Visit one of Croatia’s first public parks! Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, created almost 200 years ago, is a green lung in Zadar. Built on top of the old defensive walls, it’s a veritable botanical garden where you can discover native Dalmatian plants, enjoy pleasant shady areas and contemplate superb panoramas of the old town and the Adriatic.
In this article, you’ll find some useful tips to help you prepare for your visit to Queen Madijevka Park in Zadar and make the most of this haven of greenery.
Why visit Queen Madijevka Park
Is Queen Madijevka Park worth it? Our opinion:
Yes! We think Queen Madijevka Park is definitely worth a visit during your stay in Zadar. Of course, it’s not a large European-style park with vast lawns or perfectly designed gardens. But its charm lies elsewhere: in its unique location atop the city walls, in its historical dimension – one of the very first public parks in Croatia – and in its remarkable views over the port of Foša, the Terraferma Gate (ancient gateway to Zadar’s old town) and the Adriatic. It’s an ideal place to take a break in the shade, refresh yourself at the guinguette and discover another side of Zadar, quieter and greener.
Our favorite moments in Queen Madijevka Park
During our visit, we particularly appreciated :
- Views of the old town: a panorama that invites contemplation, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
- Discovering botanical species: the explanatory panels made it easy to identify rare trees and flowers, enriching the walk.
A brief history of Queen Madijevka Park
Queen Jelena Madijevka Park was created in the 19th century, when Zadar was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Built on the ancient city walls, it is considered one of the very first public parks in Croatia. From the moment it opened, it was conceived as a place for residents to relax, offering a rare haven of greenery in the heart of the walled city. A small Chinese pagoda once served as a music pavilion, reinforcing its social and cultural role. Today, the park retains this vocation as a place to meet and stroll, while showcasing indigenous Dalmatian plants in a botanical setting. It is therefore both a testimony to the past and a living space, anchored in the daily lives of local residents.
Access: Queen Madijevka Park, Zadar
Where is Queen Madijevka Park?
- In the historic center of Zadar.
- It overlooks Five Wells Square, and is close to the Rector’s Palace and the large Vladimir Nazor Park.
- 15-minute walk fromOrgue des Mers and 10-minute walk from Cathédrale St Anastasie
Access by car and parking
- Located in the heart of the city, it’s easiest to get here on foot.
- If you’re coming by car, be aware that parking can be difficult in Zadar’s historic center. We recommend the nearest parking lot, ideally located near the picturesque Port of Foša, where the Riva begins. From there, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the park.
Public transport access
If you take public transport, the nearest stop is the “Jazine” stop on the city’s transport network. It’s less than a 5-minute walk away.
To plan your itinerary, we invite you to consult the route maps, timetables and fares here.
Useful tips: duration, schedules, eating…
Schedules and prices
- Opening hours: Open 24 hours a day
- Price: free
Best time to visit
Queen Madijevka Park is pleasant to visit in any season. To enjoy a quieter atmosphere, choose weekdays and early mornings.
Length of visit and main difficulties
- Allow between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on your interest in the local flora and your desire to relax or take your time.
- No toilets on site
- Accessibility is limited for people with reduced mobility due to the many stairs and footpaths. The ground may also present a few steps and irregularities.
Visiting Queen Madijevka Park with children
The park is family-friendly and offers a pleasant setting for children to discover the local flora. They can run around the paths and take advantage of the shady areas for a cool break.
Eating out
A small guinguette in the park provides refreshment, but picnic areas on the grass are limited. As the Park is right in the center of town, you can easily take a gourmet break in one of Zadar’s best restaurants.
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Discover the park’s varied flora on educational panels
As we strolled along, we were surprised by the wealth of flora to be found in Queen Madijevka Park. Created almost 200 years ago, it is considered one of Croatia’s first public parks, and was designed from the outset as a true botanical garden. Today, the park is still home to native Dalmatian plants, which are enhanced by the meticulous landscaping.
Majestic trees, colorful bushes and local flowers follow one another in a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of nearby Zadar. Educational panels line the paths, providing information on species such as the Tipuana Tipu, the Maclura Tipu (or Osage orange tree) and the Coral Tree, making the visit instructive and fun for adults and curious children alike.
Admire the view of the old town, the picturesque Port of Foša and the Adriatic Sea
From certain points in the park, the view opens up to an absolutely charming panorama. Built atop the old city walls, right next to the Square of the Five Wells, it offers a unique perspective on Zadar’s heritage. You can make out the Porte de la Terre Ferme, symbolizing the entrance to the old town, and then the small port of Foša, with its traditional boats and picturesque atmosphere.
In the background, the Adriatic stretches as far as the eye can see, its reflections changing with the sun. This combination of nature, architecture and sea makes the park one of the city’s most beautiful vantage points, an ideal place to stop and contemplate the landscape.
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Enjoy the shady areas and benches and discover the history of Queen Madijevka Park as you stroll along.
There’s much more to the park than its views and vegetation. Along the paths, we discovered a number of pleasant shaded areas and benches, inviting us to pause and savor the tranquility of the surroundings. But what makes the walk even more interesting is its historical dimension.
Designed in the 19th century, it reflects the desire to offer residents a green space in the heart of the walled city. Remnants of the ramparts still line the paths, reminding us that the park is inextricably linked to Zadar’s history. A stroll here is both a moment of relaxation and a step back in time, as you immerse yourself in this unique heritage.
