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Zadar is a coastal city in Croatia that blends ancient history with modern attractions. There are many places to visit in Zadar, given its Roman and medieval landmarks, lively squares, and waterfront, which make it a fascinating place to explore. Visitors can walk through centuries-old streets, visit landmarks like the Church of St. Donatus, and experience interactive installations such as the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun. This guide will help you discover the best places to visit and help you plan a well-rounded trip to Croatia.
Uncover 15 Best Places To Visit In Zadar
From Roman ruins to sea-facing marvels, explore the best places to visit in Zadar for history, culture, and coastal charm.
1. Sea Organ
Photo: Andrej Šalov / Wikimedia Commons
The Sea Organ is a unique architectural sound art object and experimental musical instrument that creates sound using ocean waves. It was built into the city’s promenade and consists of underwater pipes that produce harmonic tones as water moves through them. The design allows the sea itself to compose constantly changing melodies. Visitors can sit on the stone steps, listening to the sounds while looking out at the Adriatic. It’s a peaceful spot to experience a mix of nature and engineering, and a key reason why is Zadar famous among travellers seeking both innovation and tranquility.
Location: Obala kralja Petra Krešimira IV, Zadar
Entry Fee: Free
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2. Monument To The Sun
Photo: Hajotthu / Wikimedia Commons
This circular solar installation absorbs sunlight during the day and creates a colourful light display at night. Architect Nikola Bašić designed it to consist of glass panels with photovoltaic cells that power an interactive LED show. The patterns shift as people walk across the surface, creating an ever-changing visual effect, making it one of the unique places to visit in Zadar. It is positioned near the Sea Organ and represents the connection between nature and technology. The monument pays tribute to the Sun and how it shapes life along the Dalmatian coast.
Location: Istarska obala, Zadar
Entry Fee: Free
3. Church Of St. Donatus
Photo: Jerzy Strzelecki / Wikimedia Commons
The Church of St. Donatus is a 9th-century landmark of early medieval architecture in Zadar. The building was recognised by its round structure, using materials from an old Roman forum. Its thick stone walls and high ceilings create excellent acoustics, making it a popular concert venue. The church is no longer used for regular religious services, but visitors can explore the interior and see its historical details. It is located in Zadar’s Old Town and stands as one of the city’s most significant cultural tourist attractions in Zadar.
Location: Grgura Mrganića, Zadar
Entry Fee: Free
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4. Zadar Cathedral
Photo: Palauenc05 / Wikimedia Commons
This Romanesque-style cathedral is the largest in Dalmatia, built between the 12th and 13th centuries. The exterior features intricate stone carvings, while the interior includes medieval and Gothic elements. Visitors can climb the bell tower to view the city and coastline. The cathedral remains an active place of worship, hosting religious services and events throughout the year. Its historical significance and architectural details make it an important site for those interested in Zadar’s past.
Location: Trg Svete Stošije 2, Zadar
Entry Fee: Free
5. Museum Of Ancient Glass
Photo: TimeTravelRome / Wikimedia Commons
This museum showcases an extensive collection of Roman glass artefacts, including vases, bottles, and decorative pieces. Visitors can watch glass-blowing demonstrations, showing how artisans once shaped and designed glass. The exhibits highlight the importance of glass production in ancient societies and its role in trade. The museum is housed in a historic palace, adding to its cultural significance. Informational displays provide historical context, making it one of the places to visit in Zadar.
Location: Poljana Zemaljskog odbora 1, Zadar
Entry Fee: € 5 / ₹ 450
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6. Archaeological Museum Zadar
Photo: AnatolyPm / Wikimedia Commons
The Archaeological Museum Zadar is one of the top places to visit in Zadar and contains artefacts from prehistoric times through the Middle Ages. Its collection includes Roman sculptures, mosaics, and everyday objects that tell the story of Zadar’s past. Exhibits are arranged by historical period, providing a timeline of the region’s development. Informative descriptions help visitors understand the significance of each display. Visiting this museum is one of the things to do in Zadar to learn about the cultural influences that shaped Dalmatia over the centuries.
Location: Arheološki muzej, Trg opatice Čike 1, Zadar
Entry Fee: € 6 / ₹ 550
7. Kolovare Beach
Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Kolovare Beach is a well-maintained coastal spot and also one of the most famous beaches in Zadar. The shoreline combines pebbles and sand with shaded areas from nearby trees. The calm waters are ideal for swimming, while sunbeds and cafes make it easy to spend a few hours relaxing. Showers and changing cabins are available, making it convenient for visitors. A paved walkway runs alongside the beach, offering a nice route for a short stroll. Its central location and accessible facilities make it popular for locals and tourists.
Location: Kolovare ul. 11, Zadar
Entry Fee: Free
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8. Monastery Of St. Francis Of Assisi
Photo: János Korom Dr / Wikimedia Commons
This Gothic-style monastery played a key role in history as the site where the Zadar Peace Treaty was signed in 1358. This place features a simple but elegant design, with a wooden choir stall dating back to the 14th century. The monastery’s library houses a collection of rare manuscripts and historical texts. A peaceful courtyard with stone archways provides a quiet space to reflect the site’s long history. Visitors can explore the interior and learn about the monastery’s role in shaping the city’s cultural and religious heritage.
Location: Ul. fra Donata Fabijanića, Zadar
Entry Fee: Free
9. Krka National Park
Photo: Matea Bolčević / Wikimedia Commons
Krka National Park is known for its waterfalls, walking trails, and wooden boardwalks that cross flowing streams. It is one of the best tourist places in Zadar to discover nature. Skradinski Buk, the park’s most famous waterfall, features cascades surrounded by a forest landscape. A network of trails allows visitors to explore the area on foot, while boat tours offer a different perspective of the park. The park is also home to Visovac Island, a historic monastery. Combining scenic spots and cultural landmarks makes Krka a well-rounded destination for visitors looking to experience Croatia’s outdoors and history.
Location: Trg Ivana Pavla II. br. 5, Šibenik
Entry Fee: € 40 / ₹ 3,600
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10. Plitvice Lakes National Park
Photo: Pablo BM / Wikimedia Commons
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO-listed site, which features a series of lakes connected by waterfalls. Wooden pathways guide visitors through the landscape, offering close-up views of the changing water levels and colours. The lakes are divided into upper and lower sections, with trails and boat rides available to explore both areas. Wildlife is often spotted along the way, adding to the park’s natural appeal. The combination of water, rock formations, and forested trails makes this one of Croatia’s most well-known outdoor destinations, drawing visitors in all seasons.
Location: Plitvička Jezera, Karlovac County
Entry Fee: € 40 / ₹ 3,600
11. Five Wells Square
Photo: lienyuan lee / Wikimedia Commons
Five Wells Square is one of Zadar’s tourist areas with scenic historic landmarks, that is situated between the medieval city walls and Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. This charming square receives its name from the five stone wells next to each other that were constructed in the 16th century during the time of the Ottoman threat. Now the square is an open area that is tranquil and is visited by tourists and residents alike. At night, the square lights up in soft lighting, creating an atmosphere that is lovely for a romantic stroll. In the summer months, the square is also home to cultural events, concerts, and open-air performances, and is even used as a stage for plays or theatre productions.
Location: Trg Pet Bunara 1, Zadar
Entry Fee: Free
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12. Zadar City Market
Photo: Svetlana Gumerova / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
In the heart of Old Town, the Zadar City Market is an energetic and rich marketplace that is not just about shopping but an authentic and cultural experience that characterises the pulse of life in Zadar. When travelling through the market, locals are chatting and catching up on news, giving visitors an insight into real-life Dalmatia. The market has indoor stalls with fish sellers where you can buy the daily catch. It’s an ideal stop off for travellers wanting to taste local produce or purchase local edible souvenirs like dried figs, lavender honey, or local wines.
Location: Ul. pod bedemom 1/A, Zadar
Entry Fee: Free
13. Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
Photo: Ruben Holthuijsen / Wikimedia Commons
Jelena Madijevka Park is Zadar’s oldest public park and one of the most tranquil green spaces around. The park is named after a beloved Croatian queen, Jelena. There are beautiful walking paths, colorful flower beds, and plenty of shady trees, making it a great space to relax, read a book, or enjoy a picnic. Queen Jelena Madijevka Park is a perfect place to blend history and nature. The old stone walls, different paths, and stairs create a sense of history, while lush greenery completely absorbs the heat of summer.
Location: 23000, Zadar, Croatia
Entry Fee: Free
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14. Ledana Lounge & Bar
Photo: Quark Studio / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Ledana Lounge & Bar is one of the most famous nightlife hotspots in Zadar, located in the peaceful Queen Jelena Madijevka Park. There are trees and old stone walls all around, creating a nice blend of calmness. During the day, it is perfect for coffee, and then it becomes more of a party scene, showcasing cocktails, music, and beautiful decor at night. The bar invites local live DJs, and there are summer events hosted at the bar, making it popular with both locals and tourists. Wondering is Zadar good for nightlife? Ledana proves it is, with vibrant energy, scenic surroundings, and a welcoming atmosphere for every kind of night out.
Location: Perivoj kraljice Jelene Madijevke, Zadar
Entry Fee: Varies
15. Island Of Iz
Photo: Andres Rus / Wikimedia Commons
The Island of Iž is a serene escape in the Zadar archipelago just a short ferry ride away from the busy mainland. Iž has maintained its authenticity, unique landscapes, and relaxed atmosphere, making it the perfect getaway for travellers looking for genuine island culture, peace, and serenity. Iž consists of two settlements: Veli Iž and Mali Iž. Veli Iž is larger and busier than Mali Iž, where there are adorable stone houses, a snug little marina, and ample, lovely restaurants that serve fresh seafood and local cuisine. Alternatively, Mali Iž is more aloof and rural, perfect for nature lovers. One of the island’s main attractions is its local tradition of pottery making. Locals have been hand-making ceramics on the island for centuries.
Location: Zadar County, Croatia
Entry Fee: Free, ferry cost
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With many places to visit in Zadar, it is an engaging destination for adventures and travellers of all interests. The region provides plenty to explore, from centuries-old churches and museums to coastal landmarks and national parks. Natural spots such as Krka and Plitvice Lakes National Parks enhance the beauty of this place. Book your trip with TripXL and start packing for an interesting trip to this coastal city.
Cover Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
