Zadar holidays

How to reach Zadar

• Flight time: Direct flights to Zadar from Dublin take about 2 hours 45 minutes. There are also seasonal flights from Cork and other Irish airports.

• Transfer time: Zadar Airport is around 20 minutes from the city centre. The airport shuttle bus runs directly to the main bus station. Taxis are readily available and slightly faster.

• Price: The airport shuttle bus costs around €5 one way. A taxi from the airport to the city centre typically costs €30.

Best time to visit Zadar

• April to June is ideal if you want pleasant weather without the summer crowds. Temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C, with 8 to 10 hours of sunshine a day and light rainfall (20–50mm).

• July to August is peak season, with long, sunny days and highs above 30°C. Rain is rare and the city is bustling, especially with travellers heading to the islands.

• September to October offers a lovely balance of warm weather (18°C to 26°C) and fewer tourists. There are 7 to 9 hours of sunshine a day and a little more rain than summer (50–100mm).

• November to March is the quietest time to visit. Temperatures stay mild (10°C to 15°C), though there’s more rain (60–120mm). It’s a great season for a laid-back city break and lower accommodation costs.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in hotels, restaurants and shops.

• Local habits and customs: A warm “dobar dan” (good day) goes a long way. Tipping isn’t expected, but rounding up or leaving about 10% for good service is appreciated.

• Health and safety: Zadar is very safe, but as always, stay aware of your surroundings in busy areas. For emergencies, dial 112.

• Currency: Croatia now uses the Euro (€), making it simple for Irish visitors. ATMs are easy to find and most places accept cards.

• Getting around: Zadar is walkable, but local buses also cover key areas like Borik and the ferry terminal. The rowboat crossing from the old town to the other side of the harbour is a charming and unique way to travel.

• Electricity and plug types: Croatia uses 220V power and two-pin type C and F plugs. Irish travellers will need a European adaptor.

• Time zone: Zadar is on Central European Time (CET), one hour ahead of Irish time. Daylight Saving Time is observed.

Best things to do in Zadar

The main city of northern Dalmatia combines ancient and medieval heritage with a lively café culture, a vibrant scene and ahead-of-the-curve architectural projects.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Obala kralja Petra Krešimira IV: Has the air of a relaxing Riviera-town promenade, with ravishing views of the offshore islands and two compelling outdoor art installations in the shape of the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun.

• Cathedral of St Anastasia: Climb the 183 steps of the cathedral's 54m-high campanile for sweeping vistas of Zadar's rooftops and the distant islands beyond.

The best districts

• Varoš quarter: The most evocative section of Zadar's Old Town, where the alleyways seem narrower and more atmospheric than elsewhere, lined with café-bars that pull in their fair share of caffeine-refuelling students during the day and more dedicated drinkers on weekend nights.

• Borik: With its sand and pebble beaches and cool bars, this thriving urban enclave is well worth an afternoon of exploring.

Museums

• Museum of Ancient Glass: A visual tour de force, displaying beautifully presented Roman-era vessels from archeological sites all over the region.

• The Gold and Silver of Zadar: A storehouse of church treasures that is very much the pride of the city, including an extraordinary 13th-century reliquary for the shoulder blade of St Mark, which resembles a small grand piano mounted on three clawed legs.

Parks and gardens

• Queen Jelena Madijevka Park: Founded by Austrian commander, and passionate botanist, Baron Franz Ludwig von Welden in 1829, this was Dalmatia's first public park, and very lovely it is too.

• Vladimir Nazor Park: Zadar's biggest park lies on top of the city's biggest fort, just east of the peninsula and the Land Gate – so its elevation affords great sea views.

Historical monuments

• St. Donatus Church: An impressive example of Byzantine architecture, this hulking cylinder was built – according to tradition – by St Donat himself, an Irishman who was bishop here for a time.

• Rector's Palace: Thoroughly renovated, this elegant building is a compelling mix of authentic architectural ambience with state-of-the-art presentation.

Day trips in the area

• Kornati National Park: Largely uninhabited and with tourist facilities limited to a handful of shoreline restaurants and the odd yachting berth, the Kornati represent the Adriatic at its most untouched.

• Plitvice Lakes National Park: A bewitching sequence of foaming waterfalls and turquoise lakes, hemmed in by forest-clad hills roughly a 2-hour drive from Zadar.

• Silba: This arcadian car-free island at the north of the Zadar archipelago has a stunning coastline and a picturesque main village.

Activities for families in Zadar

• Adventure Park Zadar and Biograd: There's a full day's family fun here, incorporating treetop adventures, zip-lining, rock climbing, paintballing, obstacle courses and tonnes more.

• Boat trips: Tours of Telašcica Bay and the Kornati islands are offered by excursion boats lining the quay beside the footbridge.

• Interactive museums: The Museum of Illusions is a great option if you're in Zadar with the kids and you get a rainy day, with an entertaining collection of holograms, optical illusions and visual tricks. For those who feel inclined to exercise their brains, there's a selection of puzzle games in the museum shop.

Free things to do in Zadar

Holidays to Zadar don't need to be expensive, and there are many ways to enjoy the city without spending very much at all.

• Festivals: Zadar has a terrific roster of festivals, but the most accessible for non-Croatian audiences is Zadar Dreams, a festival of alternative theatre, performance art and music held in Old Town churches and squares; many of these are free to attend.

• Beaches: Zadar boasts numerous beaches with shallow waters and plenty of amenities; those at Borik and Kolovare are the best of a very good bunch.

• A waterfront stroll: Not just any old stroll but one that features two superb, free-to-visit installations: the Sea Organ, a wave-powered musical instrument, and Greeting to the Sun, a huge disk paved with light-sensitive tiles, which accumulate solar power during the daytime and radiate a seemingly random sequence of coloured lights at night.

Nature and outdoor activities

Zadar sits in the middle of a spectacularly unspoiled natural landscape and is ideally suited to an active holiday of hiking, cycling, climbing and every water sport imaginable.

• Hiking: Just 30 minutes from Zadar, Paklenica National Park's staggeringly beautiful mountain landscape comprises an enticing mixture of karst wilderness, deciduous forests and fir-clad slopes – making for some of the country's finest walking.

• Surfing: In Nin, just outside Zadar, Surfmania is the place to come if you want to find out how to surf or kiteboard, with both lessons and hire available. There's lots more too, including kayaking and paddleboarding.

• Bungee Jumping: Fancy a heart-stopping leap from the 56m-high Maslenica Bridge? Well, here's your chance.

• Adventure activities: A raft of operators offers a cornucopia of land-based activities in the coastal hinterland, from mountain bike trails and horse riding to jeep and quad bike safaris.

Exploring the beaches of Zadar

Zadar, located on Croatia's stunning Adriatic coast, is renowned for its beautiful beaches, each offering a unique experience. Whether you prefer sandy shores, pebble beaches, or rocky coves, Zadar has something for everyone. Here's a guide to some of the best beaches to visit during your stay.

Kolovare beach

Kolovare Beach is the most popular beach in Zadar, located just a short walk from the city centre. This pebble beach is well-equipped with amenities such as showers, changing rooms, and sunbeds. The crystal-clear waters and gentle waves make it a great spot for swimming. There are also several beach bars and restaurants nearby, providing a perfect place to relax and enjoy the view.

Borik beach

Borik Beach is situated in the northern part of Zadar and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. This beach offers a mix of pebbles and sandy areas, making it suitable for both sunbathing and sandcastle building. The shallow waters are ideal for children, and there are plenty of facilities, including playgrounds, water sports rentals, and restaurants. Borik Beach is also home to several large resorts, making it a convenient option for those staying in the area.

Diklo beach

Located a bit further north, Diklo Beach is a quieter option perfect for those seeking a more relaxed environment. This beach features a mix of pebbles and concrete sunbathing areas, with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The promenade along the beach is lined with cafes and restaurants, offering a peaceful setting for a leisurely meal or drink.

Petrcane beach

Petrcane Beach is located in a charming village just a short drive from Zadar. Known for its pristine waters and serene surroundings, Petrcane offers a mix of pebbly and rocky beaches with plenty of shaded areas provided by pine trees. The beach is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet day by the sea. There are also several beach bars and restaurants where you can sample local cuisine.

Punta Bajlo beach

For a more natural and less crowded beach experience, head to Punta Bajlo Beach. Located south of the city centre, this rocky beach is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and the area is popular with locals. There are fewer amenities here, so it's a good idea to bring your own supplies.

Queen's beach (nin)

A short drive from Zadar, Queen's Beach in Nin is famous for its long stretch of sandy shore and shallow, warm waters. This beach is particularly popular with families due to its safe swimming conditions. It's also known for its therapeutic mud, which many visitors apply as a natural spa treatment. The scenic views of the Velebit Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop, making Queen's Beach a must-visit.

tips for beachgoers

• Pack essentials: Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.

• Arrive early: Popular beaches can get crowded, so arriving early ensures you get a good spot.

• Respect the environment: Dispose of rubbish properly and be mindful of the natural surroundings to help keep Zadar's beaches pristine.

Zadar's beaches offer a diverse range of experiences, from lively and well-equipped to quiet and secluded. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun, romantic sunsets, or adventurous water sports, the beaches of Zadar provide the perfect setting for your holiday.

Zadar is the place to indulge in some quintessential Northern Dalmatian cuisine, where, as elsewhere in the Adriatic, fresh seafood dominates the menu, although lamb and game are popular too.

Some typical dishes

• Peka: A dish of meat (often lamb or octopus) and vegetables cooked under a bell-like dome covered with hot coals, resulting in tender, flavourful fare.

• Pašticada: Big slabs of beef stewed in prunes and red wine, this dish features on the lunchtime menus of almost every konoba.

Meat dishes

• ƒÜevapi: Juicy rissoles of grilled minced meat served with ajvar (a pepper-based condiment) and flatbread – the classic Balkan staple.

• Peka: Slow-roasted lamb, octopus or other local goodies under an ember-covered metal lid known as a peka: this is a traditional route to a deliciously succulent meal.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Brudet: A scrumptious fish stew comprising various types of fish, to which tomatoes and wine is added. It is typically served with polenta.

• Crni ri≈æot: One of Dalmatia's most iconic dishes, this black risotto takes its name from the main ingredient, cuttlefish ink – and the blacker the risotto, the better the taste.

Street food

• Burek: A thick, flaky pastry packed with either minced meat, cheese or spinach, perfect for lunch on the run.

• Fritule: Small doughnuts typically flavoured with rum and citrus zest, dusted with powdered sugar – a cracking little sweet street treat.

Sweets and desserts

• Kroštule: Deep-fried pastry twists dusted with powdered sugar, often enjoyed during festive occasions.

• Ice cream: The main promenade is thronged with cafés and ice cream parlours trying to outdo each other to provide tourists with the finest gelato – many say that Slastiƒçarna Donati is the cream of the crop.

Local drinks

• Rakija: There's nothing like a shot of rakija (grape brandy) to oil the wheels of social intercourse. Knock back a herb-infused travarica or carob-flavoured rogaƒçica for a truly heart- and soul-warming experience.

• Maraschino: A potent cherry liqueur which has been produced in Zadar since the 16th century.