🇭🇷 Croatia · Places to discover
What to see in Zadar ?
20 places curated by Hozy - landmarks, nature, hidden restaurants and activities.
MAP · OVERVIEW
Landmarks & heritage (10)
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SALand Gate (Kopnena vrata)
Landmark
A triumphal Renaissance gateway from 1543, designed by Michele Sanmicheli, marking the old town's main entrance from the mainland. The Venetian lion of Saint Mark presides proudly above the archway.Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAArchaeological Museum of Zadar
Landmark
One of Croatia's richest archaeological collections, spanning prehistory through the medieval period. The Roman glass and Illyrian jewellery are particularly outstanding.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAChurch of Saint Donat, Zadar
Landmark
A masterpiece of 9th-century pre-Romanesque architecture, erected directly upon the Roman forum's stone slabs. Now deconsecrated, it hosts early music concerts blessed with exceptional acoustics.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SASea Organ of Zadar
Landmark
A unique sonic sculpture carved into the promenade steps: waves create music as they surge through pipes beneath the stone slabs. Magical at sunset, when locals gather to sit and listen.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SASalute to the Sun
Landmark
An illuminated installation by Nikola Bašić, neighbour to the Sea Organ: a 22-metre photovoltaic glass disc that springs to life after dark in a dazzling light show. The people of Zadar congregate here of an evening as if around a village square.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SACathedral of Saint Anastasia, Zadar
Landmark
Croatia's grandest Romanesque cathedral, built between the 12th and 14th centuries atop the ruins of an early Christian basilica. Climb the bell tower for sweeping views across the old town and the islands.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAChurch of Saint Simeon, Zadar
Landmark
A Baroque church housing one of Croatia's most precious treasures: the silver sarcophagus of Saint Simeon, commissioned by Queen Elizabeth in 1377. A masterpiece of medieval metalwork often overlooked by visitors.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAVenetian Ramparts of Zadar
Landmark
A 16th-century fortified wall and UNESCO World Heritage site, built to withstand Ottoman assault. A walk along the seaward ramparts rewards you with magnificent views across the Zadar archipelago.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SARoman Forum of Zadar
Landmark
The largest Roman forum on the eastern Adriatic coast, founded in the 1st century BC. The column of shame, where medieval criminals were shackled, still stands proudly. A living, breathing place—not a museum piece.Five Wells Square (Trg Pet Bunara)
Landmark
A medieval square with five 15th-century wells, once the only source of fresh water for the besieged old town. Today it thrums with local life, anchored by the watchtower Bablja Kula and an authentically lived-in atmosphere.Viewpoints (3)
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAUgljan Island – Preko Village
Viewpoint
A 25-minute ferry ride from Zadar, this quiet fishing village offers stunning views of the old town and authentic local life away from the beaten track. The fish restaurants here are excellent.Citadela Viewpoint
Viewpoint
Fortified terrace at the tip of the old town peninsula delivering a 270-degree panorama over the sea, islands and Zadar channel. The preferred spot for local photographers during golden hour.Puntamika Point – Sunset
Viewpoint
Peninsula north-west of Zadar where locals gather to admire the sunset over the islands of Ugljan and Pašman. Alfred Hitchcock allegedly called it 'the world's most beautiful sunset'.Activities (4)
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SAScuba Diving at Pag and Kornati
Activity
The waters around Zadar harbour Second World War wrecks and spectacular drop-offs. Local dive clubs run expeditions to the Kornati islands for experienced divers seeking unforgettable descents.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SASea Kayaking Around Zadar Peninsula
Activity
Hiring a kayak to paddle along the Venetian fortifications from the sea is one of the finest ways to experience the old town. Several local outfitters run guided sunrise excursions to avoid maritime traffic.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAMaraska Distillery
Activity
The historic producer of maraschino, the emblematic marasca cherry liqueur of Zadar since 1821. The shop offers tastings and bottles unavailable elsewhere. An authentic local souvenir par excellence.Tržnica Market, Zadar
Activity
A covered and open-air market where local producers sell sheep's cheese, dried figs, Dalmatian olive oil and artisanal maraschino. Arrive early in the morning to catch the fish market at its liveliest.Beaches (2)
Borik Beach
Beach
A large shingle and rocky beach nestled in a pine forest north of Zadar, favoured by local families. The water is exceptionally clear and the pines provide welcome shade during the heat of summer.Kolovare Beach
Beach
The urban beach beloved by Zadar's residents, a ten-minute walk from the old town. A mix of rock and concrete with clean water, beach volleyball and basketball courts. Bring your own mat—there are no loungers for hire.