Zadar

Background to Zadar: The historic city of Zadar is best known for its cultural sights and as a great base for day trips. The Old Town, located on a peninsula, protects one of the largest natural Adriatic harbours. It also boasts a combination of Roman ruins, medieval churches and excellent museums, making Zadar one of Croatia’s most culturally attractive centres. Zadar isn't usually overrun with tourists even at the height of summer despite having two unique attractions: the sound-and-light spectacle of the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation, which need to be seen and heard to be believed.

Explore the Old Town: Some of Zadar’s greatest draws include the the attractive Romanesque churches: the Cathedral of St. Anastasia from the 13th century and Church of St. Chrysogonus, as well as the church tower of St. Mary both dating back from 12th century. The town is fortified with medieval walls, distinguished by their pretty and impressive ports - entrances to the city - all of which date back to the sixteenth century.

Hit the beach: In recent times Zadar has undergone a major transformation and tourists are starting to take note. You’ll now find the beaches have blue flag status. Borik is the main beach in Zadar, ideal for families and conveniently located only 4 km from the Old Town with regular bus connections (lines 5 & 8). Kolovare beach on the east side of the city is another great beach with plenty of shade. You’ll find a selection of other fantastic beaches on the nearby islands.

Watch the most beautiful sunset in the world: Alfred Hitchcock famously declared in 1964 that “Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world, more beautiful than the one in Key West, in Florida, applauded at every evening”. Sit along the waterfront (Riva), next to their Sea Organ, which produces a range of enchanting tones, depending on the movement and power of the waves, for sunset views. They will forever be engrained in your memory of Zadar.

Plitvice Lakes National Park: This park offers magnificent scenic forested hills and gorgeous turquoise lakes, linked by a succession of waterfalls and cascades. It’s incredible picturesque and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are numberous walking trails of varying length and difficulty. The easiest method of arrival is by hire car (1 hr 30 mins), but you can also visit by bus (around 2 hours) or as part of an organised excursion.

Krka National Park: Covering 142 square metres this is an area of outstanding natural beauty. It’s famous for its magnificent waterfalls, including the famous Skradinski Buk, a collection of 17 waterfalls that range in height of 45 metres. Unlike Plitvice National Park you can swim here, making it an ideal way to cool off in the summer sun. If you haven’t hired a car, you can get to Krka N.P from Split by taking a direct bus (taking 1 hour) to Skradin, the town where you enter the park (entrance fee payable). Alternatively there are a wide range of organised excursions available. For more information on Krka, read our guide here.

Paklenica National Park: Located only 30 miles from Zadar the Paklenica N.P. is a karst river canyon which is great for hiking, with trails of varying lengths. On your visit you will be amazed by the many rock climbers scaling the walls of the canyon. Paklenica is very accessible by bus to Starigrad Paklenica (1hr), or by car (50 mins).

Sibenik: A maze of winding streets leading to pretty squares and the beautiful cathedral of Sveti Jakov (St James) are two reasons why Sibenik shouldn’t be overlooked as a day trip from Zadar. The cathedral was built in the 15th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering an elaborate mix of styles, including its dome that was inspired by Brunelleschi’s in Florence. It’s easy to get to Sibenik from Zadar with regular coaches departing throughout the day (duration is 1 hour 15 mins).