Zadar
A Roman-and-Venetian old town on a compact peninsula, famous for a sunset that Hitchcock called the world's best — and for a waterfront that actually plays music.
Search stays in ZadarZadar's old town packs a Roman forum, the round 9th-century church of St Donatus and a cathedral bell tower into a walkable peninsula. On the tip, the Sea Organ turns waves into sound and the Greeting to the Sun glows after dark, right where the sun drops cleanly into the sea. It's a real city, so it stays lively in shoulder season too.
The coast around Zadar is unusually varied: sandy and shallow bays at Nin and toward Privlaka and Sukošan make it good for families, while boat trips reach the Kornati islands and the sandy Saharun beach on Dugi Otok. Most stays are apartments and holiday homes in the seaside villages just outside the centre.
Good to know
- One of the few areas with genuinely sandy, shallow beaches — Nin and Privlaka are family favourites.
- Base yourself in a nearby village (Privlaka, Sukošan, Bibinje) for beaches, or the peninsula for the sights.
- Don't miss the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun at sunset — arrive early for a spot on the steps.
- Boat trips to the Kornati islands and Dugi Otok's Saharun beach leave from the harbour.
Where people stay
Popular spots in and around Zadar:
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