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Looking for the best things to do in Zadar? You’ve come to the right place!
We’ve spent time exploring this coastal gem, and it quickly became one of our favorite spots in Croatia. With its mix of ancient history, stunning waterfront views, and unique attractions (where else can you hear the sea play music?), Zadar has a little bit of everything. Whether you’re into island hopping, discovering Roman ruins, or just indulging in incredible food, this city delivers.
To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve rounded up the top activities in Zadar—based on real experiences. So, let’s dive in and discover the best ways to experience this vibrant and historic destination!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE activity is this full-day tour to Krka National Park! We loved seeing Croatia’s stunning outdoors – including the iconic waterfall. We also visited the charming town of Skradin to cap it off!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Zadar, Croatia
- 1. Learn about Zadar’s historic sights on a walking tour
- 2. See the best of Zadar: Krka Waterfalls, Old Town, and food and wine tasting
- 3. Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park
- 4. Go island hopping on a speedboat
- 5. See more of Zadar on a Tuk Tuk tour
- 6. Go on a kayak adventure to Dugi Otok Island
- 7. Taste your way around Zadar
- 8. Spend a day exploring Kornati National Park by boat
- Where to Stay in Zadar, Croatia
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Europe
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Zadar, Croatia
1. Learn about Zadar’s historic sights on a walking tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 8:30 am, 11 am, 4 pm, and 6:30 pm
- Highlights: Learn about Zadar and Croatia’s history, see ancient Roman ruins and the city’s top attractions, including its ancient Roman architecture, the Greeting to the Sun, the Sea Organ, and the Land Gate
- Inclusions: Guide, pick up and drop off (if option selected), small group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 140+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Sightseeing might sound like a simple way to explore a city, but this walking tour felt like stepping straight into Zadar’s past. With our guide, Dorja, leading the way, we wandered through Roman ruins, medieval churches, and even modern art installations—all while uncovering stories that brought the city to life.
We kicked things off at the Greeting to the Sun, where the solar-powered display lit up beneath our feet. As the colors shifted and pulsed under us, it felt like we were standing on a portal to another world—Zadar’s way of blending the past with the future.
From there, we strolled over to the Sea Organ, listening to the waves “play” music through the underground pipes. The mix of nature and design was eerie and mesmerizing.
Walking through the remains of Zadar’s Roman Forum and standing beneath the grand Land Gate, we could almost picture the city as it was centuries ago. History felt alive here, like we had stepped right into it.
And just when we thought we were only getting a crash course in history, Dorja surprised us with a quick Maraschino tasting. Turns out Zadar has a knack for making cherry liqueur, too!
This small-group tour made it easy to ask questions, move at a comfortable pace, and actually take in the city rather than just rushing through it. If you want to see Zadar’s highlights while getting a real sense of its past, this is how to do it!
Reserve this walking tour here and get flexible payment options!
2. See the best of Zadar: Krka Waterfalls, Old Town, and food and wine tasting
- Duration: 8 hours
- Time: 7:30
- Highlights: Day tour exploring Krka National Park, a local winery, and Skradin, enjoy free time for independent exploring
- Inclusions: Tour guide, air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board, free time and swimming in Skradin, Sladic Winery entry, four different wines, olive oil and cheese, Zadar Old Town Walking Tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Krka National Park had been on our radar for a while, and this guided tour made getting there completely hassle-free!
The whole trip ran smoothly, thanks to our guide, Paula, who kept things moving while sharing plenty of local insight. With transport covered and an itinerary full of waterfalls, wine, and a scenic stop in Skradin, it balanced adventure with just the right amount of relaxation.
The main event was Krka National Park, where the waterfalls looked like something out of a postcard—cascading over rocky terraces into pools of emerald-green water. With free time to explore, we wandered along the wooden walkways, taking in the views from every angle.
Some took a dip to cool off, but we were happy just soaking in the scenery. Entry tickets aren’t included and range from €10–30, depending on the season.
Next up was Sladić Winery, where we sampled four types of local wine along with olive oil and cheese. The tasting was a nice change of pace after hiking around the waterfalls and the wine? Let’s just say we left wishing we had more room in our luggage!
We ended the day in Skradin, a laid-back town that felt like the perfect spot to unwind.
Exploring one of Croatia’s most stunning national parks was effortless, with waterfalls, wine, and free time in Skradin making it unforgettable. No wonder this tour is so highly rated—check out the reviews here to see why it’s a must-do!
This tour is likely to sell out – book your spot here and get FREE cancellation options!
3. Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park
- Duration: 10 hours
- Time: 7:30 am and 12:20 pm
- Highlights: Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, explore upper and lower waterfalls, enjoy a scenic boat ride and train ride, capture stunning lake views, opt for a guided Old Town walking tour in Zadar
- Inclusions: Tour guide, air-conditioned vehicle, panoramic boat ride, electric train ride, Zadar Old Town walking tour (available to join on any day at 6:00 pm)
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Spending the day at Plitvice Lakes felt like stepping into a postcard, with cascading waterfalls, turquoise waters, and lush greenery in every direction. The best part? This guided tour from Zadar made the whole experience easy, so all we had to do was sit back and enjoy it.
The day started with a scenic drive through the Croatian countryside, with our guide, Jelena, sharing fun facts and stories about the region—her knowledge and enthusiasm turned the ride into an adventure of its own.
Once we arrived, we had four hours to explore the upper and lower waterfalls, following wooden pathways that wound through the park. Every turn revealed another unreal view, from hidden caves and trickling streams to wide-open lakes reflecting the sky.
Just when our legs needed a break, we hopped on a relaxing train ride followed by a peaceful boat trip across the lake. Drifting past waterfalls and scenic shores was the perfect chance to appreciate the park from a whole new perspective.
Back in Zadar, the experience wasn’t over yet—this tour included an optional Old Town walking tour, which was a great way to learn more about the city while wandering through its charming streets, ancient ruins, and lively squares. It was the ideal way to wind down after an adventure-filled day!
If you’re in Zadar, this day trip is a no-brainer. So, lace up your walking shoes and get ready for one of the best nature escapes in Croatia!
Book this guided tour here and get flexible cancellation and payment options!
4. Go island hopping on a speedboat
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 9:30 am, 10 am, 1:30 pm, 2 pm (dates vary)
- Highlights: Small group island-hopping speedboat tour, swim and snorkel in Blue Bay Otrić, explore Ošljak with optional hike, free time in Preko, relax on the boat with music, drinks, and shade
- Inclusions: Skipper/knowledgable guide, snorkel and mask, unlimited water and iced tea, three beers per person, fuel, flexible itinerary
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 350+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Island-hopping around Zadar was one of the best ways to experience Croatia’s coastline, and this small-group speedboat tour made it even better. With swimming, snorkeling, and plenty of free time to explore, it offered just the right mix of adventure and relaxation.
We set off from Zadar, and after a quick ride across the Adriatic, we anchored in the crystal-clear waters of Blue Bay Otrić. Some of us swam and snorkeled among the fish, while others stayed on board, soaking up the sun with a cold drink. Of course, we couldn’t resist jumping in—the water was way too inviting!
Next, we stopped at Ošljak, Croatia’s smallest inhabited island, where we could hike to the top for an incredible view. The short but steep climb led through a peaceful forest of ancient olive trees, and the summit rewarded us with a stunning panorama of the Adriatic and nearby islands.
The final stop in Preko had lots of options—lounging on the beach, swimming to Galevac islet, or wandering through town. We couldn’t resist a coffee stop by the water, sipping espresso as we soaked up the easygoing island vibe. It was the perfect way to wind down before hopping back on the boat.
This trip is a great choice whether you’re exploring solo, with friends, or family. Just keep in mind that docking fees and children’s tickets are charged separately. If you’re looking for a fun, stress-free way to experience Zadar’s islands, this boat tour is well worth it!
Check out the 300+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
5. See more of Zadar on a Tuk Tuk tour
- Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 8 am – 7:30 pm
- Highlights: Private tuk-tuk adventure in Zadar, visit top city sights, including the Sea Organ and St Donatus Church, and lesser-known sights that bus tours can’t easily reach
- Inclusions: Private transportation, driver that guides you through all location
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Cruising through Zadar in an eco-friendly tuk-tuk was the ultimate way to cover a lot of ground without missing the city’s charm. This private tour was all about experiencing the city from a fresh perspective, stopping at iconic landmarks and hidden local spots that buses and cars just can’t reach.
What really made the tour special was our driver, Roko. His knowledge and enthusiasm brought Zadar’s history to life, from fascinating stories about the Roman Forum to local legends surrounding the mysterious Zadar Sphinx. He knew all the best viewpoints and hidden gems, making sure every stop was more than just a quick photo op.
We started with a scenic ride along Kolovare Beach, passing the historic Land City Gates before heading into the heart of the Old Town. Riding through the city like this felt effortless, and we loved being able to take in the views without rushing from place to place.
One of our favorite stops was the Sea Organ, where we listened to the waves create their own hauntingly beautiful music. Right next to it, the Greeting to the Sun lit up as the sky turned orange—a sunset so spectacular that even Alfred Hitchcock once called it the best in the world.
This private tuk-tuk tour was the ideal mix of sightseeing, history, and off-the-beaten-path exploration. Spots can fill up fast, so be sure to book early—Roko’s tours are popular for a reason, and you won’t want to miss out on this unforgettable way to discover Zadar!
Check availability here and secure this popular tuk-tuk tour!
6. Go on a kayak adventure to Dugi Otok Island
- Duration: 10 – 11 hours
- Time: 8 am, 8:15 am, 9 am, and 10 am
- Highlights: Full-day kayaking tour from Zadar to the Croatian island of Dugi Otok, discover secluded bays and dramatic coastal scenery, snorkel by a shipwreck, bask on Sakarun Beach
- Inclusions: Local ACA-certified guide, full sea kayaking gear, dry bag for personal belongings, insurance, round-trip transfers from the Zadar port
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Kayaking around Dugi Otok was the kind of adventure that pulled us into the moment completely. With crystal-clear waters, hidden caves, and dramatic cliffs, this private kayaking tour felt like uncovering a secret side of Croatia far from the usual crowds.
We started with a ferry ride from Zadar to the island (€4–6, so bring cash), where we met our guide, Ivan. Friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready with great tips, he kept us engaged and made sure we got the most out of the entire trip.
Our first stop was Brbinjscica Bay, a rugged coastline with towering cliffs, a hidden sea cave, and a natural pool called the “Dragon Eye”—named for its deep, circular shape that almost looks like a mythical creature watching from below. We paddled through calm waters, snorkeled in the cave, and couldn’t resist the thrill of cliff jumping!
After a lunch break near the Veli Rat lighthouse at our own expense, we kayaked to the shipwreck of “Michele”, where we docked and jumped in to snorkel around the eerie remains.
Finally, we wrapped up at Sakarun Beach, a stunning white-sand stretch where we learned a local game called Picigin. Keeping the ball in the air while splashing in shallow water was way harder than it looked but so much fun!
Paddling through secluded bays and snorkeling over a shipwreck was an unforgettable way to experience Croatia’s coastline. With epic scenery and crystal-clear waters packed with adventure, this tour is a must-do in Zadar!
Reserve this tour now and pay later when you book in advance here!
7. Taste your way around Zadar
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10:30 am
- Highlights: Small-group guided food tour in Zadar, visit a mix of food stops, including a local market, enjoy tastings at five locations
- Inclusions: Certified local guide, green market visit, five traditional Croatian food tastings, glass of wine, beer or juice, water
- Rating: 5 stars (check 90+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Eating our way through Zadar was one of the best experiences of our trip! This small-group food tour wasn’t just about tasting incredible local dishes—it was about discovering the culture, history, and traditions behind them. From bustling markets to cozy restaurants, every stop revealed a new layer of Croatian cuisine.
Our guide, Andrea, was fantastic! She took us to a mix of local shops, open-air market stalls, and restaurants, giving us a well-rounded taste of Zadar’s food scene.
We kicked things off with Soparnik, a flaky, garlicky pie from the Zadar hinterland that instantly won us over. From there, we wandered through the city market, where the scent of ripe fruit filled the air as we stopped for bites along the way.
At our favorite stop, we sampled different olive oils while learning how deeply olives are woven into Dalmatian life. Tasting the rich, peppery flavors, we finally understood why locals are so passionate about their olive trees!
No Croatian food tour is complete without prosciutto and wine, and this one didn’t disappoint. We savored locally cured prosciutto, followed by a glass of wine featured on the menus of some of the world’s finest restaurants. Finally, we ended on a sweet note at a pastry shop, indulging in delicious local cakes.
From market stalls to restaurants, every stop offered a new flavor and story, making this tour a must for food lovers. Don’t just take our word for it—read the 5-star reviews here and see why this experience stands out!
Book this popular food tour here and eat your way through Zadar!
8. Spend a day exploring Kornati National Park by boat
- Duration: 10 hours
- Time: 8 am or 8:30 am
- Highlights: Explore Kornati National Park on a small-group boat trip from Zadar, visit off-the-radar bays and sites, snorkel, hike on shore, see hidden cliffs, savor a taverna lunch
- Inclusions: Stops at Lavdara island, Mrtovac, Tarac Bay, Suha Punta, and Island of Pinizelić, breakfast sandwiches, local tavern lunch, snacks, soda/pop, aperitive and wine, bottled water, all fees, restroom on board
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 170+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Sailing through the Kornati Islands felt like stepping into a world of rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and hidden coves waiting to be explored. This small-group boat tour was an incredible way to experience the national park without crowds, stopping at off-the-radar spots bigger tour boats miss.
Captain Davor was the best guide—friendly, full of humor, and an expert on these waters. He knew every hidden cove and the best spots to swim, snorkel, and soak in the stunning scenery.
Our first stop was Lavdara Island, where we jumped straight from the boat into crystal-clear water. Later, we cruised past Mrtovac Island, where towering cliffs rose dramatically from the sea. Sitting back, we couldn’t believe places this beautiful actually existed!
Around midday, we pulled into Suha Punta for a break at a traditional Dalmatian taverna, where we devoured grilled fish, so tender and flavorful that not a single crumb was left! After refueling, we made one last stop at tiny Pinizelić Island, floating in the turquoise water, before heading back to Zadar.
If you’re lucky enough to visit in the pre or post-season, you’ll get to hike near Tarac Bay and explore the 17th-century Lady of Tarac Church and the ancient Tureta Fort. From the top, the landscape unfolds in every direction, with endless Adriatic horizons!
Overall, this was a fantastic way to explore the Kornati Islands—relaxing, adventurous, and unforgettable. For anyone wanting to experience the best of Zadar’s coastline without the crowds, this small-group tour is the way to go!
Book this tour here to access FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
Where to Stay in Zadar, Croatia
Now that you have a full itinerary of Zadar’s top activities, you need somewhere comfortable to stay! We personally loved staying in the Old Town as it puts you close to the best things to do and the area is super charming. Here are three excellent hotel options for those with a range of budgets:
Luxury – $$$
Bastion Heritage Hotel – Relais & Châteaux is my top pick for a luxury stay! This hotel is in Old Town Zadar, close to the water and the top restaurants in the city. They offer standard hotel rooms or suites, all individually decorated in a gorgeous Art Deco design. You can relax at the spa and wellness center, too!
Rooms are available for around €250 per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Situated in the heart of Zadar’s Old Town, Central Apartments Integrated Hotel is a great moderate-budget hotel! They offer apartment-style rooms equipped with a kitchen and seating area. You can choose between studio or one-bedroom apartments, and each has its own unique style and charm.
Rooms start as low as €150 per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Accomodation Gina is a budget-friendly option that has a very homey vibe. It’s located in the Old Town, just a 10-minute walk from the beach. They offer apartments equipped with a kitchen and lounge area or standard rooms if you’re looking for something smaller.
Prices start at around €90 per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
For more options, see all of the hotels in Zadar here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
We loved our time in Zadar! It was such a unique place to visit that blended history, incredible scenery, and a memorable food scene. I’d recommend it to any traveler who is looking to get off the beaten path – this place is a gem!
Before you go, check out our other Europe blogs. We’ve traveled all over and have put together guides to help you plan your next adventure. Here are a few related posts that you might like!
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