

There are also some great options to get you more acquainted with the city’s culinary culture as a whole, including comprehensive tours through the local produce markets and cafes.

With unique personalities and carefully cultivated foods, these places give the term “local flavor” a whole new meaning!

food tours in Zadar

19 – Watch the lights at the Greeting to The Sun

The Greeting to the Sun, Zadar

If the Sea Organ gets you craving additional creative offerings, head over to the southern edge of town to see the Greeting To The Sun. This installation shares the same creator as its musical counterpart, as well as a similar use of natural phenomena to produce striking works of art.

The rows of photosensitive glass panels, with their distinctive bright blue hue, spend the entire day absorbing sunlight. Then, in the evening, the fully-powered bulbs blossom into a stunning light show, with musical accompaniment courtesy of the Sea Organ next door.

This incredible display also coincides with the famously beautiful sunsets that frequently grace the harbor. A visit to the installation is a perfect way to wrap up the day and kick off the upcoming evening.

20 – Explore the mines at the Solana Nin Salt Museum

Solana Nin Salt Museum, Zadar

Just 25 minutes outside of town, the Solana Nin Salt Museum pays tribute to a particularly prevalent trade in the region. The mine is actually one of the oldest in Europe, and offers some fascinating insights into how the beloved mineral is cultivated and distributed.

Take a tour around the facility and see the beautiful salt pools, where large mineral deposits are harvested by hand. Then head over to the museum to learn more about the tools of the trade, as well as the ways in which salt has influenced the economy and culture of the region.

This educational and engaging space will make you think more deeply the next time you sprinkle seasoning on your meal.

21 – Browse through the Zadar City Market

Zadar City Market, Croatia

To really enjoy a slice of local life, stop by the Zadar City Market to check out the wares on display. This beloved institution is the place to go if you want to try fresh fruits, delicious dairy products, and other homegrown items from nuts to eggs.

But it’s best known for the fish, a vast array of fresh seafood pulled straight from the waters next door.

Whether you want to splurge on lobster or dentex fish, or keep it simple with some mussels and sardines, the market is the place to go to enjoy the bounty of the sea.

It’s also a community focal point, where neighbors will stop to catch up as they browse through the weeks’ selections.

You can even select the perfect ingredients to use in a few cooking classes, where you’ll whip up some amazing recipes yourself!

So bring a shopping bag, grab a treat from the nearby bakeries, and live like a local!

22 – Get a little dizzy at the Museum of Illusions

Museum of Illusions, Zadar — credit to Muzej iluzija Zadar

Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean that you can’t exercise your mind. And for a creative (and fun!) way to test out your brain while in town, check out the Museum of Illusions.

This fun and freewheeling space is one of the most unique things to do in Zadar, teaching visitors about the power of perception through a variety of interactive exhibits.

Whether you’re stumbling around the gravity-defying Vortex Tunnel, shifting your shape in the Mirror Room, or playing with optical illusions in the Infinity Room, you’re bound to have a fun time pushing the limits of sensory comprehension.

It’s fun for the whole family, with great photo ops galore – and you just might learn something, too!

Zadar Museum of Illusions tickets

23 – Admire the art on The Land Gate

The Land Gate, Zadar

Some of the most distinctive visual features in the city are the large gates that once served as a defense against invaders. Located at various points around town, they serve as beautiful and intriguing reminders of Zadar’s rich culture.

One of the most interesting is the Land Gate, which was built in 1543. It used to be the main entry point to the city, and it is crowned with suitably elegant decor.

There’s a winged lion carving that pays homage to the many years of Venetian rule, as well as many depictions of St. Chrysogonus, the patron saint of the town. The gate is a must if you like Renaissance-era designs with a dash of local history.

24 – Hit the waves with a jet boat tour

jet boat tours in Zadar

Want to enjoy the beautiful sea and some great city views, with a little bit of adrenaline thrown in?

Hop aboard a speedboat and see rural areas, swimming spots, and coastal villages, all while enjoying the warm breeze in your face as you zip from location to location.

If you love island-hopping, check out the Private Hidden Treasures Tour, where you can cruise between some of the lesser-known pieces of paradise in the area.

Or head over to Sakarun Bay and the hauntingly beautiful Golubinka Cave, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches and secluded grottoes as you snorkel past the ruins of sunken ships.

You can also use speedboats to reach some of the other iconic attractions, such as Kornati National Park and Dugi Otok. These high-powered little watercraft are an excellent way to have some fun in the Adriatic sun!

jet boat tours in Zadar

25 – Chill out at the best beach clubs in Zadar

best beach clubs in Zadar

If you want to spend some time unwinding, stop by some of the excellent beach clubs in the area. These beloved hangouts blend a laidback vibe with world-class drinks and food… and, of course, unbeatable beach views.

Famous Beach Bar & Grill lives up to its name, with tasty casual fare, an impressive beer list, and striking views of the seaside.

And if you’d like to skip straight to the drinks, Beach Bar Bamboo is the place to go for inventive cocktails and great vantage points to see the sunset.

They’re the perfect places to recharge as you plan your next adventure.

26 – Pay a visit to the Church and Monastery of St Mary

For nearly 1,000 years, this remarkable religious institution has supported the community through its services – and with its amazing history and unique artifacts, it’s a point of curiosity for visitors too!

The complex started with the monastery, built in 1066; the supporting church arrived on the scene in 1091.

And along with its gorgeous Pre-Romanesque designs, the Church and Monastery of St Mary hold a whole treasure chests’ worth of artifacts, some dating back to the 8th century!

Paintings, reliquaries, carvings, and gorgeous pieces decked out in gold and silver are among the masterpieces on display, providing a vivid glimpse into the region’s long history of spiritually-influenced creations.

27 – Hike your heart out

hiking tour in Zadar

Much like the region in general, the hiking trails here offer some diverse options – all equally appealing!

Stroll along the otherworldly terrain of popular beaches like Beriknica and Ručica, or head up into the craggy, compelling Velebit Mountains.

Head into Paklencia National Park and admire its jaw-dropping scenery shaped by eons of geological movements, or get to know ancient roads and peek into the legendary Mamet Cave.

Either way, you’re guaranteed an adventure!

hiking in Zadar

28 – Enjoy greenery and military history at Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, Zadar

For a little bit of tranquility amidst the bustling city, spend some time amongst the beautiful plants and calming atmosphere of Queen Jelena Madijevka Park.

The oldest public park in town – and the first such space in the Dalmatia region -, this charming area has a unique backstory. It was built in 1829, on the roof of a former military fortification.

When you visit the space, you get two unique views in one: the stately ruins of the building itself, and the beautiful green space sitting on top. Spend some time amongst the beautiful flowers, all while enjoying unique views of the Old Town area.

29 – Walk around like a local on Kalelarga Street

Kalelarga Street, Zadar

Much like the City Market, Kalelarga Street is a great place to get the pulse of the city. As the main avenue in town, it is packed with charming cafes, boutique hotels, and distinctive cultural sites, offering a wonderful cross-section of some of the best things to do in Zadar.

This is a place where the city lives out loud; whether celebrating sporting victories or strolling around with loved ones, locals have used this as a public forum for centuries.

Join in on the fun and take a walk down this beloved street, passing such beloved attractions as People’s Square and St. Anastasia’s Cathedral. You’ll be able to explore like a tourist while feeling like a local!

30 – Go on a day trip to the unique Krka National Park

Krka National Park day trips from Zadar

Krka National Park is perhaps best known for its picturesque waterfalls, which cascade into and around each other to create a picturesque display.

But it also features beautiful birds, a collection of fascinating historical buildings, and the splendid Visovac Lake. This delightful area is an easy day trip from Zadar and offers plenty of natural wonders for visitors to enjoy.

From the iconic Skradinski Buk Falls to the remains of former mills and monasteries, there are more than enough activities to keep you entertained. Don’t miss out on this beloved regional gem!

Krka National Park day trips

31 – Chow down at the best restaurants

best restaurants in Zadar

When you’re fueling up for your next round of excursions, you’ll have plenty of excellent choices for restaurants. Whether you want five-star dining, lowkey regional offerings, or innovative cuisine, there’s no shortage of delicious meals to try.

Stop by the Bistro Gourmet Kalelarga to start your morning off right, with renowned pastries and some strong coffee. Then head over to Pet Bunara for seasonally-influenced regional menus, all using organic, locally-sourced ingredients.

You can also enjoy a leisurely meal at Restaurant Bruschetta, with mouthwatering local dishes and fantastic meals from around the Mediterranean… plus some great al fresco dining!

Top it all off with a dinner at Restaurant Kornat, where you can wash down your delicious fresh seafood with a fine selection of regional wines.

Along the way, you can try plenty of great specialties from the Dalmatia region, such as Pag cheese, fresh wild asparagus, and shrimp cooked in savory buzara sauce.

And for more sugary options, indulge in some local fig products, or the delectable honey from the nearby mountains. With so many tasty foods to try – and so many great restaurants to try them in – eating here is an activity in and of itself!

32 – Soak up a scenic flight

scenic flight in Zadar

Mountains and peninsulas, little towns and big ocean views all unfold under the wings of a plane as you fly by.

And these particular vehicles are designed specifically to help you see all of the best sights in-depth!

From filming locations to historic cities and serene little islands, you’ll get a rich tapestry of the area’s history perfectly laid out.

Combined with expert commentary from your pilot, your flight will give you plenty to remember the region by!

33 – Catch a unique performance at the Zadar Puppet Theatre

Zadar Puppet Theatre, Croatia — credit to Kazalište lutaka Zadar

Sure, live theater is a fixture of most cities… but how often do you get to see it performed by puppets? The Zadar Puppet Theater offers inventive, exciting shows for kids and adults alike, all utilizing expertly built puppets in a variety of artistic styles.

Its memorable performances run the gamut from fairytale-inspired to avant-garde, all offering a memorable showgoing experience. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Zadar, and certainly one of the most beloved!

34 – Hit the water for some paddleboarding

paddleboarding in Zadar

Whether you’re a paddleboarding expert or totally new to the sport, Zadar is a great place to engage in the sport. With its calm waters and fabulous scenery, the city and the surrounding areas are perfect for exploring via paddleboard.

Join some of the wonderful group tours in the surrounding area, or stop by one of the many rental shops in town to pick up a board of your own. You’ll have a great time checking out the scenery as you float around.

paddleboarding in Zadar

35 – Taste some Maraschino liqueur

Maraschino liqueur, Zadar

While Zadar and the surrounding area boast many famous culinary offerings, Maraschino liqueur is probably one of the most beloved. For the past 500 years, this full-bodied, fairly sweet concoction has been featured in any number of beloved drinks and delicacies.

Stop by the Maraska factory to learn more about how this delicious liqueur is made, as well as its tremendous impact on the local economy. Then sample some of its many variations, before finding something good to purchase for yourself!

36 – Take your exploring to the next level with a Virtual reality experience

VR rooms in Zadar

Time travel is every adventurer’s dream, but here in Zadar, you can (somewhat) make that a reality!

A virtual experience in Zadar is unlike any history lesson you’ve ever had before; using the latest VR technology, you and your guide will step back through the eras, and visit iconic sites in all of their different forms.

Slip on your glasses and plunge into a panorama packed with special effects, bringing the past to life with a vividness that will startle and delight you.

At any given moment, you may be dodging bombs during World War II, or taking a simulated hot air balloon ride over the Roman Forum in its heyday nearly 1,000 years ago.

It’s a wonderfully innovative way to get to know the city as it once was!

virtual experience in Zadar

37 – Pay a visit to the Zadar Sphinx (and hit up a bike tour)

bike tours in Zadar

If you’ve always wanted to see the Sphinx, no need to go to Egypt – you can visit a replica of it right here in Croatia!

The Zadar Sphinx was commissioned in 1918 by grieving widower Giovanni Smirich, and features some unique deviations from the original, including a carving of an eagle on its chest.

As the largest Sphinx in Europe, it is well worth a visit, as is the surrounding park. And one of the best ways to stop by is as part of a bike tour, which will offer a fun and convenient way to see many of the attractions in town.

Check out the city and some unique facets of the outskirts, or head out to see some of the more remote sections of the neighboring islands. No matter how long your visit is, sightseeing by bike will help you maximize your time.

bike tours in Zadar

38 – Pummel some pins at ZYX Bowling

ZYX Bowling in Zadar — Credit to ZYX Bowling

The lanes are open, the pins are set, and it’s time for a little old-fashioned fun at ZYX Bowling!

This bowling alley boasts all of the best amenities, with row after row of lanes for you and your travel buddies to perfect your game.

But in between rounds, you’ll find plenty of other great diversions as well!

Play some billiards or darts to keep the competitive edge going, or kick back at the restaurant and enjoy a nice meal to fuel the next round of games.

And if you prefer some good old-fashioned hedonism, you’re in luck; this may be one of the only places in the world where you can switch straight from strikes on the lanes to striking a match on a fine offering from the cigar bar!

39 – Enjoy art and scenery at Petar Zoranic Square

Petar Zoranic Square, Zadar

Named for the beloved Renaissance writer who once called the area home, Petar Zoranic Square is another great gathering place garnished with beautiful historical landmarks.

In fact, some of the coolest ones are right below your feet – the panes of glass scattered throughout the main square let you peek down at the ancient ruins buried beneath the city!

Stop by to explore and people-watch, or check out the impressive art collection at the Proveditor’s Palace. It’s another way to absorb yourself into the active public life of the city.

40 – Enjoy a performance at the Croatian National Theatre Zadar

Croatian National Theatre Zadar

Much like its puppet-filled counterpart, Croatian National Theater Zadar features acclaimed shows and world-class performers. With a regularly rotating list of operas and plays, this venue has served as a beloved part of the cultural landscape since it opened in 2008.

If you’re visiting between late June and early August, stop by to enjoy some of the premium offerings of the Zadar Summer Theater festival, which uses the space as one of its venues.

For music buffs and arts-lovers alike, a trip to the theater is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Zadar.

41 – Try out your strategic side at ClueGo Escape Room Zadar

escape room in Zadar

Fairy kingdoms, crusading knights, worlds between the normal flow of time…. from the minute you arrive at ClueGo, you’ll be able to visit worlds beyond your wildest dreams!

As the first escape room in town, it offers some wonderfully creative scenarios for you and your group to navigate, using teamwork and logic skills to solve the mysteries before time runs out.

In Morana, you’ll roam through a magical, slightly eerie world of fairies and cloaked figures, where magic rules the day.

Or go to war and protect the town from marauders in Anno 1202, a Crusade-era thriller.

And in Valerian – Time Traveler, you’ll roam through different eras of the city to help long-lost lovers reunite, stopping at many of the city’s coolest spots along the way.

42 – Try out some wine tastings

wine tasting in Zadar

With so many fantastic vinos produced in the dalmatian region, it’s well worth trying a wine tasting session while in the city.

Sit down to a savory three-course meal with expertly selected pairings, or combine your sampling with trips to such natural beauties as Vrana Lake Nature Park or the Krka Waterfalls.

As you sip your way through the various offerings, you’ll soon see why Croatian wine is world-renowned!

wine tasting in Zadar

43 – Party at the best bars and nightclubs

best bars and nightclubs in Zadar

As your daytime activities wind down, make sure to save some energy for the thriving nightlife scene!

Stop by The Garden Lounge to enjoy live music and DJ sets with your drink, or enjoy dancing, rotating performances, and an extensive menu at the large warehouse-style venue of Arsenal.

Looking for a jam-packed evening out? At the Ledana Lounge and Bar, you can enjoy the unique aesthetic of a former icehouse-turned entertainment venue, with an active nightly calendar that includes theme parties, dancing, and plenty of room to unwind in the green space outside.

Just make sure not to make any early plans for the next morning!

How to get to Zadar?

If you’re flying in, there are lots of great airport transfers available, conveniently running to and from nearby Zadar airport.

If you prefer public transit, buses run frequently to and from the city, with direct connections to such hotspots as Zagreb and Vienna.

Where to stay in Zadar?

Hotel Kolovare may not be right in the thick of things, but with its beachside location and expertly stocked wine cellar, you may not mind much. It’s only a 15-minute walk to the town center, and just five minutes from the main bus station, making it a great option for travelers heading to other destinations afterward.

Villa Valentina is another good seaside option, combining a good walking distance to the Old Town area with easy access to beaches and restaurants. With an onsite spa and tour-booking options available at reception, you’ll feel like you’re getting several vacations in one!

And at Teatro Verdi Boutique Hotel, you’ll have all the essentials of luxury accommodation smack dab in the middle of town. Relax on the terrace and enjoy some high-quality breakfasts, then head out the door to see museums, public art projects, and more.

Meanwhile, Hotel Mediteran offers a bar and restaurant to keep you well-stocked in regional favorites, and with all of the best attractions in walking distance, it’s also wonderfully convenient – and as an added bonus, it has a great pool!

best hotels in Zadar

Visiting Zadar on a budget?

If you really want to get a feel for the local perspective – and save plenty of money along the way -, then lace up your shoes and go on a few free walking tours in Zadar!

See all the best sites, learn unique stories, and chat with your guides about the little nuances of the town; just be sure to bring cash for tips!

Where to go next?

Admire a wide range of well-preserved Roman and Renaissance buildings as you try all of the things to do in Trogir. Its highlights include the Church of St. Lawrence and the medieval castle of Kamerlengo.

Continue your trip through this beautiful region with a sampler platter of the amazing things to do in Split, an hour and 45 minutes to the south. This may be the only place where you can hang out on the beach, walk through Roman ruins, hit up some amazing bars, and visit a museum full of taxidermied frogs all on the same day.

Book a ferry and spend a couple of days trying the things to do in Hvar – another top Croatian destination known for its beautiful beaches and lavender fields CHECK.

Roughly two hours further down the coast, you’ll find lots of exciting things to do in Dubrovnik. While it’s become best known in recent years as the filming location for Game of Thrones, there are also plenty of charming historic buildings, and even a haunted island!

For the ones traveling north, make sure to stop and try all the things to do in Zagreb. With its numerous museums and its impressive culinary scene, there is something for everyone to explore in Croatia’s capital.

You can also take a side trip to enjoy the things to do in Pula, a seaside town on Croatia’s Istria peninsula, known for its sprawling coastline and well-preserved Roman amphitheater, which regularly hosts concerts and events.

Final thoughts

Croatia’s coast offers a killer combination of scenery, history, and culinary offerings. You can find all of this, and plenty of other great things to do in Zadar.

While it has more than its fair share of cultural gems and natural wonders, it’s the peaceful flow of local life that makes it a noteworthy destination.

Even as you enjoy all of its touristic delights, you can still spend plenty of time in the squares and on the streets, mixing and mingling with villagers whose families have lived here for centuries.

Zadar is waiting for you, so pack your bags!

Table of contents:

38 Fun Things to Do in Zadar, Croatia