DIY Zadar Walking Tour + Things To Do

Getting acquainted with the Old Town is one of the best things to do in Zadar, Croatia. We spent two weeks in Zadar navigating the lanes and seeking out the historic attractions in the compact Zadar Old City center. From our sightseeing adventures, we designed a fun Self-Guided Zadar Walking Tour for fellow travelers to enjoy!

 

Top Things To Do in Zadar, Croatia

Zadar, which ranks as one of the Best Cities in Croatia to Visit, offers an array of activities. Sightseeing in the Old Town is one of the top Zadar things to do – and we believe our walking tour is the top way to do it! 

That said, there is more to see and do than what we squeeze into our Walking Tour for Zadar. Therefore, in addition to the 26 sights we include in our walk, we highlight more attractions to help you plan your vacation to Zadar, Croatia!

 

Zadar Walking Tour

The best sights in Zadar can be seen on an easy looping route through town. Travelers can use our self-guided Free Walking Tour Zadar to discover the city as we did. 

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 tour in a loop, so you can start anywhere along the route. Whether you have one day in Zadar – or one week – our walking tour is the perfect introduction!

The route includes 26 Zadar attractions and plenty of places to get distracted along the way. We include step-by-step directions from one sight to the next and, at the end of the post, there is a useful Zadar, Croatia Map of Sights.

You will also find our additional advice on what to do in Zadar, tips on where to stay and other essential information for your visit at the end of the article. 

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Zadar Travel Guide to plan your trip to Croatia!

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Zadar Self-Guided Walking Tour

Our Zadar city tour includes all the must-see sights! During our trip, we covered every street in the Zadar Old Town, noting the constant mix of old and new.

We popped into bakeries for fresh treats. When the mid-day sun became too strong, we ducked into cafes to cool off. We sampled the local specialty, Maraschino, a sweet cherry liqueur that is made in the Zadar Maraska factory. Then we continued our navigation to the top Zadar attractions.

Now, follow in our footsteps to the top places to visit in Zadar, Croatia starting just outside of the old town at the Land Gate.

 

#1 Kopnena Vrata (Land Gate, Zadar)

Built in 1543, the Land Gate (also called the City Gate) was once the main entrance into the walled town and is the best place to start walks in Zadar. The ornate gate features six columns and three archways. The Zadar City Walls are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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 Land Gate and take the first right, up a flight of stairs, into the open square.

 

#2 Trg 5 Bunara (Five Wells Square, Zadar)

The 16th century wells in 5 Wells Square were built to supply drinking water to the city 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 into the park.

 

#3 Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

A lush escape from the old town, Madijevka Park was built on top of a former military bastion and is one of the best places to see on Walking Tours 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! The park is one of the top Zadar places to visit to escape the busy streets of the city during summertime.

Directions: Make your way back down to Five Wells Square and exit walking past The Captain’s Tower. Take the steps that lead down to another square.

 

#4 Trg Petra Zoranica (Petar Zoranica Square)

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 yet another square!

 

#5 Narodni Trg (People’s Square, Zadar)

All of the top Zadar City Tours pass through Narodni Trg – as it marks the center of day-to-day life. The typical old 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, a small church.

 

#6 Crkva Sv. Lovre (St. Laurence’s Church, Zadar)

Not much remains of the 11th century church, Crkva Sv. Lovre, that is tucked inside the café. However, we think that it’s one of the top things to see in Zadar. It is simply fascinating to know that ancient architecture is hidden behind modern structures.  

Directions: Leave the square on Jurja Barakovica – the street to the right of City Hall – and exit through Bridge Gate. Cross the street to the bridge.

 

#7 Gradski Most (City Bridge)

Gradski Most itself is not one the Zadar tourist attractions – the current bridge only dates to 1962. The first bridge to cross the harbor was built in 1928 and was destroyed during World War II.

However, standing on the bridge provides an encompassing view of the Old Town. For the best angle, walk halfway across and then look back toward the high, thick walls.

Directions: Back on the Zadar peninsula, walk northwest past the day excursion boats and passenger ferries. At the end of the line of vessels are taxi row boats.

 

#8 Barkajoli

Long before there was a bridge across Zadar Harbor, small rowboats – called Barkajoli – 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 rowboat ride to the other side.

Directions: Retrace your steps back toward the Sea Gate.

 

#9 Morska Vrata (Sea Gate, Zadar)

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 of the gate to stand atop the old town 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 Crkva Sv. Krsevana (St. Chrysogonus Church)

Dedicated to the patron saint of Zadar, St. Chrysogonus was consecrated in 1175. The church was one 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 city market.

 

#11 Zadar Market

There has been a market in Zadar, Croatia 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 in town to buy the freshest seafood! The market is generally open from early in the morning until around 1:00pm.

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

Of all the Zadar sights, seeing the Roman Forum is a must! A cluster of historic churches dating to the Middle Ages and pieces-and-parts of Roman ruins 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. The square features a fascinating array of the historic past, 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 the rising bell tower.

 

#13 Zadar Bell Tower

The 183-foot-tall Bell Tower belongs to the cathedral, but it was built separately from the church. The tower was 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.

Top Tip:  One of the best things to do in Zadar is to the hike up the 180 (wide and spacious) stairs to the observation deck. There is a fee to go up the bell tower and it requires a little effort, but the views over the town and sea are spectacular!

Directions: Next to the bell tower is a rounded church.

 

#14 St. Donatus Church, Zadar

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 church. 

Directions: Look on the southeast side of the Forum, across the walkway, to the stone church and bell tower.

 

#15 St. Mary’s Church, Zadar

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 the church was destroyed in WWII and had to be rebuilt.

Top Tip: 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 Zeleni Trg: Park of Roman Pieces

Broken pieces of Roman ruins in Zadar are displayed within the Forum. Unlike many ruins that have a look-but-don’t-touch policy, people 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 Pillar of Shame

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 Temple

All that remains of a former Roman 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, Zadar

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.

Top Tip: Look along the side of the Zadar Cathedral that leads back to the bell tower. Local women sit chatting as they knit sweaters, booties, caps and socks, which they offer for sale. These items make great souvenirs!

Directions: Turn left (northwest) on Jurja Bijankinija and walk to the next square.

 

#20 Trg 3 Bunara (Three Wells Square or Park of Heads) 

The next stop on our Zadar City Center Walking Tour is Three Wells Square. 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: Find the church on the square.

 

#21 Church of Our Lady of Health, Zadar

The pretty little Church of Our Lady of Health became a city favorite in 1447 when the painting of Our Lady of the Kastelo was hung behind the altar. The original is now kept in the Permanent Exhibition of Religious Art, but a copy is still displayed here.

Since then, 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: Continue along the right side of the church. 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 Pozdrav Suncu (Greeting to the Sun)

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 attraction…until we saw it at night. After dark, Pozdra Suncu – the Greeting to the Sun – puts on a fantastic light display, so be sure to return at nighttime!

Directions: Follow the sounds of music and continue around the corner to the left to find another Zadar must-see attraction.

 

#23 Morske Orgulje (Zadar Sea Organ)

Listening to the Sea Organ is a must when you visit Zadar, Croatia! Not an ordinary organ by any means, the organist of Morske Orgulje is the sea itself.

The water pushes air into thirty-five pipes positioned below the steps to play chords of music. The fascinating Zadar Sea Organ was designed by famed Croatian Architect Nikola Basic. 

The soothing sound entertains locals and tourists alike. The steps and sounds 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

For many years, Zadar, Croatia was a heavily fortified city 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 Zadar Riva is often best done with an ice cream cone in hand!

Directions: Continue walking to the seaside statue.

 

#25 Statue of Spiro Brusina

Toward the end of The Riva, near the University of Zadar, is the statue of Spiro Brusina. The statue depicts Brusina holding a conch shell and looking out to see. Born in 1845, Brusina excelled in natural science and the study of birds – and he was a member of the Croatian freemasons.

Directions: Follow the shoreline into the small marina.

 

#26 Fosa Marina

The little Fosa Marina is packed with boats and schools of small fish. Walk around the marina to the stairs, which lead up to the Land Gate – officially completing the loop of our self-guided Zadar walking tour!

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Self-Guided Zadar Walking Tour Map

Visitors can use this Old Town Zadar map with our walking tour route. Free tourist maps are available in the Tourist Information Office on Narodni Trg.

 

Interactive Zadar, Croatia Map 

You can this online Zadar Old Town Map to locate the sights on our walking tour – but only if you have a Wi-Fi Connection! 

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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. Plus, Zadar sightseeing is not limited to the Old Town. Some of the best things to do in Zadar, Croatia are beyond the Old Town walls.

 

Guided Tour of Zadar

On your trip to Zadar, if you would like someone to lead the way to the best sights, there are great local guides who run tours. Visitors who join a small group tour will be led to the top attractions, while also learning about history and culture. This Zadar Sightseeing Tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

 

Spend Time in Zadar Museums

Within the Zadar Old Town there are both informative and fun museums for visitors – and we are spotlighting a few of the best. We think it is best to visit the museums in Zadar when the weather is rainy or too hot. 

 

Zadar Museum of Ancient Glass

A fascinating museum in Zadar featuring the ancient history of glass. Preserved glass pieces are on display and they also host glass-blowing demonstrations. 

 

Archaeological Museum of Zadar

The Zadar Archaeological Museum exhibits ancient artifacts that detail the city’s past. The detailed descriptions of the relics are provided in English. 

 

National Museum of Zadar

Established in 1832, the Zadar National Museum has a varied collection of artworks and artifacts that help educate visitors about the history of the region. 

 

Museum of Illusions 

A museum of mind tricks and optical illusions, the Illusions Museum is a great place to spend a few hours with family or friends. Take on the challenges and test your skills in figuring out the puzzles…and pose for fun photo ops, too!

 

Go to a Zadar Beach

Looking for Zadar things to do in the sweltering summer? We recommend heading to the beaches! There is not a Zadar, Croatia beach directly in the Old Town. However, there are two within 10 to 15 minutes from the end of our walking tour.

 

Golden Wave Beach

The beach is small, but the triple level diving board is what attracts people to this beach! 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 for 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 convenient city 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 an excursion. Read the reviews of this tour!

 

Day Trip To Sibenik from Zadar

The coastal town of Sibenik is another fabulous Croatian destination. The city boasts multiple fortresses, a gorgeous Cathedral and an appealing Old Town. We spent an entire day in Sibenik when we were staying in Zadar and then returned for a week-long stay. 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. Travelers 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, visitors 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 sailboat trip to the Kornati Archipelago. Find out more about the Kornati Sailboat Trip! 

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Tips For Your Trip to Zadar, Croatia

Now that you know what to see in Zadar, we have a few tips for your vacation to Croatia!

 

Planning a Trip to Zadar, Croatia

Travelers should start their trip planning with our comprehensive Guide to Visiting Croatia. We share pertinent details for your European Vacation. 

Of course, staying organized with your trip planning is key! Our printable Travel Planner is designed to keep you on top of the details so you can plan your absolute best trip. 

 

Is Zadar Worth Visiting?

Honestly, we haven’t been to a Croatia destination that we didn’t like! That said, before we arrived in Zadar, we did wonder how it would compare to other Croatia Holiday Spots – like Korcula, Split, and Dubrovnik.

While there are some comparisons that can be made to other Croatian destinations, we think each seaside city is unique with its own charms and characteristics. Zadar might not be as incredibly romantic as Rovinj or have as many impressive ruins as Pula, but it certainly isn’t as crushed with crowds like Dubrovnik.

The Zadar Old Town might be small, but it’s easy to navigate and packed with sights. Something else Zadar has is a university – and its students fill the streets and cafes, bringing a lively, youthful feel to the city. So, yes. If you ask us, Zadar is definitely worth visiting!

 

Where To Stay in Zadar, Croatia

We think the best place to stay in Zadar is in the historic Old Town. During our trip, we opted for an apartment in the Old Town – and we loved the location. We could step out our front door and already be exploring Zadar on foot.

Staying in an Airbnb Apartment was also great for making simple meals – especially breakfast – and we had much more space than a hotel room. However, for shorter stays, you might want to consider staying in one of the top-rated hotels in Zadar. 

 

Zadar Hotels

There are many properties to choose from in – or close to – the center. We like to use Booking.com to find the prime places, but we recommend using 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. Check availability for your stay!

 

Hotel Niko 

Niko is a beachfront property located north of the Old Town. Ideal for guests who want to kick back, relax and soak in the sunshine, the property offers free loungers and umbrellas for guests – plus there is an on-site restaurant. 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. Check availability!

 

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 to the Old Town (Map), but within walking distance. Although not 100% reliable, schedules can be searched on Bus Croatia. We recommend checking current schedules at the station upon arrival.

If driving, it’s important to note that most of the Old Town is a car-free zone 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 travelers may want to pack a pair of lightweight travel shoes for climbing the bell tower! I wear shoes by Columbia and Kris likes Merrell for everyday exploration.

 

Travel Camera 

We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your Croatia trip. Rather than relying on your phone to capture Zadar sights, 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 for your Vacation to Croatia

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!

 

Travel Insurance for Croatia

Trip protection may come in handy for canceled flights or lost luggage, as well as for injuries and illnesses abroad. If you haven’t already obtained coverage for your trip to Croatia, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.

 

Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing!  Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – 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 7 Day Croatia Itinerary to help you have the best vacation possible!

 

Other Self Guided Croatia Walking Tours

• Free Walking Tour Dubrovnik
• Self Guided Zagreb Tour
• Walking Tour of Split

 

 

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