Top reasons to visit Zadar
- Stunning Seafront: Zadar boasts a beautiful coastline where visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunsets and the calming sounds of the sea.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: The city is adorned with historic gates, arches, and stunning churches, offering a glimpse into its fascinating past.
- Outdoor Adventures: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, Zadar provides ample opportunities for exploration and adventure amidst stunning scenery.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Experience the lively piazzas and friendly locals, making for a welcoming and enjoyable visit.
- Diverse Accommodation: Zadar offers a range of lodging options to suit all needs, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in and around Zadar
Discover a range of accommodation options in Zadar, Croatia, catering to diverse needs, from family holidays to business trips. Whether you're seeking a luxurious hotel, a cosy guesthouse, or affordable lodging, Zadar offers it all. Enjoy stunning beach access and explore the city's rich history while finding the perfect place to unwind. Don't forget to check hotel reviews to ensure a delightful stay in this beautiful coastal destination.
- Zaton Holiday Resort Apartments: This 4-star accommodation offers a family-friendly experience just 14km from Zadar, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a beach and adventure-filled holiday. With direct access to the beach, guests can indulge in various adventure sports including snorkelling, rowing, and parasailing, all available on-site. The property also caters to families with amenities such as supervised childcare, an arcade game room, and cribs for a fee, ensuring that children are entertained while adults relax. The resort's focus on adventure and recreation makes it ideal for active families looking to explore the natural beauty of the region.
- Falkensteiner Family Hotel Diadora: Rated 5 stars, the Falkensteiner Family Hotel Diadora is situated directly on the beach in Zadar, providing a luxurious setting for adventurous families. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this property offers a range of exciting activities including windsurfing and waterskiing right on-site, as well as nearby options for rafting and sailing. The hotel's emphasis on family enjoyment is evident in its thoughtful amenities, making it a prime destination for those looking to combine relaxation with outdoor fun in a pristine coastal environment.
- Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik: This 4-star hotel, located in Zadar, is dedicated to beach enthusiasts with its direct access to sandy shores. With a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10, the Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the sun and surf. The property’s beach-focused amenities create a relaxed atmosphere, allowing guests to unwind and enjoy the stunning Adriatic Sea. Whether you wish to lounge by the water or partake in beach-related activities, this hotel offers a delightful escape for sun-seekers.
Where to stay in and around Zadar
Zadar is a captivating destination that offers an enchanting blend of history and natural beauty. Explore its lovely seafront, where you can savour stunning sunsets and the soothing sounds of the sea. Venture into nearby regions for a taste of local culture and recreation, all while enjoying the welcoming atmosphere of friendly locals. With its ideal location, Zadar serves as a perfect base for discovering the charm of Croatia's coastal treasures.
- Zadar Old Town: Nestled within the ancient walls of Zadar, Zadar Old Town is a vibrant neighbourhood that boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture. This picturesque area is renowned for its outdoor attractions, stunning scenery, and adventurous experiences, making it a must-visit during the peak tourist season from July to September. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Sea Organ and the Roman Forum, indulge in shopping, or relax at nearby beaches. Zadar Old Town is also conveniently located close to national parks, allowing nature enthusiasts to experience the breathtaking landscapes Croatia is known for.
- Sukosan: Situated approximately 10km from Zadar, the charming city of Sukosan is a delightful retreat for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. The peak tourist season occurs between June and August, attracting visitors looking to enjoy the beautiful beaches and recreational areas. Sukosan offers a range of activities, from seaside relaxation to theatre performances, ensuring a well-rounded travel experience. Its proximity to national parks and stunning natural reserves makes Sukosan an excellent base for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Dalmatian region.
- Policnik: Located about 11km from Zadar, Policnik is a quaint city that provides a serene escape for travellers. Like its neighbours, Policnik experiences a seasonal influx of visitors, peaking from July to September. The city is perfect for those in search of outdoor activities and scenic views, with several shopping centres and malls for leisurely explorations. Policnik's close proximity to beaches and national parks makes it an ideal spot for adventure seekers looking to immerse themselves in the stunning Croatian countryside.
Things to do in Zadar
Shopping
In Zadar, visit the Supernova Shopping Centre for a mix of international brands and local shops. If you're up for a drive, check out the City Galleria, located about 19km away, which features a variety of retail outlets, cafes, and entertainment options.
Recreation
The Wellness Centre Zadar offers a tranquil atmosphere with a range of treatments, including massages and facials. Enjoy the soothing spa facilities, including saunas and a heated pool, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation. Nearby, the picturesque Zadar waterfront invites leisurely strolls and scenic views of the sunset.
Adventure
Explore the beautiful Kornati National Park by boat, where you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters and marvel at stunning landscapes. For a thrilling experience, try sea kayaking along the coastline, offering a unique perspective of Zadar’s picturesque shores and hidden coves.
Nightlife
Zadar's nightlife is vibrant, with venues like the trendy Arsenal offering live music and drinks by the waterfront. For a lively atmosphere, check out The Garden Lounge, known for its stylish setting and cocktails. Alternatively, enjoy local brews at the charming Café Bar Posh, popular among locals.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Zadar
Zadar offers an array of free activities, such as Kolovare Beach and the Sea Organ, making it easy to enjoy the city without spending much. For transport, consider walking or using the bus to save money. To secure the best hotel rates, aim to book one month in advance, particularly from January to March when prices are lower. Take advantage of last-minute deals on Expedia and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, remember that Saturday is typically the cheapest day to stay, while Monday tends to be more expensive.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing in Zadar is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay in Zadar are January to March, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Zadar about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Zadar is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Zadar is Monday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences such as budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Zadar with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Zadar
Zadar is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. With its vibrant piazzas, historic gates and arches, and stunning churches, the city offers a rich cultural experience. Explore the heart of Zadar to fully appreciate the charm and unique attractions that cater to both city and nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for history or adventure, Zadar promises an unforgettable vacation experience.
- Kolovare Beach: Nestled within Zadar, Kolovare Beach offers a relaxing coastal experience with its inviting sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or simply soaking up the beach vibes while taking in stunning sunsets along the Adriatic Sea.
- Sea Organ: This architectural marvel located in Zadar is a unique musical instrument played by the waves. The harmonious sounds created by the sea as it interacts with the organ tubes provide a cultural experience that connects visitors to nature through art.
- City Galleria: A vibrant cultural hub, City Galleria features a diverse range of exhibitions and events. Visitors can explore contemporary art and enjoy local creativity, making it a wonderful place to immerse oneself in Zadar's artistic scene.
Best time to go to Zadar
The best time to visit Zadar can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Zadar falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Zadar falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Zadar
Arriving in ZADar is convenient with Zadar Airport (ZAD), situated 10km away. Excellent accommodation options nearby include the 4.5-star Mirabilis Residence and Magic View Apartments, both 10km from the airport, offering various transport services such as on-request and 24-hour airport shuttles. For those considering Split Airport (SPU), located 108km from Zadar, notable hotels like the 5-star Radisson Blu Resort & Spa and Cornaro Hotel, provide accessible shuttle services. Alternatively, Pula Airport (PUY), 135km away, features hotels such as the Grand Hotel Brioni Pula and Boutique Hotel Villa Vulin, with 24-hour shuttle options, ensuring a seamless travel experience.