The city of Zadar has never been hotter than it is right now with people flocking to this Northern Dalmatian city from all over the Globe. So here is our little list of things to do in Zadar while you're visiting this splendid city.

Things to do in Zadar

This is a great place to sit back and relax and take in the beauty of the Zadar archipelago while listening to the sounds of the sea organ. The pavilion is set up so that flow of the ocean waves causes the unseen system of pipes to play a hauntingly melodic tune. Visitors typically sit on the large marble steps that flank the water. The Sea Organ one the best locations to watch the sunset and anyone that plans doing so should be here about a half-hour before the sun is scheduled to vanish into the horizon.

Greeting to the Sun

Located beside the Sea Organ, this solar powered work of art explodes with an array of brightly colored lights once the sun sets. Guests can walk across the glass surfaces as it changes hues. This attraction is especially fun for those who are traveling with small children but adults are sure to find it charming as well. Admission is free and the site is open to the public.

Foša Land Gate

This ornately carved Venetian gate is outside where anyone can see it and is certainly worth a stop when strolling through town. It makes for a great photo.

Museum of Ancient Glass

This facility is home to numerous glass artefacts, some of them dating as far back as the 1st century and others that were created far more recently. Interestingly many of the exhibits were found buried during the construction of a building in Zadar. Demonstrations in various glass working techniques, including bead making and glassblowing, are also held at this spot. Visitors can easily stroll the halls where additional exhibits detail such topics as the origins and history of glass.

St. Anastasia’s Cathedral

Open only for worship rather than for tours, parts of this historical church building were constructed as early as the 3rd century. However, most travelers visit for the great views from the bell tower. Climbing this structure is a feat not for the faint of heart or the mobility impaired because the steps are very steep. Admission to the bell tower costs about $2.50 USD (€2 or 15 Kuna).

St. Donat’s Church

Those who are interested in architecture will want to make their way over to this church because it is widely considered to be among the finest examples of Byzantium church architecture. The rounded interior is designed so that the light that falls into the sanctuary makes varied patterns at different times of the day. However, because the inside of the building somewhat plainly decorated compared to the exterior, those who are not architecture enthusiasts may simply want to view the building from the outside rather than venturing in. While there take a look at the footings of the church and you will notice some recycled Roman columns!

Archeological Museum

Found across the street from St. Donat’s Church, this museum provides travelers with some background information on Croatia’s history from prehistoric times to around the Middle Ages. The museum is very well organized and most of the displays are accompanied by excellent English translations. Guests will want to allow several hours for their visit. Museum admission typically costs around $5 USD (€4 or 30 Kuna) for adult visitors.

The Forum

These Romanesque ruins are located in the heart of the town where passerby can easily attempt to make out the still legible inscriptions on some of the stones. This area can be found near St. Donat’s Church and it is perfect for a pleasant walk on days when the weather is fair. If you look closely around Zadar there are Roman remains dotted all over the city.

Paklenica National Park

Although the park obviously isn’t within the city limits, it is a 40-minute drive from the city and can be easily accessed by private car or public transportation. Paklenica National Park is a beautiful national park famous for its climbing and hiking trails. Those coming here will want to bring sturdy footwear, a water bottle, and a swimsuit if the weather is warm. There is mountain lodge in the park where travelers can spend the night if they choose to do so but this form of accommodation is only open at certain times of the year. Therefore, it is best to check in advance to see if the lodge will be available during your visit before making plans to stay there.

Dugi Otok

A visit to Croatia isn't complete without visiting one of the islands and Dugi Otok is one of the best in the Zadar region. Its most famous attraction is the Sakarun beach with is a sandy beach with crystal clear waters. But beyond that, you have Telaščica Nature Park, Veli Rat lighthouse and some wonderful cycling and hiking trails across the island.

This little snapshot of things to do in Zadar is really just the tip of the iceberg. If you plan on visiting Zadar contact Octopus Transfer Croatia for your transfers from any hotel or airport in Croatia and let us take the wheel and get you to your destination.