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About Zadar - Culture, History & Character
Croatian is spoken. English is very common in tourist areas, and Italian and German are also spoken.
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A boat excursion to an impressive archipelago of more than 100 islands and islets, mostly uninhabited. A lunar landscape

One of the natural wonders of Europe. A system of 16 lakes interconnected by a series of spectacular waterfalls. A long

Similar to Plitvice but smaller and closer. Famous for its waterfalls where (in certain areas and times) bathing is allo

Connected by a bridge, it is famous for its lunar landscape, its award-winning sheep's cheese ('paški sir') and the beac

A long, quiet island with impressive cliffs, the Telašćica Nature Park and the beautiful Sakarun beach, with white sand
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Explora el fascinante pasado de Zadar y descubre cómo se ha desarrollado a lo largo de los siglos.
Zadar was an important settlement of the Illyrian tribe of the Liburnians. It became a prosperous Roman colony called 'Iader', and its urban layout, with the Forum as its centre, still defines the old town.
After the fall of Rome, it was the capital of the Byzantine province of Dalmatia. It later experienced a long and often tumultuous period under Venetian rule, which left a legacy of impressive fortifications and architecture. It was during this time that its walls, today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, were built.
After passing through Austrian and French hands, and a period as an Italian enclave, Zadar suffered massive devastation from Allied bombing during World War II. Rebuilt during the Yugoslav era, it also came under attack during the Croatian War of Independence in the 1990s. In recent decades, the city has undergone a remarkable renaissance, restoring its heritage and gaining international fame for its innovative art installations by architect Nikola Bašić.
La cronología histórica muestra los momentos clave que han definido el desarrollo de Zadar a lo largo de los siglos.
Discover what makes this city special with our comprehensive scoring system
A very safe city.
Perfect for walking. All tourist interest is concentrated on the old town peninsula.
The old town is pedestrian. Local buses connect to other areas and the airport.
Mid-range prices: plan lodging and meals carefully in tourist areas.
Lively and focused on bars in the old town and venues along the coast, with a more relaxed atmosphere than Split.
A unique culture where modern art interacts with ancient heritage.
Excellent Dalmatian cuisine with high quality products from its fertile interior and the sea.
Good for local products and with main shopping streets.
Classic Dalmatian climate, ideal for a summer holiday.
Very cozy and easy to enjoy, with a more relaxed atmosphere than other Croatian cities.
Fantastic for families with its peaceful atmosphere, unique attractions and nearby beaches.
A safe and welcoming destination for all travelers, with a tolerant atmosphere.
The locals are friendly, relaxed and welcoming, embodying the Dalmatian lifestyle.
A privileged location, famous for its sunsets and for being the gateway to an archipelago and several national parks.
A fascinating collage of 3,000 years of history, from Roman ruins to contemporary installations.
A key center of Roman, Byzantine and Venetian Dalmatia, and a symbol of resilience in modern history.
Although the old town is made of stone, it is surrounded by parks and boardwalks.
The pedestrianized old town is very clean and well maintained.
Non-existent.
An excellent destination for nomads due to its low cost, its relaxed atmosphere and its access to nature.
Comprehensive assessment of this destination
An underrated gem of the Croatian coast. Zadar offers a perfect blend of ancient history, artistic innovation, a relaxed atmosphere and unrivaled access to natural beauty. It is the ideal destination for those looking for a more authentic and less frenetic Dalmatian experience.
Discover the best times to visit Zadar and what to expect throughout the year.
Classic Dalmatian climate, ideal for a summer holiday.
Ideal climate, perfect for exploring and with nature in bloom.
Hot and sunny, ideal for enjoying the sea and the nearby national parks.
Very pleasant temperatures and less crowds. The sea is still warm.
Mild but often rainy and with the strong 'Bura' wind. Very quiet.
Lots of sun and warm summers.
Spectacular sunsets.
The Bura wind can be intense in winter.
Zadar is famous for the 'Bura', a cold and gusty wind that blows in winter.
The swimming season runs from May to early October.
Plan your expenses and discover the best shopping areas
Daily spending per person
Very affordable. It is noticeably cheaper than Split and Dubrovnik, offering excellent value for money in all respects.
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Best Areas
1 area • Recommended Areas
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1 area • Recommended Areas
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1 area • Recommended Areas
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Explore the most fascinating places this city has to offer
A unique artistic and architectural installation in the world. A system of tubes and whistles built under the steps of the boardwalk that produce melancholic music with the movement of the waves.
Next to the Sea Organ, it is a large 22-meter circle of glass panels that absorb solar energy during the day and release it at night in a spectacular play of colored lights.
The ruins of what was the center of the social and religious life of Roman Zadar. The remains are integrated into an open square, next to the Church of San Donato.
The symbol of Zadar. A monumental circular church from the 9th century, one of the best examples of pre-Romanesque (Carolingian) architecture in Croatia.
The largest cathedral in Dalmatia, a beautiful Romanesque style basilica. You can climb its bell tower to get the best views of the old town and the Forum.
The impressive system of fortifications built by the Venetians to defend themselves from the Ottoman Empire. The Terraferma Gate is its most monumental entrance.
A picturesque square built on an old drinking water cistern, with five ornate wells from the 16th century.
Housed in a 19th-century palace, it houses one of the finest collections of Roman glass outside of Italy. Includes glass blowing demonstrations.
Zadar Art Gallery is one of the most iconic places in Zadar, known for its rich history and architecture.
Zadar Main Theater is one of the most iconic places in Zadar, known for its rich history and architecture.
Zadar Botanical Garden is one of the most iconic places in Zadar, known for its rich history and architecture.
Zadar Castle is one of the most iconic places in Zadar, known for its rich history and architecture.
Zadar University is one of the most iconic places in Zadar, known for its rich history and architecture.
Zadar Library is one of the most iconic places in Zadar, known for its rich history and architecture.
Zadar Town Hall is one of the most iconic places in Zadar, known for its rich history and architecture.
Haz clic en "Tours" para encontrar las mejores actividades y entradas, o usa "Planificar" para crear tu itinerario personalizado.
Discover fascinating destinations near Zadar perfect for day getaways
A boat excursion to an impressive archipelago of more than 100 islands and islets, mostly uninhabited. A lunar landscape of rocks, cliffs and crystal clear waters.
Nature, sea, Landscapes, swimming, nautical
One of the natural wonders of Europe. A system of 16 lakes interconnected by a series of spectacular waterfalls. A long but absolutely unforgettable day trip.
Nature, waterfalls, Hiking, Photography
Similar to Plitvice but smaller and closer. Famous for its waterfalls where (in certain areas and times) bathing is allowed.
Nature, waterfalls, swimming
Connected by a bridge, it is famous for its lunar landscape, its award-winning sheep's cheese ('paški sir') and the beach of Zrće, Croatia's party capital.
Gastronomy, cheese, party, Landscapes
A long, quiet island with impressive cliffs, the Telašćica Nature Park and the beautiful Sakarun beach, with white sand and Caribbean waters.
Beaches, Nature, tranquility
Haz clic en "Tours" para encontrar excursiones organizadas, o usa "Plan" para crear tu itinerario personalizado.
Discover the unique character and charm of each city district.
The old town, where all the historical, cultural and social action is concentrated.
The neighborhood south of the old town, with the city's main beach and a residential area.
The tourist area north of the center, with hotels, beaches and marinas.
Discover the most important events and festivals celebrated throughout the year
A huge party on the promenade celebrating the culture and traditions of the Zadar region, with boats converted into food stalls, music and traditional costumes.
Essential advice and local insights to make your trip memorable and safe
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Fotos reales compartidas por la comunidad de viajeros que han estado en Zadar.