See & Do

Cultural sites

Old Town (Poluotok) – historic center full of Venetian heritage
Kalelarga – main promenade and heart of local life
Roman Forum – ancient square and landmark of public life
St. Donatus Church – iconic round 9th-century church
St. Anastasia’s Cathedral & Bell Tower – climb for panoramic views
Sea Organ – unique architectural sound installation by the sea
Greeting to the Sun – modern solar light installation next to the Sea Organ
Foša Port & Land Gate (Lion’s Gate) – grand Venetian entrance to the city
Archaeological Museum – rich collection of ancient artifacts
Gold and Silver of Zadar Museum (St. Mary’s) – treasury of sacred art
Local taverns & restaurants – seafood, risotto, prosciutto, Pag cheese
Zadar sunset – famously described as the “most beautiful in the world”

Top tourist destinations in the county

Arriving in Zadar county, take time to visit cultural and natural destinations, museums and exhibitions. Here are some of our tips that will delight you:

NIN

Nin Saltworks - Salt Museum

PAG

Pag Salt Museum - Permanent Exhibition of Salt Production
The Gallery of Pag Lace
PARTY DESTINATION - Zrće Beach Novalja

MORLACCO Jasenice

VELEBIT OUTDOOR CAMP - RIZVAN CITY

(Bungalows, Camp, Glamping)

Top Beaches

Nearest beaches in the city of Zadar:

Diklovac Beach
Borik Beach
Marex Beach
Puntamika Beach
Kolovare Beach

Beaches worth visiting in the wider Zadar area:

Saharun (Dugi Otok) – white sand, turquoise sea, pine forest, Veli Rat lighthouse
Queen’s Beach (Nin) – long sandy beach, sports activities, healing Nin mud
Zaton Beach – pools, slides, water sports, sandy & pebble sections
Sukošan–Bibinje (Portus Marina & Beach Bar Portus)
Crvena Luka, Biograd – beautiful bay (entrance fee required)
Vir – various beaches around the island
Vrsi – Duboka Draga – red cliffs, clear sea, unique landscape
Punta Skala (Petrčane) – resort beaches (entrance fee required)
Pinija Beach (Petrčane) – family-friendly, pine shade
Pine Beach (Pakoštane) – sandy bay, active holiday resort (entrance fee required)

Nature Parks

Zadar is exceptionally proud of its natural surroundings. With a wealth of national and nature parks nearby, the region is a true paradise for mountaineers, climbers, divers, sailors, and all lovers of the outdoors. Clean, unpolluted air, crystal-clear sea, and endless sunshine create perfect conditions for a refreshing escape into nature.

Below are some of the most beautiful natural destinations near Zadar:

Paklenica National Park

Distance: 60 km from Zadar

One of Croatia’s oldest national parks, Paklenica is a spectacular blend of forests, towering rock formations, deep canyons, and charming mountain huts. It is world-renowned among climbers and beloved by hikers and nature enthusiasts.
If you enjoy active adventures, long walks, climbing routes, or simply being surrounded by untouched nature, Paklenica is the perfect choice.

Kornati National Park

Accessible mainly by boat

The Kornati archipelago, often described as a “nautical paradise,” consists of numerous islands, islets, reefs, and dramatic cliffs. Mediterranean vegetation, secluded coves, and impossibly clear blue sea make this national park a dreamlike escape.
Whether you join an organized boat tour or sail independently, the Kornati Islands offer unforgettable views and complete serenity.

Vrana Lake Nature Park

Distance: 35 km from Zadar

Vrana Lake is a peaceful oasis abundant with diverse plant and animal life. As the largest natural lake in Croatia, it is a favorite destination for birdwatchers, nature photographers, and anyone seeking a quiet retreat.
Wooden walkways, viewpoints, and rich wetlands make this park ideal for slow walks, cycling, and enjoying the calm of untouched nature.

MUST VISIT- VIEWPOINT & TAVERN KAMENJAK

Islands

How to Get to the Islands

You can easily reach the nearby islands even without a car. Numerous ferry and catamaran lines operate from:

Zadar City Port (Old Town)
Gaženica Port (Zadar)
Biograd – for travel to Pašman

Regular connections link Zadar with the islands of Ugljan, Iž, Pašman, and Dugi Otok.

Recommended Islands

Ugljan
Pašman
Dugi otok
Iž

Should You Take a Car?

We definitely recommend taking a car if possible. It allows you to explore the islands more easily, visit multiple places in one day, and enjoy the full island experience at your own pace.