traveling Zadar, Croatia — most European tourists will never even think about coming here! Zadar has so much to offer and you should definitely visit it during your trip to Europe. Check out our 5 days in Zadar Croatia guide and we promise that you won’t regret it!
Day 1 – Luxury stay at Ika Boutique Luxury Apartments
These beautifully appointed apartments are located just five minutes walk from St. Donat Church, ten minutes walk from the ancient city walls and twenty-five minutes walk from both historical and lively old town of Zadar. The famous sandy beach of Pašman is only 10 minutes away by car, while bus station can be reached in just a five minute stroll. Ika Apartments offer luxurious accommodation with a superb service – warm welcome and friendly personal assistance to make your stay unforgettable!
Day 2 – Enjoy at Famous Beach Bar & Grill
The Famous Beach Bar & Grill is nestled at one of Zadar’s most stunning beaches. The restaurant features a wide array of local seafood and steaks that will have you ready to extend your stay in Zadar just for another evening here. The bar is well-stocked, with some of your favorite spirits, as well as a fully stocked wine list.
Try some authentic local Croatian beers like Karlovacko Pivo or a bottle of Dalmatian Plavac Mali. If you are looking for a place to watch sports or unwind after a long day on the beach, then look no further than The Famous Beach Bar & Grill.In addition to its great menu and drinks, you can also enjoy live music from bands playing everything from jazz standards to pop hits every night between June and September. If you are traveling with kids (or if it’s just too hot outside), then head inside where there is air conditioning.
- Eat at Bistro Gourmet Kalelarga
The Bistro Gourmet Kalelarga, which is located on Kalelargia street 2, is a restaurant that serves traditional Croatian cuisine. Each plate contains freshly and carefully prepared dishes. The selection of wines has been personally selected by chef Nediljko Grbac, so you can rest assured that only top quality wine will be served at Bistro Gourmet Kalelarga. Make sure to book ahead for dinner as it’s very popular with both locals and tourists.
Day 3 – Visit Sea Organ in Zadar
The Sea Organ or Transparent Music is an arrangement of pipes that plays music and is located on a concrete breakwater in Zadar, Croatia. The musical organ uses hydraulic pumps to push sea water through wooden pipes that are submerged 40 meters under sea level and connects them to 60 vertical steel pipes planted into limestone blocks just above sea level. Waves wash against these pipes, causing sounds reminiscent of a pipe organ.It was designed by Nikola Bašić and first opened to visitors in 2005. It was officially opened as a musical instrument on 16 July 2008. In 2012 it was voted one of The 28 Wonders of Croatia.
- Climb and Hike in Paklenica National Park:
Considered to be one of Europe’s most beautiful hiking destinations, Paklenica is located on Velebit Mountain and provides an unforgettable experience for anyone who hikes through it. The park encompasses 2,200 square kilometers of forests, mountains and cliffs. Other activities available at Paklenica include rock climbing and whitewater rafting.
- Eat at Restaurant Martinac:
There are a ton of restaurants to choose from in Croatia, but if you want to try one that’s slightly off-the-beaten-path—but totally worth it—head to Restaurant Martinac. This restaurant has received rave reviews for its seafood, and everything is expertly prepared and presented with care. It’s definitely worth it!
The food here is truly outstanding! You can even see what they’re cooking live in their kitchen, which adds to its charm. The only drawback? They don’t accept credit cards (or checks). Luckily, there’s an ATM on site so you won’t have any trouble paying. And when you do? Expect a little bit of music as a treat! It adds to the experience without being overbearing or obtrusive.
Day 4 – Visit Plitvice Lakes
Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of those must-see travel destinations that could quite possibly become your new favorite place. At first glance, you might be disappointed by its rather touristy appearance—but don’t let that fool you. The lakes are world famous for their turquoise waters and natural beauty, and it only takes a little bit of exploring to uncover what really makes them such a treasure. In fact, once you spend a few hours at Plitvice Lakes, there’s no doubt that you’ll want to add it to your list of all-time favorites.
- Stay at Rooms Old Town – Zadar Rooms
Rooms Old Town offers accommodation located within a 10-minute walk from Zadar’s famous Placa (Main Square) and Cathedral. This property is a short stroll from Gunduliceva Poljana Park, where guests can relax and enjoy spectacular views of Zadar’s ancient walls and fortresses. Each room here will provide you with air conditioning, a seating area and satellite TV. Private bathrooms also come with free toiletries.Extras include a desk and ironing facilities.
At Rooms Old Town you will find a 24-hour front desk, as well as shops at close proximity to your accommodation. Parking spaces are available for guests arriving by car. The hotel is 2 km from Zadar Airport, which can be reached by car or bus within 20 minutes’ drive. The nearest bus stop is just 300 metres away from your accommodation, while ferry terminals are situated 1 km away.
Day 5 – A walk through the old town
If you choose to follow along on our suggested route, head east from Kalelargu street, and then turn right onto J. B. Starcevica street and continue walking towards The Forum. The Forum was built in ancient times as a meeting point for citizens of old-town Zadar, but nowadays it hosts different cultural events and festivals, such as music performances and art exhibitions. It is also home to one of Zadar’s most famous attractions – St. Donatus’ Church, which is located on its eastern side. If you are looking for some souvenirs or gifts to take back home with you, check out one of the many local shops selling products made by local artists or craftsmen.
- Relax on Kolovare Beach:
Kolovare beach is one of hundreds of beaches on a 20-mile stretch of coastline near Zadar, Croatia. While you’re there, be sure to visit nearby Stone Gate Natural Park for some hiking or kayaking. It’s also worth spending an afternoon at St. Donatus’ Church, dating back to 13th century and sporting an ornate interior that makes it feel more like a palace than a church. For dinner, check out Restaurant Tkalciceva Kuca, which serves up traditional Croatian cuisine in a rustic dining room with a view of old town Zadar. If you want to stay close by, Hotel Amfora boasts modern amenities with classic décor.
Conclusion:
If you are travelling to Europe and you want to see a different side of it, I would highly recommend visiting Zadar, Croatia. It is off the main path a bit and shows more of what Europe was like before tourism was so prevalent.
