7 Best Things To Do in Zadar Old Town, Croatia
Introduction: Why Zadar Old Town Deserves Your Attention in 2025
In the increasingly saturated travel scene of Croatia, one city quietly stands apart: Zadar. So, whether you’re curious about the best things to do in Zadar old town or simply looking for a more authentic travel experience, this guide will show you why it should be at the top of your list.
Is Zadar Worth Visiting?
Located on the Dalmatian coast and often bypassed for tourist-heavy spots like Dubrovnik and Split, Zadar Old Town is where authenticity, innovation, and ancient history converge. But is Zadar worth visiting? For the well-informed traveller, the answer is a decisive yes. This article explores the key reasons Zadar should top your list, whether you’re a solo adventurer, history buff, nature enthusiast, or culinary traveller. This guide will walk you through Zadar’s highlights and help you uncover the top things to do in Zadar that will make your trip truly special. Let’s dive into why this coastal gem should be on your itinerary.
Zadar: The Underrated Jewel of Croatia
Located in northern Dalmatia, Zadar is one of Croatia’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. With roots stretching back over 3,000 years, it’s a seamless blend of the ancient and the modern. The city boasts Roman forums, medieval churches, innovative sea installations, and vibrant food and nightlife.
Key Highlights:
- Population: ~75,000
- Region: Northern Dalmatia, Croatia
- Currency: Euro (EUR as of 2023)
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
Zadar’s charm lies in its ability to offer a tranquil escape without sacrificing cultural richness or urban excitement.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Zadar Old Town?
The Sea Organ on Zadar Promenade
The Sea Organ (Morske Orgulje) is one of Zadar’s most iconic and innovative attractions. Designed by architect Nikola Bašić and completed in 2005, this architectural masterpiece consists of a series of marble steps that descend into the sea.
Beneath these steps are 35 organ pipes of varying lengths and diameters. As waves and wind push air through the pipes, they produce harmonics that create a continuous, ever-changing melody. The sound is almost like hearing whales softly singing beneath, both haunting and beautiful, offering a natural concert unlike anything else in the world.
Whether visiting solo or with loved ones, the Sea Organ invites you to sit, reflect, and listen as nature composes its music. It is a perfect spot for sunset contemplation and one of the most memorable experiences in Zadar Old Town.
Fun Fact: The Sea Organ won the 2006 European Prize for Urban Public Space.
Greeting to the Sun
Adjacent to the Sea Organ is another modern wonder, also designed by Nikola Bašić: the Greeting to the Sun (Pozdrav Suncu). This 22-meter wide solar-powered installation consists of 300 multi-layered glass plates embedded in the pavement.
Zadar’s Greeting to the Sun
During the day, these solar modules absorb sunlight and store energy. At night, they release that energy in the form of a dynamic, colourful light show synchronized with the rhythm of the Sea Organ. The result is a glowing visual spectacle that mirrors the universe and reflects Croatia’s connection to nature and innovation.
The installation also includes representations of the solar system and displays astronomical data about the Sun, moon, and planets.
Travel Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to secure a good spot and enjoy the show as the sky transitions into twilight. Together, the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun encapsulate Zadar’s unique ability to blend art, science, and the natural world into awe-inspiring public spaces.
Zadar Old Town
A stroll through the Old Town of Zadar offers visitors a captivating journey into the city’s rich heritage. The main pedestrian street, Kalelarga, is the central artery connecting significant historical sites and bustling squares.
Along Kalelarga lies People’s Square (Narodni trg), a lively gathering spot lined with cafés and historic buildings that reflect Zadar’s cultural vibrancy.
Explore Five Wells Square, a delightful area rich in history. Named after the five historic wells constructed to ensure the city’s water supply during sieges, this Square now offers a peaceful environment perfect for relaxation. Additionally, it is a great starting point for discovering nearby historical attractions.
Continuing onward, visitors arrive at the Roman Forum, an ancient public square surrounded by remarkable archaeological remains, including the iconic Church of St. Donatus. Kalelarga and these prominent squares highlight Zadar’s Old Town’s architectural and historical charm.
Discover Zadar’s Historic City Walls & Gates
Discover the Zadar City Walls, one of the must things to do in Zadar, where history and beauty intertwine at the remarkable Land Gate and other iconic City Gates. Walking along these well-preserved fortifications, you’ll experience the city’s rich resilience and cultural significance legacy.
The magnificent Land Gate, an ornate Renaissance triumphal arch built in 1543, features intricate carvings of Venetian lions and the emblem of St. Mark, reflecting Zadar’s historic role in the Venetian maritime empire.
Nearby, the Sea Gate and the Gate of St. Rocco showcase unique architectural details and heraldic motifs, emphasizing Zadar’s status as a fortified jewel of the Adriatic. These landmarks are essential stops on any journey through the Old Town, inviting you to immerse yourself in Zadar’s captivating heritage.
Historic Heart of Zadar
Continuing onward, visitors arrive at the Roman Forum, an ancient public square surrounded by remarkable archaeological remains, including the iconic Church of St. Donatus. Kalelarga and these prominent squares highlight Zadar’s Old Town’s architectural and historical charm.
Zadar’s Old Town is a living museum. Walk through cobbled alleys lined with Roman ruins, medieval churches, and bustling cafés. Don’t miss:
- The Roman Forum – Built in the 1st century BC
- St. Donatus Church – Iconic circular church from the 9th century
- St. Anastasia’s Cathedral – Largest cathedral in Dalmatia
- The Zadar Old Town offers a historical deep dive without the overwhelming crowds in other major cities.
Zadar Bell Tower
The Bell Tower of Zadar, located beside the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, is one of the top things to do in Zadar old town and an iconic landmark offering stunning panoramic views of the Dalmatian coast. Although attached to the Cathedral, it has its own entrance, allowing for an independent visit focused on the views and architecture.
Construction of the Bell Tower spanned over 400 years, beginning in the 12th century and concluding in the late 19th century. Its Romanesque base and later additions showcase the city’s evolving architectural styles.
Visitors who climb the 200 steps are rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views, stretching from Zadar’s Old Town to the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding islands.
Entry is just 2 euros, making it excellent value. However, the Bell Tower is only open during the tourist season, so it’s best to check opening hours before your visit.
Zadar’s Local Cuisine
Zadar is a culinary treasure trove for food lovers, offering an authentic taste of traditional Dalmatian cuisine. The region’s food culture is rooted in simplicity, freshness, and bold Mediterranean flavours – especially regarding seafood.
Every dish reflects the Adriatic’s bounty, from grilled octopus to baked white fish seasoned with local herbs and olive oil. For a truly local experience, don’t miss Pašticada, a slow-cooked beef stew marinated in red wine, garlic, and aromatic spices, traditionally served with soft gnocchi or creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a dish that tells the story of Dalmatian heritage in every bite.
Another regional delicacy is Paški sir (Pag cheese), a hard sheep’s milk cheese from the nearby island of Pag. Its rich, salty, and slightly tangy flavour pairs perfectly with Dalmatian prosciutto or a glass of local red wine.
To immerse yourself in Zadar’s culinary scene, explore the charming streets of the Old Town. Traditional taverns (konobas) and family-run restaurants serve authentic Croatian dishes in atmospheric, stone-walled settings.
Pros & Cons Zadar:
Is It Worth the Trip? Located along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, Zadar is often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours, such as Dubrovnik and Split. However, this ancient city is rich in history and modern charm, making it a rising star in European travel. If you’re considering a trip and wondering if Zadar city is worth visiting, here’s a clear and concise breakdown of the pros and cons and a spotlight on the best things to do in Zadar to really enjoy it.
FAQs About Zadar, Croatia
Is Zadar worth visiting for families?
Yes, with all these amazing things to see and alltogether with its safe beaches, family-friendly parks, and relaxed vibe, Zadar is great for travellers of all ages.
How many days should I spend in Zadar?
A 2-3 day stay allows you to explore the city and take one or two nearby excursions.
Can you get by using English in Zadar?
Absolutely. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Is Zadar Old Town expensive?
Compared to Dubrovnik and Split, the city of Zadar is more affordable, especially regarding dining and accommodations.
Conclusion: So, Is Zadar Worth Visiting?
Zadar is not just worth visiting – it might become your favourite Croatian city. With a harmonious blend of history, innovation, natural beauty, and coastal charm, Zadar offers a rewarding experience for every type of traveller. Whether wandering ancient streets, soaking in a sea symphony at sunset, or island-hopping through the Adriatic, Zadar delivers unforgettable memories without the tourist overload.
