Zadar, on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, is perfect for a week-long stay. Between the historic Old Town, its museums, contemporary art installations, the Adriatic beaches, and day trips to national parks or islands, the itinerary is packed and varied. We’ve put together this itinerary to balance culture, nature, and relaxation over seven days, without rushing.
With our itineraries, we’ll guide you through Zadar. Make the most of your stay and form your own opinion of this destination with our practical tips and plenty of photos!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Practical Tips for Visiting Zadar in One Week
What can you see in Zadar in one week? Is that long enough?
A week is enough time to see it all: the old town and its monuments, the museums, the beaches, and to take day trips to Plitvice Lakes, the Kornati Islands, or Paklenica National Park. It’s the perfect amount of time to enjoy Zadar at a leisurely pace and explore Northern Dalmatia on your own terms. Check out all our suggestions in our article on things to do in Zadar.
Map of must-see attractions
To help you follow along as you read our itinerary below, here is our map of Zadar’s main tourist attractions:
Getting around Zadar
Zadar’s Old Town is situated on a compact peninsula: you can reach most of the sights on foot in just a few minutes. The streets are generally flat, and the distances are short. A city bus network serves the outlying neighborhoods and more distant beaches such as Borik and Diklo. For day trips to national parks, the islands, or Nin, we recommend renting a car for greater flexibility.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Croatia
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
See our tips (coming soon)
Where to Stay in Zadar
Here are our three favorite hotels in Zadar:
- Bastion Heritage Hotel – Our top pick in the historic center, a member of the Relais & Châteaux collection, featuring a gourmet restaurant and spa. View rates and availability
- Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera – The best beach resort 12 km from Zadar, featuring a private beach, spa, and pools. Check prices and availability
- Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel – An adults-only boutique hotel in the Old Town, featuring contemporary decor and a peaceful atmosphere. View rates and availability
WHERE TO STAY IN Zadar
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Historic Center –
Hôtel Bastion Heritage – check photos and availability
Borik Marina –
Hyatt Regency Zadar Hotel – check photos and availability
On the coast –
Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera – check photos and availability
Our Ideal Itinerary: 1 Week in Zadar
Here’s our seven-day itinerary for Zadar: the must-see historical sites starting on the first day, a day of museums and the beach, a day of relaxation and culture, a trip to Nin and the island of Pag, a day at Plitvice Lakes, a boat trip to the Kornati Islands or the island of Ugljan, and a final day at Paklenica National Park before one last sunset on the Riva.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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Day 1: The Historic Old Town
Spend your first day exploring Zadar’s must-see attractions: the Roman Forum, St. Donatus Church, the Archaeological Museum, St. Anastasia Cathedral, and the Square of the Five Wells. It’s a packed itinerary, but one that’s doable with a well-organized day.
Stop 1: Roman Forum and St. Donatus Church
Start the week in the historic heart of the city with the Roman Forum andSt. Donat’s Church. The forum, built between the 1st century BCE and the 3rd century CE, stretched over 90 meters long and 45 meters wide: its column ruins and the Column of Shame bear witness to Zadar’s importance during the Roman era. Admission is free. Just a few meters away, St. Donatus Church is the city’s architectural symbol. This 9th-century pre-Romanesque structure features a rare cylindrical shape: 27 meters in diameter, 27 meters tall, with three levels and a circular gallery on the first floor. We appreciated the beauty of the building during our visit.
Stop 2: Archaeological Museum
The Zadar Archaeological Museum, one of the oldest in Croatia (founded in 1830), is a natural next stop after visiting the Forum. We appreciated the logical and well-structured layout as well as the diversity of the exhibits. Its collections span several millennia, from prehistory to the early centuries of Christianity, with a strong emphasis on Roman artifacts: statues, mosaics, ceramics, jewelry, and everyday objects.
Stop 3: St. Anastasia Cathedral
St. Anastasia Cathedral has stood on the forum since the 12th century. We admired its Romanesque façade, adorned with three carved portals and a central rose window. You’ll notice that the building, constructed between 1105 and 1324, blends Romanesque and Gothic styles. The interior features three naves separated by marble columns, 15th-century choir stalls, and a crypt housing the relics of Saint Anastasia. We recommend climbing the 56-meter bell tower for a panoramic view of the old town and the archipelago.
Stop 4: Place des 5 Puits & Queen Madijevka Park
The Square of the Five Wells bears witness to the ingenuity of Zadar’s residents in the 16th century. These five stone wellheads, built in 1574 to supply the city during the Ottoman sieges, formed a collective cistern system fed by rainwater. Just a short walk away, we strolled through Queen Madijevka Park, a green space running along the old Venetian ramparts with an unobstructed view of the sea. Shaded paths and the coolness of the foliage make it a welcome respite in the late afternoon.
Day 1 Dinner
For your first dinner, we recommend Restaurant Pet Bunara, tucked away near Place des 5 Puits, which serves Dalmatian cuisine made with high-quality local ingredients. Restaurant Fosa, across from the harbor, is also a great choice for lovers of fresh seafood. For a more refined dining experience, Restaurant Kastel, located in the Bastion Heritage Hotel, serves Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting.
Day 2: Museums and the Beach
The second day is devoted to the specialized museums in the old town, an afternoon of swimming at Kolovare Beach, and then the “Organ of the Sea” and “Sun Salutation” shows in the evening.
Stop 1: Museum of Ancient Glass
The Museum of Ancient Glass, housed in the Cosmacendi Palace, is one of Zadar’s most unique institutions. We were captivated by the exhibits, which showcase the excellence of Roman glassmakers: more than 5,000 objects dating from the Roman era, including delicate goblets, perfume bottles, and jewelry of remarkable finesse. A section dedicated to manufacturing techniques features demonstrations of traditional glassblowing.
Stop 2: Gold and Silver Museum
Just a short walk away, the Museum of Gold and Silver is housed in the former Benedictine monastery of St. Mary, founded in the 11th century. In our opinion, its collections of medieval religious gold and silverwork are among the most remarkable in Croatia: reliquaries, processional crosses, chalices, and liturgical vestments made of gold and silver, some of which date back to the 11th century. We found the thoughtful presentation and the setting of the monastery itself to be well worth seeing.
Stop 3: Kolovare Beach
After a morning of cultural exploration, head to Kolovare Beach for a well-deserved afternoon of swimming. Located just a few minutes’ walk from the old town, it features both pebble areas and concrete platforms equipped with showers, changing rooms, and beach chair rentals. We enjoyed the crystal-clear water and the view of Ugljan Island from the shore. It was a pleasant afternoon break before heading back to the waterfront to watch the sunset.
Stop 4: Orgue des Mers and Salut au Soleil
At the end of the day, head to the waterfront to seethe Orgue des Mers, a one-of-a-kind installation created by architect Nikola Bašić in 2005. We were captivated by the thirty-five tubes placed beneath the stone steps, which produce harmonious sounds as the waves roll in. Just a few meters away, the Salut au Soleil—a 22-meter-diameter circle made up of 300 glass panels—lights up at dusk in a rhythm synchronized with the sounds of the sea organ. We recommend arriving at the end of the day, just before sunset, to enjoy both installations in the same atmosphere.
Day 2 Dinner
For your second dinner, The Well Restaurant is a great choice in the old town, serving a modern take on Dalmatian specialties. For a more casual meal, the konobas in the side streets offer authentic local cuisine at reasonable prices.
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Day 3: Relaxation and Culture
The third day alternates between swimming and cultural exploration. The beach in the morning, followed by two attractions off the beaten path in the afternoon, before a final sunset on the Riva.
Stop 1: Borik Beach or Golden Wave Beach
For a morning at the beach, there are two options depending on your preferences. We enjoyed Borik Beach, north of the city, which is surrounded by pine trees that provide welcome shade. Its shallow waters make it ideal for families. Golden Wave Beach (Plaža Zlatni Val) is a space that blends a tree-lined public park with an urban beach, located closer to the Old Town. We recommend arriving in the morning to find a good spot before the afternoon crowds arrive.
Stop 2: Rector’s Palace
Continue your afternoon with a visit to the Rector’s Palace. The building served as the residence of the Venetian rector who governed Zadar during the Republic of Venice’s rule. The inner courtyard is open to the public. Some rooms are open during temporary exhibitions.
Stop 3: Zadar National Museum
The Zadar National Museum features collections of sacred art and ethnographic exhibits that trace traditional Dalmatian life through the centuries. Folk costumes, handicrafts, and historical documents come together to create an accessible and well-documented exhibition. We found the visit interesting for anyone who wants to understand the local culture beyond its Roman and medieval heritage. Allow about 1 hour.
Stop 4: Walk along the Riva & sunset
End this third day with a stroll along the Riva, the wide pedestrian avenue that runs along the Old Town’s waterfront, lined with palm trees and outdoor cafés. The atmosphere is particularly lively in the late afternoon. Take a seat on a bench or at an outdoor table to watch the ferries and pleasure boats: the sunset from the Riva is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful on the Adriatic.
Dinner on Day 3
For this third dinner, enjoy the lively terraces of the old town. Restaurant Kornat serves authentic Dalmatian cuisine in a traditional setting. Finish your meal with a glass of marasquin, a local liqueur made from maraschino cherries that have been grown in the region for centuries.
Day 4: Excursion to Nin and the island of Pag
On the fourth day, you’ll leave Zadar to explore two nearby destinations with very different characters: the small historic town of Nin to the north, and then the island of Pag, with its rugged landscapes and cheese-making tradition.
Stop 1: City of Nin
Just 15 km north of Zadar, Nin is one of Croatia’s oldest towns. We were struck by its rich heritage packed into such a small area. The small island on which the old town stands is entirely surrounded by water and connected to the mainland by two stone bridges. The Church of the Holy Cross, considered the world’s smallest cathedral, dates back to the 9th century and is notable for its astronomical precision: its orientation allowed for the measurement of the solstices. The ruins of the Roman temple and the Nin Museum of Antiquities round out the historical experience. The surrounding salt marshes produce renowned salt, and the Queen’s Sandy Beach—a rarity in Dalmatia—stretches nearby. Allow half a day for your visit. You can also reach Nin by off-road ATV from Zadar for a more adventurous experience.
Stop 2: Pag Island
Located 60 km from Zadar, the island of Pag stands out in the Dalmatian landscape with its limestone hills, almost devoid of vegetation—the result of centuries of strong winds and sheep grazing. We drove along the coastal roads, which offer panoramic views of the Adriatic. The old town of Pag is worth a visit for its Renaissance architecture and medieval alleyways. The island is also renowned for its cheese, Paški sir, made from the milk of sheep that graze on salt-rich grasses: you can sample it directly at local producers’ farms. The Pag salt flats, still in operation, produce high-quality salt that makes a great souvenir. Access is via the Pag Bridge from the coastal road, about a 1-hour drive from Zadar.
Dinner on Day 4
Back in Zadar, enjoy dinner and sample the Pag cheese you brought back from your day trip, paired with a glass of local wine. The konobas in the old town often feature this cheese on their Dalmatian cheese platters.
Day 5: Trip to Plitvice Lakes
The fifth day is entirely devoted to a trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia’s most visited natural site. Plan for a full day: the drive from Zadar takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the route.
Stop 1: Plitvice Lakes National Park
Located about 130 km from Zadar, Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s most visited natural sites and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. We were captivated by the color of the water, which varies with the light and the season, ranging from emerald green to deep blue. Its 16 cascading lakes, connected by waterfalls, form a landscape of striking beauty. Wooden walkways allow you to stroll along the lakes and get close to the waterfalls, the most spectacular of which, Veliki Slap, reaches a height of 78 meters. Plan on spending between 4 and 6 hours there, depending on the route you choose. We recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the morning light. Book your excursion to Plitvice Lakes
Dinner on Day 5
When you return to Zadar in the evening, treat yourself to a simple dinner at one of the konobas in the old town. After a long day of walking, traditional Dalmatian cuisine—grilled fish, seasonal vegetables, and homemade bread—is just the thing before a good night’s rest.
Day 6: Boat tour, Kornati Islands or Ugljan Island
The sixth day is set aside for a boat excursion. There are two options to choose from, depending on your preferences: the Kornati Archipelago for a day at sea exploring secluded coves and unspoiled landscapes, or the island of Ugljan for a more leisurely getaway just a few minutes from the port.
Option A: Kornati National Park
Kornati National Park comprises 89 uninhabited islands off the coast of Zadar, forming the densest archipelago in the Adriatic Sea. We were captivated by the untamed beauty of these rocky islets. The park can only be explored by boat, which helps preserve its pristine character. You’ll sail between secluded coves with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Day trips from Zadar typically include several stops for swimming and a grilled fish lunch at one of the archipelago’s few restaurants. Book your tour of the Kornati Islands
Option B: Ugljan Island
The island of Ugljan, nicknamed “the garden of Zadar,” lies across from the old town, separated by a channel just a few kilometers wide. The ferry from the port of Zadar takes 20 minutes to reach Preko, from where you can explore the coastal villages of Kali and Kukljica, the olive groves, or hike to the summit of Sveti Mihovil for a panoramic view of the archipelago and the old town. We enjoy this excursion for its accessibility and local charm: the island’s beaches are less crowded than those on the Zadar peninsula. Half a day is enough for a quick look around, while a full day allows you to explore several villages.
Dinner on Day 6
Back at the port of Zadar, Restaurant Fosa, located across from the harbor, is the perfect place to wrap up this day at sea: its dishes featuring fresh fish from the Adriatic evoke the landscapes we passed through earlier in the day.
Day 7: Paklenica National Park and the Last Sunset
To wrap up the week, we recommend a trip to Paklenica National Park before returning to Zadar for one last sunset on the Riva.
Stop 1: Paklenica National Park
Located 45 km north of Zadar, Paklenica National Park is a top destination for hiking enthusiasts. We enjoyed the diversity of its landscapes: beech and pine forests in the valleys, vertiginous rock faces, and spectacular gorges carved into the Velebit limestone massif. The two main gorges, Velika Paklenica and Mala Paklenica, offer trails of varying difficulty levels, ranging from family-friendly routes to technical climbing routes. The park is also known for its rich wildlife: birds of prey, deer, chamois, and brown bears thrive there in a preserved environment. An ancient military fortification carved into the rock—a network of tunnels dating back to the Yugoslav era—can also be visited. The trip from Zadar takes about 45 minutes. Check out our tips in our dedicated article.
Stop 2: The Last Sunset on the Riva
When you return to Zadar in the late afternoon, head to the Riva for one last sunset over the Adriatic. In our opinion, this is the best way to wrap up a week in this city: settle into the seats of the Sea Organ, listen to the melodies created by the waves, and then watch the “Salute to the Sun” panels light up at dusk. A simple yet memorable moment.
Day 7 Farewell Dinner
For your final dinner, we recommend Restaurant Kastel at the Bastion Heritage Hotel: refined Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant setting, perfect for ending your week in Zadar on a high note. Be sure to make a reservation in advance.
Alternative 1: with more museums
If you’d like to explore the city’s cultural offerings further, Zadar has other attractions to discover. The Museum of Contemporary Art exhibits works by 20th-century Croatian artists. St. Simeon’s Church houses a magnificent 14th-century silver reliquary. St. Chrysogonus Church, located outside the city walls, features 12th-century Romanesque architecture. Finally, the Museum of Ancient Glass offers traditional glassblowing workshops, which you can follow up with a second visit to watch a full demonstration. Find more ideas in our article on things to do in Zadar.
Option 2: More field trips
Zadar is an excellent starting point for exploring the region. Split, Croatia’s second-largest city (155 km, about a 2-hour drive), is built around Diocletian’s Palace, a 4th-century Roman structure listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is worth a full day’s visit. Closer by, Šibenik (75 km, about a 1-hour drive) is the oldest city founded by Croats on the Adriatic coast: its St. James Cathedral, built entirely of stone between the 15th and 16th centuries, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It can easily be combined with a visit to the Krka National Park and its spectacular waterfalls. Finally, Dubrovnik is accessible by car (about 4.5 hours), but we recommend planning to stay at least one night there. Find all our ideas in our article on the best day trips from Zadar.
Option 3: With children
Zadar is a great destination for a week-long family vacation. Vladimir Nazor Park, which runs along the waterfront, features well-equipped playgrounds and open spaces where children can run freely. The beaches at Borik and Kolovare have calm, shallow waters, ideal for young children. The Museum of Ancient Glass organizes glassblowing workshops tailored for children during the summer. For more unique experiences, a semi-submarine tour lets you explore the seabed without getting wet, and a traditional boat trip through the archipelago is fun for all ages. Nin, with its Queen’s Sand Beach and accessible Roman ruins, is also an excellent half-day outing for the whole family.
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What You Need to Know for Your Week in Zadar
The Weather in Zadar
Zadar has a Mediterranean climate: summers are hot and dry, with temperatures that can exceed 30°C in July and August. This is the sunniest and busiest time of year. Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) offer pleasant conditions for visiting the city and going on excursions, with temperatures between 18 and 25°C and fewer tourists. In winter, temperatures remain mild, generally between 10 and 15°C, and the main attractions remain accessible.
The Crowds in Zadar
Zadar is a popular summer destination, especially between June and September. The Old Town can get very crowded during the middle of the day. We recommend starting your sightseeing early in the morning. The Riva and the Sea Organ are especially lively in the evening. Outside of peak season, the atmosphere is calmer and accommodations are significantly cheaper.
Adjusting Your Itinerary When It Rains
On rainy days, Zadar’s museums offer great alternatives. The Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Ancient Glass, and the Museum of Gold and Silver are perfect places to spend several hours out of the rain. The many historic churches, including St. Anastasia Cathedral andSt. Donatus Church, are also open to visitors. The cafés and konobas in the city center are happy to welcome you for a leisurely break featuring local specialties.
