Several years ago I took a memorable trip with some friends to Croatia. We discovered a country of spectacularly beautiful landscapes, fun cities, great food and wonderfully warm people.
But the place that stole my heart completely was the city of Zadar sitting on a peninsula in the heart of the Adriatic.
Things to do in Zadar, Croatia
Zadar is one of those places that creeps up on you. Unlike Dubrovnik, Split or some of the other classically beautiful cities of Croatia, Zadar needs you to take some time to appreciate it. And the effort is well rewarded. The city was founded in Roman times and has beautiful marble pedestrian streets over which baroque buildings and medieval churches preside. A port on the Adriatic, the city is surrounded by over 300 islets and the pristine waters of the Zadar archipelago.
The city was founded in Roman times and has beautiful marble pedestrian streets over which baroque buildings and medieval churches preside. A port on the Adriatic, the city is surrounded by over 300 islets and the pristine waters of the Zadar archipelago.
1. Boats on the marina of Zadar
2. Cafe lined ancient Roman marble streets and medieval churches make Zadar so pretty
3. Behind this wall of lavender is one of my favourite bars – ‘The Garden’ – overlooking the harbour
4. Cocktails and relaxing on day beds checking out the passing boats in The Garden equals a perfect afternoon
5. The round 9th century St. Donatus church and bell tower are architectural icons of Zadar
6. Boat tripping on the Zadar archipelago
7. Taking a dip in the crystal clear water
8. Sunset over the Adriatic watching people enjoy the Sea Organ – design & nature together at their best
Why visit Zadar
If you like quirky places that are slightly off the beaten path you will love Zadar. It is a relaxed and compact city that is full to the brim with history, art, culture and food. I absolutely loved the unique and special experiences that are the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun. The organ is a man-made structure of pipes that creates music from the waves and tidal patterns. You can read more about it
I absolutely loved the unique and special experiences that are the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun. The organ is a man-made structure of pipes that creates music from the waves and tidal patterns. You can read more about it here.
Short boat trips from the city take you to tiny little islands surrounded by the clearest blue water you ever saw. After swimming and relaxing in the sun return to the largely pedestrianised old town to wander the ancient streets in search of delicious ice cream.
Further reading
Here you will find some great blog posts and guides from fellow travellers about visiting Zadar.
✪ Fellow Australians, Sarah-Jane and Mate, now living in Zadar have written the most amazing comprehensive guide to Zadar on their excellent blog Chasing the Donkey
✪ Great tips on how to make the most of a family trip to Zadar here – via family travel blogger Where’s Sharon
✪ Zadar’s tourist information site is a wealth of information – click here
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The creator, writer and photographer behind Untold Morsels, Katy has been travelling and tasting the world since she was a teenager.
Now the proud mum of twins, she hopes they grow up to share her passions of great food, wine and travel. Favourite destination: Italy