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Zadar

Zadar, Zadarska Zupanija, Croatia

Zadar: Where History Harmonizes with Modern Marvels Nestled on Croatia's dazzling Dalmatian Coast, Zadar is an enchanting city where ancient history whispers through Roman ruins and medieval churches, while modern marvel…

#Zadar#Zadarska Županija#Croatia#Adriatic Sea#Historic City

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Zadar.

Top Hotels in Zadar

Top Flights to Zadar

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Zadar.

Tours

Sea Organ and Sun Salutation

Visit the famous Sea Organ, an architectural sound art object which plays music by the sea waves.

Zadar Old Town Walking Tour

Explore the rich history and architecture of Zadar's Old Town with its Roman and medieval remnants.

Shopping

Zadar Farmer's Market Shopping

Visit Zadar's bustling farmer's market to shop for local produce and goods.

Outdoor

Kornati National Park Boat Tour

Embark on a boat tour to explore the stunning Kornati Islands, part of a national park known for its barren landscapes and azure sea.

Paklenica National Park Adventure

A day filled with adventure including hiking and climbing in Paklenica National Park.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Zadar.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Zadar, Zadarska Zupanija, Croatia is 'Not Available'.

Languages

Croatian, Italian, German

Average weather

Zadar

Jan

11°4°

Feb

12°5°

Mar

15°7°

Apr

18°10°

May

23°14°

Jun

27°18°

Jul

30°21°

Aug

30°21°

Sep

26°18°

Oct

21°14°

Nov

16°9°

Dec

12°6°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Zadar.

What people love

Zadar, located in Zadarska Županija, Croatia, offers a range of attractions and experiences that make it a desirable travel destination. Here are some pros of traveling to Zadar:

Historical and Cultural Sites: Zadar boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times, with well-preserved historical sites such as the Roman Forum, St. Donatus Church, and St. Anastasia's Cathedral. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city's cultural heritage by exploring these landmarks.
Stunning Waterfront: Zadar's waterfront promenade, known as the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun, is a unique attraction that combines art, architecture, and nature. The Sea Organ creates hauntingly beautiful music using the motion of the waves, while the Greeting to the Sun installation lights up the night sky with a mesmerizing light show.
Beautiful Beaches: Zadar is situated on Croatia's picturesque Dalmatian Coast, offering easy access to stunning beaches. Visitors can relax on the sandy shores of Borik Beach or explore more secluded coves along the coastline.
Delicious Cuisine: Croatian cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean and Central European flavors, and Zadar is no exception. Visitors can savor fresh seafood, local wines, and traditional Dalmatian dishes at the city's restaurants and cafes.
Outdoor Activities: Adventure seekers will find plenty to do in Zadar, from sailing and snorkeling in the Adriatic Sea to hiking in the nearby Paklenica National Park. The city's surrounding natural beauty provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Charming Old Town: Zadar's Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets, historic buildings, and bustling squares. Visitors can wander through the cobblestone alleys, shop for souvenirs at local boutiques, and soak up the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Overall, traveling to Zadar offers a unique combination of history, culture, natural beauty, and outdoor activities that are sure to appeal to a wide range of travelers.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Zadar, Croatia, include:

Limited public transportation: Zadar may have limited public transportation options compared to larger cities, which could make getting around more challenging for visitors.
Crowds during peak season: Like many popular tourist destinations, Zadar can get crowded during peak travel seasons, which could impact the overall experience for some travelers.
Language barrier: While many people in Zadar may speak English, there could still be a language barrier for some visitors, especially in more remote areas or when interacting with older locals.
High prices: Depending on your budget and travel expectations, Zadar could be relatively expensive compared to other destinations in Croatia, particularly during the peak tourist season.
Limited nightlife: Zadar may not have as vibrant nightlife scene as some other cities in Croatia, which could be a drawback for travelers looking for a lively evening entertainment options.

Please note that these potential cons are subjective and may not apply to everyone. It's always a good idea to research and consider your own preferences and priorities when planning a trip to Zadar.

Zadar, located on the Adriatic coast of Croatia, is a city with a rich and varied history that spans over three millennia. Its strategic position has made it an important hub for the Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Austrians, and more.

Ancient History

Illyrian Settlement: The earliest known inhabitants of the Zadar area were the Liburnians, an Illyrian tribe. They established a settlement called Iader.
Roman Era: Around 59 BC, the Romans conquered the region, and Iader became a Roman municipium. The city was known as "Colonia Julia Jader" under Julius Caesar and was integrated into the Roman road network. Many Roman structures, such as the Forum, date from this period.

Medieval Period

Byzantine Rule: After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Zadar came under Byzantine control in the early Middle Ages.
Croatian Kingdom: In the 9th century, it became part of the Croatian Kingdom, with periods of autonomy and Byzantine influence.
Zadar's Revolts: The city was frequently contested between Venice and the Croatian-Hungarian Kingdom. Notably, in 1202, Zadar was sacked by the Crusaders during the Fourth Crusade, following the instigation by Venice.

Venetian and Ottoman Influence

Venetian Rule: From 1409, Zadar was under Venetian control until 1797. The city flourished as a cultural and economic hub, with significant architectural developments, like the construction of formidable city walls and gates.
Ottoman Threat: Throughout the Venetian period, Zadar faced threats from the Ottoman Empire, which controlled much of the Balkans.

Habsburg and Modern Period

Austrian Empire: With the fall of Venice in 1797, Zadar became part of the Austrian Empire. It remained under Habsburg rule, except during a brief French occupation from 1805 to 1813 under Napoleon.
Italian Rule: After World War I and the dissolution of Austria-Hungary, Zadar was ceded to Italy, becoming Zara. This period lasted until World War II.
Post-War Yugoslavia: After WWII, Zadar returned to Yugoslavia and became part of the Socialist Republic of Croatia.
Croatian Independence: Zadar became part of an independent Croatia in 1991, following the dissolution of Yugoslavia.

Significant Historical Figures

Saint Donatus: An important figure from the 9th century, credited with founding the Church of St. Donatus, an iconic pre-Romanesque church.
Petar Zoranić: A 16th-century writer from Zadar, known for writing "Planine," the first novel in the Croatian language.

Important Landmarks

Roman Forum: The largest on the eastern side of the Adriatic, with ruins dating back to the 1st century BC.
Church of St. Donatus: A circular church from the early 9th century, emblematic of Zadar’s medieval architecture.
Zadar Cathedral (Cathedral of St. Anastasia): A Romanesque basilica and the largest church in Dalmatia.
Sea Organ: A modern architectural marvel that uses sea waves to create music.
Monastery of St. Mary: A Benedictine convent founded in 1066, with a notable collection of religious art.

Zadar’s history reflects a tapestry of cultural and political influences, making it a city of significant historical and cultural heritage in Croatia.