Zadar, a city that has survived it all

Zadar is a city that truly has everything. On one side, it impresses with Roman ruins and medieval walls, while on the other, it attracts visitors with modern highlights such as the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun installation. Moreover, the atmosphere of this place is hard to describe, because it is something you simply need to feel. Apparently, this is where Hitchcock saw the most beautiful sunset in the world. As you walk through the charming streets, you can literally feel history with every step, and the local cuisine only enhances the overall experience. In addition, Zadar works perfectly as a starting point, since it offers easy access to nearby beaches, islands and national parks.

Table of contents:

1. Briefly about the Croatian city of Zadar
2. How to get from Zadar Airport to the city centre
3. Getting around the city? Now that’s a challenge!
4. Zadar must-sees + map
5. Zadar Guided Tours – are they worth it?
6. Accommodation in Zadar
7. Food recommendations
8. Zadar – summary and practical information
9. Zadar FAQ. Most frequently asked questions

Briefly about the Croatian city of Zadar

Zadar is one of the largest cities in Croatia, with a population of around 80,000. However, it is not the numbers that impress the most. This is a city that has survived everything, because it went through Roman colonisation, Byzantine influence, a Venetian sale for 100,000 ducats, Austrian discipline and Yugoslav transformation. Over the centuries, Zadar changed rulers, languages and fortifications, yet it always came back to life.

That sense of resilience can be felt at every step. The city is filled with history in every corner, starting from the ancient forum and medieval churches, all the way to buildings damaged during World War II that still carry visible traces of Allied bombings. For this reason, Zadar is often called the “Dresden of the Adriatic”.

It is also a place of many firsts. The first university in Croatia was founded here, along with the first newspaper and the first public park. However, the story goes far beyond historical walls. The steps that lead into the sea play the sound of waves thanks to the Sea Organ, while the Greeting to the Sun solar installation lights up the promenade. And when the sun goes down, the show begins. Alfred Hitchcock said he had never seen a more beautiful sunset than the one in Zadar.

Zadar is a city that stays with you. And a city that remembers everything.

How to get from Zadar Airport to the city centre

There are four ways to get from Zadar Airport to the city centre, and none of them will break the bank.

The first option is renting a car. If you are travelling with a group, this might be a cost-effective choice. You can book a vehicle online, and the rental offices are located directly at the airport. The route to the city centre is approximately 12 kilometres long.

he second option is taking a taxi. It is best to book it in advance by phone or through the official website of a taxi company and agree on the price beforehand. The rates of taxis waiting directly outside the terminal are often inflated, sometimes by as much as three hundred percent. There have been cases where tourists paid up to 30 euros for a ride that should cost only 10. Always ask about the price before getting into the car.

The third option is a private transfer. Companies like Welcome Pickups offer airport pick-up regardless of flight delays. The driver waits with a sign, speaks English and helps with the luggage. This service costs around 43 euros on average, although it can be a good deal if you are travelling with several people.

And finally, there is the bus – the best budget-friendly option. The official Liburnija shuttle bus costs around five euros, and you buy the ticket directly from the driver using cash. Buses depart 30 minutes after each arrival, operate daily, and take passengers from the airport through the Gaženica ferry port and the main bus station all the way to the centre of Zadar. You can find the timetable on the official airport website.

Getting around the city? Now that’s a challenge!

There is a Zadar City app that lets you check timetables and buy tickets, but it only works with a Croatian phone number. If you have a local SIM card, it’s definitely worth using. And if not, welcome to my world.

How did I manage with buses and schedules? Well, it wasn’t exactly easy. First, you need to figure out which lines operate in the area and what routes they cover. That’s where the official Liburnija website comes in handy. It’s worth visiting the subpage with the route map. Just click on a line number from 1 to 11, and you’ll see exactly where it runs. That’s already half the battle. Then you check where your hotel is located and which line goes there.

Once you’ve found the right line, you can move on to the timetables. They’re available on the website and can be figured out, although your first try might give you a bit of a headache. But don’t worry – it’s manageable, and you can confidently use the buses in Zadar.

Tickets are bought directly from the driver, and you’ll need cash. A single ride costs around 4 euro. All lines pass through the main bus station (Kolodvor), and most of them also stop at Mala Pošta, which is located right next to the city centre.

Zadar is a compact city, so if you enjoy walking, you can reach most places on foot. Still, the bus can really save the day sometimes.

If you’re planning to travel further across Croatia or to other countries in the region, check out my article Buses in the Balkans – where delays are the norm and the journey is an adventure. You’ll find practical tips on how to manage intercity transport without stress or surprises.

Zadar must-sees + map

All the main attractions in Zadar are located in the city centre and around the Old Town. I recommend starting early in the morning to avoid the crowds. One full day is enough to explore everything at a relaxed pace – with a walk along the city walls, some hidden corners to discover, time to soak in the atmosphere, and even a short beach break.

Below, you’ll find a map with all the key spots marked: attractions, public transport, nearby islands, as well as recommended places to stay and eat.

Zadar Guided Tours – are they worth it?

Yes! It is absolutely worth it! Zadar is perfect for one day of sightseeing and another for relaxing on the beach, but if you’re staying longer – what should you do? The answer is simple: organised tours. During my stay, I joined two of them and I have to say, it was totally worth it. I was really happy with the experience.

The first one was to Plitvice Lakes. You can read the full story in my article Plitvice Lakes step by step: what to see, when to go, how to prepare. This place looks like it’s straight out of a fantasy movie. Waterfalls, turquoise lakes, wooden paths… I don’t even know what to compare it to. It’s pure magic. It’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts around 1.5 million visitors every year. That’s where you’ll find the highest waterfall in Croatia, standing at 78 metres tall. This place will truly enchant you.

The second trip was to Kornati and Telašćica: prices, routes, tickets, tips. It was a full-day boat tour around the nearby islands – a perfect option if you want to experience the Croatian vibe “from the sea side”. Along the way, we stopped for swims in crystal-clear water, snorkelling, exploring Kornati National Park and visiting viewpoints with panoramic views of the islands.

We also visited Telašćica Nature Park, home to the saltwater Lake Mir, known for its healing properties and warm water. On the way, we saw the famous white cliffs, one of the region’s most iconic sights. Peace, nature and a complete reset – Kornati is the perfect escape from the city.

There are plenty of tours from Zadar, and it’s really hard to get bored. Below, I’ve gathered everything I managed to find. There’s something here for everyone.

1. Telašćica Nature Park and Kornati National Park: Full-day tour from Zadar with lunch included
2. Zadar: Boat tour with unlimited wine and 3 swimming stops
3. Zadar: Plitvice Lakes full-day guided tour with tickets included
4. Zadar: Original speedboat island tour with drinks
5. Zadar: Luxury speedboat tour to 3 islands with snorkelling
6. Zadar: Plitvice Lakes with boat ride and Old Town Zadar walking tour
7. Zadar: Kornati and Telašćica boat trip with entrance tickets included
8. Zrmanja River: Half-day guided kayaking tour near Zadar
9. Zadar: 3-stop cruise to the Blue Lagoon with drinks and snorkelling
10. Zadar: Kornati boat trip with lunch and swimming stops
11. From Zadar: Kornati National Park and Telašćica boat tour

Accommodation in Zadar

When I travel, I treat accommodation mainly as a place to sleep and take a shower. That’s why I often choose hostels. In Zadar, I stayed at Hi Hostel Zadar. The conditions were good, breakfasts were tasty, and it was close to the beach, although it took a bit of a walk to get to the city centre. If you have a similar mindset, this hostel is a solid choice.

For those who prefer more comfort and privacy, I’ve prepared a list of recommended hotels. During the high season, prices usually start at around €45 to €60 per night. Keep in mind that if your hotel is located in the Old Town or city centre, it might not offer parking, so it’s best to check that in advance.

Food recommendations

Zadar – summary and practical information

Zadar was my first stop, and it turned out to be a great choice. Exploring the city itself takes just a few hours, but the organised tours, beaches and easy access to other places mean you could easily spend a week here without getting bored. History meets the turquoise sea, and the cosy local spots invite you to slow down and relax. If you’re looking for a place that offers both a laid-back vibe and plenty to discover, Zadar might be just what you need.

Practical information:

✔ Sightseeing in Zadar takes just a few hours – the city is compact.
✔ Arriving by car is possible, although parking in the centre can be tricky.
✔ During high season, it’s best to arrive early – parking spots fill up quickly.
✔ HI Hostel Zadar is a good budget option, close to the beach but farther from the centre.
✔ Prices in season start at around €30 to €40, with an average of €60 to €80.
✔ Central accommodations often don’t offer private parking.
✔ Food: fast food €5–12, restaurant meals €15–30, beer around €4–5.
✔ Be sure to try ćevapi – a local grilled meat dish.
✔ Most beaches are rocky – swimming shoes are a must.
✔ Zadar makes a great base – for islands, national parks and day trips.
✔ Local buses and ferries make one-day getaways easy to organise.
✔ A map with recommended restaurants and hotels is available in the article.

Zadar FAQ. Most frequently asked questions

How many days do you need to explore Zadar?
You can walk around Zadar in just a few hours, but if you also want to relax on the beach, join a tour or simply unwind, plan for at least two to three days. Even if you stay for a week, you won’t get bored.

Is Zadar expensive?
It feels like a holiday destination, but it’s manageable. Fast food costs around 5 to 12 euros, a proper restaurant meal is 15 to 30 euros, and a beer is about 4 to 5 euros. Accommodation during high season starts at 30 to 40 euros, while something more comfortable ranges from 65 to 80 euros.

Where is the best place to stay in Zadar?
In the Old Town you get the charm and everything close by, but parking can be a problem. Outside the centre it’s quieter, cheaper and easier to find a spot for your car. I stayed at a hostel near the beach and it was fine, but if you prefer more privacy, check out the hotel recommendations in the article.

What are the beaches in Zadar like?
Most of them are rocky or pebbly, so water shoes are a must. The closest beach to the city centre is Kolovare. If you want more space and fewer people, head to Borik or the nearby islands.

Is it worth renting a car in Zadar?
You don’t need one just for the city, as everything is within walking distance. However, if you’re planning to visit places outside Zadar like Paklenica National Park, Krka waterfalls or less popular beaches, a car will be useful.

Can you pay with euros?
Yes, euro is the official currency. You can pay by card almost everywhere, but it’s good to have some cash on hand, especially for local markets or buses.

Is it worth visiting Zadar outside the main season?
Absolutely. It’s calmer, cheaper and still beautiful. In spring and autumn you can still swim, and there are no crowds and the weather is pleasant.

Is Zadar suitable for solo travel?
Definitely. It’s safe, compact and full of hostels and local spots where it’s easy to meet people.

How do you get from Zadar Airport to the city centre?
You can take the Liburnija shuttle bus from the airport to the city for about 4 euros. It stops at the main bus station and the Old Town, and runs every several minutes. You can also take a taxi, although it might cost you 25 to 30 euros.

Is watching the sunset by the Sea Organ worth it?
Absolutely. It’s one of the city’s landmarks and one of the best places to end the day. The sound of the waves, the organ’s music and a sky full of colour – Hitchcock wasn’t exaggerating when he said this was the most beautiful sunset in the world.

How does public transport work in Zadar?
Buses are cheap, but not always intuitive. You buy tickets from the driver using cash, and the best way to check schedules is on the Liburnija website. I described how to figure out the lines and maps in the transport section above.

What day trips are worth taking from Zadar?
The most popular ones include Krka National Park, Plitvice Lakes, Paklenica and boat trips to the Kornati Islands or Dugi Otok. It all depends on whether you prefer waterfalls, mountains or the sea – Zadar gives you great options for every kind of adventure.

Do you need to book Plitvice Lakes tickets in advance?
During the high season – definitely yes. Especially if you plan to go early or on a weekend. You can book online through the official park website, and having a reservation saves you from queues and stress.

If my article helped you plan your route and gather the necessary information, I would be grateful for your support in making my dreams come true by buying me a coffee!