6 Reasons why you should visit Zadar Croatia

21.07.2023 - 07:27 / roughguides.com / emperor Augustus / Alfred Hitchcock

Why visit Zadar Croatia? It’s one of the coolest places on the Adriatic. In Croatian terms, it’s improbably crowd-free. The city sunsets are memorably beautiful. And its mix of cliffs, coves and ancient Roman streets are worlds apart from Split or Dubrovnik’s cruise ship crowds. The information in this article is taken from The Rough Guide to Croatia, your essential guide for visiting Croatia.

The shape of Zadar is defined by the Velebit mountains, Croatia’s longest and largest range. They lie to the east of the city and attract climbers, 4x4s and hikers to explore limestone canyons and discover wild, little-known trails.

Look forward to uncrowded Adriatic beaches here. And even the islands are unusual. Visit the pine-covered strip of Ugljan to see tuna farms. Or head to Sakarun where Croatia meets white sand Caribbean beaches.

Zadar’s also the start of micro-adventures in Croatia’s national parks. Don’t miss Plitvice Lakes for its crystal clear lagoons. Here are six more reasons why you should visit Zadar Croatia and its surrounding northern Dalmatia region.

If you prefer a tailor made trip, check our itineraries or connect with a local travel expert to plan and book your ideal holiday.

Where to stay in Zadar? The captivating historic centre© xbrchx/Shutterstock

Zadar’s story begins off Kalelarga, at the ancient Roman Forum in the Old Town. The 2000 year old brainchild of Roman Emperor Augustus, this has always been the city’s main meeting place. Today coffee-obsessed Croats converge in cafes under the bell tower of St. Anastasia's Cathedral. And families sit on the steps of 9th century St. Donatus Church.

In summer St. Donatus hosts classical concerts as its domed ceiling acts as a natural amplifier.

Head to the waterfront to see ruins from the 6th century earthquake which dismantled the city. You’ll find Roman columns, colonnades, pediments and sarcophagi laid out on a lawn, like an impossible jigsaw puzzle.

Almost all Croatia’s glassblowers have gone out of business. But the Museum of Ancient Glass in Zadar is home to the very last one.

Visit to explore the collection of historic artefacts. Then climb to the second floor and watch glassblower Marko Štefanac at work in front of a furnace primed to over 1,300°C. Gawp as he transforms white hot glass into vases, jugs and souvenirs. Brave souls can try glass blowing themselves. But be aware the end results may not look like Marko’s.

Alfred Hitchcock knew a thing or two about creating suspense. And the same can be said of Zadar. Particularly at dusk, when the sun drops below the horizon and skies blaze pink, red and orange.

Hitchcock holidayed in Zadar in 1964. He stayed in the building which now houses chic holiday apartment Bristol Lux 3BR. And he