Getting acquainted with the Old Town is one of the best things to do in Zadar, Croatia. We navigated the ancient lanes, seeking out historic attractions in the compact Zadar Old City center. From our wanderings, we designed this Self-Guided Zadar Walking Tour for fellow travelers to enjoy!
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About Our Zadar Walking Tour
Our Free Tour of Zadar is about 2 miles in length and should take about an hour to complete. We begin at the Land Gate, however we designed the walk in a loop, so you can start anywhere along the route.
The tour includes 26 Zadar attractions and plenty of places to get distracted along the way. We include both map links, step-by-step directions and at the end of the post, a useful Zadar, Croatia Map of Sights.
Zadar ranks as one of the Best Cities in Croatia to Visit, so you will also find additional advice on what to do, where to stay and other essential information at the end of the article.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Zadar Travel Guide your vacation to Croatia!
Zadar Self-Guided Walking Tour
Our Zadar city tour includes all the must-see sights! We’ve covered every street in the Zadar Old Town, noting the constant mix of old and new.
Now, follow in our footsteps to the top places to visit in Zadar, Croatia. Don’t like the ads? Purchase the No-Ad PDF here. (It costs less than a cup of coffee!)
#1 Land Gate (Kopnena Vrata)
MAP. The Venetian-era defensive walls that once encircled Zadar are still mostly intact. The remaining Zadar City Walls are so impressive, in fact, that they have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the most magnificent features of the ancient fortifications is the Land Gate. Built in 1543, this city gate served as the main entrance – and we believe it’s the best place to start walks in Zadar.
The ornate structure features six columns and three archways. The Coats of Arms of the Venetian Republic and the City of Zadar are above the two outer arches.
St. Mark’s winged lion and a smaller statue of St. Chrysogonus decorate the space above the center arch.
Directions: Walk through the gate and take the first right, up a flight of stairs, into the open square.
#2 Five Wells Square (Trg 5 Bunara)
MAP. These 16th century wells were built to supply drinking water at a time when the Turks threatened to invade. The Captain’s Tower, built as another protective measure, dominates the space from the far end.
Directions: Find the staircase on the south side and take the steps leading up.
#3 Queen Jelena Madijevka Park
MAP. A lush escape from the stone of the Old Town, Madijevka Park was built on top of a former military bastion and is one of the best places to see in Zadar.
The peaceful garden has a few benches, paths and a café. In the center, trails encircle a small hill, which is just fun to climb up!
Directions: Make your way back down to 5 Wells Square and exit walking past The Captain’s Tower. Take the steps that lead down to…
#4 Petar Zoranica Square
MAP. Trg Petra Zoranica feels different than most old town squares, probably due to the large trees and wide-open space.
A single Roman column stands on the far end and other ruins that were discovered below ground level can be viewed through glass covers.
Also on the square, there is a stone sarcophagus said to contain the remains of a 1st century monk (and three other unknown skeletons).
Directions: Leave the square by the Roman column, passing between the Rector’s Palace and St. Simeon’s Church. Continue straight along Kotromanic Street to…
#5 People’s Square (Narodni Trg, Zadar)
MAP. All of the top Zadar City Tours pass through Narodni Trg – as it marks the center of day-to-day life. The typical town square is enclosed, with official buildings making up three sides of the space.
The columned City Lodge previously served as a courthouse, council chambers and library. Across from it, the Renaissance style City Sentinel features a clock tower. On the far end is the current Zadar City Hall.
Directions: Before leaving, walk into Café Lovro next to the Sentinel and find a hidden gem.
#6 St. Laurence’s Church (Crkva Sv. Lovre)
MAP. Not much remains of the 11th century church that is tucked inside the café. Still, it is simply fascinating to know that ancient architecture is hidden behind modern structures.
Note: The reviews for the cafe itself are terrible, so don’t bother stopping here for a beverage!
Directions: Leave the square on Jurja Barakovica – the street to the right of City Hall – and exit through Bridge Gate.
#7 Zadar City Bridge (Gradski Most)
MAP. The first bridge to cross the harbor was built in 1928 and destroyed during World War II. Today, standing in the middle of the new Gradski Most (completed in 1962) provides an encompassing view of the area.
Directions: Retrace your steps and then walk northwest past the excursion vessels and passenger ferries. Before reaching the end of the peninsula, look for the small rowboats.
#8 Barkajoli
MAP. Long before there was a bridge across Zadar Harbor, these rowboats – called Barkajoli in Croatian – were used to transport people from one side to the other.
Most rowers have followed in the footsteps of their fathers – continuing an 800-year-old tradition. One of the fun Zadar activities is hopping in a Barkajoli for a ride to the other side (€2 each way).
Directions: Walk south and find another decorated entrance into the Old Town.
#9 Sea Gate (Morska Vrata)
MAP. Built in 1573 to celebrate victory over the Turks, the Sea Gate provided access from the port to the Zadar Fish Market. Climb the stairs to the right to stand atop the walls and get a better view of the port.
Directions: Enter the Old Town through the gate and walk to the church on your left that is set back off the street.
#10 St. Chrysogonus (Crkva Sv. Krsevana)
MAP. Dedicated to the patron saint of Zadar, St. Chrysogonus was consecrated in 1175. The church was once part of a large Benedictine Monastery complex that no longer exists. Plans for a bell tower materialized in 1485, but the project was left unfinished.
Directions: Facing the church, walk down the narrow street on the right-hand side, Ulica Brne Karnarutica, to the…
#11 Zadar Market (Tržnica Zadar)
MAP. There has been a market in Zadar since the Middle Ages, but moved to its current location after World War II. Today, perusing the goods for sale is a Top Zadar Thing To Do!
Vendors sell colorful fruits, locally produced olive oil and handmade cheese. The famous Zadar Fish Market is located within the walls and is the best place to buy fresh seafood!
Directions: From the southern corner of the market, walk southwest on Zlatarska. Continue up the steps toward Malo Misto (a top-rated Zadar Restaurant).
Turn right on Jurja Dalmatinca and walk down the narrow street to Ulica Simuna Kozicica Benje. Turn left and walk into Zadar’s most iconic square.
#12 Zadar Forum
MAP. Of all the Zadar sights, seeing the Roman Forum is a must! A cluster of historic churches dating to the Middle Ages alongside pieces-and-parts of Roman ruins all come together here.
The ancient square tells a story that is 2,000 years in the making. Designed by the Romans and completed in the 3rd Century AD, the Forum was the thriving center of the old city – as still is today.
Over time, the Forum was destroyed and rebuilt numerous times. It features a fascinating array of items, some of which dates to the 1st century BC.
What is interesting, however, is that much of the Roman remains were buried below the surface until the area was bombed during WWII.
Directions: Stand in the center of the Forum and take in the sights, starting with…
#13 Zadar Bell Tower
MAP. The 183-foot-tall Bell Tower belongs to the cathedral, but it was built separately from the church. The tower was also completed in two stages…more than 400 years apart.
The first two floors were finished in the middle of the 15th century. The upper floors were added in the late 1800s.
One of the top Zadar things to do is to the hike up the 180 (wide and spacious) stairs to the observation deck. There is a fee and it requires a little effort, but the views are spectacular!
Directions: Next to the bell tower is a rounded church.
#14 St. Donatus Church
MAP. The centerpiece of the Forum is the St. Donatus’ Church. Built in the 9th century, the round structure looks exactly as it did when it was completed. Known for its incredible acoustics, concerts are often held inside.
Directions: Look on the southeast side of the Forum, across the walkway, to the stone church and bell tower.
#15 St. Mary’s Church
MAP. The St. Mary’s Church and Convent belongs to Benedictine nuns. Originally built in 1066, the façade was redone in the 16th century and the interior was decorated in the Baroque style in the mid-1700s. However, much of it was destroyed in WWII.
Two Zadar museums are located adjacent to the church: the Archaeological Museum and the Benedictine Monastery Art Museum.
Directions: In the center of the Forum, find the pieces of stone laid out in rows on the grass.
#16 Green Square (Zeleni Trg)
MAP. Broken pieces of Roman ruins in Zadar are displayed within the Forum. Unlike many ruins that have a look-but-don’t-touch policy, you are welcome to get up close and personal with these fragments from the past.
Directions: Southwest of St. Donatus Church (along the side of the southern, angular building by the old rock wall), find the lonesome pillar.
#17 Zadar Pillar of Shame
MAP. The single column standing to the west of St. Donatus’ Church is the Pillar of Shame. An ancient form of punishment, criminals were chained to the pillar to endure public humiliation and ridicule.
Directions: Next to the pillar, on the raised platform to the left are three column bases.
#18 Remnants of a Roman Temple
MAP. All that remains of a former temple are the bases of three columns on a platform. The temple was dedicated to Jupiter, Juno and Minerva.
On our visit, excavations were underway behind the columns near St. Elias’ (an Orthodox church that was built in the 18th century for the Greek population). Much of the ancient past is still buried beneath the Forum.
Directions: Walk north into St. Anastasia’s Square.
#19 St. Anastasia’s Cathedral
MAP. Building commenced on the Romanesque church in the 12th century (by reconstructing a former church). The St. Anastasia Cathedral façade is adorned with decorative rosettes and a stone carved doorway.
Directions: Turn left (northwest) on Jurja Bijankinija and walk to the small church.
#20 Our Lady of Health Church
MAP. This pretty little church became a city favorite in 1447 when the painting of Our Lady of the Kastelo was hung behind the altar. The original is in the Permanent Exhibition of Religious Art and a copy displayed here.
Over time it has undergone several expansions and even endured a 1944 bombing and subsequent reconstruction.
Visiting the small chapel is one of the interesting activities in Zadar – so pop inside if the door is open!
Directions: To the right of the church, find the Three Wells Square, notable for the Heads.
#21 Three Wells Square or Park of Heads (Trg 3 Bunara)
MAP. These three wells were placed here in 1761, but when a road was built, they were moved across the street.
Beyond the square is a small park with a church and the busts of Zadar’s most prominent citizens displayed on columns.
Directions: Continue along the right side of the church passing the busts. Pass the Customs House to the end of the peninsula. Turn left (southwest) and walk to the end of the dock to find the famous Zadar Sun Salutation.
#22 Greeting to the Sun (Pozdrav Suncu)
MAP. The large, circular technological art installment isn’t much to look at in the daylight. In fact, we didn’t really understand why it was such a highly touted spot…until we saw it at night.
After dark, it puts on a fantastic light display, so be sure to return at nighttime if you’re staying for the evening!
Directions: Follow the sounds of music and continue around the corner to the left to find another Zadar must-see attraction.
#23 Zadar Sea Organ (Morske Orgulje)
MAP. Listening to the Sea Organ is a must when you visit Zadar, Croatia! Not an ordinary organ by any means, the organist is the sea itself.
The water pushes air into thirty-five pipes positioned below the steps to play chords of music. The fascinating instrument was designed by famed Croatian Architect Nikola Bašić.
The soothing sounds entertain locals and tourists alike. The steps attract many for sunset – as it’s one of the best places to watch the setting sun on the Dalmatian Coast.
Directions: Continue walking the length of the seaside walkway.
#24 The Zadar Riva
MAP. For many years, Zadar was heavily fortified with double walls protecting its inhabitants. In 1813, previous threats were no longer a concern and the outer wall was removed, leaving a lovely space along the waterfront.
Beautiful gardens were planted and parks created – as was the Riva, a long promenade for evening strolls. Taking a walk along the Riva in Zadar is often best done with an ice cream cone in hand!
Directions: Continue until you reach the…
#25 Statue of Spiro Brusina
MAP. Born in 1845, Spiro Brusina excelled in natural science and the study of birds – and he was a member of the Croatian freemasons. The statue depicts him holding a conch shell and looking out to see.
Directions: Follow the shoreline into the…
#26 Small Zadar Marina
MAP. This little marina is packed with boats and schools of small fish. Walk around to the stairs, which lead up to the Land Gate – officially completing the loop of our Self Guided Zadar Walking Tour!
Zadar Self Guided Walking Tour Map
You can use this Old Town Zadar Map with our walking tour route. Free visitor maps are also available at the Tourist Information Office (Map).
Interactive Zadar, Croatia Map
You can use this online Zadar Old Town Map to locate the sights on our walking tour – but only if you have a Wi-Fi Connection!
More Zadar Things To Do
We have highlighted the must-see Zadar sights – but there are a few more places travelers might want to see on their trip.
Visit Zadar Beaches
Looking for something to do in the sweltering summer? We recommend heading to the beaches! While there is not a beach directly in the Old Town, there are two within a 10 to 15 minutes walk.
Golden Wave Beach
The beach is small, but the triple level diving board is what attracts people here! There is also an on-site café.
Kolovare Beach
The pebble beach is popular with locals and tourists; there are beach bars, bathrooms, showers and lifeguards.
More Great Croatian Beaches: Best Beaches in Split and the Top Dubrovnik Beaches.
Zadar Day Trips
Zadar’s location is prime for exploring Croatia sights inland- as well as out to sea. During our stay, we visited Krka National Park, Sibenik and took boat trips to nearby islands.
We are featuring a few of the most popular options, but we share much more in our dedicated article on Day Trips from Zadar.
Croatia Waterfall Tours
Two of Croatia’s most renowned waterfall parks – Krka National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park – are within reach from Zadar. Both are known for their thundering waterfalls and picturesque landscapes.
Krka NP from Zadar
Visitors can join organized tours of Krka National Park (like this one). Alternatively, plan a trip on your own using the bus (like we did). You can get all the need-to-know details in our post, How To Take a Day Trip to Krka.
Plitvice Lakes NP
It’s also possible to use public transport to get to Plitvice Lakes, but – being further away with fewer bus routes – we actually recommend joining this excursion.
Day Trip To Sibenik from Zadar
The coastal town of Sibenik is another fabulous Croatian destination. The city boasts multiple fortresses and a gorgeous Cathedral.
We spent an entire day in Sibenik when we were staying in Zadar and then returned for a week-long visit. Use our guide of Things To See in Sibenik to plan your trip!
Zadar Cruise: Ferries and Boat Trips
If you are anything like us, you won’t be able to resist setting sail from the mainland to one of the nearby islands. You can use the convenient ferry or hop aboard an organized tour.
Zadar Islands by Ferry
For an inexpensive way to spend the day on the water, take the Zadar Ferry to Dugi Otok or a short ride to Ugljan. On Ugljan, you can explore the island on a self-guided bike ride.
Kornati National Park Boat Trip from Zadar
One of the most popular boat tours from Zadar is a trip to the Kornati Archipelago. Find out more about this highly-rated Kornati Boat Excursion!
Planning a Trip to Zadar, Croatia
Start your trip planning with our comprehensive Guide to Visiting Croatia. We share pertinent details for your European Vacation.
Of course, staying organized is key! Our printable Travel Planner is designed to keep you on top of all the details for your absolute best trip.
Where To Stay in Zadar, Croatia
We believe the best place to stay in Zadar is in the historic area. There are many properties to choose from in – or close to – the center.
We use Booking.com to find the prime places, but recommend reading our Tips for Cheap Hotel Rates before you start your search!
Art Hotel Kalelarga
Located smack in the middle of the Old Town, Art Hotel Kalelarga has a premium location on the main thoroughfare.
Guests rave about the modern, spacious rooms, the delicious included breakfast and the excellent staff.
Hotel Niko
Niko is a beachfront property located north of the Old Town. Ideal for those who want to kick back, relax and soak in the sunshine, they offer free loungers and umbrellas. Check rates!
Bastion Heritage Hotel
A 4-star hotel in Zadar Old Town, Bastion Heritage is a luxury property offering modern conveniences. The hotel excels at service and provides fine dining and an on-site spa.
Getting to Zadar, Croatia
Flights to the Zadar Airport are seasonal and connect with major European hubs like Frankfurt, Amsterdam, London or Dublin. Start with our advice for how to get the Best Prices on Flights – then hop over to SkyScanner.
Zadar ferry boats run between other coastal cities, nearby Croatian Islands and Italy. The Zadar ferry schedule is also very seasonal.
If arriving by bus (from Zagreb or Split), the station is not very convenient (Map). We prefer to use FlixBus when traveling in Europe.
If driving, it’s important to note that most of the Old Town is car-free and parking near Zadar is somewhat limited.
What To Pack for your Zadar Trip
We have a few last travel tips and packing hacks for your Croatia vacation. So grab our Free Packing Checklist and let’s get to it!
Walking Shoes
Flip flops are perfectly fine for navigating Zadar streets. However, some may want to pack a pair of lightweight travel shoes for climbing the bell tower! I wear trainers by New Balance and Kris prefers Merrell trail shoes.
Travel Camera
We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your Croatia trip. Rather than relying on your phone, upgrade to an actual camera for high quality photos.
We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens and believe it takes phenomenal pictures! Plus, it’s a fabulous budget camera for travel.
Day Pack
Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll want to be sure to have a great day bag for organizing all your everyday essentials in!
Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Croatia Travel Tips
If your travel plans have you going to other top destinations in Croatia, we can help. Use our Guide for 2 Weeks in Croatia or this 7 Day Croatia Itinerary to help you have the best vacation possible!
Other Self Guided Croatia Walking Tours
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