TOP things to do in Zadar Old Town

Charter clients are usually required to check out by 9:30 am. If their return flight from Zadar airport is scheduled for the evening or late afternoon, they often wonder how to spend the rest of the day. Some prefer to stay on a beach near the charter base, while others have lunch in a restaurant. Some even choose to take a stroll around the city of Zadar.

Regardless of the yacht charter base, one of the most common questions is whether Zadar is worth visiting, mainly when clients arrive or depart from Zadar Airport. If you answer yes, the following questions arise: What are the top things to see and do in Zadar? Where to store luggage in Zadar?

Let us give you the appropriate answers to help you better organise your last vacation day in Croatia.

So, is Zadar worth visiting?

Absolutely, Zadar is definitely worth visiting! This charming city on Croatia's Dalmatian Coast offers a unique blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty.

The city has a long and eventful history dating back to the 4th century BC when the Liburnians founded it. Discover the rich history of this location, which owes its significance to its strategic positioning across the Adriatic from Venice. Romans settled the city in the first century, later becoming the capital of the Byzantine state of Dalmatia in the 7th century. In 1202, the Republic of Venice took over the city. The narrow streets that weave through the city's small peninsula are steeped in history. Visitors can explore ancient city walls, a Roman forum, numerous churches, and the oldest university in Croatia.

Regardless of the amount of time you have available, there are countless possibilities for enriching experiences. Whether you can only spare a few hours or have an entire afternoon, you will find many exciting sights and activities to discover and enjoy. So, seize the moment and make the most of your available time exploring all that awaits you.

Where to store luggage in Zadar?

Travelling should be an exciting adventure, and exploring the enchanting city centre of Zadar, Croatia, is no exception. To enhance your experience, finding a hassle-free solution for your luggage is crucial. Fortunately, Zadar offers convenient luggage storage options in the city centre, allowing you to roam freely without the burden of bags. Various options are available from the Zadar bus terminal, as well as new online luggage booking services. However, from our experience, the optimal solution for clients is located in the old city centre, right behind one of the entrances called Sea Gate (Morska vrata) into the old town, just behind the arch on the right:

(please see the map location below for further details):

Zadar bus terminal is more distant from the city centre, and the other one is advertised as city centre luggage storage. However, you still have around a 1,5 km walk to the main sightings, like the sea organ, which takes away the limited time you want to spare for your visit to Zadar. Next to the luggage storage is the central taxi station and the bus stop for the bus that goes directly to Zadar airport. However, the bus price is around 5-6 euros per person, and the taxis usually charge around 30-35 euros from the city centre to Zadar airport, which is way more comfortable with your sailing luggage. Whatever you decide, you can choose from several options.

What are the TOP things to do in Zadar Old Town?

1. The Sea Organ:

Start your Zadar adventure by experiencing its unique attraction – The Sea Organ. The Sea Organ uses the motion of the waves and changing tides and currents to create beautiful, random melodies, providing a truly immersive experience. The Sea Organ, designed by Croatian architect Nikola Bašić, was unveiled in 2005. This groundbreaking installation is a testament to the city's commitment to blending contemporary art with its rich cultural and maritime heritage.

It is situated on the western end of Zadar's Riva promenade; the Sea Organ is ingeniously integrated into the city's waterfront. As visitors stroll along the coastline, they encounter a series of large marble steps that conceal pipes and resonating chambers beneath the surface.

The magic of the Sea Organ lies in its interaction with the sea. The stairs function as a series of underwater pipes and chambers. As waves gently lap against the steps, the movement forces air through the pipes, creating a hauntingly beautiful sound. The resulting melody is ever-changing, influenced by the sea's mood and intensity.

Experiencing the Sea Organ is free and accessible to all. Visitors often find solace in sitting on the steps, letting the soundscape wash over them. The Sea Organ offers a profound connection to the elements, whether at sunrise, sunset or under the starry night sky.

2. Stroll through the Old Town

Zadar's Old Town is a treasure trove of historical and cultural wonders. Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets and discover landmarks like the Roman Forum, St. Donatus Church, and the Cathedral of St. Anastasia. The architecture reflects various influences, from Roman and Byzantine to Venetian and Croatian. Visit the Five Wells Square - a charming square with a unique history; the Five Wells Square is surrounded by wells built to provide the city with a reliable water supply during times of siege. Today, it serves as a peaceful spot for relaxation and a great starting point for exploring the surrounding historic sites.

3. Explore the Zadar City Walls and admire the Land Gate and City Gates

Stroll along the Zadar City Walls for panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. Built-in the 16th century to protect against Ottoman invasions, the walls offer a fascinating glimpse into Zadar's history while providing a great vantage point for photos. Zadar's Land Gate is a beautifully preserved structure that served as the main entrance to the city in medieval times. The gates are adorned with intricate carvings and offer a glimpse into the city's fortification history. Explore the nearby City Gates and Fosa, a picturesque harbour surrounded by historic ramparts.

4. Sample Local Croatian Cuisine

Zadar is a city that offers a rich culinary experience to its visitors. To fully appreciate the local cuisine, you should try the traditional Dalmatian dishes unique to this region. Seafood enthusiasts will be delighted with the fresh catches that are prepared in various ways, from grilled or fried to baked or roasted. The flavours are enhanced by local herbs and spices, making each dish delicious. When in Zadar, you must try local specialities like Pasticada, a slow-cooked beef stew marinated in red wine and served with homemade gnocchi or mashed potatoes. Another must-try is Pag cheese, a hard, aged cheese made from the milk of sheep that graze on the island of Pag. The cheese has a distinctive salty and tangy flavour, making it a perfect accompaniment to local wines. To fully experience the city's culinary scene, you should head to the old town of Zadar, where you will find many restaurants serving authentic Dalmatian cuisine.

5. Greeting the Sun & Zadar Sunset spectacle

Another artistic marvel adjacent to the Sea Organ is the Greeting to the Sun installation. The Greeting the Sun is a large solar-powered installation on the waterfront that lights up the night sky with a mesmerising display.

Zadar Sunset at the Monument to the Sun is one of the most beautiful in the world.
Enjoy a romantic evening; it's a perfect place to capture breathtaking photos and unwind as the day ends. The Sea Organ and Greeting the Sun contribute to Zadar's reputation as a city that seamlessly integrates modern art with its natural surroundings.

Alfred Hitchcock once said about Zadar's sunset:

"The sunset of Zadar is the world's most beautiful and incomparably better than in Key West, Florida."