Zadar Walking Tour: A Self-Guided Walk to 26 Sights by JetSettingFools.com

DIY Zadar Walking Tour + Things To Do

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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 and attractions. 

Sightseeing in the Old Town is one of the top Zadar things to do – and we think our walking tour is the top way to do it! 

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

 

Zadar Walking Tour

Walking Tour Zadar, Croatia

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 Walking Tour of Zadar is about 2 miles (3.5km) in length and should take about an hour to complete. We begin our tour 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 of Zadar 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 Zadar trip at the end of the article. 

 

Guided Walking Tour Zadar Options

Our detailed Self Guided Walking Tour Zadar is fantastic for travelers who like to explore at their own pace. However, there are also Guided Zadar Walking Tours for visitors who would rather let a guide show them the attractions. 

 

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. The Zadar sightseeing tour lasts approximately 2 hours. Reserve your space!

 

Free Tour Zadar

Travelers looking for Guided Free Walking Tours in Zadar can join the Free Spirit Walking Tour. The Free Spirit Tours last for 1.5 hours, are given in English, but they only run during the summer season.

Just keep in mind that the Free Zadar Tours are not, in fact, actually free. These guides work for tips, so if you want a truly free tour of Zadar, use this article that doesn’t cost you a cent!

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Zadar Travel Guide so that you can access it during your trip to Croatia!


 

Zadar, Croatia History

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

Before you take off on your Self Guided Zadar Free Walking Tour, it helps to understand a little bit about the area’s history.

The history of the City of Zadar dates to the 9th century BC. Zadar claims to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia (but Stari Grad on Hvar Island is often considered to have the oldest origination). In the 1st century BC, the Romans ruled over Zadar and it was during this time that the impressive public square, the Forum, was built.

After the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century AD, Zadar changed hands numerous times over the years – being ruled by the Byzantine Empire, then the Frankish Empire, then the Republic of Venice and, in 1186, the Kingdom of Hungary. From the 13th to 15th centuries, control bounced from the Venetians to Hungary then back to the Venetians.

Zadar became a significant trade port for the Venetians and life in the fortified port flourished. With the rise of the Renaissance, Zadar became a center of the arts – and was especially popular with writers.

In 1797, when the Venetian Republic fell, Zadar came under Austrian rule. In 1920, power was passed to the Italians (which resulted in Zadar being bombed during World War II). After the war, Zadar became part of Yugoslavia and in 1991 Zadar became part of the independent Republic of Croatia.


 

Zadar Self-Guided Walking Tour

Our Zadar city tour includes 26 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)

Walking tour of Zadar, Croatia

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, while 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)

Zadar, Croatia walking tour

Trg Pet Bunara translates to 5 Wells Square. The 16th century wells in Trg 5 bunara 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 against the Turks, dominates the square from the far end.

Directions: Find the staircase on the south side of the square and take the steps leading up from the square into the park.

 

#3 Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

Walking tour of Zadar, Croatia

A lush escape from the old town, the Queen Jelena Mdijevka 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, walking 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 the square by walking past The Captain’s Tower. Take the steps that lead down to another square.

 

#4 Trg Petra Zoranica (Petar Zoranica Square, Zadar)

Free walking tour of Zadar, Croatia

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 and continue straight along Kotromanic Street to yet another square.

 

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

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

All of the top Zadar City Tours pass through Narodni Trg – as it marks the center of day-to-day city life. The typical old town square is enclosed, with official buildings making up three sides of Narodni trg.

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 of the square is the current Zadar City Hall.

Directions: Before leaving the square, 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)

zadar croatia free walking tour

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)

zadar croatia walking tour for free

The 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 the bridge and then look back toward the high, thick walls.

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

 

#8 Barkajoli

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

Long before there was a bridge across the 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 Jadrolinija Office to 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, Zadar)

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

Dedicated to the patron saint of Zadar, the Church of St. Chrysogonus was consecrated in 1175. The church was one part of a large Benedictine Monastery complex that no longer exists. Plans for a church 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 the market moved to its current location after World War II (when bombing destroyed buildings, leaving the spacious square). Today, perusing the goods for sale is one of the Top Things To Do Zadar. 

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 (at the intersection of Zlatarska and Hrvatinica), walk southwest on Zlatarska, continuing up the steps toward Malo Misto (one of the top-rated Zadar Restaurants specializing in seafood). At the restaurant, turn right on Jurja Dalmatinca and walk down the narrow street to Ulica Simuna Kozicica Benje (look for the bright yellow signs at the Posta – post office – building). Turn left and walk into the city’s most iconic square.

 

#12 Zadar Forum

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

Of all the Zadar sights, seeing the Zadar Roman Forum is a must! A cluster of historic churches dating to the Middle Ages and pieces-and-parts of Roman ruins come together in the Forum. 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 it 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 World War II.

Directions: Stand in the center of the Forum and take in the sights, starting with the rising bell tower.

 

#13 Zadar Bell Tower

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

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 completed 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 small 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

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

The centerpiece of the Forum is the St. Donatus’ Church. Built in the 9th century, the round church looks exactly as it did when it was built. Known for its incredible acoustics, concerts are often held inside church. Summer visitors can enter the church (for a small fee), but it is closed in the wintertime.

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

Free Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

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

Our free self guided walking tour zadar croatia

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

Zadar self-guided walking tour: 24 sights to see

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’ Church (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

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

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) and Park

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

The next stop on our Zadar City Center Walking Tour is Three Wells Square.

Three wells were placed on the square in 1761. A road now runs through the 3 Wells Square, so the wells 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: If the doors are open to the church, walk inside.

 

#21 Church of Our Lady of Health, Zadar

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

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 in the church.) 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 straight through the park 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)

Our Free Zadar Walking Tour

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 nightime!

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)

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

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

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

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 Zadar 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

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

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

Self Guided Walking Tour, Zadar, Croatia

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.

Zadar Walking Tour Map by JetSettingFools.com

 

Interactive Zadar, Croatia Map 

You can this interactive Zadar Old Town Map to locate the sights on our walking tour – but only if you have a Wi-Fi connection! Use this link to Google for the Zadar City Map online.

Zadar Walking Tour Map of Sights by JetSettingFools.com


 

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.

 

Spend an Afternoon 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 outside 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, but there are two beaches just south (which can be reached within 10 to 15 minutes from the end of our Zadar 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.

 

Read More About Great Croatian Beaches: Best Beaches in Split and the Best Dubrovnik Beaches.

 

Zadar Day Trips

After sightseeing in Zadar, head out on a day trip! 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 trips, but we share all of our top recommendations 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 easy reach from Zadar. Both parks 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 blog post, 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 taking a tour. 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 later. 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 a ship for 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


 

Travel Tips For Your Trip to Zadar, Croatia

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

 

Planning a Trip to Zadar, Croatia

We know there is a lot more to planning a Zadar trip than deciding what to see and do. 

Travelers visiting from abroad should start their trip planning with our comprehensive Guide to Visiting Croatia. We share pertinent details of what you need to know for planning your European Vacation

Visitors can also use our outlined Croatia Itinerary for ideas on how to plan their time in the country. 

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. 

Travel Planner Printables by JetSettingFools.com

 

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 KorculaSplit, 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 crushed with crowds like Dubrovnik.

The Zadar Old Town might be small, but it’s easy to navigate and packed with sights – from Roman ruins to historic churches to a modern seaside promenade complete with new age art. 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!

Find all of our tips and advice for Croatia destinations on our Croatia Travel Guides Page!

 

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 to stay in 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.

You can start your search for Airbnb Zadar Old Town Apartments for your stay, but for shorter stays, you might also want to consider staying in one of the hotels in Zadar. 

 

Zadar Hotels

There are many Zadar hotels to choose from in – or close to – the center. We are showcasing a few of the top-rated hotels (based on guest reviews) for your upcoming trip.

We like to use Booking.com to find the best hotels, but we recommend using our Tips for Cheaper Hotels 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 rates and availability for your stay!

 

Hotel Niko 

Hotel 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, Hotel Niko offers free loungers and umbrellas on the beach for guests – plus there is an on-site restaurant. Check rates!

 

Bastion Heritage Hotel

A 4-star hotel in Zadar Old Town, Bastion Heritage Hotel is a luxury hotel offering modern conveniences. The hotel excels at service and provides fine dining and an on-site spa. Check availability!

 

Hostels in Zadar

Budget travelers looking for more affordable accommodations will find a few less expensive hostels in town. Two of the highly rated Zadar hostels are Boutique Hostel Forum and The Hostel.

 

Getting to Zadar, Croatia

Zadar can be reached by plane, boat, bus or car.

Flights to the Zadar Airport are seasonal with flights typically coming from Frankfurt, Amsterdam, London or Dublin. Start with our tips for how to get the best prices on flights – and SkyScanner is our favorite search engine. 

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 bus station is not very convenient to the Old Town (map), but within reasonable walking distance. Although not 100% reliable, bus schedules can be searched on Bus Croatia. We recommend checking the bus schedule 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 the Zadar Old Town is somewhat limited.  

It’s best to get around Zadar on your own two feet; start by using our above outlined free Zadar Walking Tour!

 

What To Pack for your Zadar Trip

We have a few last travel tips and packing hacks for your Croatia vacation! You can find all of our travel packing advice on our Packing Tips page – and you can grab your Free Printable Packing Checklist here!

 

Walking Shoes for our Zadar Walking Tour

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 his Merrell shoes for everyday exploration.

 

Travel Camera for Croatia Photography 

We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your Croatia trip. Rather than relying on your mobile phone to capture the Zadar sights, upgrade to an actual camera for higher quality photos.

We use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens and think it takes phenomenal pictures! Plus, it’s a fabulous budget camera for travel

 

WiFi Connection in Croatia

Whether you are using our online Zadar Walking Tour or checking reviews on Zadar restaurants, you will need a WiFi connection. 

We use GlocalMe as our mobile WiFi hotspot– and love it! GlocalMe allows us to connect up to 10 devices at a time (making it ideal for families or groups of friends traveling together). Data can be purchased online (meaning no need for a sim card!) and it doubles as a portable charger. 

 

Day Pack for your Vacation to Croatia

Whether your travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll want to be sure to have a great day bag for organizing all your everyday travel 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 travel insurance 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 planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and 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!

 

Self Guided Croatia Walking Tours

Our Walking Tour of Zadar is just one of many we have created for Croatia!

 

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Zadar self-guided walking tour Croatia JetSetting Fools

28 thoughts on “DIY Zadar Walking Tour + Things To Do

  1. Amy

    We used this on our one day in port last week. Thank you so much for the helpful guide! We especially loved the St. Laurence’s Church within the cafe!

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  4. Katie

    What a great post! Didn’t find it til after I’d visited but was glad to see we didn’t miss much out 🙂

  5. Kathleen

    This was something I used when visiting the city and found very helpful! I am starting up a travel blog and was going to recommend folks visit your site for this self guided Zadar Walking Tour:) Hope thats okay! Thanks so much!

    • Great to hear! Hope you enjoyed Zadar as much as we did 😉
      Thanks for linking to our tour. When your blog is up and running, let us and we’ll check it out.
      Cheers ~

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  7. Andrew Tattersall

    Hi. We are visiting Zadar soon while on a cruise. This walk looks perfect. Approx how long is it (miles/km’s) and how much time should we allow? Thanks.

    • Hi Andrew – How exciting to see Zadar as part of a cruise! Our walking tour of Zadar is about and 3km takes about 45 minutes at a leisurely pace – add another 15 minutes if you are going to take the steps to the top of the church bell tower. Since you will be arriving via ship, you would obviously start at the other end of the peninsula from where our walking tour starts and, if you finish earlier than expected, there are cafes in the Forum that are nice. Have a great time in Zadar!

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  9. Simon Dickinson

    A great walk ! We’ve done it today ! And managed to take in the market.
    Had a nice lunch on Stormica at Bistro Pjat and sat for a while next to five Wells square. The most relaxed we’ve been for a long time.
    No phones or tablets with us….just a printout of your route.
    Thank you so much…..three more days of the area to enjoy. Ugljan tomorrow and Nin and Pag the day after.

    Regards

    Simon

    • Hi Simon – Glad you enjoyed the walk! Fantastic that you were able to make it to the market and relax. We loved our laid back days in Zadar. Hope you enjoy the rest of your stay! 🙂

  10. Kathy Cvitanovich

    Beautiful guided tour and spot on! My in laws are from Zagreb and Veli Iz, Croatia so we’ve been fortunate to visit there many times. Ahhh, the food, coffee, and my favorite; Burek, which is cheese or meat pastry. I agree, capturing Zadar’s open market and their fish market (which sadly doesn’t have size limits) would have been nice to see. Also, Zagreb is amazing!
    I just posted photos of Veli Iz, Croatia yesterday (Kathysews) on Instagram. I’m private but I think you follow me. Love your adventures. Safe travels!

    • Thanks Kathy! You are right about the burek – it’s one of our all-time favorites around the world. We very much enjoyed Zadar and hope to go back someday – hopefully when the market is active! We have also spent time in Zagreb and fell in love with it, too! We have not been to Veli Iz – only sailed past it, but it looks lovely. So much to love about Croatia 🙂

  11. cromercanary

    I know every town and city in Croatia has one, but you made no mention of the vibrant fruit / fish / cheese market positioned just inside the sea gate. Paški sir cheese, from nearby Pag island, is available in a bewildering array of styles, colours and ages!
    But a tremendous guide, well thought out, varied and really interesting. Makes me want to head back there! 🙂

    • Thank you! We saw the stalls for the market, but our timing never allowed us to visit it in full swing as you described it. We will definitely check it out next time through!

  12. Very nice – we were in Zadar back in May and saw all the same sights over the course of 2 days. Pretty town and you captured it well with your photos.
    Frank (bbqboy)

  13. Anonymous

    What a wonderful tour! I sent it to my children who like to walk. They are certainly old enough and successful enough to get there! You should send it to the Croatian national tourist board.
    I read every post you send. And then knuckle down to RE. And the AZ Legislature. Not the same as Europe!!
    Sharon

    • Shivani

      A wonderful tour that got me around the entire peninsular and meant I saw everything there was to see, plus information about what it all was! Especially loved the church ruins in the cafe, a hidden find I wouldn’t have known about without this guide. Thank you so much for writing it.

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