Zadar
Croatia
Backpacking Zadar
Information on Zadar, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
Zadar is built on a peninsula 4 km long by 500m wide, and is very walk-able. The Old City is the main attraction for Zadar and is where the tourists flock, however a good share of locals still live there. In the summer the narrow streets can be overwhelmed and crowded, but in the low season it's a perfect mix of quiet and lively. While something of a labyrinth, the Old City is easily walk-able and quite fun to explore, and there are a few gems hidden among the narrow cobblestone streets. The center is usually alive with its many cafes, restaurants and shops in a beautiful old setting at the city center. It is pleasant to explore on foot and get lost in the alleys of white cobblestones, giving it a real historical character. You can also visit the medieval churches and Roman and Venetian fortifications.
Must See
Old Town - There is a lot of history to soak up in Zadar. The ruins of the Roman Forum date back to the 3rd century and there are dozens of other sites (mostly churches) that span the last 1000 years including the University of Zadar that dates back to 1396. St. Donats is the most famous church here.
Sea Organ - The sea organ is located at the far tip of the Old City, along the coastal boardwalk. As the wind and waves roll in, a random but harmonic tune is created. It is very serene & mesmerizing which explains why so many people just like to sit on the stairs beside the organ and relax.
Must Do
Plitvice Lakes National Parks - Croatia’s most popular tourist attraction, was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1979. Located 1.5 hours from Zadar, the lakes are a definite must-see in Croatia. The beauty of the National Park lies in its sixteen lakes, inter-connected by a series of waterfalls, and set in deep woodland. The National Park covers a total area of 300 square kilometres, whilst the lakes join together over a distance of eight kilometres.
The Beaches - Zadar has beaches available for swimming and sub bathing nearly the entire length of the coast line. Hanging out along the beaches, drinking in cafes and pubs is probably what you will spend most of your time doing.
Nightlife
During summer, nightlife in Zadar takes place outside, on the terraces of the bars and clubs in the Old town. The music scene is mostly traditional Croatian or commercial and mainstream music. For those looking for crazy parties until in the early morning hours, we recommend a visit to the clubbing beach Zrće in Novalja on Pag Island.
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