Zadar, located on Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coast, is a city that punches well above its weight. It’s where ancient ruins, Roman architecture, and contemporary art converge, and the lively local scene blends seamlessly with its historical charm. Our three-night stay in this captivating city (though effectively just two full days, thanks to our late-night arrival) left us with a lasting impression and a strong desire to return.
Arrival in Zadar: A Late-Night Introduction
We flew from Manchester and arrived in Zadar at around 11pm, greeted by the typically laid-back vibe of a small European airport. The taxi rank was informal, with drivers offering prices that seemed to vary depending on their mood. After initially being quoted a rather high price, we agreed on a more reasonable one after some quick negotiation.
Our driver spoke very little English, and the car ride was an unexpected introduction to Zadar: the driver blared loud heavy metal music, which felt a bit surreal after a long flight. While the journey was a little disorienting, it was all part of the adventure, and we arrived at our accommodation without any issues.
Where We Stayed: Silver and Gold Luxury Rooms
We stayed at Silver and Gold Luxury Rooms, just 50 metres from a Roman ruin and only 200 metres from the Sea Organ. The location was ideal—right in the heart of Zadar’s old town, putting us within easy walking distance of all the major sights and attractions. Our room was a comfortable, modern retreat with a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Being able to stroll out the door and immediately immerse ourselves in the charm of Zadar’s historic centre was a real treat.
Exploring the Heart of Zadar
The Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun
One of Zadar’s most unique and captivating attractions is the Sea Organ, located on the edge of the old town. This installation uses the natural rhythm of the sea to create hauntingly beautiful music. Underwater pipes, placed along the seafront, interact with the movement of the waves to produce a series of melodic notes. It’s a simple yet deeply moving experience. We spent time sitting on the steps, letting the music and the sound of the waves wash over us while taking in the stunning Adriatic views. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and watch the sunset, especially as the Sea Organ seamlessly transitions into the nearby Greeting to the Sun installation.
The Greeting to the Sun is a massive circle of solar panels embedded in the pavement that charges up during the day and lights up with beautiful patterns as night falls. It’s an impressive piece of public art that captures the essence of Zadar—modern, artistic, and deeply connected to its environment.
Roman Forum and Roman Temple
For history enthusiasts, the Roman Forum is a must-see. Dating back to the 1st century BC, this sprawling space once served as the center of public life in Zadar under Roman rule. The remains of the forum, though partially weathered, still give a sense of the grandeur of this ancient civic space. The surrounding area is dotted with the ruins of columns, statues, and other structures, some of which have been partially reconstructed.
Nearby, the Temple of Augustus stands proudly. This small but beautifully preserved temple, built during the reign of Emperor Augustus, offers a glimpse into Zadar’s past as an important Roman city. Its Doric columns and distinctive architectural style make it one of the highlights of the forum area. The temple stands as a testament to Zadar’s status as a key player in the Roman Empire, and it’s an unmissable site for anyone interested in Roman history.
Cathedral of St. Anastasia
A short walk from the forum is the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, the largest church in Zadar. The cathedral’s Romanesque exterior is impressive, but it’s the interior that truly takes your breath away. Inside, you’ll find beautifully detailed frescoes, intricate stone carvings, and a tranquil atmosphere that invites quiet reflection. The cathedral’s bell tower is open to visitors, and if you’re up for the climb, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the old town, the surrounding islands, and the sparkling Adriatic Sea beyond.
The cathedral’s grounds also feature remnants of earlier churches that have stood on the site for centuries, further underscoring Zadar’s deep historical roots. While the cathedral may not be as famous as others in Europe, its serene beauty and historical significance make it one of Zadar’s true gems.
Walking the Old Town Walls
One of the best ways to appreciate the history and beauty of Zadar is by walking along its ancient city walls. The Zadar City Walls were originally built by the Venetians in the 16th century and are still largely intact today. We started our walk at the Sea Gate (one of the main gates into the old town), where you can take in sweeping views of the Adriatic and the neighboring islands.
The walls are punctuated by several defensive structures and bastions, and we enjoyed wandering around the perimeter, passing by the Fosa Marina and catching glimpses of the picturesque harbor. The views from the walls give you a sense of the city’s history as a fortified stronghold. The well-preserved ramparts and the surrounding landscape are perfect for those who love history or simply enjoy a leisurely walk through scenic surroundings.
Dining in Zadar: Local Favorites
Dinner at Provideur
Zadar’s food scene was one of the highlights of our trip. We had the pleasure of dining at Provideur, a fantastic restaurant located just around the corner from Five Wells Square. The food here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared. We opted for a mix of local dishes and Mediterranean-inspired flavors, with a focus on seafood and fresh produce. The restaurant has a great vibe, and while we did have to queue for about 15 minutes to secure a table (a sign that this place is popular with locals), it was well worth the wait. The meal was excellent, and the service was friendly and attentive.
Cheese Plate and Local Wine at Pet Bunara
Just a stone’s throw away from Provideur is Pet Bunara, another gem we discovered. This intimate restaurant, tucked away near the city centre, offers a wonderful selection of local wines and an impressive cheese plate. We stopped by for a more relaxed evening, enjoying a bottle of wine and some local cheeses, perfect for winding down after a day of exploring. The ambiance here is cozy, and it’s definitely a place we’d like to return to for a full meal in the future, as the menu looked fantastic.
Wine Garden Zadar: A Hidden Gem
The standout dining experience of our trip, however, was at Wine Garden Zadar, located just off the main market square. This secluded oasis feels like stepping into a hidden garden, with beautifully planted pot-gardens and a charming bar offering a selection of local wines and snacks. The atmosphere here is laid-back and intimate, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
The wines, particularly a unique variety infused with sea salt, were exceptional, and we found ourselves returning there three times during our stay. On our last day, we decided to skip the bus back to the airport and stayed longer at Wine Garden, treating ourselves to a taxi so we could enjoy the peaceful setting just a little bit longer.
Boat Trip Around Zadar
On the second night, we also took a boat trip to see Zadar from the water. The old town is located on a small peninsula, and the boat tour offered us a fantastic opportunity to admire the city’s architecture and coastline from a new perspective. The tour, which left from the main marina, was intimate, with just a few other tourists—a couple from Britain, a German couple, and a solo traveller from Japan. The views of the old town, with its mix of medieval buildings and modern art, were even more impressive from the water.
Zadar Climate: Hot and Perfect for Exploring
Zadar boasts a Mediterranean climate, and in May, the weather was perfect for exploring. Temperatures were in the mid-20s (Celsius), with clear skies and a gentle sea breeze. It was hot enough to enjoy the seaside, but still cool enough for long walks around the historical centre without feeling overheated.
Why You Should Visit Zadar
Zadar is a city that offers so much more than meets the eye. It’s brimming with history, from its Roman ruins to its Venetian walls, while also embracing the modern with art installations like the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun. The city’s food scene is delightful, with an abundance of local produce, wines, and seafood. And the relaxed Mediterranean climate is perfect for long strolls through the old town and leisurely meals in charming spots like Provideur and Pet Bunara.
Zadar may not have the fame of Dubrovnik or Split, but that’s part of its charm. It feels authentic, unspoiled, and welcoming—perfect for travellers looking for a more intimate, laid-back experience in Croatia. We left with fond memories and a strong desire to return. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or simply someone who wants to relax by the sea, Zadar is a destination you won’t regret.
