The Zadar region has everything it takes to be considered truly special: sea, islands, mountains and lakes. It also happens to have one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world, not to mention a rich historical and cultural heritage and a unique gastronomy.
In this article, we present the Zadar region from our perspective. We have personally researched the best places to visit, swim and eat, as well as the best places to stay – both in Zadar and its surrounding area. Read on for inspiration and start planning your holiday in one of the villas in the Zadar region today!
What to see
The Old Town of Zadar – The old part of Zadar is located on a peninsula and contains numerous historical sites. The good news is that you can explore them all on foot comfortably within an hour. Park here and start exploring, preferably in the early evening. Begin your walk in the park and finish at Greeting to the Sun to enjoy the light show and the sunset.
Here’s the route: Vladimir Nazor Park → Five Wells Square (Trg pet bunara) → People’s Square (Narodni trg) → Kalelarga (Široka ulica) → Roman Forum → Church of St. Donatus → Cathedral of St. Anastasia → Sea Organ → Greeting to the Sun
An essential part of visiting another city is local shopping. Don’t miss the popular Zadar market, where you can stock up on fresh fruit, vegetables, and fish.
Kalelarga Street is the longest street in Zadar
The town of Nin – Once a royal town, it is now a popular destination for those who don’t like big crowds but love sandy beaches. In Nin, you will find the longest sandy beach in Croatia (8 km), the smallest cathedral in the world, and a statue of Gregory of Nin (rub his thumb for luck).
Paklenica National Park – Located on the southern slopes of Velebit, it is a real treat for lovers of active holidays. The Velika and Mala Paklenica canyons have over 200 km of marked hiking trails. If you’re only going to visit one attraction, we recommend the Manita Peć cave. It takes an hour to hike from the entrance of the national park to the cave, and the climb is of medium difficulty. You can find food and drinks at the tavern Marasović.
Zrmanja River Canyon – If you’ve ever wanted to go rafting, the Zrmanja River Canyon is the perfect place for it. And if you’re not an adrenaline junkie, you can swim in the river or admire its beauty from the Pariževačka Glavica viewpoint.
Island excursions – From Zadar, you can reach numerous surrounding islands by boat or ferry. We recommend Ugljan, the closest island to Zadar. From Ugljan, you can take a bridge to Pašman. Dugi Otok is also worth a visit, and excursion boats will take you to Kornati National Park. You can also visit the nearby island of Pag, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge.
Zrmanja is one of the most beautiful and cleanest European rivers
Where to eat
Restaurant 4 kantuna, Zadar – A restaurant in the city center with an innovative menu with an emphasis on pasta and seafood. Here you will try the best tuna carpaccio, and we also recommend the black risotto and homemade pasta with beef and truffles.
Restaurant Bruschetta, Zadar – Another restaurant with mainly fish dishes, also in the city center. The portions are large, and we recommend, of course – bruschetta. With shrimp, tuna, salmon. And for dessert, pistachio cheesecake.
The Botanist, Zadar – A vegan restaurant with very interesting names of dishes. So don’t be surprised when you see Flamingo tounge snail or Monkeyface prickleback on the menu 😄. As far as we know, they don’t offer snails, but you can always check with the waiter (or ask him for a recommendation).
Crazy Pizza, Zadar – A great choice if you ever find yourself in town late and want a quick snack. They offer sandwiches and pizzas. You can grab these to-go and enjoy the food somewhere by the sea.
The Garden Lounge, Zadar – Head here for after-dinner cocktails. It’s located on an elevated terrace on the city walls and has a great view of the harbor. The sunset is on the opposite side, but you can catch a glimpse of the beautiful sky if you sit on the edge of the terrace.
Restaurant Lazaret, Ošljak Island – Come here if you really want to treat yourself. Prices are high, but fine dining by the sea is priceless. The restaurant is located on the island of Ošljak. A skipper will take you there by boat from Zadar.
Konoba Udica, Ugljan Island – A widely praised restaurant that has been doing great business for years. They have something for everyone’s palate – from fresh fish to steaks. We recommend the fish platter.
Restaurant Olive Garden, Ugljan Island – If you love meat, especially lamb, this is the restaurant for you. It’s located within the marina in Sutomišćica, and in addition to the excellent grilled lamb, they also offer lots of fish-based dishes.
Ever heard of učijak? It looks like a bean, and was once a favorite snack in northern Dalmatia. Today, the only person still selling it in Croatia is Mr. Goran Pavić. If you would like to try this delicacy, he has a stand in the center of Zadar. If you won’t be able to find him, just ask any of the locals – they will direct you.
The sunset in Zadar is so special that even Alfred Hitchcock wrote about its beauty
Where to go to the beach
Kolovare Beach, Zadar – A long pebble beach about a 15-minute walk from the old town. There is shade, but like everywhere – shaded areas are very popular so you have to come early in the morning to secure your spot. There are showers and changing cabins, as well as a water park in the sea and bars and restaurants in the area. There is also a sea pool on the beach with a large diving board next to it – perfect for those who enjoy diving 🌊.
Puntamika Beach, Zadar – A somewhat wild rocky beach with natural shade in the northern part of the city. Be sure to bring beach slippers and sun loungers. We recommend coming in the afternoon and staying until sunset. You can find refreshments at the nearby Famous Beach Bar & Grill.
Kraljičina (Queen’s) Beach, Nin – A paradise for children and anyone who loves sand and shallow sea. You can rent sun loungers, parasols, pedal boats, and jet skis. There is also an inflatable water park in the sea. Near the beach, there is a bay with medicinal mud.
Večka kula Beach, Starigrad – A pebble beach just outside of Starigrad. You can park in a pine forest about a 10-minute walk from the beach. On the beach itself, you’ll find a tower. There is a beach bar near the parking lot. It has natural shade and there are no crowds, which is always a plus.
Sakarun Beach, Dugi Otok – Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. It is popular with tourists, especially yachtsmen. Be prepared for crowds, but also for the beautiful turquoise sea, which retains its color despite the crowds. There is parking, a beach bar, and 2 restaurants.
Enjoy swimming with a view of the island of Ugljan
Where to stay
The villas in the Zadar region are spacious and comfortable, making them ideal for larger families or groups of friends. Located in tranquil areas on the outskirts of Zadar or in serene parts of the city, these villas are perfect for a relaxing holiday. All units feature an outdoor pool with sun loungers and some also offer a summer kitchen and barbecue, so you can enjoy quality time together outdoors. Browse through our selection of villas and we’re sure you’ll find the perfect one for you.
Zadar is a very touristy town so we recommend visiting during the off-season when there are fewer crowds, but the town is equally magical. Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to take a rowing boat ride, where skilled “barkajoli” will transport you from one end of the harbor to the other. After doing so, you can say that you have experienced Zadar in all its glory.
