zadar croatia day trips

The Amazing Traveler

14 Incredible Day Trips From Zadar (2024 Guide!)

Looking for the very best day trips from Zadar, Croatia?

My husband was born in Zadar, and we have a house just outside the city where we spend several months a year. So, I know a lot about this beautiful area – including some amazing spots that even some locals don’t know about.

We’ve explored all around Zadar and found some fantastic places that are perfect for a day out. In this guide, I’ll share these hidden gems with you. Whether you’re into quiet beaches, old villages, or tasty local food, there’s something for everyone.

Most of these places are just a short drive away, so you don’t have to spend all day traveling.

How to organize a day trip from Zadar

You’ve got six main ways to get around: renting a car, public buses, guided tours, boats and ferries, or private transfer. Let’s look at the pros and cons of each option.

This gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. But heads up, I only recommend renting a car if you’re pretty experienced behind the wheel. Driving around Zadar, especially in the summer, can be a bit of a headache.

If you’re not in the know about those little parking spots where locals park for free, you might end up paying a hefty 20 euros just for parking, and that’s no fun.

Btw, last summer I parked in one of those ‘local’ spots, thinking I was all set as police usually ignore it if they see local plates. Not my luck, though – I ended up with a 35-euro parking ticket, and you can’t pay these on the spot. You have to go to a bank or post office.

Trying to find a parking spot in Zadar during summer is like trying to find a needle in a haystack, no matter what time it is. So, if you’re thinking about hiring a car, just be ready for these kinds of things.

Public Buses

There are a variety of day trips you can do from Zadar using ‘public transport’.

Buses are the most affordable way to travel to places like Šibenik, Split, or Nin, but the schedules can be a bit limited and the trip will take longer than other options.

So, if you’re planning a day out and want to save some cash, just be prepared for a slower pace.

Guided Tours

These are great for when you want everything planned out for you. You’ll learn heaps, especially on trips focused on culture or history, since you’ll have a local guide to show you the ropes. These tours, whether private or in small groups, are an efficient way to explore.

The beauty of guided day trips is that they often include multiple stops, letting you see and do more in one go.

There are some places around Zadar that you just can’t get to without a car and for those spots, day tours are your go-to option if you’re not driving yourself.

Boats and Ferries

For island destinations like Ugljan Island, Dugi Otok, or the Kornati Islands, taking a ferry or a boat is necessary. Check with local ferry services like Jadrolinija for schedules and tickets. Some guided tours to islands also include boat transportation.

Private Transfers

For a more comfortable and personalized experience, you can book a private transfer. This is a more expensive option but offers convenience, especially for less accessible locations or if you’re traveling in a group.

As a final option, for those nearby destinations or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike. Zadar and its surrounding areas are laced with some scenic bike routes, perfect for day trips.

14 Best Day Trips From Zadar

Zrmanja canyon & rafting.

If you’re in Zadar you can’t miss the Zrmanja Canyon rafting experience.

The trip begins in Kastel Zegarski, a quaint village about an hour from Zadar. Here, the Zrmanja River, with its crystal-clear waters and untouched surroundings, awaits to take you on a thrilling ride. Known for its contrasting scenery of white rocks and lush greenery, the river flows through the heart of the canyon, creating a spectacular setting for your adventure.

The great thing about Zrmanja rafting is that it’s suitable for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a complete newbie, the river caters to all levels. Even kids as young as six can safely enjoy the rafting experience, making it a fantastic option for a family day out.

The rafting trip covers about 14.5 kilometers and usually lasts between 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll navigate through Grade 2 rapids, which might occasionally reach Grade 3. Don’t worry if that friendly even for beginners. Along the way, you’ll encounter moments of serene calmness and sudden rushes of excitement as you hit the rapids. It’s an exhilarating balance that keeps the journey interesting.

Before you set off, you’ll be kitted out with all the necessary gear – helmets, life jackets, and neoprene suits. The guides, who are registered with the Croatian mountain rescue service, ensure you’re well-informed with a safety briefing. Their top priority is to make your adventure both fun and safe.

To make the most of your day, pack a swimsuit, an extra T-shirt, suitable water shoes, and a towel. It’s also a good idea to bring along some snacks, water, sun protection, and a bit of cash. And don’t stress about your phone or camera; they’ll be safe in waterproof boxes provided at the start.

The adventure is reasonably priced, usually around 50 EUR for adults, with discounts available for kids. This includes all your equipment and insurance, but remember, transport to the starting point and meals are extra.

Dugi Otok (Long Island)

Reaching Dugi Otok is easy, with regular ferries from Zadar. In Sali, the largest town, you’ll find everything you need, from amenities to delicious local food.

The island is packed in summer as each village celebrates its heritage. Traditional festivities like the donkey race in Sali highlight the island’s history, where donkeys were essential in daily life.

Visit Saharun Beach, known for its clear waters and pine-fringed shoreline, perfect for a relaxing day. Telascica Nature Park is a highlight with its inviting coves, impressive cliffs, and the warm Lake Mir. This park also serves as a home to a variety of wildlife, including a group of donkeys.

Don’t miss the Veli Rat Lighthouse, the tallest in the Adriatic. Climb up for amazing views or enjoy the nearby beaches. It’s a spot that combines history with natural beauty.

For those who love the outdoors, Dugi Otok is a playground. Enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, or simply swimming in the clear waters. The less crowded roads make for perfect cycling adventures with views of the sea.

Kornati National Park

My first visit to Kornati National Park in the late ’80s is something I’ll always remember.

On the ferry ride there, an Italian family taught me how to play rummy, which was fun. What stood out to me the most, though, was how salty the lake was on one of the islands. It was so different from the sea around it.

Kornati National Park is an archipelago in the Adriatic Sea, remarkable for its raw and rugged landscapes.

With over 140 islands and islets, it’s a haven for those who love the sea, nature, and exploring. The islands, with their cliffs diving into the deep blue, create a stunning visual.

The park is rich in biodiversity, both underwater and on land. It’s a dream spot for snorkelers and divers. On the islands, you’ll find a variety of birds and unique plant species.

It’s the largest natural lake in Croatia and a protected nature park, ideal for bird watching and fishing, especially for carp.

What makes Lake Vrana unique is the contrast in flora.

On one side of the road, you’ll see Mediterranean vegetation typical of the Adriatic coast, and on the other, a freshwater ecosystem.

This creates a remarkable visual and ecological divide. The area also has hiking and cycling paths.

Krka National Park

I don’t have to describe the waterfalls of Krka National Park.

You’re probably already familiar with them, or someone you know has been there. What I can share, though, are tips on how to see these wonders without spending too much.

The cheapest option is the ferry from Skradin. Last summer, the fare was just 10 euros, but this year it might be higher. If you’re thinking about other entry points, like near the Krka Monastery, prices are, well, tourist prices.

My sister paid 40 euros there. And I’ve heard that some routes to the waterfall can even ask for up to 100 euros. I’ll make sure to update this article with the new season’s prices as soon as they’re available.

Nin is just a short trip from Zadar and is the oldest Croatian royal town.

Here, you’ll find the Church of the Holy Cross from the 9th century and the statue of Bishop Gregory of Nin.

The town has museums like the Museum of Nin Antiquities and the Museum of Salt. When in Nin, try the “cvet soli” or flower of salt. It might be a bit pricey, but it’s probably the saltiest thing you’ll ever taste, at least it was for me.

Ugljan Island

Ugljan Island is a 25-minute boat ride from Zadar. This lush, hilly island is covered with olive groves. It’s a favorite escape for those in Zadar, especially over the weekends.

In Preko, the island’s main hub, life revolves around the harbor. For a bit of adventure, a hike up to St Michael’s church offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding archipelago.

Then there’s Kali, a traditional fishing village southeast of Preko. It’s a place where narrow streets twist up hills, leading you through a living history of seafaring and fishing. The harbor, crowded with fishing boats, speaks of the village’s enduring connection to the sea.

Not far from Kali, Kukljica greets visitors with its sparkling bay. This area is particularly known for its beautiful beaches.

Pag Island is worth visiting on a day trip . The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge.

The Town of Pag is this medieval settlement is a window into the past, with narrow streets lined with stone houses. The town is also famous for its intricate lacework, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The Pag Lace Gallery in town is the perfect place to learn more about this traditional craft. Pag is also celebrated for its carnival, featuring traditional folk dances like the Pasko kolo.

The island is known for its delicious Pag cheese, made from sheep’s milk and often served with local white wine Žutica. The cheese’s distinct flavor is attributed to the sheep’s diet of sea-salted herbs and grass. Pag’s lamb is also a culinary highlight, considered some of the best in Croatia.

For young folks looking for nightlife, Novalja town is the go-to destination, especially the famous Zrće Beach. Known as the Croatian Ibiza, Zrće is packed with beach clubs and music festivals. During the day, the beach is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy water sports.

The island’s rocky, barren landscape is often compared to the lunar surface, and provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. Hiking, cycling, and exploring the rugged terrain are popular, as is swimming and enjoying the beaches. Pag’s beaches are known for their clear waters and are ideal for family outings.

Pag has a long history of salt production, dating back to Roman times. The traditional methods of salt harvesting contribute to the island’s unique economy and culture.

Velebit Mountain

On the way from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes, you can stop by the impressive Velebit Mountains and Paklenica National Park.

The Velebit Mountains feature striking peaks and lush forests while Paklenica National Park is known for its dramatic cliffs and canyons. It’s a favored spot for hikers and nature lovers.

Besides its scenic beauty, here you will see various plant and animal species.

Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most expensive national parks to visit, and there’s a good reason for it. The main attraction here is a series of cascading lakes and waterfalls that seem almost otherworldly.

The ticket prices vary. Outside the peak season, the adult ticket costs 15 euros, but during the summer season, it’s 60 euros. The ticket price includes rides on the panoramic train and electric boat, as well as visitor accident insurance.

The price also depends on the time of entry to Plitvice Lakes National Park.

For example, if a visitor enters at 10 AM, they will pay a different price compared to someone who enters at 6 PM. The lower price applies from 4 PM onwards in June, July, and August, and from 3 PM onwards in September.

Parking is charged from April to October for cars, campers, and buses. Motorcycle parking is free. The price for cars is 1.5 euros per hour.

Šibenik is known for its stunning medieval architecture, including the famous Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The city also has beautiful fortresses like St. Michael’s and St. Nicholas’, offering great views. Šibenik is not as crowded as some other Croatian coastal cities.

Side note: Dražen Petrović was born in Šibenik, so if you are interested in the NBA, this is an interesting fact for you.

Just before reaching Split, you’ll come across the charming town of Trogir.

The town’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. As you wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter stunning architecture, including a beautiful cathedral and a fortress with panoramic views of the town and the Adriatic Sea.

One of the highlights of Trogir is its waterfront promenade, where you can enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant. And if you’re a fan of boats as I am, the marina is filled with yachts of all sizes.

While you can reach Dubrovnik from Zadar in a day, I would not recommend going further than Split.

The roads can get pretty jammed, especially during the summer heat.

The largest Dalmatian city, Split, is famous for one thing in particular: Diocletian’s Palace, a 4th-century Roman structure and UNESCO World Heritage site.

In Split, you will see cultural experiences in its cafes, restaurants, and shops within historic walls, the scenic Riva waterfront, Mountain Marjan, Bacvice beach, and views of the islands across it.

Located just half an hour outside of Zadar, this place is different from others on the list. There are many things to do in Benkovac that are not connected to a summer vacation.

This is a place where East meets West. It once had the most cafes per capita in the former Yugoslavia, but nowadays it looks like a ghost town.

The famous landmarks of Benkovac are Kastel Benkovic, Asseria, and Benkovac Wells, but I would say the best attraction is the abandoned houses. You will see dozens of ruined houses, with trees growing from them. These are not some poor homes; most of them are mansions from the 18th and 19th centuries.

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Day Trips from Zadar

Zadar’s location at the northern part of Dalmatia make it very suitable for visiting other towns and cities in this region, as well as some of the local islands and National Parks…and those slightly further afield. Here, we’ll take a look at the options for day trips from Zadar.

Day Trips from Zadar – Plitvice Lakes

Visiting the Plitvice Lakes National Park is probably one of the most popular day trips for those staying in Zadar! Luckily, it’s very possible to visit the park in a day as there’s an early morning bus out to the National Park, and a return that gets you back to Zadar in the early evening. This means you’ll enjoy a good six hours or so in the Park. (See our guide to Exploring the Plitvice Lakes National Park to find out what to see and do.)

Journey time is around 2 hours each way; check bus times on the Zadar Bus Terminal website. When buying your tickets at Zadar’s Bus Terminal, ask to purchase a return ticket to make the return journey easier for you.

For those that would prefer not to travel by public transport, it’s possible to join an organised excursion. Viator have a Plitvice National Park Full-Day Tour which includes a guided tour in the park.

Day Trips from Zadar – Kornati Islands

Zadar is ideally situated for visiting another of Croatia’s national parks, the Kornati Islands (pictured below). However, due to the protected and isolated nature of the islands, they do need to be visited with an organised excursion as there’s no ferries to the islands.

Because they are relatively close to the mainland, it’s easy to simply enquire at a local agency for details; alternatively, you can pre-book a tour with Viator – their Kornati National Park Full-Day Trip from Zadar gives you an opportunity to visit the islands, including visiting a traditional village and time for swimming. You’ll also visit Telascica Nature Park, on Dugi Otok , and its salt lake.

Day Trips from Zadar – Pag island

The island of Pag – famous for its lace making, cheese, salt production and nightclubs (what a combination!) is situated just north of Zadar, connected to the mainland by bridge. There are several buses per day to Pag, again making it an easy place to visit on a day trip.

There’s an mid-morning bus from Zadar to both Pag and Novalja (journey time to Pag – 1 hour 20 minutes; to Novalja it’s 1 hour 55 minutes); see the Zadar Bus Terminal website for times. Ask the bus to stop at Kolan (see below) if you want to visit Sirana Gligora .

Pag Town has more sights than Novalja, whilst the latter is of course home to some of Croatia’s most famous beach clubs (which operate during the day and at night) on Zrce Beach – which, technically, could be visited by day to relax by the pools with a few drinks.

Kolan, just north of Pag Town, is home to Sirana Gligora which produces some of Croatia’s best known sheep cheese and has won numerous awards for its many products. The dairy runs tours of its premises where you can see production of their cheeses and taste samples of it as well; this would be well worth a trip to the island.

Day Trips from Zadar – Krka National Park

Rounding off the trio of national parks easily reachable from Zadar is Krka National Park . There are direct buses to Skradin, where the entrance of Krka is, which take about an hour. If you find that these bus times aren’t suitable, we would advise travelling to Sibenik first (many buses per day; journey time 1 hour 35 minutes) and then change here for a bus to Skradin.

If you want to head directly to Krka National Park, an organised excursion may be best. Ask locally, or check out Viator’s Krka National Park Full-Day Tour which includes a guided tour inside the Park.

Day Trips from Zadar – Sibenik

As indicated above, Sibenik is more than suitable as a day trip from Zadar. There are numerous daily buses that run between the two towns, and it’s roughly a 3 hour round trip. Amongst Sibenik’s sights are the Cathedral of St James, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day Trips from Zadar – Dugi Otok

Of the islands facing Zadar, Dugi Otok ( Long Island in English) is perhaps one of the nicest – its tranquil nature means its one of the most relaxing to visit, and it is home to Saharun Beach, one of Croatia’s nicest (and off-the-beaten-track) sandy beaches, and Telascica Nature Park.

However, it’s a little hard both to get to the island and to travel around on it. Although there are Jadrolinija car ferries to Brbinj at times that would get you there and back in a day, transport from Brbinj to the rest of the island is limited. If you’re very keen to visit Dugi Otok, perhaps enquire locally in Zadar with regards to renting a car for a day to take onto Dugi Otok. Jadrolinija do also operate catamarans to Rava and Bozava on the island, but these aren’t possible to be utilised for a day trip.

Again, ask locally for organised day trips to Dugi Otok. Or, if you fancy splashing out, how about this Private Saharun Beach Boat Trip which offers swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing!

Other Trips from Zadar

If you fancy taking to the ‘seas’, check out this 3-hour Sea Kayak Tour which is a great opportunity to see the sights of Zadar from a difference perspective. Or for something less energetic, what about this Croatia Islands Speedboat Experience where you can choose which local islands to visit?

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Zadar itinerary – best things to do in Zadar in 1, 2, 3 and 5 days

March 31, 2023
Croatia , Europe

Whether you have a few days to explore the area or are just passing through for a day, these Zadar itineraries have got you covered. As someone who can’t get enough of this captivating Croatian city, I might be biased, but Zadar really is not a city you’ll want to miss out on!

The old town of Zadar is situated on a small peninsula and offers an irresistible mix of ancient Roman ruins, medieval churches, lively bars, and modern art installations. But arguably the best bits are located in the surrounding area where you’ll find stunning beaches, breathtaking islands and wonderful national parks.

In this itinerary, I’ll guide you through the best places to stay, eat, and explore in and around Zadar, from hidden gems to popular attractions.

Zadar itinerary overview – the best of Zadar, Croatia

How many days in Zadar?

Where to stay in Zadar

Day 1 – zadar old town, day 2 – krka np or plitvice lakes, day 3 – beach day or dugi otok, day 4 – nin and queens beach, day 5 – kornati national park, day 2 – krka or plitvice, day 3 – kornati or dugi otok, day 2 – national park of choice, 1 day in zadar itinerary, what to pack for zadar, croatia, getting to zadar and around, where to eat and drink in zadar, best time to visit zadar, planning a trip to croatia.

Below I’m sharing crafted itineraries and recommendations on the best things to do in Zadar in 1, 2, 3 and 5 days.

These itineraries include unmissable sights like the Roman Forum, some off the beaten path attractions, plenty of nature and national parks, and I also made sure you get plenty of fun (and the best seafood) into your days.

In a hurry? Book your Zadar essentials:

These are the top things to do in Zadar that you absolutely shouldn’t miss out on, and a fantastic hotel for your stay!

Art Hotel Kalelarga City walking tour Zadar food tour Kornati National Park trip Dugi Otok kayaking tour Plitvice Lakes day trip

The below Zadar itineraries are designed to help you get a feel for the history and culture, but you’ll also be able to enjoy the beach and the incredible nature around this wonderful town. Zadar is surrounded by several national parks and incredible islands worth exploring.

Refer to this map of Zadar attractions to find the things mentioned below.

How many days in Zadar ?

Three days is the perfect amount of time to explore Zadar as you’ll have the opportunity to discover the charming Zadar old town and venture out to explore some of the nearby national parks and islands.

While the old town of Zadar can be combed through in just a few hours, I’d recommend spending at least one night here so you’ll be able to enjoy the sunsets, lively bar scene and maybe even a boat tour or national park.

You’ll also need a couple more days if you’d like to enjoy the beach or visit more of the nearby national parks.

The old town of Zadar is tiny and compact, and as with most coastal medieval towns in Croatia, car traffic is limited.

If mobility isn’t an issue and you only have a night then I’d recommend staying in the heart of the old town. Just keep in mind that some areas are pedestrian only so you might have to carry your luggage over cobblestone streets and stairs. If you’re traveling by car make sure your chosen accommodation offers parking.

If you have several days at your disposal you might prefer to base yourself outside of the city walls and near a nice beach. Punta Skala is just a 15min drive from town and offers incredible beaches plus Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera is an experience you will not want to miss out on!

Read next: Where to stay in Zadar – best accommodation and areas Best hotels in Zadar Hotel review – Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera

Art Hotel Kalelarga

LOCATION & HISTORY

Where history and modern luxuries meet. Fantastic location just a stone throw from the main attractions.

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Riva Palace

AFFORDABLE CHARM

An affordable and chick accommodation option in the heart of town with easy car access.

Check prices

Falkensteiner Iadera

STYLE & LUXURY

A beautiful beach resort 15min from town with all the amenities you could possibly need for a memorable stay.

Zadar 5 day itinerary

With five days in Zadar you will be able to leaisorly explore the town and do several day trips to the surrounding national parks and island.

Exploring the old town of Zadar is a journey through time with buildings and monuments from different time periods scattered throughout the town. To fully understand the complex history of this city, I highly recommended you join this guided walking tour. It’s also the best way to explore if you’re short on time or want to get a feel for what’s where.

Book this walking tour of Zadar

If you choose to explore on your own I’d recommend you follow the route below so you don’t miss any of the highlights. You might also choose to stop at the National Museum, see an exhibition at the Duke’s palace, or visit the Museum of Ancient glass.

If you’re not interested in the exhibitions you’ll probably have enough time to hit the beach in the afternoon. If that’s the case, once you get to the Land Gate walk left, away from the old town, to get to Kolovare beach and its fun jumping platform.

Roman Forum

The Roman Forum in Zadar is the largest forum on the eastern side of the Adriatic Sea, standing as a testament to the grandeur of the past. Today, only a few remnants remain, but on its foundations, the church of St. Donata and other religious buildings were built adding to the rich history of this magnificent site.

Pillar of Shame

Among the preserved remains of the Roman forum there is also a monumental column, or the Pillar of Shame, which still stands in its original place. People were chained to the column and subjected to public humiliation, with the chains and nails still visible as haunting reminders of this dark past.

St. Donatus’ Church

St. Donatus is a circular church built in the early Middle Ages in the traditional early Byzantine style on the remains of the ancient Roman forum. Its central circular sail is one of the most prominent historical landmarks in Zadar, also known for its remarkable acoustics.

St. Anastasia’s Cathedral Bell Tower

The magnificent Zadar Cathedral is the largest church in Dalmatia, with its construction dating back to the 4th or 5th century. However, the highlight of the cathedral is its bell tower, which is an impressive fifty-four meters tall and offers stunning panoramic views of Zadar and its surroundings.

St. Mary’s Church and Monastery

St. Mary’s Church and Monastery, built by women for women, was founded in 1066. Severely damaged during World War II, the church and monastery were restored during the post-war reconstruction of Zadar. Today, it is a beautiful building made of white marble and home to the Gold and Silver exhibition of church art.

Narodni Trg

Narodni trg, or People’s Square, has been the heart of city life since the Middle Ages and was declared Croatia’s most beautiful square.

Sit down at a cafe and take in the historic buildings that surround you, such as the majestic Town Hall, the City Guard, the City Loggia, and one of the oldest preserved buildings in the area, the 11th-century Church of St. Lovre.

Zadar has been protected by fortified city walls punctuated by only two gates – the Land Gate and the Sea Gate. From Narodni Trg walk towards The Land Gate. You’ll climb up the walls here.

This gate was built in 1543, features an image of Saint Krševan and the lion of Saint Mark, representing the Republic of Venice.

Zadar’s ancient city walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site, were built in the 12th and 13th centuries and fortified in the 16th century to protect against invaders. Recently restored, the walls offer beautiful views of the town and sea, and the walking path on top of the walls is breathtaking.

St. Simeon’s Church & Chest

St. Simeon’s Church may appear unremarkable, but it holds the stunning Chest of St. Simon, an intricate masterpiece made of 250 kilograms of silver, and the most precious example of goldsmithing in Croatia. The chest contains the mummified remains of St. Simon, one of Zadar’s patrons, and sits on the church’s main altar.

Lunch at Proto Food&More

Behind the church you’ll find Proto Food&More, a fabulous restaurant with a friendly and unpretentious atmosphere. The menu is diverse and includes traditional Croatian/Dalmatian dishes, seafood, meat, and burgers.

Five Wells Square

The Five Wells Square was named after the five wells built here in the 16th century. They provided water to the city during the Ottoman attacks. The wells were supplied from Lake Vrana, and remnants of the aqueduct remain preserved in the area.

Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

Queen Jelena Madijevka Park was Zadar’s first public park built during the fortress city era, and it has hosted social events for over 40 years. Today it provides a peaceful escape from the city, and beautiful views of the sea and city walls. Grab a coffee and chill at Bar Ledena in the park.

The Sea Gate, built in 1573 to commemorate a significant victory, is located near a small port where the Zadar peninsula connects tot he mainland. You can get incredible views of it from the park above.

Stroll down the Riva

This waterfront promenade, features the famous Sea Organ and Sun Salutation, and stunning views of the islands and open sea. It is especially beautiful during sunset when the sky turns into hues of pink, orange, and purple. It’s no wonder that the sunset from the Riva was declared by Alfred Hitchcock as the “most beautiful in the world.”

San Francis Monastery

The Gothic complex in Zadar includes a church, St. Anthony’s chapel, cloister, sacristy, and monastery treasury. However, the true highlight is the peaceful and serene atrium, which is a must-visit.

The Sea Organ in Zadar uses the power of the sea to produce a series of random yet melodious sounds through pipes that run underneath a set of marble steps along the waterfront. This creates a captivating and relaxing music.

Sun Salutation

The Sun Salutation is an urban installation by architect Nikola Bašic. It consists of 300 multi-layered glass panels that absorb sunlight during the day and light up at night. The best time to take in this breathtaking display of light is in the evenings, with the soothing sounds of the Sea Organ in the background.

Dinner at Bistro Kalelarga or Foša restaurant

Pick between two of the best Zadar restaurantsfor dinner. Bistro Gourmet Kalelarga in the heart of the old town offers authentic local cuisine with a well-curated wine list, a charming outdoor terrace, and a bakery serving fresh pastries and bread. Meanwhile, Foša restaurant is known for its seafood menu, served in a lovely outdoor area near the Land Gate and accompanied by an incredible wine list.

Maraschino at Stomorica bars

Initially created as a medicine by the pharmacists of the Dominican monastery in response to devastating epidemics, Maraschino quickly became a beloved drink enjoyed by refined palates all over Europe. Made from the local arasca cherry this liquor has a history of over five hundred years. Join in the centuries-old tradition of enjoying maraschino at cafes along Stomorica street, the liveliest part of town once the sun sets down.

Krka and Plitvice Lakes National Parks are both stunning and worth a visit. The stunning Krka river runs through both of them creating breathtaking landscapes filled with lakes and waterfalls.

It might be a tough choice, but one you have to make if you’re limited with time as I don’t believe visiting both is necessary. I’m slightly more in favor of Krka NP as it is closer, cheaper, and less crowded.

Krka National Park

Krka National Park is a true paradise of cascading waterfalls and pools that will take your breath away. While Skradinski Buk is the most renowned attraction, there’s so much more to discover!

For an unforgettable experience, I recommend exploring further into the park to visit Roski Slap, see The Necklaces, and climb the 500+ steps up to Ozidana pecina cave for sweeping views.

Book your Krka NP adventure: Krka NP entrance tickets Krka NP with tasting group tour

Plitvice National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s oldest and largest national park, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is divided into the Upper and Lower Lakes and as you walk along the wooden boardwalks, you’ll be surrounded by the turquoise waters of the lakes and the lush greenery of the forest.

Since this park attracts over 1 million visitors annually, it is essential to book in advance to secure your spot.

Book your trip: Private Tour of Plitvice Lakes Group Tour of Plitvice Lakes

Dugi Otok (Long Island) is the seventh largest Croatian island and with its beautiful beaches and underwater world, this island provides breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Take in the stunning caves of Golubinka and Dragon’s Eye, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, and relax at Sakarun Beach.

To visit you can choose to join a group tour and discover hidden gems on a boat trip, or paddle along the coast on a day-long kayaking adventure. You can even combine a boat trip with some additional exploring on a paddleboard.

Book your Dugi Otok adventure: Boat trip Kayaking tour Boat and SUP

When it comes to beaches in Zadar, the options are endless. Below I list just a few of my favorites, but the list goes on.

Kolovare beach is the closest and a popular destination among Zadar locals and visitors alike. It boasts an open swimming pool, beach volleyball court, basketball court, and bowling alley. The highlight, however, is the diving board with platforms at heights of 3, 5, and 10 meters, providing an unforgettable experience.

Shop these beach essentials:

Straw Beach Bag

SPF Beach Hat

Kindle Paperwhite

Reef Safe Sunscreen

Sand-Free Beach Mat

Waterproof Phone Pouch

Self-Cleaning Bottle

Borik Beach offers an ideal location for swimming and lounging on its picturesque pebble-filled shoreline. If you’re seeking a more secluded experience, venture to Puntamika Beach , where you’ll find quiet coves, a charming café, and even a scenic lighthouse.

And my favorite, the Punta Skala Beach, nestled within the serene pine forest is perfect for unwinding after a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.

If you’re looking for a stylish beach experience head to Baia beach bar. Nestled in the charming marina in Sukosan, you can relax in style in the luxurious cabanas, sip on incredible cocktails that will tantalize your taste buds, and let the rhythm of the live music take you away.

Nin Old Town

Nin is a small, historic town in Croatia known for its charming old town and long sandy beaches. Home to historic churches, museums, and the ruins of a Roman temple, Nin old town is located on a small island connected to the mainland by two bridges.

One of the top attractions in Nin is the 4-meter-high statue of Gregory of Nin, an important Croatian bishop. Legend has it that rubbing the statue’s toe brings good luck. Nearby is the church of St. Anselmus, which has an interesting treasury and a freestanding 12th-century church tower that dominates the town.

Nin Saline and Saltworks

Salt was as valuable as gold during that era, and the Romans even paid their soldiers with salt from Nin, which is where the word “salary” is believed to have originated. The Saline are located in the shallow lagoon of Nin and cover an area of 55 hectares with a history dating back to Roman times.

Nin Saltworks still produces salt using traditional methods, harvested by locals who have been doing so for generations. The salt has an authentic taste and high nutritional value due to the biodiversity of more than 200 species in the area.

You can tour the Nin Saltworks and its sea salt pans to learn about traditional sea salt production.

Queen’s beach

Queen’s Beach is the longest sandy beach in Croatia, stretching about 3 kilometers, providing ample space for sunbathing and relaxation. It is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia.

In addition to the beautiful sandy beach, here you’ll find medicinal mud, also known as peloid. It has been used for centuries for therapy, which involves covering the body with the mud, sunbathing on the sandy beach, and rinsing off the mud with warm sea water.

The Kornati National Park is a collection of 89 beautiful islands and islets and its waters, where a unique underwater micro-climate hosts rare algae and mollusks. The islands’ sparse trees and extraterrestrial looks with high vertical cliffs create an otherworldly and surreal landscape worth exploring.

The Kornati are a popular sailing and snorkeling destination with clear calm water and beautiful bays to explore. I highly recommend you book this Kornati boat trip that takes you to all the highlights and gives you plenty of time to chill and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Book your Kornati National Park tour

Zadar 3 day itinerary

With three days in Zadar you’ll be able to take in the stunning Zadar old town and explore some of the surrounding national parks and island. However yo will have to make some choices and prioritize the day trips you want to take.

Join this guided walking tour of the old town or follow the same route as outlined above in the 5-day itinerary.

If you really want to visit both, Kornati and Dugi Otok, you can pick up the tempo in the old town in the morning and use the afternoon for this Kornati half-day tour.

Krka National Park | Entrance tickets | Group tour with tasting

Plitvice Lakes | Private Tour | Group Tour of Plitvice Lakes

Kornati National Park | Kornati National Park tour

Dugi Otok | Boat trip | Kayaking tour | Boat and SUP

Zadar 2 day itinerary

You can also choose to pick up the tempo in the old town in the morning and use the afternoon for this Kornati half-day tour , This way you’ll be able to experience more of the surrounding national parks.

With only one day in Zadar you’ll want to make the most of it. Join this guided walking tour of the old town or follow the same route as outlined above in the 5-day itinerary.

I highly reccommend you start earlu and pick up the tempo in the old town in the morning so you’ll be able to join this Kornati half-day tour in the afternoon. Trust me, it’s worth it!

Pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for warm Mediterranean weather, including shorts, t-shirts, and my favorite, flowy dresses. I highly recommend packing a linen shirt that you can use as a bikini coverup or as a long-sleeve layer if you get chilly at night.

Sun protection essentials like sunglasses, a hat, and high-quality sunscreen are crucial. Don’t forget a beach bag (ideally one you can use as an everyday tote), a beach mat, a reusable water bottle (you can drink tap water in Croatia), and obviously, your favorite bikinis.

The beaches in Croatia often have sharp rocks or pebbles so water shoes are recommended and don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring the cities and national parks.

Zadar is serviced by Zadar international airport. Other airports in the vicinity include Split, Zagreb and Rijeka. The best way to travel between the airport and the city is with a cab that will get you straight to your accommodation. I reccommend you book this private transfer in advance to save money on cabs.

Zadar also has a well-connected central bus station, making it easy to get here by bus from other towns in the country.

The historic center is mostly closed ot traffic so the best way of getting around is on foot. You can however rent an e-scooter or e-bike, which are especially handy if you’re staying outside the old city walls.

Book your airport shuttle

Proto Food&More boasts friendly and knowledgeable staff, a calming and unpretentious setting, and serves traditional Croatian/Dalmatian dishes in generous portions at affordable prices. The menu is quite diverse, featuring a range of dishes from meat to seafood, gnocchi, risotto, and even burgers.

Bistro Gourmet Kalelarga offers authentic local cuisine, with a well-curated wine list, and the charming outdoor terrace provides a great atmosphere to enjoy your meal. They also have a special seasonal menu, and they’re best known for dishes featuring asparagus during the early spring. In addition, the restaurant’s bakery serves fresh pastries and coffee, making it an ideal spot for breakfast.

At Foša restaurant, seafood is the star of the menu, with both raw and cooked options available. You can enjoy your meal in the lovely outdoor area near the Land Gate and there’s a great wine list, featuring some fantastic Dalmatian options.

The best time to visit Zadar is in late spring or early autumn when the weather is sunny. the temperatures are pleasantly warm and the tourist crowds are manageble.

As a rule of thumb, I would advise you to avoid Croatia in the peak of summer (July & August). It just gets too hot, too crowded, and too expensive.

Croatia is a stunning country with countless gorgeous islands, charming roman towns, beautiful nature, and delicious food. To help you plan your trip I’ve prepared a series of Croatia travel guides. And for an easy plug & play solution make sure to check out my Croatia itinerary (coming soon).

Zadar: Best hotels in Zadar Where to stay in Zadar – best areas Best things to do in Zadar

Sibenik: Sibenik itinerary Where to stay in Sibenik

Trogir Trogir itinerary Where to stay in Trogir

Split: Best hotels in Split Where to stay in Split Split itinerary Your guide to Split Old Town Day trips from Split

Croatia itineraries: 2 weeks in Dalmatia itinerary 1 week Dalmatia Itinerary

Croatia guides: Your Guide to Krka National Park Your Guide to the Blue Cave Your Guide to the Blue Lagoon

Hvar: Best hotels on Hvar Where to stay on Hvar Hvar itinerary Hvar island guide Things to do in Hvar town Pakleni Islands guide

Dubrovnik: Best hotels in Dubrovnik Where to stay in Dubrovnik Dubrovnik itinerary One day in Dubrovnik Dubrovnik City Walls guide Best things to do in Dubrovnik Day trips from Dubrovnik

Reliable travel insurance

Good travel insurance is an absolute must when traveling abroad, and we’ve learned that the hard way!

Now we always get insured before we leave and Travel Insurance Masters is our go-to platform to find the best insurance options for the specific trip.

The TIM platform works as a search engine and suggests the best insurance company and insurance plan for your criteria so you don’t end up paying more for things you don’t need! It also takes into account your age, nationality, destination etc. which can greatly impact the final price.

You can get your quote & provider recommendations here.

Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi is the Founder and Editor in Chief behind Craving Adventure.

The Ultimate Day Trips from Zadar, Croatia

The Most Awesome Day Trips from Zadar

Historic Zadar sits on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, in northern Croatia. The town is packed full of Roman ruins, great places to eat and incredible sea views. However, Zadar is also perfectly placed to explore the gems of Northern Dalmatia. Close to Zadar are five of Croatia’s eight National Parks as well as loads of historical sites and outdoor activities. We will introduce you to the most awesome day trips from Zadar, including how to get there, what to bring with you and loads more useful tips.

Visit Krka National Park from Zadar

Krka National Park is a fantastic day trip from Zadar. One of the many phenomenal National Parks in this part of Croatia, Krka is a natural beauty not to be missed! We followed the 3km elevated wooden path around the park admiring the brilliant greens and icy blues of the waterfalls and flora. After walking for a while, and taking hundreds of photos, we found the star of the show, Skradinski Buk waterfall.

The park is located towards the southern portion of Croatia on the Krka River. It is 77km from Zadar , 87km from Split and only 10km from beautiful Šibenik .

There is a bus from Zadar to Krka National Park. This leaves from Zadar bus station, takes about an hour and costs €10 each way. There are 5 buses per day so plan your times carefully. It is cheaper to book in advance online and we used GETBYBUS . There is then a ferry at Skradin to take you to the National Park entrance.

Day Trips from Zadar – Discover Beautiful Pag Island

Pag Island has a rather unusual landscape for an Adriatic Island. While parts look like the surface if the moon, there are also beautiful beaches. Pag town is traditional and relatively unchanged for several hundred years. It is know for making beautiful lace and pungent cheese! However, there is also a decent party scene at Zrće beach during the summer.

It is possible to reach Pag town by bus from Zadar. A ticket costs €7 and the journey is under an hour.

Day Trips from Zadar – Plitvice Lakes

One of the most popular day trips from Zadar is a visit to the spectacular Plitvice Lakes. It’s easy to see why! Plitvice is Croatia’s largest national park and has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1979. During the peak seasons it can be busy and the ticket prices increase. However, plan your trip well and it will be a phenomenal day trip from Zadar!

There are regular buses from Zadar to Plitvice. The journey is around 3 hours and tickets cost about €12 each way.

Explore Paklenica National Park

To the North of Zadar is the phenomenal Paklenica with its rocky canyons, rugged mountains and beautiful wildlife. Hiking in Paklenica National Park is one of the best things you can do in this part of Croatia. And it’s so easy to take a day trip from Zadar!

The National Park is also home to the biggest climbing site in southern Europe as well as being home to extraordinary wildlife and some amazing places to eat.

The bus departs from Zadar bus station and drops you at Starigrad Paklenica. Check it out HERE. The early bus leaves at 8am and arrives at 8:50. Our return ticket € 17 each and was bought online with GETBYBUS . After getting off the bus, there is a 20 minute walk to the park entrance. From this point, there is a further 2km to walk to the canyon where the fun really starts!

Take a Day Trip from Zadar to Split

Split is one of the most popular destinations in Croatia! There is plenty of history to explore in the city’s ancient centre. Make sure you check out the Diocletian Palace and take a stroll along the beautiful promenades.

A day trip from Zadar to Split is super easy by bus as there are several companies running services between the two towns. Typically, it will take a little under 3 hours and cost between €10-15 each way.

Day Trips from Zadar – Relax on the Island of Dugi Otok

Beautiful Dugi Otok is one of the largest islands in the Adriatic Sea. At 45km long, the name translates as “Long Island”. It is also home to part of the spectacular Kornati National Park, stunning Telašćica Bay and many dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches. Dugi Otok is definitely a bit of a hidden gem making it one of the best day trips from Zadar!

Getting to Dugi Otok from Zadar is pretty easy – with enough planning. There are 4 ports on the island but the most popular is Sali. There is a ferry from Zadar to Sali quite regularly throughout the day. Tickets can be bought online HERE and cost about €3 each way.

Currently, the Port at Sali is under restoration . This is due to be complete thus year – 2024. The ferry will take you to Zaglav where you will find a bus to Sali. If you miss the bus, like we did, you can walk. However, a portion of the route is on quite a busy road. The bus will also take you back again and runs in time with the ferry departures.

Try a Day of Cycling from Zadar

To the south of Zadar, in the town of Biograd na moru, there is a 50km circular bike route. Along the way you will discover the charms of rural Croatia. It is also possible to take your bike on the ferry to some of the larger island such as Pag and Dugi Otok. Cycling is a great way to explore the islands.

There are many places in Zadar where you can hire bikes for the day and enjoy a bit of exercise as well as the stunning scenery.

Visit the Historic Town of Šibenik

Historic Šibenik is the oldest native Croatian town on the shores of the Adriatic and makes an excellent day trip from Zadar. Don’t miss the Cathedral of St James while exploring the old town. Šibenik is not too far from Krka National Park. If you plan well, you can fit both into one day.

To ride the bus from Zadar to Šibenik will take you around 1h 20min. The ticket prices vary but start from €5 each way.

Day Trips from Zadar – Kornati National Park

One of the ultimate day trips from Zadar is a visit to Kornati National Park. Made up of 109 islands, the scenery around Kornati National Park is breath-taking.

The only way to get to Kornati is with a guide. In the peak season, many companies offer guided tours and most things are included in the price.

Work up an Appetite by Kayaking for the Day

Kayaking is a really cool way of exploring the Zadarian islands. There are plenty of places to hire a kayak for the day. Or you might consider a guided tour by kayak that will take you to all the hotspots!

Discover Nin City from Zadar

Nin is little city in Zadar county. It is very important in the history of this area and a real treat for history fans, as it is the oldest royal city in Croatia. The city is on a small island connected to the mainland by two beautiful bridges. Don’t miss the old town which includes Sveti Kriz Cathedral – the world’s smallest cathedral – and be sure to visit the incredible beaches.

There are regular buses from Zadar to Nin and you can be there in under 30 minutes. Another option, if you’re feeling energetic, is to cycle from Zadar.

After a busy day of exploring the amazing sites around Zadar, you will be welcomed back to the town by the most phenomenal sunset – if you time it right. The famous Zadar sunset was once highly praised by Alfred Hitchcock. He proclaimed, “ Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world, more beautiful than the one in Key West, in Florida, applauded at every evening. “ What a way to end the day!

What to Pack for your Day Trips from Zadar

We have put together a convenient packing list for your awesome day trips from Zadar.

Hiking boots or shoes
Snacks for travel
Mini handheld fan (buses get incredibly hot in the summer!)
Book/audiobook/music
Water bottle
Weather appropriate clothing, such as windbreaker and fleece for hiking OR swimsuit and towel for hitting the beach
Insect repellent
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Map or downloaded GPS or map application on your phone
Charging pack if needed
Decent camera (phone) with plenty of space for pictures of the spectacular scenery
Cash (Croatian Kuna)
Driving licence and passport – if hiring a car

Should I Rent a Car for my Day Trips from Zadar?

This is a tricky one, and definitely down to personal preference. North Croatia’s public transport is actually pretty decent and most places are accessible by bus. However, there are very few railways in Croatia. The buses are great for travelling between towns and cities and are fairly priced. However, the timetable can be a bit restrictive, especially out of the busy tourist months. If you are short on time, hiring a car might help you make the most of your day trips from Zadar.

If you decide to rent a car in Zadar, please make sure you take out the full insurance. Drivers in the Balkans have their own unique style…

Plan your journey in advance as there are many small roads and these places can get super busy in peak season.

If you take the plunge and decide that driving is best for you, try Avax Rent a Car . They are really handy if you are based in Zadar old town and provide a great service.

The Croatian Language

Many Croatians in the cities speak a little English but it is useful to learn a few phrases in Croatian. It is certainly not an easy language for English speakers, but any attempt is greatly appreciated by the locals. Here are a few words to try out:

More information

For Zadar tourist info click HERE

Where to go next

Ready for more day trip ideas? Check out our Awesome Day Trips from Tirana, Albania . There is plenty of history and nature to discover in beautiful Albania.

Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.

Have you visited Zadar or anywhere else in Croatia? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!

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15 Amazing Day Trips from Zadar You Won’t Forget

Situated on the dazzling Dalmatian coast, Zadar is a captivating city that combines ancient history with a vibrant modern pulse. But the magic of Zadar doesn’t stop at its borders; a web of exciting day trips await just a stone’s throw away.

From the enchanting waterfalls of Plitvice National Park to the cultural richness of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, these expeditions promise to add diverse layers of discovery to your Croatian adventure.

Ready to embark on unforgettable journeys? Let’s explore the best day trips from Zadar together!

Plitvice National Park

Trip Highlights

Full-day tour from Zadar.
Includes transport, professional guide, and insurance.
Exploration of Lower and Upper Lakes.
Boat ride across the Big Lake and a panoramic train ride.
Flexible pricing with student and child discounts.
Punctual and helpful driver.
Opportunities for amazing photos at the park.
Potential for crowd during summer season.
Possibility of tour cancellation due to weather.

Are you looking to add a memorable day trip to your Zadar itinerary? Then consider embarking on a full-day tour to Plitvice Lakes National Park. With its mesmerizing cascade of 16 terraced lakes , this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a wonder you don’t want to miss.

Imagine departing Zadar at 8:00 AM, the sun just beginning to ascend in the sky, embarking on a journey into the heart of Croatia’s natural beauty . This tour doesn’t just offer transport; it gives you an experienced professional guide and insurance coverage, ensuring you have a safe and insightful journey.

Keep in mind that meals and entrance tickets to the park are not included in the package, allowing you the freedom to choose your preferred food options and pick the entrance package that suits your needs best.

Your day at Plitvice Lakes National Park will be filled with exploration of the Lower and Upper Lakes, showcasing the variety of waterfalls and vivid colors that change from azure to green, grey, and blue.

Don’t miss the unique experience of a boat ride across the Big Lake, giving you a panoramic view of this breathtaking natural spectacle. To end your exploration, a panoramic train ride awaits, offering a different perspective on the park’s enchanting scenery.

Regarding pricing, there’s a range to accommodate everyone. For adults, the tour costs 69 €, depending on the provider. For students, it’s 64 €, while children between 7-18 years can enjoy this unique experience for 39 €.

Once you’re in the park, you’ll have ample time to relax and explore the lakes, falls, and woods by foot or boat. Remember, this tour is not just cost-effective but also an efficient and comfortable way to reach and explore the park. Your driver, known for punctuality and clear instructions, will be there to assist and ensure you have a seamless experience.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is renowned for its beauty , with countless waterfalls and photo opportunities at every turn. However, keep in mind that it can get crowded during the summer season.

Planning your route ahead of time is highly recommended to maximize your visit and enjoy the most beautiful areas of Plitvice. Finally, be aware that weather conditions could lead to the tour being canceled, but rest assured, every effort is made to ensure the tour goes ahead as planned.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Plitvice National Park from Zadar:

Krka National Park

Approximately 9-hour tour from central Zadar.
Options for both guided and self-guided tours.
Round-trip transportation included.
Activities include hiking, swimming, and boat tours.
Tour prices start from 40 € per adult.
Krka’s stunning waterfalls are a must-see highlight.
Bring a swimsuit and towel for swimming.
Possible room for improvement in tour organization.

If cascading waterfalls and lush, green landscapes sound like your idea of a perfect day , then a trip to Krka National Park should be on the top of your Zadar day trip list. This stunning natural wonder is an increasingly popular destination, offering a myriad of activities to cater to all types of adventurers.

The journey to Krka National Park takes approximately 9 hours, beginning and ending in central Zadar. Whether you’re an independent explorer who enjoys the thrill of self-guided tours or you prefer the expertise and insight of a professional guide, there’s a tour option perfectly tailored for you. The tour includes round-trip transportation, meaning you can sit back, relax, and take in the picturesque views while you’re whisked away to the park and back.

Once inside the park, your options for exploration are plentiful. You can hike along well-trodden paths, breathe in the fresh air, and marvel at the park’s natural beauty at your own pace. One of the standout attractions are the park’s magnificent waterfalls that offer excellent photo opportunities.

And for those who fancy a dip, don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and towel – swimming in certain parts of the park is a refreshing experience you won’t want to miss. Additionally, boat tours provide a unique perspective on the park’s beauty and are a great way to further immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings.

In terms of cost, prices vary based on the tour provider and the package you select. However, for an approximate idea, tour prices start from around 40 € per adult.

While the park’s allure is undeniable, it’s worth mentioning that some visitors have suggested room for improvement in terms of tour organization. Furthermore, the driver’s conduct was an issue for some. But these things can be subjective, and it doesn’t mean every tour experiences these issues.

Despite these occasional hiccups, the overall experience at Krka National Park, with its captivating scenery and activities , remains overwhelmingly positive and truly unforgettable.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Krka National Park from Zadar:

Šibenik and Krka Waterfalls

Full-day tour to Šibenik and Krka National Park.
Visit to UNESCO World Heritage Site, St. James Cathedral.
Exploration of Krka Waterfalls and an opportunity to swim.
Comfortable coach bus transfer with a guide.
Priced at around 80 €, free for children under 4.
Multi-language options (content might vary slightly).
Does not include meals and drinks.
Known for punctuality and great customer service.

Seeking a blend of nature and history for your day trip from Zadar? Then set your sights on Šibenik and Krka Waterfalls. Uncover the historic charm of Šibenik and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Krka National Park in just one day.

This full-day guided tour invites you to step back in time as you roam the cobblestone streets of Šibenik . Marvel at the architectural wonder of St. James Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a testament to the city’s rich past.

The tour departs from Zadar in a comfortable coach bus. Known for punctuality, the tour ensures a prompt pick-up, making for a seamless start to your day. Though the journey offers multiple language options, including English and German, it’s worth noting that the information may differ slightly between the languages.

Next, get ready to be awed by Krka National Park. Here, you’ll not only see the park’s dramatic waterfalls but also have an opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear river . The scenic walk along the river and a visit to the historic stone watermills and workhouses add depth to your experience. And, don’t worry about the entrance fees – they’re covered in your tour price.

As for pricing, adults can embark on this adventure for around 80 €, while children under 4 years can join for free. Please note that meals and drinks are not included, allowing you to explore local culinary delights at your leisure.

Now, what about the tour’s difficulty? It’s an easy one compared to Plitvice Lakes, making it perfect even for families with young kids . And, while you may feel that you could get a tour with a boat for the same price, remember the unique mix of history and nature that this tour offers is second to none.

Rest assured, the tour company is known for its helpfulness, ready to assist you in case of any issues. With an informative guide, the trip is well-organized and promises to leave you with lasting memories.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Šibenik and Krka Waterfalls from Zadar:

Split (and Kils Fortress)

Explore Split, Croatia’s second-largest city.
Visit the UNESCO-protected Diocletian’s Palace.
Experience the historical Klis Fortress.
Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Wheelchair-accessible tour with service animals allowed.
Free cancellation up to 1 day before the tour.
Mobile and paper tickets accepted.
Suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Add a sprinkle of culture and history to your Croatian adventure with a day trip to the fascinating city of Split and the ancient Klis Fortress . Picture this: departing from Zadar in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, your destination is Split, the second-largest city in Croatia, and a significant cultural and tourist hub on the eastern Adriatic coast.

Upon arrival, you’ll have approximately 2 hours to discover Split’s architectural treasures and vibrant atmosphere. Dominating the cityscape is Diocletian’s Palace, a 4th-century Roman monument, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you explore its labyrinthine streets, you’ll step back in time, witnessing the centuries-old monuments, buildings, and a multitude of other attractions that contribute to Split’s enduring allure.

After soaking in Split’s vibrant energy, the next stop on your itinerary is the medieval Klis Fortress. Perched above a village bearing the same name, this fortress tells a tale of a turbulent past . Here, you’ll have another 2 hours to explore and marvel at an extensive collection of weapons, armor, and traditional uniforms from bygone eras. Remember, the admission ticket to Klis Fortress is not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to purchase this separately.

This day trip is wonderfully accessible. It’s suitable for all physical fitness levels , and the tour caters to wheelchair users, with all areas and surfaces fully accessible. Service animals are welcome to join, and specialized infant seats are available for the smallest adventurers. Plus, public transportation options are conveniently located nearby.

To maximize flexibility, the tour accepts both mobile and paper tickets. After you’ve confirmed your booking, you’ll receive your voucher via email. And, to give you peace of mind, free cancellation is available up to 1 day before the tour. However, keep in mind that cancellations made less than 1 day prior will incur a 100% cancellation fee, and partial cancellation is not permitted.

Please note, any cravings for coffee or tea during your journey will need to be covered separately, as these are not included in the tour.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Split and Klis Fortress from Zadar:

Dugi Otok (Long Island)

Full-day boat tour from Zadar.
Visit to Sakarun Beach and the Veli Rat Lighthouse.
Swimming and snorkeling at the Golubinka Sea Cave.
Professional guide providing interesting facts and stories about the island.
Lunch stop at a local tavern (meal cost not included).
Small group size for a more personalized experience.
Suitable for families, groups, and individuals.
High praise for its beautiful views and great experience.
Remember to bring sunscreen and a hat.

If you’re looking for a seaside adventure that perfectly encapsulates the Croatian island experience , look no further than the full-day boat tour from Zadar to Dugi Otok, also known as Long Island. This trip takes you to the most spectacular spots on the island, including the world-renowned Sakarun Beach, all under the watchful eye of a professional guide.

Your journey commences from Zadar at 8:30 AM, setting course for an exciting day of exploration and leisure. With an inclusive package priced at 60 € per person, you’ll enjoy boat transport, the services of a professional guide, and insurance coverage for your peace of mind.

The tour promises a day of discovery, including a visit to the Golubinka Sea Cave, a natural marvel where you can swim and snorkel, immersing yourself in the crystal-clear Adriatic waters. Furthermore, you will get to marvel at the Veli Rat Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in the Adriatic , offering incredible views of the surrounding seascape.

To ensure a personalized experience, the tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 12 people per boat, making it perfect for families, groups, or even solo travelers seeking a social experience. As you traverse from spot to spot, your guide will enrich your journey with interesting facts and stories about Dugi Otok, its culture, and history.

Halfway through your adventure, the tour offers a lunch stop at a local tavern, where you can savor authentic Croatian cuisine (meal cost not included in the tour price). This pit stop not only offers delicious food but also gives you a taste of the local culture and hospitality.

While the highlights of Dugi Otok are many, previous travelers single out Sakarun Beach as a must-visit. With its pristine white sand and turquoise waters, it’s no surprise that many regard this stop as the highlight of their trip to Zadar.

Finally, remember to bring sunscreen and a hat. While the stunning views and warm sun are part of the charm, you’ll want to protect yourself from sunburn during the tour.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Long Island (Dugi Otok) from Zadar:

Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park

Full-day trip from Zadar.
Small group experience with maximum 12 travelers.
Includes lunch, snacks, beverages, and snorkeling equipment.
Visit to a Roman village, Salt Lake “Mir,” and opportunities to swim and hike.
Various price ranges with discounts for children.
Departure from either Obala kneza Trpimira 2, Zadar, or Zadar Bridge.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Friendly and professional crew.
Delicious and plentiful food onboard.
Balanced schedule of relaxation and exploration.

Planning your escape from Zadar into Croatia’s natural wonders? Let us introduce you to a spectacular day trip to the Kornati Islands and Telascica National Park. Comprising over 100 islands , this paradise is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and exploring.

This is not a typical tourist tour; it’s an intimate, small-group experience limited to a maximum of 12 travelers. This ensures that every guest gets personalized attention , fostering a closer connection with nature and fellow travelers alike.

Your journey begins at either Obala kneza Trpimira 2, Zadar, or the Zadar Bridge, depending on the tour provider. To ensure a smooth start to your day, boarding is also available from the center of Zadar and Bibinje.

Once onboard, prepare yourself for an immersive adventure into nature’s beauty. From visiting a quaint Roman village to hiking to scenic viewpoints , your day will be filled with activities. Don’t miss out on the unique experience of swimming in Salt Lake “Mir” or in the sea, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the parks.

Are you a fan of underwater exploration? The tour provides snorkeling equipment, enabling you to take a deep dive into the clear waters and encounter beautiful marine life.

Worried about staying fueled for your adventure? The tour ensures that you’re well-fed and hydrated throughout your journey. It includes a welcome drink, breakfast, lunch, snacks, and beverages. Unlimited wine, juice, and water are provided throughout the trip, keeping you refreshed as you traverse the enchanting landscapes of Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park.

With a duration of approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, the tour makes the most of your day, offering a balance of relaxation and exploration. Prices range from 120 € for adults, while children between 3-12 years can join the tour for around 40 €. Children aged 0-3 years can participate for free. This offers excellent value for money, considering the range of experiences and amenities included in the tour.

The boat crew contributes significantly to your experience, renowned for their friendliness, professionalism, and excellent service. They ensure that your tour is well-organized, comfortable, and filled with interesting insights about the area. The food served onboard is renowned for its deliciousness and plentiful quantities, keeping you satisfied as you soak in the stunning views.

For your peace of mind, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. This allows you to book with confidence, knowing you have the flexibility to adapt to any unforeseen changes in your plans.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park from Zadar:

Paklenica National Park

6-8 hour day trip from Zadar, available from April to October.
Includes a professional guide, entrance fee to the park, transportation, and insurance.
Hiking and rock climbing opportunities for all experience levels.
Visit to Manita Peć cave and Velebit’s highest peaks.
Four educational trails offering immersive learning.
Diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Challenging hiking trails with steep and rocky sections.
Park facilities including a cafeteria and a souvenir shop.
The park’s app for easy navigation.
Cost-effective and enriching experience.

If your adventures have brought you to Zadar and you’re thirsting for a memorable day trip , the stunning Paklenica National Park awaits. Located northeast of Zadar, nestled in the southern Velebit mountain range, Paklenica National Park is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, enchanting wildlife, and exciting activities.

This day trip is ideal for nature lovers and adrenaline seekers alike. From April to October, you can take a 6-8 hour journey to the park from Zadar. Once there, you’ll have the opportunity to explore flower-filled meadows, age-old burial sites, atmospheric caves, and historic ruins, all set against the backdrop of the Velebit’s highest peaks, Vaganski Vrh (1757 m) and Sveto Brdo (1753 m).

Your expedition includes a professional guide, entrance fee to the park, transportation, and insurance, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The adult price ranges from around 80 € to 110 €, depending on your preferred provider, and there’s a special rate of 40 € for children aged 4-12 years.

The heart of your adventure lies in the park’s renowned hiking and rock climbing opportunities . Expect to tread along the rocky trails of Velika and Mala Paklenica canyons, leading to mesmerizing viewpoints. Visit the Manita Peć cave, a unique spectacle that promises to be a highlight of your tour. Take advantage of the park’s four educational trails – Velika Paklenica, Paklarić, Pjeskarica, and “Kratko putovanje kroz prošlost” for an immersive learning experience.

Be aware that some trails can be challenging, with steep, rocky, and slippery paths. Don’t forget to wear good hiking shoes for a safer and more comfortable experience. Even though trails are generally well-marked, some visitors found route markings to be less visible, so staying aware is advisable.

Make sure to bring your water bottles, as there’s drinkable water available in the park. Nature enthusiasts will love spotting boars, butterflies, and a variety of bird species, although keep in mind that bird sightings can be sporadic.

Though the park attracts many visitors, it rarely feels crowded, offering an intimate connection with nature. Rock climbers, especially, find this park a haven, with many areas dedicated to climbing. There’s also a small cafeteria for refreshments, and a souvenir shop to pick up a memento of your adventure.

Plan your day at the park using the park’s app, which provides pre-marked routes for easy navigation. The park is about a 40-minute drive from Zadar, accessible by car, bus, airplane, or even ferry, and it offers a cost-effective, enriching experience to its visitors.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Paklenica National Park from Zadar:

Direct bus connections from Zadar with flexible timings.
Exploring historic Kamerlango Castle.
Visiting the impressive Cathedral of St. Lawrence.
Savoring the sweet treat of Trogirksi Rafioli.
Soaking up the sun at Pantan and Okrug Beaches.
Shopping fresh local produce at the farmers market.
Wandering around the UNESCO World Heritage Site town.

While there may not be official day tours from Zadar to Trogir, don’t let that deter you from experiencing the charm of this historic town on your own. Embarking on a self-guided journey from Zadar to Trogir promises to be a rewarding experience full of stunning sights and mouthwatering delights.

Getting there

Starting your day early, you can catch one of up to 18 daily bus departures from Zadar to Trogir. With the earliest bus leaving at 04:45 and the latest at 20:30, you’ve got flexibility to plan your travel. This journey covers a distance of 128 km, with the quickest travel time being just 2 hours and 10 minutes, while the longest stretches to about 3 hours.

Some buses stop briefly in Biograd na Moru, Bibinje, and Sukosan, turning your trip into a scenic adventure. The bus ticket prices vary, with adult tickets ranging from 10 € to 13 €. For children, it’s between 5 € and 9 €, while students and pensioners can find tickets ranging from 7 € to 13 €.

Exploring Trogir

Once in Trogir, a treasure trove of experiences awaits you. Begin your exploration at the Kamerlango Castle, a petite architectural marvel that promises to reward you with stunning views of the marina and town.

Next, head to the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, a Romanesque-Gothic styled Roman Catholic church that commands a panoramic view of the entire town, leaving you spellbound.

After you’ve taken in the sights, it’s time to tantalize your taste buds. Treat yourself to Trogirski Rafioli, a local sweet delicacy, that’ll provide a delightful taste of Trogir’s culinary tradition.

No trip to Trogir would be complete without basking on its beaches. Pantan Beach is a sandy oasis with shallow waters perfect for a relaxed sunbathing session. If you’re after a more dynamic atmosphere , Okrug Beach is the spot. It’s the most popular beach in the area, brimming with restaurants and bars that hum with life long into the night.

For a truly authentic experience, visit the local farmers market. Just 100 meters from the bus station, it offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and locally produced olive oil.

Finally, simply exploring Trogir’s UNESCO World Heritage Site town will present enchanting sights of beautiful architecture, sea views, and palm trees that seemingly dot every corner. Trogir is a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that offers a unique day trip experience.

Canoe Safari/Rafting on Zrmanja River

Amazing adventure through beautiful landscapes.
Options for both high-adrenaline rafting and peaceful kayaking.
Guided tours with equipment and instruction included.
Opportunity to swim at the stunning Krupa Waterfall.
Varying durations to suit your schedule.
Offers for both adults and children, starting from age 6.
Well-organized tours with professional staff.
Stunning views and photo opportunities.
Great value for money.

Ready to embrace the adrenaline rush and dive into the cool, crystal-clear waters of the Zrmanja River? Offering an exciting array of water activities from thrilling rafting to relaxing canoeing, the Zrmanja River and its stunning Krupa tributary are waiting to be explored.

The adventure begins either in the idyllic village of Kaštel Žegarski or in the vibrant city center of Obrovac, depending on the tour you choose. Whichever location you start from, rest assured you’ll be in the hands of experienced guides who will provide necessary equipment, helpful instructions, and information about the river’s behavior.

Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Zrmanja River canyon, with its clear waters and 200m high canyons, adorned with numerous rapids and waterfalls. Depending on the river level, you can choose between adrenaline-filled rafting during high waters (usually from April to June & September to October), or a more tranquil kayaking tour when the water is lower (typically from June to September).

After all that excitement, you can unwind with a break for swimming at the majestic Krupa Waterfall or use your free time to relax by the riverbank. Adventurous travelers might even enjoy jumping off rocks into the crystal blue water.

Don’t worry about comfort or safety; these tours come equipped with everything you need . Full equipment, a raft with a capacity of 6-12 persons, helmets, lifejackets, and even insurance are included. Plus, some tour providers offer extras like an air-conditioned vehicle, WiFi on board, and a lunch to replenish your energy.

Tours vary in duration, ranging from an intense 2.5 hours to a leisurely 7 hours. Please note that transport to the starting point may not be included in some options.

Prices vary but generally offer excellent value for money, with costs ranging from 40 € to 100 € per adult, and children enjoying a discount, sometimes as much as 50%. Always remember, this unique and incredible experience of paddling near the Croatian mountains is worth every cent

Check out latest prices for day trips to Canoe Safari/Rafting on Zrmanja River from Zadar:

Full-day tour showcasing the unique features of Pag Island.
Visit the UNESCO-recognized Pag lace gallery.
Cheese tasting at the world-famous Kolan cheese factory.
Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local “konoba”.
Choose between two walking trails: “Life on Mars” or “Ancient Wild Olive Gardens”.
Party at Zrce beach, known for its vibrant nightlife.
Flexible order of visiting locations to maximize experience.
Several convenient meeting point options.
Affordable travel options from Zadar to Pag.

Looking for an unforgettable day trip from Zadar? Look no further than the island of Pag. Known for its moon-like landscapes , secluded beaches, and clear blue waters, Pag Island is a destination that is sure to take your breath away.

This full-day excursion starts in the town of Pag. Here, you’ll have the chance to visit the local lace gallery, recognized by UNESCO for its intricate and delicate designs. You’ll marvel at the craftmanship that has been passed down through generations, making the lace of Pag a cherished cultural heritage.

Next on the itinerary is the Kolan cheese factory, famed for producing some of the finest cheese in the world . A visit to the cheese factory is a must for foodies who want to understand the intricacies of artisan cheese production. Following this, you’ll have a chance to enjoy a sumptuous lunch in a traditional “ konoba “, where succulent local lamb is a specialty.

But this tour isn’t just about food and crafts. You’ll have the opportunity to choose between two distinct walking trails. The “Life on Mars” trail leads you to a secluded beach where you can swim in crystal-clear waters . Alternatively, the “Ancient Wild Olive Gardens” trail gives you a glimpse into the past, taking you through groves of olive trees that are up to 2000 years old.

No trip to Pag would be complete without visiting Zrće Beach, a hotspot for nightlife and dancing . The order of the locations may vary to avoid crowded areas and enhance your overall experience. Please note, the tour involves a combination of walking and driving, providing a balance of exploration and relaxation.

The duration of the tour is approximately 14 hours and includes guiding services, private transportation, and admission tickets to the Lace Gallery and the Kolan cheese factory. The tour does not cover personal expenses, souvenirs, food, drinks, and snacks, so it’s recommended to carry about 25 € for lunch. You can conveniently meet for the tour at multiple locations, including rail or bus stations, cruise ship ports, airports, and hotels.

If you decide to get to Pag on your own, getting there from Zadar is a breeze. You have multiple options. The bus is the most cost-effective choice, with a fare between 7 € and 9 € and a travel time of approximately 1 hour. Taxis are available if you prefer a faster route, although they’re a bit pricier at between 80 € and 100 €. Alternatively, you can drive, taking approximately the same time as a taxi but at a much lower cost of between 8 € and 12 €.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Pag Island from Zadar:

Trip Highlights:

Ancient town of Skradin, with a history dating back to prehistoric times.
Convenient location at the entrance of Krka National Park.
Intriguing archaeological site, Bribirska Glavica.
Traditional local dishes unique to Skradin.
Easy and short journey from Zadar, with several transportation options.
Flexible bus schedule with up to 7 departures daily.
Option for private transfer or rental car.
Experience the vibrant cultural and historical heritage.

Eager to venture outside Zadar and explore more of Croatia’s enchanting landscapes? Set your sights on Skradin, a historical gem that awaits just a short journey away. First mentioned in the 10th century and inhabited since prehistoric times, Skradin is more than just a town; it’s a portal into a vibrant history spanning over 6000 years.

Skradin, previously known as Scardona to the ancient Illyrians and Romans , is nestled at the entrance to Krka National Park, making it an essential stop for both nautical adventurers and land-based explorers. It once served as a significant Roman municipium, port, and stronghold, and later even became the capital of Croatia and Bosnia under the rule of the House of Šubić.

Over the centuries, Skradin has witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations , experiencing the influence of the Avars, Turks, and Venetians. This rich tapestry of cultural and historical interactions is mirrored in its stunning architecture and enduring traditions.

Today, Skradin offers a variety of attractions to captivate every traveler. Unleash your inner archaeologist at the Bribirska Glavica site, witness the breathtaking natural beauty of Krka National Park, and tantalize your taste buds with traditional local dishes that are as much a part of Skradin’s history as its ancient ruins.

There aren’t any guided tours from Zadar to Skradin alone, but getting there from Zadar is very easy. Whether you choose to take a bus or opt for a private transfer, your journey will be short and sweet, roughly an hour. With up to seven direct buses running daily from as early as 09:30 until as late as 18:30, you have the flexibility to start your adventure at a time that suits you. Bus ticket prices for adults vary between 5 € to 10 €, offering affordable options for every budget. For those wanting a more private experience, transfers from Zadar to Skradin start from 105 €.

If you prefer the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a car is another great option. The journey covers 47 miles (76 km) and takes approximately an hour, allowing you to take in the Croatian scenery as you travel.

Ugljan Island

Full-day tour, including islands of Ugljan, Ošljak, and Galevac.
Boat ride, professional guide, and safety equipment included.
Opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
Biking and hiking trails across the island.
Exploration of seven idyllic villages with rich traditions.
Taste of local Dalmatian gastronomy.
Easy access via a 30-minute ferry ride from Zadar.
Stunning beaches and historical sights.
Suitable for all seasons, with camping options for overnight stays.

Are you craving an island escape during your visit to Zadar? Look no further than Ugljan Island, fondly known as “The Green Island”. With its lush Mediterranean vegetation , stunning beaches, and idyllic villages, Ugljan offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and culture, all within an easy day’s trip.

Your full-day tour begins at 9:00 AM from the heart of Zadar, taking you on a picturesque boat ride to the islands of Ugljan, Ošljak, and Galevac. Under the guidance of a professional tour guide, you’ll be equipped with safety gear and offered an array of activities, making the most out of this 8-hour adventure that’s priced at just 80 € per person.

A highlight of this tour is the opportunity to plunge into the clear Adriatic waters, with swimming and snorkeling sessions in some of the most pristine aquatic environments.

For those more inclined to land-based activities, Ugljan Island is a paradise for biking and hiking. The island boasts numerous trails that traverse its verdant landscapes, offering stunning vistas at every turn. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a casual hiker, you’ll find trails that match your skills and stamina.

Ugljan Island is home to seven charming villages, each with a rich tradition in olive gardening and fishing . You’ll find a wonderful assortment of restaurants and shops here, offering you a taste of the island’s rich Dalmatian gastronomy and local produce. Don’t miss the chance to sample the local olive oil, seafood, and other delicacies!

Being only a 30-minute ferry ride away from Zadar, Ugljan Island is very accessible . The ferry costs approximately 2 € per person, offering a cost-effective alternative to boat tours. Once on the island, you can explore its historical sights, dive into various activities like cycling, snorkeling, and diving, or simply relax on one of the island’s stunning beaches.

Ugljan Island’s Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers, makes it a great destination year-round . For those wishing to stay overnight, there are several campsites offering an immersive experience in nature.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Ugljan Island from Zadar:

Exploring the oldest Croatian royal town.
Visiting the world’s smallest cathedral, Church of St. Nicholas.
Trying out Nin’s medicinal mud for a natural spa experience.
Watching traditional salt production at the local saltworks.
Touching the big toe of the Grgur Ninski statue for good luck.
Enjoying the modern amenities at Zaton Holiday Resort.
Various transportation options from Zadar, with driving being the quickest and most economical.

Planning to add a dash of history, a sprinkle of relaxation, and a healthy helping of traditional Croatian culture to your holiday? Then let me introduce you to Nin, a charming small town cradled in a shallow lagoon, connected to the mainland by two whimsical stone bridges.

This tiny yet powerful place wears the crown as the oldest Croatian royal town and the birthplace of the Croatian state, making it a captivating destination for your day trip from Zadar.

Imagine wandering the cobblestone streets of Nin, absorbing the rich history that has seeped into every nook and cranny. Your first stop will be the Church of St. Nicholas, known as the smallest cathedral in the world and a testament to Nin’s religious and architectural heritage. A quick stroll away, you will find the statue of Grgur Ninski. Local lore has it that touching its big toe brings good luck, so don’t forget to partake in this charming tradition.

For those seeking a unique wellness experience, Nin’s medicinal mud is a must-try. Known for its curative properties, this mud is not just a part of the landscape, but a symbol of health and longevity. Take a break from exploring and indulge in this natural spa experience, letting the mud work its magic.

No visit to Nin would be complete without witnessing the traditional salt production at the town’s saltworks. As you watch the salt crystals glisten in the sun, you will appreciate the labor and love that goes into each grain.

Finally, for those seeking a more modern experience, the Zaton Holiday Resort, one of Croatia’s most renowned camps, offers a range of recreational activities and services. Indeed, Nin’s recognition as a European Destination of Excellence (EDEN) is well deserved.

Getting to Nin from Zadar is simple and offers options to suit different preferences. If you’re seeking a budget-friendly option, take a bus ride, which takes about 30 minutes and costs anywhere from 2 € to 11 €. If you’re looking for speed and convenience, a taxi ride will get you to Nin in approximately 22 minutes and will cost between 20 € and 25 €.

Lastly, if you have access to a car, a short 22-minute drive from Zadar will land you in Nin, making it not only the quickest but also the most economical option, ranging from 2 € to 5 €.

Silba and Olib Boat Tour

Full-day tour to Silba and Olib from Zadar.
Seven stops including bays, beaches, sunken sarcophagi, and art gallery.
Swimming, snorkeling, and playing Picigin on the beach.
Visit to the Tower of Love with panoramic views.
Experienced captain and English-speaking guide included.
Amenities like safety gear, first aid kit, snorkeling goggles, and windproof jackets provided.
Light snacks, fruit salad, bottled water, and a beer or cider included.
Prices range from 118 € to 126 € per adult, with discounts for children.

Bask in the stunning beauty of the Adriatic Sea with a full-day boat tour exploring two hidden gems – Silba and Olib. These islands, beloved for their turquoise bays, sandy beaches, and the refreshing absence of cars , promise an adventure away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

This tour isn’t just a visual feast. You’ll be making seven stops filled with invigorating activities. Get your snorkeling gear and explore underwater worlds, discovering ancient sarcophagi hidden beneath the sea. On land, enjoy playing Picigin, a Dalmatian unofficial beach sport that’s sure to bring out the child in you.

Not only does the tour offer an exciting array of activities, it also includes a visit to an open-air art gallery showcasing the works of Croatian sculptress Marija Ujević Galetović, adding a cultural touch to your day. But the artistic journey doesn’t stop there. You’ll also visit the romantic Toreta tower, known for its love story, offering breathtaking panoramic views that will etch themselves into your memory.

The tour leaves from two locations, either the Zadar Archipelago Office or Marina Tankerkomerc, at 9:00 AM, ensuring you have a full day of exploration and adventure. Your return to Zadar is scheduled for the evening, around 18:25 PM to 18:30 PM, leaving you with a day filled with stunning sights and memorable experiences.

Rest assured, your comfort and safety are a top priority. The tour price includes an experienced captain and local English-speaking guide, safety gear, a first aid kit, and even motion sickness pills for those who need them. Snorkeling goggles and windproof jackets are provided, as well as sunscreen to protect you under the Mediterranean sun.

Your palate won’t be forgotten either. Enjoy light snacks, a refreshing fruit salad, and bottled water throughout your journey. Juices for the kids, along with a beer or cider for the adults, are also included. The costs for anchoring, berthing fees, and tickets to marine protected areas are covered as well.

As for pricing, you can expect a range between 118 € and 126€ per adult, while for children, prices are typically around half that, between 59 € and 63 €.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Silba and Olib Boat Tour from Zadar:

Private tour from Zadar to Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Stops at the Red and Blue lakes in Imotski town.
Private walking tour of Mostar with an English-speaking local guide.
Visit to the historic center, Old Bridge, and Ottoman district.
Tasting of traditional local food.
Optional stop at the Pocitelj fortress.
Door-to-door service with professional drivers and sanitized vehicles.
Optional sightseeing en route.

Embark on an extraordinary day trip from Zadar to the historical city of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, an experience that promises a deep dive into the rich history and culture of the region.

Your private tour commences with the convenience of a door-to-door service that ensures your comfort and ease. With professional drivers at the helm of sanitized vehicles, you’re set for a secure journey that covers approximately 3 hours of scenic landscapes. There are optional sightseeing spots en route, including the breathtaking Krka National Park, the historic city of Trogir, the bustling city of Split, the imposing Klis Fortress, the idyllic Makarska, and the spiritual Medjugorje.

One of the tour’s highlights is the detour to Imotski town. Here, you’ll find the Red and Blue Lakes, two stunning natural phenomena that are must-sees. Then, it’s time to dive into the core of Mostar with a 1.5-hour private walking tour. Led by an English-speaking local guide, you’ll traverse the historic center, cross the famed Old Bridge, and step back in time as you explore the district from the Ottoman era.

A trip to Mostar isn’t complete without indulging in traditional local food . The tour provides ample opportunities to taste iconic dishes like ćevapi (grilled dish of minced meat), pita (stuffed pastry), burek (filled pastry), and sweet treats like baklava and ormasice. To bring home a piece of Mostar, don’t forget to stop at the bazaar for unique souvenirs.

As the day winds down, you have the option to stop at the Pocitelj fortress before returning to Zadar. This historic castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, a perfect way to end your day.

Pricing for this day trip is as flexible as it is fair, starting from 72 € per seat. For smaller groups of 1-4 people, travel is arranged by car, while groups of 5-8 people are accommodated in a van. Plus, the flexible cancellation policy ensures a 100% refund up to 24 hours before departure, providing peace of mind and flexibility to your travel plans.

Check out latest prices for day trips to Mostar from Zadar:

Explore the Wonders of Zadar Itself

Didn’t find any day trip you like? As a seasoned traveler and a proud resident of Zadar, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring every nook and cranny of this beautiful city. I’ve compiled a list of must-visit spots and experiences in Zadar, all from my personal articles on Croatia Wanderlust. So, let’s dive into the magic of Zadar!

Discover the City’s Rich History and Vibrant Culture

Zadar is a city that beautifully blends the old and the new . From the ancient Roman ruins to the modern Sea Organ, there’s always something to discover. In my article, “Things to Do in Zadar” , I’ve detailed the city’s top attractions and hidden gems. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventurer, you’ll find something that piques your interest.

Relax on Zadar’s Best Beaches

If you’re a beach lover like me, Zadar won’t disappoint. The city is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. In my article, “Best Beaches in Zadar” , I’ve listed the top beaches in and around the city. Whether you prefer secluded coves or lively beach bars, you’ll find your perfect spot under the Croatian sun.

Stay in Style: Zadar’s Best Hotels

Finding the right accommodation can make or break your trip. Luckily, Zadar offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious 5-star resorts to charming boutique hotels, you’ll find your home away from home in Zadar. Check out my guide, “Best Hotels in Zadar: Stay in Style” , for my top picks.

So, are you ready to explore Zadar? With its rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, this Croatian gem is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime. As a local, I can confidently say that Zadar is a destination that deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list. Happy travels!

CroatiaWanderlust is the passion project of Dinko, Antonio, and Tomislav. They are the creators of the content on the site, using their combined skills in hospitality, marketing, and content creation to provide a unique and authentic exploration of Croatian tourism. Their work brings you closer to the enchanting beauty of their homeland. For more information about them, visit the About page on the site.

Perfect Day Trip to Zadar: A Tour Guide’s Picks

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8 Fantastic Day Trips From Zadar, Croatia

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

The historic town of Zadar, Croatia sits proudly on a peninsula on the Adriatic Sea. The city’s once-necessary defensive walls still encircle most of the old town Zadar. Inside the fortifications is a blend of old and new – from well-preserved Roman ruins to modern convivences.

Why Take Day Trips From Zadar?

Zadar old town is comfortable, with enough sights to entertain, but plenty of opportunities to relax over a coffee at an outdoor café. However, it isn’t just the city itself that makes Zadar such an appealing vacation spot.

Zadar’s location, on the northern Dalmatian Coast, makes it an ideal base for exploring more of Croatia. Stunning islands, national parks and some of the region’s most picturesque places can be reached on day trips from Zadar, Croatia.

8 Best Day Trips From Zadar, Croatia

Our list of day trips from Zadar include the area’s top destinations. For each of the Zadar excursions, we include details regarding transportation and links to book the Zadar day trips via a tour. Even with only one day in Zadar, there may be enough time to take a quick trip from Zadar!

Pin, Save or Bookmark our Zadar Day Trips for your visit to Croatia!

#1 Zadar to Krka Waterfalls

2-week Croatia Itinerary Krka National Park JetSetting Fools

The Zadar to Krka Waterfalls trip was our favorite jaunt while staying in Zadar. Krka National Park is an aqueous wonderland – and an easy excursion from Zadar.

The Krka River, which tumbles in a succession of waterfalls, is surrounded by 42-square miles of protected parkland. Within the boundaries of the Krka National Park are ruins, churches, islands and caves, which are all reachable by organized tours or a DIY day trip.

Krka National Park: A day trip from Zadar

However, the main attraction is Skradinski buk, the longest waterfall on the Krka River. The single sight alone is worth making the day trip from Zadar to Krka!

Note : In the past, visitors have been able to swim at the base of the falls, but that is no longer permitted!

How to get from Zadar to Krka : We took a bus from Zadar to Krka, which conveniently stopped near the Krka National Park ticket office in Skradin (admission includes the boat ride from Skradin to Krka).

The Zadar-Krka bus online timetable was not correct during our visit. We bought our tickets directly from the bus station and we suggest others do the same. Be sure to confirm the times on getting to Krka National Park from Zadar by bus (and return) during your trip!

Zadar to Krka National Park Tours : Booking an organized Zadar to Krka National Park Tour can save you the trouble of figuring out how to get from Zadar to Krka Waterfalls – and can increase your time enjoying the wonderful scenery!

Book a top-rated, full day tour from Zadar to Krka National Park on Viator .

Other guided tour options include: a Krka from Zadar Private Tour and a Zadar to Krka Tour of Waterfalls and Wine Tasting .

{Read all about our Krka NP Trip }

#2 Kornati National Park from Zadar

2-week Croatia Itinerary Boat Trip from Zadar JetSetting Fools

The Kornati Islands are a Zadar must-see natural attraction! Kornati National Park encompasses 89 islands, islets and reefs – and is best reached by Zadar boat tours; however, the park can also be viewed from the sky with a panoramic flight!

Sail Boat Tours, Sailing, Sibenik, Croatia

The Kornati Islands beckon adventures with plenty of opportunity for swimming (snorkeling and scuba diving, too!), hiking and wildlife watching.

How to get from Zadar to Kornati : Visitors can get to the park via boat trips from Zadar or personal watercraft (permit required). There is no Zadar to Kornati Islands Ferry. That said, it is one of the best places to visit from Zadar, so it’s worth joining a tour!

Zadar to Kornati Islands Tours : Book Zadar tours to Kornati NP from the docks or in advance. In the busy summer season, we highly recommend booking early so you ensure you get a spot on the tour!

This highly-rated 8-hour KNP tour is a fantastic boat trip from Zadar! The full day tour includes breakfast on the way to the Zadar national park, incredible scenic vistas along the route, sights at the Telascica Nature park and time for swimming, too!

#3 Zadar Boat Trips

Islands of the Zadar Archipelago in Croatia

Spending a day on the water is one of the best things to do in Zadar – and a Zadar boat trip is an excellent way to do it! There are a multitude of options – from ferry rides to Zadar sailing trips to boat excursions to sea kayaking Zadar.

Ferry Trips from Zadar

Using the ferry is fabulous for visiting the islands off Zadar. Ugljan on the island of Preko is directly across from Zadar and ranks one of the best islands near Zadar for a boat ride and island exploration. A day trip to Dugi Otok from Zadar is also possible with the ferry.

How to get from Zadar to Ugljan and Dugi Otok : The ferries make these Zadar trips both easy and inexpensive. Find schedules online at the Jadrolinija Ferry official site .

{Read about our Boat Trips from Zadar to Ugljan and Dugi Otok }

More Islands To Visit from Zadar

Boat trip between Ugljan and Pasman Islands, Croatia

There are 140 islands in the Zadar archipelago (including the 89 of Kornati NP). The best way to visit many of these islands is on a boat tour.

Booking Zadar Boat Tours : Book other Zadar boat excursions in advance, like the half-day sailing tour , a romantic sunset sail or a day trip to Sakarun Beach, Croatia .

Another option is to set sail for the Zadar archipelago aboard a yacht. The small group Sailing Trip is a full day adventure!

#4 Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking down at Plitvice Lakes boardwalk in Croatia

A trip to Plitvice Lakes is one of the best day trips from Zadar! Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most popular Croatia tours. Sixteen lakes of intense blue water are connected by a series of tumbling waterfalls. The water flow has carved a deep canyon into the limestone rocks and natural tufa barriers pool the water before it streams over the edge into the next pool.

Tumbling waterfall next to wood steps at Plitvice Lakes NP in Croatia

Wooden boardwalks built just above the water enable visitors to have an up-close experience (although, swimming is not allowed at Plitvice NP).A trip to Plitvice Lakes is one of the best day trips from Zadar!

How to get from Zadar to Plitvice NP : The distance from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes is about 120km; the Zadar-Plitvice bus takes 1 hour 45 minutes each way. It is possible to take the public bus from Zadar to Plitvice, visit the park and take the Plitvice to Zadar bus back in one day.

Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour : Alternately, travel with an organized group on a Zadar to Plitvice Lakes tour. Book this highly-rated PLNP tour in advance!

{Read about our trip to Plitvice Lakes in the Winter and Visiting Plitvice Lakes NP in the Autumn }

#5 Sibenik, Croatia Tours

A day trip to Sibenik is one of the popular Zadar tours because of the close proximity of the two cities. The hillside coastal Old Town of Sibenik boasts a fortress, several churches and the remains of it’s defensive walls.

Jadrolinija Passenger Ferry From Sibenik, Croatia

The compact Sibenik Old Town center is a pleasant day trip for anyone looking for things to do near Zadar.

How to get from Zadar to Sibenik : Zadar-Sibenik buses run multiple times a day, making this an easy Zadar DIY Day Trip. Inquire at the Zadar bus station for current timetables.

{Be sure to read our guide on Things To Do in Sibenik on day trips from Zadar}

#6 Zadar to Split and Trogir (UNESCO Heritage Sites)

View of Split, Croatia from Marjan Hill Hike

South of Zadar, in Central Dalmatia, is Split – one of our favorite cities in Croatia! In the Old Town that fronts the harbor are the remains of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Diocletian’s Palace . Split is also known for its many beaches , nature trails , historic neighborhoods and the long string of cafes that line the buzzing Riva.

Just 29km from Split is the UNESCO Heritage city of Trogir. The historic town occupies a small island, which is connected to the mainland via a short bridge. The best way to explore Trogir is to wander aimlessly through the narrow alleyways of the Old Town.

How to get from Zadar to Split : The bus from Zadar to Split (and Split to Zadar) takes 2.5 hours each way, but there are several buses that make the trip daily. Some buses stop in Trogir, but many do not. Again, we recommend checking schedules at the Zadar bus station for times and stops prior to setting off for the day.

Tours from Zadar to Split : Guides do offer private tours from Zadar to Split and Trogir, which eliminates the hassle of trying to figure out bus schedules! Book Zadar, Croatia tours to Split and Trogir in advance on Viator .

{Read our guide on Split Sightseeing and more on our 3 Day Split Itinerary }

#7 Game of Thrones Locations Tours from Zadar

Main square inside Diocletian's Palace, Peristyle, in Split, Croatia

Game of Thrones fans will be thrilled to visit Croatia, as many of the television show’s scenes have been filmed in the country. With the popularity of the show, there are GOT Tours, including GOT day trips from Zadar, Croatia.

Distant view of Klis Fortress in Split, Croatia

Zadar to Game of Thrones Film Locations : Walking in the footsteps of the show’s characters is best done on private day tours from Zadar, as there are multiple stops in some hard-to-get-to locations. Book a GOT Tour here!

#8 Mostar Day Tours from Zadar

The famous Stari Most Old Bridge in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Want to explore beyond Croatia? Take a day trip from Zadar to the fascinating town of Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina. Not a short day trip (it takes 3 hours to drive each way), the beautiful Mostar Old Town is definitely worth it!

Old Town shops in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

The iconic Mostar Old Bridge is draped over the emerald green Neretva River and minarets pierce the blue sky. Cafes and restaurants cling to the riverside cliffs and line the cobblestone lanes of Mostar, enticing you in for a coffee or meal.

Tours from Zadar to Mostar : Zadar excursions to Mostar are best done via car or hired guide – and you can search here for a Mostar Tour . There are no bus routes between the two cities that would allow for Zadar day trips.

{Read our guide to Visiting Mostar: 27 Things To Do }

More Things To Do in Zadar, Croatia

Our free self guided walking tour zadar croatia

Zadar is one of the best places to visit in Croatia ! An entire week vacation could be filled with day trips from Zadar, but there are things to see in Zadar, too!

Zadar Walking Tour

Zadar sights can easily be discovered by strolling the lanes of the Old Town. However, for more information about Zadar sightseeing, use our free Zadar Self-Guided Walking Tour (which includes a Zadar tourist map of the route) to the top Zadar tourist attractions.

If you would rather a guide lead you on a tip-based free walking tour Zadar, you can join the tour by Free Tours – or book a guide for a walking tour in advance.

Looking for more things to do around Zadar, Croatia? Get on two wheels and go on the Zadar Bike Tour. Book it in advance !

Find a Zadar Beach

Kolovare is the Zadar, Croatia beach closest to the center and one of the Zadar top attractions in the summertime. However, there are many beaches along the coastline and on the islands near Zadar.

Planning A Trip to Zadar, Croatia

There is a lot more to planning a trip to Zadar than deciding which day trips to take!

Get started with our tips for Planning a Croatian Vacation – where we highlight need-to-know travel info.

As you research your trip, you will need to stay organized. With our printable Travel Planner , you can download the 26 pages and get started right away!

Travel Planner Printables by JetSettingFools.com

Deciding between Zadar or Split as a base in Croatia?

We like both Zadar and Split as bases for discovering more of Croatia – and think both cities offer a lot to see on their own! For tips on activities and day trips in Split , read our 3-Day Split Itinerary .

Top Tip: For the Best 2 Weeks in Croatia, read our Ultimate Guide To Croatia !

Where To Stay in Zadar, Croatia

The best place to stay in Zadar is in the historic Old Town. We stayed in an Airbnb Apartment , but there are many Zadar Old Town hotels to choose from, too!

Check out these top-rated hotels (based on guest reviews!) for the upcoming trip: Art Hotel Kalelarga , Hotel Niko and Bastion Heritage Hotel .

Budget travelers can search for Zadar Hostels – like Boutique Hostel Forum and The Hostel .

Before making your reservation, read our tips for Booking Hotels at the Best Rate .

Getting To Zadar, Croatia

Visitors can travel to Zadar by plane, boat, bus or car.

Our preferred method of getting anywhere is by flying (we are JetSetting Fools, after all!) and when we need to purchase cheap plane tickets , we start our search for the best deals on airline tickets on Skyscanner .

Flights to the Zadar Airport are seasonal, and are offered from Frankfurt , Amsterdam , Dublin and London (amongst others).

Although there are no trains to Zadar (at least not ones that are efficient for travelers), buses are a good option for reliable transport. Our preferred bus company is FlixBus – as it is economical, clean and comfortable with on-board Wi-Fi,

If arriving by bus, the bus station is not very convenient to the Old Town ( map ), but within reasonable walking distance. Although not 100% reliable, bus schedules can be searched on Bus Croatia and Get By Bus .

How To Get Around Zadar: Transportation

It’s best to get around Zadar on your own two feet – as most of the Old Town is a car-free zone.

However, travelers may want to consider renting a car for some of the day trips from Zadar. Having a rental can often save time and money (especially when traveling with more than two people) – and allows for greater discovery.

Pro Tip: Read our Top Tips for the Best Car Rental Rates before you make your reservation.

What To Pack for Travel To Zadar

Now that you know the top Zadar things to do and have planned your Zadar itinerary, it’s time to pack your bags! Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you can use our pro packing tips! Find all of our advice on our Packing Tips page – and be sure to grab your FREE Packing Checklist !

Durable Shoes

Be sure to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable travel shoes for your trip! I am most comfortable walking in historic Croatia cities in my versatile sneakers – but bring flip flops for the beach, too. Kris prefers wearing these shoes by Merrell .

Travel Camera

Croatia is gorgeous – and the stunning scenery can be seen on many of the day trips from Zadar. Rather than relying on your mobile phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for higher quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel (which takes amazing photos and is a great budget camera for travelers ).

Croatia Guidebook and Map

Good research often equals a great vacation! It can be helpful to have a guidebook for Croatia prior to arriving – as well as a map !

Croatia Travel Insurance

If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.

Start planning your trip to Croatia ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing ! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

More Croatia Travel Resources

Visiting other Top Destinations in Croatia ? Fantastic! Get ready with all the best tips with our complete guides!

Best Things To Do in Dubrovnik
Explore Split on a Free Self Guided Tour
Top Things To Do in Zagreb
What To Do in Romantic Rovinj
Sightseeing in Historic Pula

Looking to go on an Croatia Island Hoping Adventure ? Super! Get set with our detailed guides to Hvar , Korcula , Brac and Vis !

Click here for a Free Vacation Budget Planner Banner by JetSettingFools.com

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11 Best Day Trips From Zadar: Mesmerizing Day Trip Destinations
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Best Day Trips From Zadar

No matter the season or the time of year, Zadar is a part of the world that seems to offer some truly incredible and unforgettable places to visit for you and your family.

There are so many excellent day trips from Zadar.

Whether it's beautifully scenic all-day boat excursions across the various islands, a party in Novalja, a winding hiking trip up the mountains , a tour through the coastal regions of Split or Trogir, or any of the amazing options through the Croatian archipelago, Zadar does have you covered.

Zadar offers in-depth guided tours, where you'll have a tour guide show you all of the highlights of the region, as well as the option of experiencing the area entirely on your own, letting you explore at your own pace and create your own adventure throughout the whole of Croatia.

It's entirely up to you, with various options based on what you're interested in seeing and where you're interested in going.

Of course, unless you're someone who's already visited Zadar or Croatia, there's a chance you may not know what the country or region has to offer.

In this overview guide , we'll go over 11 of the best day trip options for any visitors planning to head to Zadar.

Not only that, but we'll also go over some really useful information including the overall booking prices and how much you can expect to pay.

Novalja

Read this next: What are The Best Clubs on Zrće Beach?

Nestled on the Island of Pag , Novalja is a hidden treasure that offers a delightful contrast to the city vibes of Zadar.

It boasts a remarkable landscape, combining a blend of barren rocky terrains and shimmering beaches.

The lunar-like appearance, giving the island its nickname the Moonrock, is a result of the relentless Bora wind eroding its soil and vegetation.

For nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, this mix provides a refreshing break from Zadar's urban scene, immersing them in a setting where nature's raw beauty really is overwhelming and takes center stage.

Beyond its natural allure, Novalja holds another ace up its sleeve: Zrće Beach.

By day, until around 4 pm, this beach offers a perfect base for sunbathers and swimmers, but as the afternoons set in, Zrće’s FIVE world-class open-air superclubs fire up transforming the beach into one of the most talked about and reputable clubbing and festival destinations on the planet .

The party doesn’t stop until 6 a.m. and operates daily from late May to early September

This wacky island duality ensures that every visitor, whether in search of tranquility or vibrant nightlife, finds something tailored to their personal vacation preferences.

Kornati Islands

Read this next: Kornati National Park Croatia: Your ESSENTIAL NP Kornati Guide

Made up of around 150 different islands and regarded by many as an island paradise, the Kornati Islands surround the region of Zadar.

The islands are relatively close to one another with the majority belonging to the Kornati National Park.

This designation ensures that they have managed to remain protected since as late as the 1980s. As a result, the pristine nature of the islands has remained fully intact, furthering its reputation as a veritable paradise.

As a national park, the Kornati Islands have areas that have all but been left entirely untouched by the outside world. These portions of undisturbed natural beauty can be explored when taken on a boat tour.

These tours also tend to include meals in their pricing while sailing and kayaking tours take the experience to a whole other level.

Trogir & Split

Read this next: Day Trips from Split: Discovering the Gems of the Adriatic

Found along Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, both Trogir and Split are two beautifully picturesque old towns that are certainly worth a day trip exploring.

Depending on how much time you have, each one can warrant its own day of exploration.

Split is particularly well known, being the second-largest Croatian city with incredibly scenic waterfront views and some magnificent buildings and structures.

Just as impressive is Trogir, which is a UNESCO World Heritage location with its old town shrines and visually stunning buildings and landscapes worth exploring all in its own right.

In fact, some of these buildings are hailed from as early as the Baroque and Renaissance eras.

Krka National Park Waterfalls

Read this next: How To Get From Zadar To Krka National Park

Certainly, one of the more popular destination options on this list, the Krka National Park Waterfalls is easily a super fun and enjoyable day trip for anyone visiting Zadar or Croatia as a whole.

The waterfalls are roughly 75 kilometers (46.6 miles) from Zadar itself and are home to the Krka National Park.

It can be visited along a relatively short hike through a wooden footbridge that takes you over an incredible river landscape as you gaze over the whole of the national park and its remarkable ecological environment.

For those who want to do more than just look at the waterfalls, the destination is a perfect swimming spot during the summer months.

This is especially the case at the Skradinski Buk waterfall which is particularly unique and is a well-worn location all on its own.

Velebit Mountains

Read this next: The Velebit Mountains: Croatia’s Natural Wonder

Velebit Mountains is a particularly popular location, particularly for those who love nature, hiking, or just being outdoors.

The mountains are around 70 kilometers from Zadar and are considered one of the largest nature reserves in the entire Croatian country.

They cover around 2,200 square kilometers (around 1,367 miles) and offer some truly awe-inspiring views over the country.

In addition to the mountains themselves, for hikers that love trekking up the mountain, there are several locations known as "Karl May Movies" which is a cool set of spots that hikers can enjoy along their journey.

The Velebit mountains are also the mystical backdrop to Novalja’s Zrće beach superclub. It really is an impressive site seeing the sun come over the mountains in the morning.

Unforgettable - if you have the party stamina!

Read this next: Things to do in Zadar: Novalja’s Closest City

Both, the "long island" of Dugi Otok as well as its beautiful sandy beach, Sakarun Beach, are one of the first things recommended for anyone visiting the Zadar region.

Whether you're coming to Croatia for the first time or have made it an annual vacation spot, the Dugi Otok island is certainly a place you want to spend at least a day at, if not more!

During the holidays, the islands offer some great guided tours while the Sakarun beach prides itself on being beautifully crystal clear pretty much all year long.

Whether you're looking for white sand, a beach with a bit of a Mauritius vibe to it, or simply an island that has a ton of scenery worth investigating (such as the Blue Grotto or the Telascica Nature Park), this island should be the first part of your visit, especially if it's your first time and you've got a few days to play with.

Read this next: Travelling by Bus From Zadar to Novalja

Regarded as a much smaller town compared to some of the other locations on this list, Nin is only about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from Zadar and is easily worth visiting and even making a day of it. This is because, despite its smaller size,

Nin hosts some particularly gorgeous beaches that are both sandy as well as flat, making them perfect places to relax or go for a swim.

Nin is also known as the "cradle of Croatia" due to its incredible history.

The town itself is home to a variety of different sights and eras to show how the town has grown over the centuries.

For those that want to enjoy the town on its own merits, there are a host of restaurants and shops where you can pick up a coffee and pastry in the town square, where you can sit back and enjoy the small-town hustle and bustle of Nin.

Old Town of Zadar

Read this next: Zadar Airport Transfers: Your Zadar and Novalja Transfer Guide

Considered by many to be a veritable pearl of the Adriatic Sea, the old town of Zadar is remarkably beautiful with a whole host of different sights and attractions to observe.

It's often seen as one of Zadar's more famous coastal cities, even being recognized as the Sea Organ of Zadar.

Here, you can listen to the sonorous sounds of the waves as they crash against the stone slabs by the water.

Because the town is so compact it's very easy to see just about everything in only half of a day, while a guided tour through Zadar will go over many important pieces of history surrounding the old town and why it's such an incredible and interesting place.

Plitvice Lakes

Read this next: Croatia National Park Visitors Guide

Another place you definitely don't want to miss out on, the Plitvice Lakes is a perfect holiday excursion.

While a bit of a distance compared to some of the attractions on this list, the Plitvice Lakes can be booked as part of a complete touring experience.

It's also worth visiting simply for the fact that it's one of the more visually stunning national parks throughout the entire Zadar and Croatian area.

There are a total of six separate lakes that are all connected via a network of rivers and waterfalls that pool together at various points.

This is not only a great place for nature lovers and those that love the outdoors, but also a perfect spot for people that just love picturesque views and scenery.

Telascica Nature Park

Read this next: Renting a Luxury Motor Boat in Croatia (Novalja & Zadar Charter)

One of the other many national parks found in Croatia is the Telascica Nature Park. Found on the aforementioned Dugi Otok Island, the Telascica nature park has some of the most beautiful sights across the country and some of the best sights in all of Zadar.

The reserve offers the warm Salt Lake Mir, breathtaking bays, and truly picturesque cliffsides that are worth standing and gazing over.

The park also has some great hiking trails for those who love moving through the outdoors.

For those interested, the Telascica Nature Park can be explored either on your own or via a guided tour from Zadar.

You can also move through the park on the water via ferry or by land with a car or on foot.

Zrmanja Canyon & Rafting

Read this next: Kayaking in Novalja: An Experience You Won’t Forget

The Zrmanja Canyon is a particularly impressive highlight for those interested in exploring the Zrmanja Karst River, which is roughly 40 minutes from Zadar itself.

The canyon itself acts as quite the imposing gorge, even acting as a filming location for the famous Winnetou movies.

The river offers some amazing river sights and kayaking as the water is a striking emerald color and accented by several amazing waterfalls that act as a compelling and noteworthy backdrop, ultimately creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Zadar Day Trip Prices

While all of these locations can have a variety of pricing options based on when you go, we've got some of the optimal price ranges you can expect to pay throughout most of the year: Please note prices here are variable and not guaranteed:

Novalja: In Novalja, the amount you can potentially spend will vary wildly. It all depends on what you choose to do. For a basic experience, which includes local meals, transportation, and beach activities, one can expect to pay between €50-100 euros.

However, if you're planning to indulge in upscale dining, take part in watersports, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife, or even VIP service, at the nightclubs on Zrće Beach, expenses can quickly escalate

Kornati Islands: While you can explore the islands well enough on your own, standard tour rates are generally around €30 a person while specialized sailing tours or kayak excursions are a bit more (though greatly recommended!).

The full-day tour lasts roughly 9 hours, regardless of whether you're doing the standard tour or sailing or kayaking.

Trogir & Split: Most trips from Zadar to Trogir & Split will usually take an entire day. This is true whether you're going on your own or taking a guided tour.

For those that do opt for a guided tour, they can expect to pay just under €100 per person with the trip lasting just over 4 hours total.

Krka National Park Waterfalls: To get into the Krka National Park, you have to pay an upfront entrance fee. This fee pricing can vary based on the time of season.

Generally guided tours to the waterfalls start at around €50 per person and are around 9 hours from start to finish.

Velebit Mountains: Meant as more of a hiking and mountain climbing experience, there aren't any established tours available. You can drive up to the Winnetou Rocks by car, but after that, you're going to need to be okay with hiking.

Dugi Otok & Sakarun Beach: To get onto the island, there are two ideal ways: either by way of a self-organized ferry ride or by driving directly there from Zadar. You can also book a guided excursion tour through an online booking site.

There are three different adventure options available. The half-day is around 8 hours while the full-day lasts roughly 11 hours and the full-day guided tour from Zadar meets in the middle at 9 hours.

Nin: Nin can be visited relatively easily on your own. As such, there are no inherent booking prices to visit the town. Instead, you can visit either by car or by taking public transportation.

Public busses normally run hourly between the small town and Zadar.

Old Town of Zadar: Not only is traveling Old Town incredibly easy on your own, but guided tours are easy to obtain and incredibly affordable. Most guided tour options run for as little as €15 a person and can be picked up from most touring sites online.

Tours take only around two or so hours, making them very easy to get through before having enough time to enjoy yourselves after the fact.

Plitvice Lakes: Excursion prices from Zadar to the Plitvice Lakes usually cost around €50, though there is also a wide variety of different guided tours available online.

Both the full-day guided tour as well as the National Park tour take around 8 hours to complete, giving you enough time to have breakfast before and dinner after.

Telascica Nature Park: For those interested in visiting Telascica, excursion prices start at around €40 per person. You can also have a sailboat tour through online sites like GetYourGuide.com whom we are partners with .

Zrmanja Canyon & Rafting: There are several rafting tours available along the Zrmanja River that all range at a starting point of €40 per person and are all around 5 or 6 hours.

how to drive from zadar to krka national park

Read this next: Luxury Transfer Croatia: VIP Travel and Transfers Novalja and Zadar

Day Trips From Zadar: Summary

Zadar, an ancient coastal city in Croatia, acts as the ideal headquarters for numerous day trips from Zadar, each promising a different experience and adventure.

From the tranquil lunar landscapes of Novalja and Pag Town to the adrenaline-inducing activities in Zrmanja Canyon, visitors are offered a blend of both serene and exciting experiences.

In terms of financial considerations, travellers should be prepared for extremely variable expenses depending on what they actually end up doing. That’s kind of logical.

While some places like Nin or Old Town of Zadar can be explored relatively inexpensively, others like the Krka National Park or Zrće beach may require a more significant outlay - especially if you opt for any VIP services .

So to end, it's advisable to research and budget accordingly, ensuring a seamless and memorable day trip from Zadar.

About the author

Jelena is a Novalja Local. She is an expert in local tourism as she worked for a tourist agency for over a decade, received her tourist guide license, and also organized tours all over Croatia. Local cuisine is her forte as both of her parents are renowned chefs who specialize in Dalmatian food.

10 Amazing Day Trips from Zadar!

The Zadar region offers its visitors an incredibly wide range of unforgettable excursions and day trips. A boat tour to explore the islands of the Zadar archipelago, a day trip to the waterfalls, hiking in the mountains, visiting the Winnetou-film locations, tours to Dalmatian Croatia’s costal pearls such as Trogir or Split are just a few of the highlights that can be discovered on a perfect day trip from Zadar. Whether on your own , or with a guided tour , in the area around Zadar you can really experience some exciting activities and visit some of the best tourist attractions in all Croatia. But what are the best tours in Zadar, what are the unique experiences, and which excursions should not be missed on any trip in this region?

In this travel guide, we will show the 10 ultimate best tours and day trips from Zadar . In addition, we will share useful tips and information about the most beautiful things to see, about how to book a tour and the prices.

Old Town of Zadar

The old town of Zadar is a true pearl of the Adriatic Sea . On a walk through the pretty town, you will discover plenty of beautiful sights and attractions. An ultimate highlight of the coastal city is the famous Sea Organ of Zadar. Here the sonorous tones are created by the wave movement of the sea under the large stone slabs. Since the old town of Zadar is very compact, you can easily visit everything in a half day. On a guided tour of Zadar, you learn a lot about the history and interesting facts about the old town.

Tip : Guided tours of Zadar Old Town are available for as little as 15 euros per person. You can also find and book a wide range of unique tours online !

Krka National Park Waterfalls

The most popular destination for day trips from Zadar are the Krka Waterfalls , which are located approximately 75 kilometers from the coastal town. The beautiful waterfalls are part of the Krka National Park and can be explored on a short hike. At wooden footbridges, you walk past some beautiful river landscapes and admire the intact ecosystem of the park. Do not forget your bathing suits! In the summer months you are allowed to swim in the Krka waterfalls , more precisely at the Skradinski Buk waterfall. The whole location is unique, and so it is no wonder that the waterfall has become a popular destination for excursions over the last few years.

Tip : The entrance fees change depending on the season. Guided tours to the Krka waterfalls are also offered from Zadar starting from 55,- Euro.

Telascica Nature Park

Another nature highlight and a popular spot for a wonderful day trip from Zadar is the Telascica Nature Park located on the picturesque island of Dugi Otok. This impressive national park is one of the most beautiful sights in the area around Zadar. The marvelous reserve inspires visitors with spectacular cliffs , beautiful bays, the warm salt lake Mir and the amazingly beautiful hiking trails through the natural landscapes. The Telascica National Park can be explored through a guided tour from Zadar, or of course by car and ferry.

Tip : Excursions to Telascica are available from around 35,- Euro per person. On GetYourGuide amazing tours by sailboat from Zadar are offered!

Nin is a small, dreamy coastal town about 15 kilometers from Zadar and a trip there is highly recommended. Uniquely beautiful are the many long flat sandy beaches, which invite you to swim and relax. Another highlight that should not be missed in Nin is the historic old town , which is considered the “cradle of Croatia”. During a stroll through the city, you will discover countless interesting sights from different eras. First and foremost, Croatia’s largest Roman temple , historic churches and a 4-meter-high statue of Gregory of Nin, which is said to bring good luck. Enjoy the hustle and bustle over a coffee in the picturesque main square, which exudes an extraordinary charm.

Tip : You can easily visit this destination on your own, either by car or by public bus, which runs hourly between Zadar and Nin.

Dugi Otok & Sakarun Beach

But also the rest of the long islands of Dugi Otok and its beautiful sandy beach, the famous Sakarun Beach , is really worth seeing on a day trip from Zadar. If you go on holiday to Zadar region, then you should definitely take an island tour to this beautiful sandy beach. The Sakarun beach thrills with incredibly crystal clear turquoise blue seawater , fine white sand and a Caribbean flair. But also the rest of the island Dugi Otok is lovely and worth visiting. Here you will find the already mentioned Telascica National Park, many more scenic dream-beaches, a stalactite cave and even a Blue Grotto for kayaking!

Tip : There are 2 ways to get to the “Long Island”. Either self-organized with ferry and car from Zadar, or you can also book a guided excursion .

Kornati Islands

The Kornati Islands are with around 150 islands , the most beautiful island paradise around Zadar. The majority of the islands belong to the Kornati National Park, which has been protecting the natural beauty of these islets since 1980. On a boat tour from Zadar to the Kornati Islands, you will have the opportunity to explore the untouched nature and beautiful beaches of the archipelago . Most of the island tours include entry to the National Park, and often meals are also included in the price. A boat trip to the Kornati islands is a wonderful holiday experience, and for many, this island excursion is one of the best in Zadar region.

Tip : Standard tours to the Kornati Islands start at around 30 euros per person. For the special experience, however, sailing tours or excursions by kayak are also recommended.

Zrmanja Canyon & Rafting

The Zrmanja is a spectacular karst river, located about 40 minutes from Zadar. The absolute highlight here is the Zrmanja Canyon , an imposing gorge, which once served as a film location for the famous Winnetou movies . The Zrmanja is also really popular for kayaking and rafting tours. When travelling on the beautiful, emerald-colored river, you will experience untouched nature, breathtakingly beautiful waterfalls and a fantastically spectacular backdrop. A truly unforgettable experience!

Tip : The exciting and unforgettable rafting tours on the Zrmanja River are available from 40,- Euro per person.

Plitvice Lakes

The Plitvice Lakes are a place that definitely shouldn’t be missed during your holiday in Croatia. Although the National Park is a bit further away from Zadar, there is also the possibility to book tours to the Plitvice Lakes from Zadar. Due to its unique beauty, the park is one of the most beautiful national parks in Croatia . And not without reason: a total of 6 lakes, which are connected by a network of rivers and waterfalls form a natural jewel, which seeks its peers. An absolute must for all nature lovers!

Tip : Excursions from Zadar to the Plitvice Lakes cost from 55,- Euro. You can also find a wide range of guided tours online at GetYourGuide .

Velebit Mountains

Another highlight and popular destination for hikers and nature lovers is the Velebit mountain range, about 70 kilometers located from Zadar. It is one of the largest nature reserves in Croatia and covers a total of 2,200 square kilometers. On top of the summit, you can enjoy a magnificent view over the rocky mountain landscape of Croatia. Also on the Velebit are locations of some Karl May movies . An absolute must-visit for those who love hiking, mountains or just are searching for Winnetou locations!

Tip : Up to the famous rock of the Winnetou scene, you can even go by car!

Trogir & Split

Along the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, there are some picturesque towns and coastal villages to explore. Really recommended is here to do from Zadar a day trip to Split old town and Trogir . The famous coastal city of Split is amazingly beautiful and so enchants, the 2nd largest city in Croatia with magnificent buildings and a picturesque waterfront. But also the UNESCO World Heritage Trogir and its old town shines with beautiful buildings from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. These beautiful places should not be missed on a trip through Croatia!

Tip : For a trip from Zadar to Trogir and Split you should plan a whole day. Guided tours to these coastal towns cost from 95,- euros per person.

Find the best accommodation in Zadar:

More about zadar region:, where to stay in zadar: 10 best areas & hotels, the 12 best beaches in zadar, murter lsland: travel guide & things to do, vir, croatia: the small idyllic dream island, primosten, croatia: travel guide & things to do, keep exploring, read more about croatia.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Meaning that if you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Best Day Trips from Zadar Croatia

Being centrally located on the Dalmatian Coast, there are many great day trips from Zadar, including famous national parks, scenic islands, and some off the beaten path destinations.

We had the pleasure of staying in Zadar, Croatia for a month in the Fall. Many of these day trips we were able to do ourselves. For others, we brought in the expertise of our fellow travel bloggers.

8 Best Day Trips from Zadar

One of the best benefits of staying in Zadar is the number and variety of day trips you can take.

If you’re staying for a short time, I would recommend prioritizing at least one of the National Parks: Plitvice or Krka . Both have beautiful waterfalls and unique above-water pathways, so you can’t go wrong with either choice.

Zadar is also surrounded by islands. The quickest and cheapest island to access near Zadar is Ugljan Island .

Other island options include: Kornati Island and National Park , Pag Island , and Dugi Otok .

Our favorite city to visit from Zadar is Sibenik – in fact, you may want to stay a night or two.

The tiny town of Nin also has interesting attractions for a half day trip.

* Get access to our Zadar walking map here *

Last updated: 2023. Originally published: January 2020.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice walkway | Best Day Trips from Zadar, Croatia

Plitviče National Park is probably Croatia’s most famous natural wonder. Plitvice and Krka are two of the best Zadar day trips , in our opinion.

This is where you’ll see the unique beauty of inland Croatia, with waterfalls at every turn!

Plitvice Visitor Tips

One thing I never realized was that Plitvice is located up in the mountains, which means it is quite a bit colder than the Dalmatian Coast. It is also frequently rainy in Plitvice (outside of peak summer months) – but don’t let that deter you.

I highly recommend checking the official website for any closures. When we visited, there was a pop up message on the website announcing which park entrances were open at the time.

It’s also recommended to book your ticket on the website , which you can do a day or more in advance, once you know roughly what time you’ll be arriving.

We visited Plitvice Lakes in early December. Though the week’s weather forecast was rain and snow, we lucked out with a fairly clear day. Still, temperatures were just above freezing so bundling up was definitely necessary.

We rented a car from the Zadar airport at 8am that morning, with a 10am ticket for the Flora Auxiliary Entrance in Plitvice. Being off season , we were able to park for free near one of the hotels and walk a short way to the gate where they scanned our e-tickets.

Downloading offline maps for the area and our e-tickets helped, as cell service was spotty.

Hiking in Plitvice National Park

From the Flora Entrance, we did the “H Program” (very similar to C Program), a loop through the upper and lower lakes which included hiking, bus tram, and boat ride. H and C are 4 – 6 hour programs.

Each park entrance has different routes you may follow , varying in length and activity types. This keeps the flow of visitors manageable in the park.

Plitvice Park signage | Best Day Trips from Zadar, Croatia

For the H Program (see map above), we waited at the Flora Entrance for the shuttle bus to depart. It leaves every 30 minutes in winter, and we were the only ones on the bus that morning. It drove us to bus station 3, at the West end of the lakes, with some glimpses of the falls along the way.

Signs at each intersection make it easy to follow the program you’ve chosen. For us, this started with hiking downhill for about an hour toward P2, a boat dock.

Parts of this hike are through forest and around the edge of the large lake. The waterfalls are more spread out in this area.

There were a couple sections of the wooden path near the misting falls that were icy . This required treading slowly and carefully to avoid slipping and falling into the water.

We waited a little over 20 minutes for a ferry boat to arrive, so we broke out our pre-packed lunches. The ferry took us from P2 to P3, letting us off around 1pm.

The ferry boats are open air , which made it the coldest part of the day. At P3, there was a cafe with hot drinks and food open, as well as restrooms. Having already eaten, we continued on foot.

Our second and final hike only took about 50 minutes. The East section of trails has some of the most spectacular views, in my opinion, with more falls closer together.

Until reaching this section, we had probably seen only 15 people on the whole trail. Now there were a couple tour groups.

The hike ends with a climb up to some scenic overlooks and bus station 1, which has a small cafe counter and outdoor seating.

A bus arrived shortly, taking us back to the Flora Entrance, station 2. We wrapped up our stay at 2:15pm.

Cost: 39.80€ to as little as 10€ per adult, depending on the season, plus parking. June through September is the most expensive for tickets and hourly parking.

How to get from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes:

Drive via E71 and A1 (under 2 hours) or avoid the toll road by taking D27 to A1 (adds 20-30 minutes).

There are also 7 daily buses running from Zadar to Plitvice, April through October. In winter, however, the limited bus schedule doesn’t work for a day trip.

You can also book a Plitvice day tour package , which includes transportation from Zadar, a guide, and box meal.

Want to make it an overnight trip? Here are highly rated accommodations nearby:

– Plitvice L&L Leisure Apartment – Top notch, modern apartment 1.6 miles from Entrance 2, sleeps up to 4 people – Bramado Apartments – Cozy and clean studios or 2-bedroom apartments 3 miles from the park

Krka National Park

I personally enjoyed visiting Krka Park more than Plitvice (but that may be because I wasn’t freezing the whole time).

Plitvice is a bit further from Zadar than Krka, and the hikes tend to be longer there. If you’re on a real time crunch, then Krka National Park is perfect.

You can see the best side of the park on an easy loop hike in less than 2 hours .

Whereas Plitvice Park has lakes and the waterfalls are fairly spread out, Krka also has waterfalls but it’s on a rushing river.

There are other areas of the park you can visit, but nothing as spectacular as the loop around Skradinski Buk at the South.

In winter , Krka closes down many of its amenities, like cafes, ferry boats, and even some sections of the park.

For our first visit to Krka, we rented a car from Zadar for the day. We left Zadar at 11am and, avoiding toll roads, we arrived at the Lozovac Entrance at 12:30pm.

There is a large free parking lot, bathrooms, and cafes next to the ticket gate. In winter, the food places were all closed up. After buying a ticket, you can drive past the gate on a 4km winding road down to the river (outside of winter you would take a shuttle bus this way, or hike).

We parked in one of the few stalls by Reception, just a short walk from the start of the main attraction: the Skradinski Buk loop hike.

There were very few people visiting mid-day in mid-November and even fewer when we returned in early December at 9am. Walking on wooden walkways over the rushing water and admiring the various waterfalls was glorious without crowds!

Some corners of the pathway were flooded a bit, but it wasn’t an issue since we wore waterproof shoes .

Hiking in Krka National Park

The Skradinski Buk loop took us less than 90 minutes to complete. It’s not very strenuous, though there is an uphill section at the end to reach some look out points, the historic water mill, souvenir shop, and return to the parking.

We had just enough time before sun set to drive the 45 minutes further North to Roski Slap.

Arriving around 3pm, a ranger scanned our ticket once we parked and directed us to the Roski Slap viewpoint within a mini village – a quick out and back walk.

Then we made our way around the Roski slap circle loop trail, which included wooden bridges across the river’s “necklaces” and a couple side trails to climb up to overlooks. We were done in only half an hour, leaving the park by 3:30pm.

(We opted not to return to Roski Slap on our second visit, when my parents joined us. It might be more interesting to experience in-season when you can go by boat.)

We also enjoyed a quick wander through the little town of Skradin , Southwest of the Park. There is a separate entrance to Krka Park from the edge of town as well. I believe it’s primarily for taking boat rides, so it’s open in high season.

Cost: 20€ to as little as 6.64€ per adult per day, depending on the season. High season is June through September.

How to get from Zadar to Krka National Park:

Drive East via E65 from Zadar to Kirka (just over 1 hour), or avoid toll roads by taking D56. In season, there are direct buses from Zadar to Krka, however, during off season you would need to change buses in Sibenik and take a second bus to Lozovac.

– Vicencin Place apartments – Two modern studios in the center of Old Town Sibenik, friendly owners (we stayed here twice) – Scardona Park Luxury Accommodation – Queen and King rooms in Skradin, on site restaurant and pool

Plitvice vs. Krka in Winter

You may be wondering which Croatia National Park with waterfalls should you visit? Since we experienced both in the off season, we’ll share that perspective:

Pros for Plitvice:

– Larger park and easier to see more in a day on foot – Cafes and ferry boats stay open year-round (usually) – Might have snow in mid-winter – Closer to Zagreb

Pros for Krka:

– Not as cold in off season – Less chance of rain – Can see a significant part of the park in just 90 minutes – Closer to coastal towns, like Zadar, Sibenik, Split – Less than half the price of Plitvice in off season

Šibenik, Croatia

We loved Sibenik immediately. Sibenik’s Old Town starts at the water’s edge, framed by the Riva (seaside walkway), and continues uphill.

This beautiful, historic town remains relatively off the beaten path , seeing fewer crowds than even Zadar.

Just a little over an hour drive from Zadar, you can easily enjoy Sibenik in a day, though it’s worth staying longer if you can.

For a quick self-guided tour , you can check out a bicycle from the NextBike Gat Krka station and ride along the Riva (street name: Obala Palih Omladinaca) Northwest to the Plaža Banj station.

As long as you return the bike within 30 minutes, it’s only 5 hrk ($0.75 USD). We recommend going through the app instead of trying to pay through the bike station.

From Plaža Banj beach, there’s a nice view back at Old Town. Next, return by foot on the waterfront path and take a left at the stairs that wind up into the little wooded park and the fortress wall.

Sibenik | Best Day Trips from Zadar, Croatia

Follow signs to St. Michael’s Fortress , an important historic monument as well as a modern concert venue. If you choose not to pay the entry, you can catch a glimpse of the view from the driveway gate on the North side, then continue walking around the back of the fort and start heading down hill.

Then enjoy winding your way through the ancient alleys of Old Town.

Be sure to stop through the square (Trg Republike Hrvatske on maps) and wander all the way around Saint James Cathedral (Katedrala sv. Jakova).

In the mornings, we recommend continuing on past the library and Gradski park to witness the vibrant outdoor produce market . And pop inside the fish market building, too.

If you have a car and some spare time for a nature walk, you can drive out to Sv. Nikola beach. There’s a quiet playground and waterfront pathway that leads out to St. Nicholas Fortress on the water, though you can’t go inside the fortress from here.

Cost: About $12 USD by bus, or around $45 to rent an automatic car from downtown for 24 hours (cost is usually less from the airport or for manual cars)

How to get from Zadar to Šibenik:

The drive is slightly over an hour on E65 toll road, or avoid tolls and take the Jadranska Magistrala through the coastal towns (1 hour 15 minutes). There are also daily buses departing from each town’s central bus station.

Want to make it an overnight trip? Here are highly rated accommodations in Sibenik:

– Vicencin Place apartments – Two modern studios in the center of Old Town Sibenik, friendly owners (we stayed here twice) – Heritage Hotel Life Palace – Rooms and suites set on a beautiful square in Old Town, breakfast included

Ugljan Island

Of the many islands near Zadar, Ugljan (sounds like oogly-yawn ) is the closest and easiest to visit.

The island has a handful of little towns along its coast, an abandoned hilltop fortress in the middle, and plenty of unpaved roads criss-crossing through olive groves for mountain biking and long walks.

We enjoyed this self-guided bike tour of Ugljan island , compliments of Zzuum Active Vacation .

Getting to Ugljan Island from Zadar by Ferry

We picked up our two bikes and maps from their Old Town office at 8:30am. We biked to the ferry terminal in about 20 minutes, following roads and paths along the water most of the way. We waited in line with the cars for the 9am ferry to Preko and then parked off to the side of the boat’s vehicle deck.

The ferry’s second deck has an inclosed seating area, cafe, and bathrooms. The third deck offers more open air seating, which is great for the views. Zadar to Preko by ferry is about 25 minutes

ferry boat to Ugljan | Best Day Trips from Zadar, Croatia

Cycling around Ugljan Island

From the Preko terminal, we bought some pastries at Mlinar and then headed toward St. Michael’s Fortress .

There is one main, paved road that goes all the way from Preko town to the fortress. You can also bike unpaved roads if you feel more adventurous.

Either way, you’ll ride a short ways on and cross the 110 “highway,” which has no real shoulder. Then the ride is uphill, flattens out in the valley farmlands, and becomes uphill for the final climb to the peak.

We opted to lock up our bikes about 3/4 of the way up and hike the rest of the road to the fortress.

From the ferry to the fortress took us about an hour and was quite a work out.

As you approach the fort, instead of a stairway it’s more like a long pile of rocks you have to maneuver up. (If you drove up, you’d still need to traverse this section on foot.) But the view is definitely worth it.

While the fortress is not maintained, and there is an ugly modern building built into it now, we felt it was a rewarding end to an aerobic climb.

We enjoyed our baked goods there, overlooking the water on all sides, with clear views out to many more neighboring islands.

On a whim, we decided to bike through the middle of the islands on more unpaved roads, heading North. Signs at each intersection directed us to the various towns. Then we returned to Preko along the coastal roads. We returned to Preko and caught the 3:30pm ferry back to Zadar.

If you’re like us, we recommend either conquering the fortress or the coastal towns, rather than attempting to do it all in one day. But it was a beautiful, fun adventure!

Cost: About $50 USD with Zzuum’s self-guided bike tour package (includes bike rental, ferry ticket, route map, instructions).

Ferry tickets alone were 15 hrk per passenger, plus 15 hrk per bicycle each way.

How to get from Zadar to Ugljan:

If you’re traveling to Ugljan as a pedestrian, you have the choice of taking a Jadrolinija ferry from either the Old Town terminal or the Gaženička terminal about three miles away.

If you’re crossing with a bicycle, motorbike, or car, you will need to take a ferry from Gazenicka. You can always stop in to the tourist information office in Zadar to check ferry times.

Nin, Croatia

Nin is a small, historic coastal town North of Zadar. The tiny town center is located on an islet connected to the mainland by stone bridges (both were under construction when we visited).

Nin’s Old Town is very charming with cobblestone streets, historic monuments, and churches. Being a tourist destination, there’s not much open in the off season. We mostly walked through the town and then around the islet on a waterfront walkway.

The Solana Nin salt shop seems to be open year round. There, you can buy various salt products and souvenirs. Next door is a museum, as this is where salt has been organically produced for 1500 years. You can see large rectangular pools or “pans” all around the factory from where the salt is extracted by hand.

Nin, being situated in a lagoon, also has nice, sandy beaches nearby. The water is fairly shallow, making Ninska Laguna and Ždrijac good beaches for families with kids.

Nin house | Best Day Trips from Zadar, Croatia

How to get from Zadar to Nin:

Driving from Zadar to Nin takes about 20 minutes. There is a bike path along the way, which is not particularly scenic but a decent ride without too much change in elevation.

Daily public buses also go from Zadar to Nin. We couldn’t find real clear bus info online in English, but found Zadar’s tourist office to be helpful with bus time tables.

Be sure to download an offline map and tell the bus driver where you’re going, as Nin is not necessarily their final stop. For the way back, there is only one bus stop in Nin at the roundabout.

Cost: Around $2.50 USD per person each way by bus

Kornati National Park (islands)

Another set of islands near Zadar, Kornati Islands, also happens to be a National Park. The only way to get to Kornati National Park is by boat.

In addition to scenic boat rides through the maze of 100 secluded islands, Kornati is also great for swimming, snorkeling, hiking , and bird watching .

The park has two Reception Centers where you can purchase entrance tickets (though it may be more expensive than pre-purchasing), souvenirs, and permits for recreational fishing or scuba diving . There are also cottage rentals and several restaurants open in season.

If you don’t rent your own boat, you can charter a boat ride with a local service or take a day tour to Kornati National Park . This 9 hour excursion includes a guided scenic boat tour, a long swim stop, breakfast, lunch, and drinks.

How to get from Zadar to Kornati National Park: Private or chartered boat, or boat tour

Cost: Under $50 USD for a day tour package plus $14 park entrance per adult

– Long Island Olive Apartment – Modern 1-bedroom apartment in Sali on Dugi Otok island, friendly owners, beautiful terrace – Festa Kornati Glamping Resort – Family-friendly luxury tents on the island of Žut, with breakfast, waterpark, fitness center

Pag Island, Croatia

Info about Pag Island was kindly provided by Emma Pamley-Liddell from Journey of a Nomadic Family

You’ll need to get up early and leave Zadar quickly for this amazing day trip up to Pag Island because it will take you nearly 2 hours in the car to get to some of these gem locations that most tourists haven’t yet discovered.

Head to the very north of Croatia’s 5th largest island and you’ll be presented with some of the clearest waters in Europe!

Although it has no natural sand beaches, they are small, rocky cove areas with shingle and stone, they’re an adventurers paradise. Make sure you take your snorkeling gear and a pair of shoes too.

Some of the beaches include: Plaza Lun, Plaza Tovarnele, Haluga, Crnika, Plaza Dudici, Plaza Puntine, Plaza Baracuda, Plaza Gajac, Plaza Orada, Galinec and Rucica Beach.

Top but lesser known restaurants include: Haluga Pizzeria & Restaurant Crnika, both bordering the water and serving mouth-watering cuisine.

P.S. Pag is also known for producing Pag cheese , which is made from sheep’s milk and aged, much like Italian pecorino.

How to get from Zadar to Pag Island: Drive about two hours North, crossing the Paški Most (Pag bridge).

Cost: Just fuel for car and meals.

Want to make it an overnight trip? Here are highly rated accommodations in Pag:

– B&B Marta and Tona – Comfortable accommodations and friendly hosts serving an exceptional breakfast – Villa Natura luxury apartments – Well equipped, just 4 minutes walk from a beach

Dugit Otok Island

Dugi Otok is a large island West of Zadar, hidden behind a chain of other islands, including Ugljan (mentioned above).

It has a population of 1,500 and is home to vineyards, orchards, beaches, and Telascica Nature Park. The town of Sali to the South is a common place to stay when visiting the neighboring Kornati Naitonal Park (also mentioned above).

Dugi Otok is fairly off the beaten path, and it’s not likely you’ll run into crowds.

There are a couple of daily ferry and catamaran sailings year-round, so going there and back is doable within a day with careful planning. You may also wish to stay a night there if the return boat time isn’t convenient for you.

Once on island, you can enjoy the secluded Saharun Beach. Or explore the coves, islands, cliffs, salt water lake, and donkey sanctuary at Telascica Nature Park . You may also wish to use Dugi Otok as a base for organizing a visit to the islands of Kornati National Park.

How to get from Zadar to Dugi Otok island: Take a Jadrolinija car ferry from Gaženička terminal in Zadar to Brbinj or Bozava, or go by catamaran with G&V Line Iadera to Sali or Zaglav (1 hour and 10 – 30 minutes, one way).

Alternatively, you can book a package tour to take care of transportation on your visit Dugi Otok. Browse tours to Dugi Otok here >

Cost: Ferry is about $4.50 per person or $27 per car each way. Or about $100 USD per person for a full-day guided tour package .

Want to make it an overnight trip? Here are highly rated accommodations in Dugi Otok:

– Long Island Olive Apartment – Modern 1-bedroom apartment in Sali on Dugi Otok island, friendly owners, beautiful terrace – Apartment Ruza – Affordable studio in Zaglav with sea views, terrace, and garden

Paklenica National Park

Peklenica National Park is part of the dramatic Velebit mountain range to the Northeast of Zadar. It features the area’s largest forest as well as caves, canyons, and karst formations.

Guided visits are available for the enchanting Manita peć cave. You can also do self-guided walks on several trails, even trekking to mountain huts for an overnight stay, if you want.

How to get from Zadar to Paklenica National Park: Drive East (about 45 minutes) or take a bus to Seline/Starigrad.

Cost: 2.60€ – 10€ Park entrance fee per person depending on the season, plus parking

– National Park campsites are available mid-March to mid-November, beds are available for hikers in the mountain hut year-round – Apartments Paklenica – Nice self-catering apartments in walking distance to Park Entrance, helpful owner

Other Popular Zadar Excursions to Try

– Zadar 4-Hour Croatian Islands Boat Experience – Travel around Zadar’s closest islands on a 4-hour boat ride and enjoy a swim in the Adriatic Sea. Click here to learn more and check availability of this Sailing Trip >

– Half-Day Sailing Tour – Half day excursion exploring the Zadar archipelago by sailboat with stops to swim, snorkel, and fish. Click here to learn more and check availability for the Half-Day Sailing Tour >

– Sunset and Nighttime Boat Trip – A 90-minute cruise during Zadar’s spectacular sunsets. Sparkling wine provided. Click here to learn more and check availability for the Sunset and Nighttime Boat Trip >

– Zrmanja River: Full-Day Canoe or Kayak Trip – This is an award-winning adventure in a spectacular canyon, appropriate for beginners (Note: you must drive yourself to Kaštel Žegarski, 1 hour from Zadar) Click here to learn more and check availability for the Zrmanja River Trip >

Where to Stay in Zadar

We think the best place to stay in Zadar is in Old Town, unless you’re purely there for the beach and have your own vehicle. We can highly recommend the lovely two-bedroom apartment where we stayed (offline since the pandemic), which is conveniently located on the main pedestrian street.

For a traditional hotel experience, the nearby Art Hotel Kalelarga is a highly rated 4 star hotel also central to Old Town. It’s very modern and stylish, with continental breakfast included.

Check rates and availability for Art Hotel Kalelarga >>

Zadar walking tour map

While you’re in Zadar, you might also appreciate our interactive walking route map for visiting Old Town. It includes photos and tips for the various sights, restaurants, and important places to know.

✈️ Protect your Zadar, Croatia trip with Travel Insurance – We’ve started using Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing for affordable evacuation, international medical, and trip coverage.

For further reading:

Zadar on a Budget Dalmatian Coast Road Trip Itinerary Our Travel Packing List for Europe travel in Fall and Winter

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9 Best Day Trips From Zadar, Croatia

Zadar is a Croatian city located on the Dalmatian coast. Because of its strategic location, it is close to some of the best sites in the country and day trips from Zadar are possible.

The city is also the oldest inhabited city in Croatia and it’s home to Roman ruins, medieval churches, and a historic old town. But if these are not enough, here’s our list of most recommended day trips from Zadar, Croatia.

9 Best Day Trips From Zadar

1.plitvice lakes.

Plitvice Lakes is considered to be one of the most beautiful national parks in the world and also dubbed as one of the places to see before you die by big travel magazines. Known for its beautiful 16 terrace lakes and numerous falls, this UNESCO heritage site should top your list of things to do in Croatia during summer.

The turquoise lakes are interconnected to each other and divided into 3 stations. Surrounding the area is a massive expanse of forested hills which creates a very scenic view. It’s one of the best day trips from Zagreb as it’s only 2 hours away from the city. Making it an ideal day trip if you want to get away from the city a bit. Or if you are on the way to the Dalmatian coast, is also an ideal stop before enjoying the Croatian beaches.

Admission Fee

Adults 60,00 (€8)

Adults – groups 55,00 (€7.41)

Students* 50,00 (€7)

Students – groups 45,00 ( €6)

Children 7 to 18 years 30,00 (€4)

Children 7 to 18 years – groups 25,00 (€3.37)

Children up to 7 years and persons with disability (over 50%)**

How to get to Plitvice Lakes from Zadar

Take a bus from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes for 2 hours. There are several bus operators that go to Plitvice Lakes. The trip frequency differs from operator to operator with some only leaving wise and up to 4 times a day so make sure to plan accordingly.

The bus fare is between €6-15 for a one-way trip or €12-30 for a round-trip fare and the bus stops in front of the entrance of Plitvice.

To book, click here.

Opening Hours

Winter : wintertime calculation (from last Sunday in October) – summertime calculation (until last Saturday in March) 8.00 – 16.00 h (entering park/ticket purchase / exchanging vouchers for tickets – until 14.00 h)

Spring: summertime calculation (from last Sunday in March) – 31.05. 8.00 – 19.00 h (entering park/ticket purchase / exchanging vouchers for tickets – until 17.00 h)

Summer: 01.06. – 20.08. 7.00 – 20.00 h (entering park/ticket purchase / exchanging vouchers for tickets – until 18.00 h)

21.08. – 30.09.: 7.00 – 19.00 h (entering park/ticket purchase / exchanging vouchers for tickets – until 17.00 h)

01.10. – winter time calculation (until last Saturday in October): 8.00 – 18.00 h (entering park/ticket purchase / exchanging vouchers for tickets – until 16.00 h)

Contact Information

Address: Josipa Jovića 19 53231 Plitvice Lakes Croatia

Phone: 385 (0) 53 751 014

Email: [email protected]

2.Krka National Park

Krka National Park is the 7th national park in Croatia and it was established in 1985 to help preserve and protect the Krka river. The national park is massive and it extends from Adriatic to the mountains of central Croatia. It is probably most known for its majestic waterfalls flowing to Krka river pools, creating amazing cascades similar to Plitvice lakes.

Aside from the waterfalls, there are also several things to see in Krka. This includes Visovac island with its famous monastery, the gorges and the amazing vegetation in the area.

Admission Fee:

Jan-Feb-,Nov- Dec

(All accessible land sites)

Adults – 30.00 kn- (€4)

Children 7-18 – 20.00 kn (€3)

Children up to 7 years of age- Free

April, May, October

Adults – 100.00 kn- (€14)

Children 7-18 – 80.00 kn (€11)

June- August

Adults – 200.00 kn (€27) after 4 pm 150.00 kn (€20)

Children 7-18 – 120.00 kn (€16) after 4 pm 90.00 kn (€12)

How to get to Krka National Park from Zadar

Take a bus from Zadar to Krka National Park. From Zadar Zob, take a bus to Skradin Busbahnhof. Please note that there are only 3 trips a day so make sure to plan accordingly. The bus schedule is as follows: 11:20 am, 2 pm and 9:55 pm. The bus fare is between €4-7 for a one-way trip or €8-14 for a round trip and the bus ride is about 45 minutes.

From Skradin Busbahnhof, you can take a taxi to Krka National Park for half an hour for €24-29 for one-way trip or €48-58 for a round trip. Do not walk as it is about 29 km away still.

January-February – 9 am- 4pm

March- 9 am- 5pm

April -8 am- 6pm

May & Sept 8 am- 7pm

June-August- 8 am- 8pm

Oct 1-15- 8 am-6pm

Oct-16-31- 9 am -5pm

November- December 9 am-4pm

Address: Trg Ivana Pavla II br.5, 22000 Šibenik, Croatia

Phone: [email protected]

Email: +385 (22) 201 777

Zagreb is the capital city of Croatia and it’s one of the underrated cities in Europe. It has a rich history dating back from Roman times. Personally, it’s one of my favorite cities in the world. It’s laid back for a city and it has charming markets, amazing architecture, and awesome food.

How to get to Zagreb from Zadar

Take a bus from Zadar to Zagreb for 3 hours and 30 minutes. There are several bus operators that goes to Zagreb. The trip frequency differs from operator to operator with some only leaving once, twice and up to 5 times a day so plan accordingly.

The bus fare is between €12-40 for one-way trip or €24-80 for a round-trip fare depending on the operator.

Rastoke is the historic center of the Croatian town, Slunj. This beautiful village is known for its scenic location that’s straight from a postcard. The Slunjčica river flows to the local homes down to the river of Korana. This creates an amazing autochthonous ecologic and ethnographic significance because of natural harmony between nature and modern civilization.

The village is also likened to Plitvice because of the same way the river flows are layered and it’s often called the “little Plitvice”. The only difference is that instead of natural rocks and plants that create a branching on the rivers, it is the houses.

How to get to Rastoke from Zadar

Take a bus from Zadar to Slunj. There are several bus operators that goes to Slunj. The trip frequency differs from operator to operator but most of them leave once or twice a day so plan accordingly. The trip lasts for 3 hours and the bus fare is between €7-17 for one-way trip or €14-34 for a round-trip fare. Then walk to Rastoke for about 11 minutes. The village is still almost 1 km from Slunj.

5.Kaštel Žegarski

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Danijela KušČević (@dk1901) on Apr 29, 2018 at 2:05pm PDT

If you want some outdoor adventure, then head to Kaštel Žegarski – one of the least populous villages in Croatia. This village is close enough for a good day trip from Zadar. Aside from its laid-back village, it is also famous for its nature and it’s a popular canoeing and rafting area.

How to get to Kaštel Žegarski from Zadar

Take a bus from Zadar to Kaštel Žegarski. The trip frequency is only twice a day so plan accordingly. The trip lasts for an hour. You can check for the price and schedule here .

To book, click here .

6. Telaščica Nature Park

One of the most incredible nature parks in Croatia, Telaščica Nature Park boasts of amazing wildlife, deserted islands, gorgeous cliffs, and azure blue waters. The nature park includes 13 small islands and it’s located off the coast of Adriatic.

Individual tickets – daily per person

For visitors through mainland entrance Dolac 40,00 HRK ( €5.39)

For visitors through mainland entrance Dolac with discount 20,00 HRK ( € 2.69)

For visitors in vacation facilities of Nature Park “Telašćica” 10,00 HRK (€1.35)

For visitors in a vessel without an engine up to 6 m (Kanu, kayak, sailboat, paddle boat, etc.) 20,00 HRK (€2.69)

How to get to Telaščica natural park from Zadar

Take a ferry from Zadar to Telaščica natural park. The trip takes almost 50 minutes and there’s a ferry 4 times a day: 5:45 am, 10:30 am, 3 pm, and 8 pm. The fare is €5-6 for one-way trip or €10-12 for a round-trip fare.

To book, click here

Address: Sali X 1, HR-23281 Sali

Phone: +385 23 377 096

Email: [email protected]

Mostar is a city in the neighboring country of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is known for Stari Most (old bridge) – a medieval bridge and the most popular tourist destination in the country. Start Most is also the perfect example of Islamic architecture in the Balkans.

Before the war in Crimea in 2014, Mostar was the city where the last war in Europe happened in 1995. So if you want to learn about this historic city, then include a Mostar day trip from Zadar on your itinerary.

How to get to Mostar from Zadar

Take a bus from Zadar to Mostar. There’s only 1 bus operator that goes to Mostar and it leaves at 7:30 pm. The trip lasts for 4 hours and the bus fare is between €14-21 for one-way trip or €28-42 for a round-trip fare.

How to get to Split from Zadar

Take a bus from Zadar to Split for 2 hours and 30 minutes. There are several bus operators that go to Split and the trip frequency differs from operator to operator. Buses leave from once a day to up to 4 times a day so plan accordingly.

The bus fare is between €5-17 for one-way trip or €10-34 for a round-trip fare depending on the operator.

9. Ugljan, Ošljak and Školjić Islands

These amazing islands near Zadar are where dreams are made of. If you want a relaxing trip and just enjoy the Croatian islands, then head to Ugljan, Ošljak and Školjić Islands.

Školjić or Galevac is closed enough to the mainland and this oasis is surrounded by pine forest and awesome beach. In the middle is a little monastery and church by St. Paul that made this island more interesting. The Ošljak is like its little brother although a bit farther from the mainland. But like Školjić island, it has an interesting church from the 6th century in the middle of it and the island is surrounded by pine and Cyprus trees. The island is also inhabited.

Ugljan is the largest among these 3 islands and is connected to the mainland of Preko by a bridge. There are over 6000 people living on the island and it’s known for its beautiful medieval houses and beaches as well.

How to get to the islands from Zadar

The only way to get to these islands is by private boat. So either you rent out a boat or you can take this tour for €45. It includes all 3 islands, your snorkeling equipment, and insurance.

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The Perfect One Day in Zadar Itinerary

Last Updated on January 25, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Often overshadowed by the Adriatic gems of Split or Dubrovnik , the lovely city of Zadar located in the northern Dalmatia region of Croatia is a wonderful destination to visit in its own right. Compact and filled to the brim with history, you can see so many of the sites of the city by planning just a one day in Zadar itinerary, making it a perfect destination to break up the drive down the coast or as a day trip from Split .

Situated on a picturesque peninsula in the centre of the country’s Adriatic coast, Zadar is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia and has evidence of people living there dating back to the Stone Age.

However, Zadar has more to offer than just its history — its beautiful Old Town, seaside vibes and inviting promenade make it the perfect destination for those looking for a quieter side of Croatia. Though growing in popularity as a tourist destination, its visitor numbers still don’t hold a candle to those of hotspots further south.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Zadar?

Zadar is quite small and compact and the top sites of the city can be seen in just one day, so if you want to make sure that you have time to visit other places in Croatia , you don’t have to worry about not dedicating enough time to Zadar — it’s definitely worth visiting but you don’t need to carve out a significant portion of your itinerary for it.

That being said, though you can see the highlights of Zadar in one day, the city also makes an excellent base to explore not only several incredible sites along the Dalmatian coast, but it can be a good jumping-off point to explore some islands and even the incredible national parks of Krka or Plitvice Lakes !

Getting To & Around Zadar

Though the historic centre of Zadar is quite small in size, it is actually the fifth-largest city in Croatia and the second-largest in Dalmatia. It’s also quite a sought-after holiday destination for European tourists, even if it’s not necessarily on the radar for those from further afield.

There is a small international airport located a few kilometres out of Zadar that has seasonal connections across Europe.

You can get a taxi or private transfer from the airport to the city centre, or hire a car from the airport – countless companies operate there (browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices!). Regardless, it will take around 15 minutes to reach the city centre.

Otherwise, Zadar is located about a 2-hour drive from Split and a 3-hour drive from Zagreb. You can also easily reach Zadar from most major cities in Croatia via direct bus, meaning that it’s easily accessible.

There is also a ferry terminal in Zadar that can take you to nearby islands. Note that there is a ferry port in the Old Town of Zadar and also a larger one a little bit south of the city centre – about 10 minutes driving or by taxi.

Once in Zadar, it’s very easy to get around the old town on foot. In fact, the majority of the historic centre is completely pedestrianised. If you’re venturing further afield, having your own car to explore nearby attractions (such as Sibenik or Krka National Park) can be helpful.

One-Day Zadar Itinerary

Whether you’re visiting Zadar as a day trip or are using the city as a base to explore the splendours that lie in central Croatia, this itinerary is the perfect route through this historic city.

Everything here is within easy walking distance of each other and allows enough time to be able to chill out and just enjoy the atmosphere of the city, as well.

Tržnica Zadar

A great place to begin your time in Zadar is at the city’s central market. Located in the old town, this is a lovely open-air market that sells plenty of fresh fruit, local produce, cheese and other products. It’s a great way to see what is seasonal, fresh and important in the local cuisine.

There is also a covered fish market area where you can see all of the incredible fresh seafood that comes from the waters surrounding Zadar.

Beginning your day at the market is an excellent way to get a good insight into the local culture.

Cathedral of St Anastasia

The next stop is the incredible and beautiful Cathedral of St Anastasia, also simply just called the Zadar Cathedral. As the largest church in the Dalmatia region, this beautiful Roman Catholic Cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of Zadar.

The church itself is worth entering and touring (keep note that it is closed to tourists on Sundays), but one of the real highlights of the Zadar Cathedral is its bell tower.

Construction of the bell tower began in 1452 but it wasn’t fully completed until 1894. Visitors have the opportunity to climb the stairs (which can be a bit windy and rickety!) to the top of the tower and enjoy an incredible view of Zadar and its surroundings. Climbing the tower is definitely one of the best things to do in Zadar.

If you’re visiting in high season during the summer months, it’s best to get here as early as possible so you can avoid crowds at the top of the tower and on the stairs.

Roman Forum

Just about a two-minute walk from the Cathedral of St Anastasia, you will find one of the biggest highlights of visiting Zadar and some of the evidence of just how long this small city has been inhabited — the Roman Forum.

First constructed between the years of 1 BCE and 3 CE, this ancient forum is well preserved and can serve as an excellent insight into ancient Roman life and are filled with fascinating Roman ruins.

Though not everything is completely intact at this forum, there are still remnants to explore of temples to Minerva, Jupiter and Juno and even a well-preserved pillar that was later used as shame post for public humiliation during the Middle Ages.

Set adjacent to the Church of St Donatus, the Roman Forum is a fascinating place to explore and really serves as a testament to just how historic and ancient the settlement of Zadar really is.

Church of St Donatus

Located behind the Cathedral of St Anastasia and to the left of the Roman Forum lies the Church of St Donatus, another major landmark worth exploring. This circular church is the largest pre-Romanesque building in Croatia and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Zadar.

Founded in the 9th century and named for Donatus of Zadar — the bishop who commissioned the church — this unique building is most definitely worth exploring. With views of the Cathedral’s bell tower behind it and the Roman Forum in the front, it is yet another reminder of just how historic Zadar is.

Church of St Donatus & Zadar Cathedral’s Bell Tower

Zadar Archaeological Museum

If you want to learn more about Zadar’s vast history with a bit more context, then a visit to the Zadar Archaeological Museum is a must-do.

Located about a two-minute walk from the Church of St Donatus, this makes for an excellent pre-lunch stop where you can see ancient artefacts and learn a lot about the ancient history of Zadar, dating back to the Neolithic period.

Plan to spend at least an hour going through the museum, and more if you’re particularly interested in archaeology.

Narodni Trg & the Old Town

In the second half of your day, it’s time to take in more of the energy and unbeatable atmosphere of this beautiful city, and there is no better place to begin to do this than in the Narodni Trg, or the People’s Square.

As the main square in the city, this is a historic meeting place in Zadar and it is lined with inviting cafes and ice cream parlours for you to be able to people watch and take the edge off of a hot Croatian day.

After taking in the energy of the lovely square, it’s time to let your feet guide you and to wander along Kalelarga, the main drag in the old town, and get a bit lost in the backstreets. Take the time to admire the lovely architecture, find some hidden gems, and browse some local shops.

If you’re looking for an excellent, affordable place to eat, then consider heading to Bistro Pjat for lunch. They have set menus featuring local seafood and other delicacies for great prices. You can also order a la carte if that suits you more.

Another great option is Trattoria Mediterraneo , a small restaurant serving delicious Adriatic meals.

Land Gate & Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

At the entrance to the Old Town peninsula lies the Land Gate, one of the original city gates attached to the old city walls of Zadar.

Constructed in the 16th century, this gorgeous stone gate once served as the main entrance to the city and can really harken you back to a time when cities were walled and protected by fortifications.

Right behind the gate lies Queen Jelena Madiejevka Park, which is located atop the old fortifications of ancient Zadar and is not a lush green space in the urban centre. Especially if it is in the middle of summer, this park can offer a cooling respite from the hot Croatian sun and a quiet escape from the throngs of tourist crowds further into the Old Town.

If you want to see all of these above sites (and more!) with an experienced guide, consider booking this walking tour of Zadar!

Zadar Riva, Sea Organ & Greeting to the Sun

And finally, end your day by enjoying one of the city’s best attractions, its absolutely lovely seaside promenade.

Known as a Riva in Croatian, this waterfront promenade surrounds the peninsula of Zadar from the Adriatic side to the Foša Harbour and beyond. It is incredibly pleasant to stroll along, especially as the sun begins to sink in the sky and many locals are also out for a pre-dinner walk.

One of the top attractions located on the Zadar Riva is the Sea Organ. What initially may look simply like a series of shallow steps leading into the Adriatic Sea, this art instalment is actually a musical instrument that plays melodic tunes with the water crashing into it.

This is also an ideal spot to settle yourself to watch the sunset, which legendary film director Alfred Hitchcock once described as “the world’s most beautiful.”

After the sun has sunk below the horizon, then you must check out another art instalment just behind the sea organ, and this is the Greeting to the Sun. This may look like a circular patch of solar panels by day but by night the sun powers a lovely light show on this very spot — making it the perfect place to end your one day in Zadar.

Have 2 Days in Zadar?

If you have 2 or even 3 days in Zadar, then you have a lot of options for what to do to spend your time.

As I mentioned earlier, Zadar makes for a fantastic alternative base for exploring a lot of what Croatia has to offer and it’s central location actually makes it more ideal to visit places like Plitvice Lakes National Park as a day trip rather than from Split or Zagreb.

Zadar is also a perfect jumping-off point to visit another fantastic Croatia national park, Krka! Though many visit as a day trip from Split, this park is just a far from Zadar and makes for a perfect day out.

You can visit both Plitvice and Krka independently, but if you want to go on an organised tour, check out this tour to Krka and this guided day tour to Plitvice Lakes .

Alternatively, spend another day in Zadar lounging on the beach – the nearby Kolovare Beach is a popular option.

And though it’s located only a short ferry ride from Zadar, a great day trip option if you want to get a bit off the beaten path, consider visiting the lovely island of Uglijan. You don’t even need a car to enjoy the main town of Preko or the laid-back village of Kali, everything is within easy walking distance.

And if you want to learn more about Croatia culture and cuisine, then consider going on a day trip to nearby Pag Island, famous for its delicious Paski Sir, or Pag cheese.

Or, if you want to get out on the water and explore the archipelagos that lie off the coast of Zadar, then this full-day sailing trip is a great option. Alternatively, if you want to fit in some more activities, consider taking this four-hour sailing trip instead.

Where to Stay in Zadar

Teatro Verdi Boutique Hotel – Located in the heart of Zadar’s historic old town, this luxury hotel is located within easy reach of everything the city has to offer. They have luxe rooms available, a fantastic breakfast included each morning and numerous other amenities to ensure that your stay is a great one.

Rooms Tisa Old Town – This lovely hotel located in the centre of the Old Town is perfect for mid-range travellers. They have a range of comfortable and clean rooms available to suit all kinds of travellers and a location in Zadar that cannot be beaten.

Private Rental – If you’d rather find yourself staying in your own apartment then there are countless properties available — like this superior sea view apartment in the city centre — that can suit all travel styles and budgets.

Downtown Boutique Hostel – If you’re a backpacker, travelling solo or on a budget, or just want a more social atmosphere, then this hostel is a great option for you. They have a range of private rooms and dorm beds available, excellent and clean facilities, and a killer location in the heart of Zadar.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Zadar hotels!

Whether you’re planning a Zadar day trip or want to spend more time here, there is no denying that this historic Croatian city on the Adriatic is worth visiting! There is so much to do in Zadar that it needs to firmly cement itself as a can’t-miss destination on Croatia’s coast!

Are you planning to visit Zadar? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

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18 Unmissable Zadar Day Trips: Best Croatia Tours

Here are the best day trips to take from Zadar. I have covered some that you can reach by public transport; for others, you can drive or take a guided tour.

Thanks to Zadar’s location, you have some of the best places in Croatia to enjoy on a day trip.

Exploring Croatia’s vibrant coast from Zadar offers an array of delightful day trip options. I find that Zadar itself is an excellent springboard to many natural wonders and historical sites, making it a prime location for those keen to experience the region’s beauty. With options to visit UNESCO-listed national parks, stunning islands, and ancient cities, each excursion promises a full day of discovery and enjoyment.

For instance, a day trip to the Plitvice National Park is something you shouldn’t miss. The park is one of the most famous Croatian national parks known for its cascading lakes and is easily reachable for a day’s adventure.

On a different day, setting sail to the Kornati National Park offers a glimpse into the serene beauty of Croatia’s islands and marine life. When I’m interested in historical architecture and a touch of the urban Croatian atmosphere, a side trip to nearby cities like Šibenik or Split provides just that with their rich history and lively cultural scenes.

Besides these, I’ve found using local buses for smaller, budget-friendly jaunts adds an authentic touch to the travel experience, connecting me to places like Nin, known for its quaint charm. These day trips from Zadar allow me to soak up the local culture, dine on fresh seafood, and bask in the natural beauty—all within a day’s reach. Each spot has its own character, and every journey reveals another facet of Croatia’s appeal, making the return to Zadar’s welcoming ambiance a perfect end to a day well spent.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Discover Zadar Beaches

When I visit Zadar, I’m always excited to share its beautiful beaches. The city is not only rich in history but also lined with stunning coastal spots. Let me guide you through the best Zadar beaches within the region, as well as some lesser-known beach gems for those seeking a quieter escape.

Best Zadar Beaches – Zadar Region

Beaches in Zadar - Borik bay and town of Zadar aerial view

1. Kolovare Beach: a local favorite, Kolovare Beach is a well-organized spot with pebbly shores and crystal-clear waters. It offers plenty of amenities, including cafes and water sports facilities
2. Borik Beach: ideal for families, Borik Beach features fine pebbles and sand with shallow waters. It’s part of a resort, so that you can expect top-notch facilities like sun loungers and parasols for a comfortable day by the sea
3. Diklo Beach: just a short drive from the city, Diklo Beach is known for its relaxed atmosphere and pristine environment, making it perfect for a day of sunbathing and swimming
4. Petrćane Beach: the small village of Petrćane hosts a beautiful beach that boasts a mix of gravel and sand. It’s an excellent spot for sunset views and has a charming promenade lined with cafes
5. Bilotinjak Beach: If you want sandy beaches, Privlaka is where it’s at. Bilotinjak Beach has no amenities, but it has a place to park and escape the crowds.

Hidden Beach Gems Near Zadar

Beyond the well-trodden paths, there exist several hidden beaches that offer tranquility and untouched natural beauty:

6. Sakarun Beach: Although it is not between Zadar and Split, it’s worth the trip. Sakarun is renowned for its white sand and turquoise sea, often compared to its Caribbean counterparts
7. Ždrijac Beach in Nin: a bit of a hidden gem that offers a vast expanse of fine sandy beach. It’s quieter than the city beaches and provides a serene atmosphere for relaxation
Best Beaches In The Zadar Region

Croatian Islands Close To Zadar To Explore

When heading to the Croatian coastline from Zadar, there are a few islands you can’t miss. The proximity and unique charm of each island offer a distinctive experience that captures the essence of Croatian island life.

8. Explore The Island Of Ugljan From Zadar

Zadar Bike Tours - Ugljan village idyllic island beach and old architecture

Ugljan Island, known as the ‘Green Island’ due to its abundant olive groves and pine forests, this lush greenery is a short ferry ride from Zadar. It’s ideal for a day trip, especially if you value tranquility and nature. The island is dotted with picturesque villages, historical churches, and stunning beaches.

A visit to the Preko village, where you can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and local cuisine, is a must. For hikers and bikers, numerous trails offer panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the Dalmatian coast .

Exploring The Ten Islands Of Zadar

9. From Zadar To Dugi Otok Island

Telascica nature park and green Mir lake on Dugi Otok island

Moving on, the island of Dugi Otok (Long Island) is the largest island in the Zadar Archipelago. This island provides an escape from the hustle with its serene bays like Sakarun Beach, known for crystal-clear waters, and Telašćica Nature Park, which impresses with sheer cliffs and a saltwater lake.

Guide To Dugi Otok

10. To The Island Of Pag From Zadar

A wooden chair beside a stone wall at Pag Lace festival in Croatia.

Then there’s Pag, an island renowned for its moon-like landscapes, and Paski sir (Pag cheese), a delicacy I find absolutely delicious. If you happen to be around during summer, Pag’s vibrant beach parties and festivals are the highlight of Croatia’s musical calendar. Beyond that, the old town of Pag, with its lace-making tradition and ancient salt pans, strikes a fine balance between culture and entertainment.

Each island offers a unique angle of Croatian beauty and promises unforgettable memories of your Adriatic adventure.

Best Things To Do On Pag Island

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Nature spots national parks from zadar.

I’m always amazed at just how close some of Croatia’s most beautiful national parks are to Zadar. If you’re planning a trip, you’ll want to carve out time for at least a couple of these awe-inspiring natural wonders. Here’s the inside scoop on two must-see parks that are perfect for day trips.

11. Plitvice Lakes Trip From Zadar

Is Plitvice Lakes worth visiting? Autumn at Plitvice Lakes reveals a tranquil waterfall with lush foliage in a serene forest setting, highlighting why the destination is truly worth visiting.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Croatia’s most famous natural treasures, is an ideal day trip from Zadar. The park is approximately a 2-hour drive from Zadar, making it accessible for a day of exploration.

Upon arrival, you’ll be immersed in a world of cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush greenery. Plitvice Lakes is renowned for its intricate network of wooden walkways and pathways that allow visitors to traverse the park’s pristine landscapes.

Key activities at Plitvice Lakes include exploring the series of terraced lakes connected by waterfalls, taking boat rides across the largest lake, Kozjak, and walking through the dense beech and fir forests. The park offers several well-marked hiking trails catering to different fitness levels, with the opportunity to witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including deer, bears, and various bird species.

Is Plitvice Lakes Worth Visiting?

12. A Day At Krka National Park

Things to do in the Balkans_Krka-Waterfall | Balkans Travel Blog

Krka National Park – Croatia’s enchanting retreat – is just about an hour’s drive from Zadar. Once you get there, the Krka waterfalls are the star of the show. You’ll find a series of spectacular cascades, with the most famous being Skradinski Buk. I suggest walking the well-maintained trails or taking a boat tour for the full experience. Swimming near the falls is a refreshing treat, but remember, it’s only allowed in designated areas!

Getting There : Approximately 1 hour by car.
Skradinski Buk: A majestic waterfall and swimming spot.
Boat tours: Offer a unique perspective of the park.
Guide To Krka Waterfalls

13. Zadar To Zrmanja River

The Zrmanja River is a must-visit destination for a day trip from Zadar. It’s easily accessible by car, about a 45-minute drive from Zadar. The river is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning canyons. Visitors can enjoy activities like rafting, kayaking, and swimming in the river’s refreshing waters. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering a memorable day in a picturesque setting.

Best Rivers In Croatia For White Water Rafting

14. Uncovering The Majestic Kornati Islands

Kornati Islands National Park | Croatia Travel Blog Chasing the Donkey

Next up is the Kornati National Park, a nautical paradise comprising over 140 islands. Accessible by boat, the Kornati Islands are a dream for sailors, divers, and anyone looking to escape to an untouched, rugged landscape. Remember that there’s a park entrance fee, but it’s worth every euro for the clear blue waters and the opportunity to explore these islands’ otherworldly beauty.

Getting There : join a guided boat ride from Zadar
Cliffs: marvel at the dramatic cliffs, some up to 80 meters high
Marine life: dive or snorkel to view vibrant underwater ecosystems
Tour Kornati National Park

15. Heading To Paklenica National Park

House by the sea bay under the national park Paklenica in Croatia, Europe.

Paklenica National Park, located just a short drive from Zadar, is a fantastic destination for a day trip. To get there, you can take a scenic 1.5-hour drive south of Zadar. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the stunning Velebit Mountain Range and the dramatic canyons of Velika and Mala Paklenica.

Within the park, there are numerous hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. For rock climbing enthusiasts, Paklenica is a paradise, with its vertical limestone cliffs attracting climbers from around the world. The park offers diverse routes for climbers of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced.

Aside from climbing and hiking, you can also explore the park’s flora and fauna, including diverse plant species, and the opportunity to spot wildlife like vultures, chamois, and various bird species.

Paklenica National Park

16. Telascica Nature Park

An aerial view of a green lake in the Zadar Region with a boat on it.

Telascica Nature Park is a great day trip from Zadar. It’s located on Dugi Otok Island, and you can get there by taking a ferry from Zadar. The park is known for its stunning landscapes, including cliffs, saltwater lakes, and diverse marine life. Activities include hiking, swimming in the lake, and admiring the dramatic cliffs.

Pro Tip : While Krka allows for easy self-guided exploration, the Kornati Islands are best experienced with a local guide. Don’t miss these natural treasures; they’re a testament to why Croatia’s national parks rank among the most beautiful in the world!

Croatia Nature Parks To Enjoy Year-Round

Cultural Excursions, Historic Towns & Local Life

When I venture out from Zadar, I look for that vibrant blend of past and present that makes every moment feel significant. Here’s the scoop on where to find cultural gems and dive into the local lifestyle.

17. To Sibenik From Zadar

Sibenik captures the essence of a historic city with its remarkable Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its fusion of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. As I stroll through the town, I feel the history emanate from the white stone buildings — an authentic stage set for time travel. Here, you can also climb up to St Michael’s Fortress, a historic place known for its Renaissance architecture.

Location : 80 km southeast of Zadar
Must-see : Cathedral of St James

Walking through the cobblestone streets, you’ll sense the layers of history that have shaped Sibenik into the city it is today. It’s a standout spot that beautifully represents Croatia’s storied past.

Where To Stay In Sibenik
Best Things To Do In Sibenik

18. Benkovac Market & Asseria Ruins

On Tuesdays, the Benkovac Farmers Market is where I find the heart of local life in full swing. The market is a lively spot to grasp the region’s cultural richness through handmade goods and local delicacies.

Location : 40 km northeast of Zadar
Market Day : 10th of every month

A short drive from the market are the ruins of Asseria, near the modern-day village of Podgrađe. This ancient Roman town reveals archaeological treasures that I always find stunning — think imposing walls and fragments of once-grand structures.

Historic Site : Asseria Ruins

Traveling through these historical corners near Zadar isn’t just a tour; it’s an immersive cultural experience where I feel connected to Croatia’s deep roots and vibrant daily life.

Planning Your Day Trip: Duration & Activities

When heading to Zadar, it’s crucial to map out your adventures with your time frame and preferred activities in mind. This ensures you maximize your enjoyment, whether you have just a day or an entire week to explore.

Options For 1 To 7 Days In Zadar

1 Day in Zadar:

Get an early start and immerse yourself in the old town of Zadar and its rich history.
Enjoy a sunset with the sound of the Sea Organ.

2 Days in Zadar:

Day 1 as above, plus:
Visit the Roman Forum and St. Donatus Church on the second morning.
In the afternoon, chill at Kolovare Beach.

3 Days in Zadar:

Previous activities, plus:
Dedicate your third day to nature with a trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park.

7 Days in Zadar:

Spread the above activities over more days for a relaxed pace.
Fit in great day trips to Krka National Park or beautiful Pag Island.
Spend a day sailing around the Kornati Islands.

Curated Tours Versus Self-Guided Explorations

Guided Tour Benefits:

A local guide can offer insights you might miss on your own
Transportation and logistics are handled, making for a stress-free trip

On The Flip Side:

Self-guided trips offer more flexibility and solitude
You can set your own pace and choose where to spend more time

Whether you opt for an organized day trip tour to Plitvice or go at it alone through the cobbled streets of Zadar, balancing your schedule with the regional highlights will ensure an enriching Croatian adventure.

Navigating From Zadar: Transportation Tips

Zadar – Episcopal Complex. Roman Forum in Zadar Croatia

When planning day trips from Zadar, I’ve found that knowing your transport options is key. Let’s dive into the specifics of buses and boats so you can make the most of your travels.

By Bus To Nearby Attractions

Taking the bus from Zadar to surrounding attractions is cost-effective and adds an angle of authenticity to your travels.

Bus times can vary, so it’s important to check the latest schedule. My tip is to look for buses heading to popular spots like Šibenik and Split, where services are more frequent, especially in the morning. For somewhere more quaint like Nin, buses are less frequent but definitely worth the wait.

Zadar bus station has toilets, cafes, and a kiosk to buy tickets if you did not plan ahead and have already bought them online.

We recommend you book your bus tickets here.

Here’s a rundown:

Šibenik: Approximately 1.5-hour bus ride, several departures a day
Split: Around 2 to 3 hours, with buses leaving almost every hour
Nin: About 30 minutes up to several hours on weekends, limited schedule, so plan ahead

Boat Trips To Enchanting Islands

Boat and ferry rides from Zadar are unforgettable, giving you direct access to stunning islands like Dugi Otok and the famous Kornati archipelago. Ferry services are reliable and offer a scenic journey, but times can be spread throughout the day, so checking the timetable is essential.

For a quick overview:

Dugi Otok: the ferry ride takes about 1.5 hours; it is less frequent but provides gorgeous seaside views
Kornati Islands: Opt for an organized boat trip, which includes various stops and sometimes lunch on board

Booking in advance for boat trips can save time and sometimes even money, and I make sure always to arrive early to avoid any last-minute rushes. Taking these journeys by sea is not just travel; it’s part of the adventure.

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Practical Advice For Day Trippers

Planning a day trip from Zadar comes with a set of considerations to ensure a blissful experience. It’s not just about choosing a destination; it’s about preparing adequately for the journey and the elements you’ll encounter.

Seasonal Considerations & Costs

Peak Season: During the peak summer months, expect higher visitor numbers and increased costs. Attractions like the Plitvice Lakes see a surge in attendance, which can also mean a spike in ticket prices. If you’re aiming for a perfect day trip without the crowd, try scheduling your visit during the shoulder seasons—May and September.

What To Pack For A Day Trip From Zadar

Things to do in Zadar - Unidentified people on Zadar sea organs

I’m a big believer in traveling light but smart. Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you don’t miss out on essentials for a comfortable day trip:

Weather-appropriate clothing: check the forecast and dress accordingly. Layers are your friend, as temperatures can fluctuate
Comfortable footwear: regardless of your destination, a sturdy pair of shoes will make all the difference
Water and snacks: stay hydrated and keep your energy up with some light refreshments
Cash and cards: while cards are widely accepted, having some cash on hand is handy for small vendors or unexpected costs
Camera or smartphone: you’ll want to capture those moments, so make sure your device is charged and ready

Remember, a little prep goes a long way to ensuring that your day trip from Zadar is memorable for all the right reasons!

Maximizing Your Zadar Day Trip Experience

When planning day trips from Zadar, my advice is to prioritize your interests. Are you keen on history, nature, or maybe a bit of both? I’ve found that Krka National Park is a must for nature lovers. The cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear waters offer a refreshing escape, especially if you love a good hike.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is another stunner. It’s one of the most popular day trips for a reason; with its interconnected lakes and stunning waterfalls, it’s quite the sight. Remember to charge your camera – you’ll regret it if you don’t!

For the perfect mix of history and scenery, I recommend a visit to the Roman ruins in the heart of Zadar before heading out. It sets the stage for a day of exploration and gives context to the beauty of this region.

Try to start early to get the most out of your day trips. Croatian sights often get crowded, so an early start means you’ll enjoy them with fewer people around. Always check the weather and pack a small raincoat or umbrella – Croatian weather can be a little unpredictable!

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One Day in Zadar Itinerary – How to Spend a Perfect Day in Zadar, Croatia

Croatia is indeed one of the most beautiful Mediterranean countries. And while you may have already heard of Dubrovnik or Split , there are hundreds (yes, hundreds) of beautiful coastal places to explore. Zadar still has an atmosphere of a smaller town, but boasts attractions and rich heritage. It also has the most magical sunset in the world, at least that’s what Alfred Hitchcock once stated. One day may not be enough to see everything this charming Mediterranean city has to offer, but you’ll be able to see quite a bit. Definitely a city that shouldn’t be missed on your trip to Croatia!

What’s the best time to visit Zadar?

Just like anywhere else on Croatia ‘s coast, you should come here in spring or summer . July and August are the peak season and maybe a bit crowded with tourists. However, this is the time of the year when there are loads of activities all along the country’s coast, including Zadar. Not to mention it’s when you absolutely must hit the beach – the weather is ideal for that. Early June and early September would be perfect for people who don’t want huge crowds and still but still want to experience fine weather and summer atmosphere. If possible, skip visiting during winter.

a Few facts about Zadar

Zadar stands for the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia. In the 4th century BC, it was founded as an Illyrain settlement named Iader. Three centuries later, it became a Roman municipium and, later, Roman colonia. The Old Town of Zadar still holds the characteristics of an a ncient Roman city . During history, it used to be under the rule of Byzanth, Franks, Venice Republic, Austria, France, Italy and was finally brought back to Croatia after World War II. During that war, the whole city suffered a lot due to bombing, and more than 60% of the buildings suffered a lot of damage.

Today, 70 years later, Zadar has fully recovered. During the past few decades, it has established itself as one of the greatest Croatian student cities, so it’s quite easy to spot many young people living there. Rich heritage, newly opened museums and attractions like Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun attract more and more visitors every year.

One Day in Zadar Itinerary

All of the sights from the list are located on the Zadar Peninsula and are therefore within a walking distance from each other. Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Zadar.

Check out the Forum and drink coffee on this ancient square

Start your day on Zadar’s ancient square – Forum . One can describe it as an open air museum due to the number of artifacts that can be found on the site. When you look closely, it’s pretty easy to spot where the Roman streets and the square once used to be. There are also some very important buildings around the square – Cathedral of St. Anastasia, the iconic Saint Donatus church and the Archaeological Museum. The Forum is a perfect place to capture some amazing photos and do some people watching. Since there are many cafe bars around the square, it’s surely the best spot for your morning coffee.

Visit the church of St. Donatus

While still at the Forum, make sure to visit the St. Donatus church , one of the city’s landmarks. Constructed in the 9th century and dedicated to St. Donatus in the 15th century, the St. Donatus church is the largest pre-Romanesque building in Croatia.

The materials from the Roman forum were used in its construction. It’s built in a circular shape, with three radially situated apses and a circular gallery. Climb that gallery and explore the pretty unique interior and enjoy the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the church.

Visit the museums

Zadar may not be that big, but it still has a variety of amazing museums. Since you only have one day in Zadar, you’ll only have time to properly visit one museum. Archaeological Museum really is an excellent museum for those who enjoy history and arts. It holds a huge (three floors) collection of historical artifacts, especially those from the Roman time.

Another great museum is the Museum of Ancient Glass . It features some very unusual glass pieces and traces the history of the region through the prism of the glass treasures. On the top floor, you can learn about the glass blowing technique by watching a blower’s demonstration.

The last but not least is the Museum of illusions . It’s an interactive museum, full of optical illusions that will be extremely interesting to kids, but even adults can enjoy it. Bring the camera inside, since many illusions get more exciting with the use of a camera.

Stroll Kalelarga street and visit the People’s Square

After you’re done with the Forum, walk the Kalelarga street, also known as Široka street (Wide street). It’s the most famous street among locals and definitely the liveliest one. There are numerous shops, bars, bakeries, ice-cream shops, so it’s pretty easy to get distracted. At the end of the street you’ll reach Narodni trg (People’s Square), another picturesque Mediterranean square. There are many important historical buildings here. You’ll easily spot City Guard, City Lodge, city hall and the pre-Romanesque church of St. Lawrence.

Check out the Five Wells Square and the park above it

Not far from the People’s square there is another one, but slightly different – the Five Wells Square known as Trg 5 Bunara. The cistern and these five wells, lined up in a row, were built by the Venetians during the 16th century to help the citizens withstand a Turkish siege. It’s definitely a great place to capture some amazing photos. Afterwards, climb the lush p ark above the square for a nice view and some refreshments during the warm months.

Walk the Promenade

Exit throughout the charming City Gate , built in 1543 in the Renaissance style. It has the shape of a triumphal arch with three entrances and was, at the time, the main entrance to the city.

Walk the promenade that goes all the way from that point to the top point of the peninsula. The promenade is the best spot to enjoy the most magical sunset in the world, which is how Alfred Hitchcock described it.

Finally, check out the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun

The most popular Croatian audio-visual attractions are definitely the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun. The best thing is – they’re located just next to each other, at the final point of the promenade. Sunset time is the best time to enjoy these artistic installations, especially the Greeting to the Sun, as the light that was absorbed during the day transforms into a light show at night. The Sea Organ, on the other side, will make the waves sound more melodic than ever. Overall, it’s an extraordinary experience and a great place to relax during a long day!

Dinner at restaurant Kornat

While there are many great Croatian dishes that include meat, while in Zadar you need to try some amazing seafood. The best restaurant, Kornat , is quite close to the sea promenade and really offers a wide selection of fish and seafood. Try the stuffed calamari, octopus salad, fish soup, but even just a grilled fished with some vegetables on the side would be a great pick.

If you crave some burgers or pizza, check out the restaurant 4 Kantuna . They offer super crispy pizza, but also some great risottos or pastas, tasty steaks and delicious seafood. Save some space for their delicious desserts.

Where to stay in Zadar?

Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel

Ulica Brace Bersa 2, 23000 Zadar

Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel is a modern and stylish hotel in the centre of the city, located only a block away from the Sean Organ and the Greeting to the Sun. Fine design, passion for detail and modern rooms full of light make it one of the best hotels in Zadar.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel Mediteran

Matije Gupca 19, 23000 Zadar

Hotel Mediteran is a small family run hotel perfect for those who plan to spend a day at the beach , since it’s located only 10 minutes’ walk from the beach. For those who prefer it, the hotel features a beautiful outdoor pool.

Boutique Hostel Forum

Široka ulica 20, 23000 Zadar

Boutique Hostel Forum can’t be more central – it’s actually located right next to the Forum square. The hostel is designed by a famous Croatian architect and is one of the most unique hostels in Croatia . The design and the colors in the interior fully reflect Zadar – blue color as the blue sky above and crystal clear sea below and the orange colour of the most beautiful sunset in the world.

Extra tips for visiting Zadar:

– Zadar is the perfect base if you want to make a day trip to Plitvice Lakes or Krka Falls, since it’s located less than an hour from both of the National Parks.

– Croatia recently introduced the euro as their currency, so most European guest don’t have to worry anymore about exchanging money when they come here.

– You won’t find tips included in the price here, but tipping is customary although not obligatory. 10% will be fine.

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What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

One comment

I plan to go to Zadar in May and explore the city and also go to Krka National Park. This will be in early May– will the weather be decent? Is it worth visiting during this time of the year?

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Not only is Zadar a fascinating place to visit (see 22 things to do in Zadar ) but it makes a great base to explore no less than four national parks, several relatively untouristed islands and a couple of World Heritage Sites. Whether by car, bus, boat or tour, experience these great day trips from Zadar:

Paklenica National Park

Map of Zadar Day Trips

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Experience the beauty of Sakarun beach and its mesmerizing blue lagoon

Swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and enjoy the captivating atmosphere of Sakarun beach

Explore submarine bunker tunnels, incredible specimens of the cold war

Molat & Ugljan Boat Tour: Best Zadar Islands

Dive in & Snorkel to Discover Ledenik shipwreck – newest shipwreck in Adriatic

Meet Locals & Discover Lifestyle in Village of Preko, swim in Jaz sandy beach

Take “kaić” rowboat water taxi to smallest inhabited islet Galevac

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Until: 18:30

Dugi Otok Boat Tour: Ultimate Boat Adventure

Snorkel around sunken shipwreck, discover flourishing flora & fauna.

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Discover Sakarun Sandy Beach & learn how to play the local sport of "picigin".

Silba, Olib & Ist Boat Tour 3 Islands & 6 Unique Spots

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Hear Interesting Love Story Behind “Toretta Tower” (Guided Story Telling)

Relax and Unwind in the Sandy Lagoon / Beach Bar and Pine Forest Shadow

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Stay active on your boat tour & have fun at the same time with exciting beach sports on stunning spots.

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Once in the lifetime experience! Be bold, take a deep breath, and leap into the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea with us!

Cruise around the numerous dotted islands & explore the countless secluded bays on your day trip in Zadar.

Hike up to the island hilltops and conquer the breathtaking 360 vistas on the Zadar archipelago seascape.

Island Hopping

Explore the 300+ islands and countless bays on your boat adventure around the dotted Zadar archipelago.

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Enjoy an underwater adventure, explore the shipwreck, vivid marine world & unique spots on your day trips in Zadar.

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Swim in the unique sandy lagoons, discover pristine nature & the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea on your Zadar boat trip.

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5 advantages of a speedboat tour vs. a regular boat tour.

Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast beckons travelers worldwide to revel in turquoise waters, sun-drenched shores, and islands shrouded in myth and legend … But with limited vacation time, how do you maximize…

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Zadar

Day trips from zadar.

Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Zadar to Kornati Islands National Park
Zadar to Veli rat
Zadar to Lozovac
Private Day Trips
Up to 1 hour
1 to 4 hours
4 hours to 1 day
5.0 of 5 bubbles
4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
Likely to Sell Out
The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Plitvice Lakes day tour from Zadar- ticket reserved simply & safe

2. Plitvice Lakes Day Tour with panoramic Boat ride -TICKET INCLUDED

3. Hello Kornati - Small group one day trip from Zadar

4. Plitvice lakes guided tour with pre booked tickets

5. Excursion to Kornati National Park from Zadar

6. From Zadar: Plitvice Lakes with Boat Ride & Zadar Old town tour

7. Full-Day Private Tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park from Zadar

8. Kornati - hidden bay & Telascica from Zadar

9. Long Island Speedboat Tour with Lunch

10. Kornati National Park Islands Mana and Kornat Tour by boat

11. Krka Waterfalls Excursion from Zadar

12. Private Speedboat tour to National Park Kornati Islands

13. Day trip to Nin and Zadar

14. Full-Day Tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park from Zadar

15. Visit to Split and Trogir and return to Zadar

16. From Zadar: Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park

17. Kornati & Telascica summer boat tour , gratis mask and snorkel

18. Krka Waterfalls from Zadar - ticket reserved, simple and easy

19. Plitvice Lakes - Day Tour with Boat Ride - TICKETS INCLUDED

20. Krka Waterfalls and Sibenik Day Trip from Zadar

21. Kornati National Park and Nature Park Telašćica Full-Day Trip from Zadar

22. Boat Trip from Zadar to Kornati National Park

23. Kornati to island Mana and Kukljica and Beach Lojena Tour by boat

24. Full-Day Tour in Dugi Otok with Stand-Up Paddle Experience

25. Full day PRIVATE tour (10-12 People)on custom made motorsailor

26. Highlights of Kornati by Traditional Sail Boat

27. Full-Day Tour of Krka Waterfalls & Šibenik Town from Zadar

28. Dugi Otok Island Discovery Day Tour from Zadar

29. Rent a bike

30. Dugi Otok Boat Tour- The Best Island Spots, Small Group 12 pax,7 Stops, Full Day

What travellers are saying.

Plitvice Lakes Day Tour from Zadar-TICKET INCLUDED Simple, Safe
Plitvice Lakes Day Tour with panoramic Boat ride -TICKET INCLUDED
Plitvice lakes self guided tour with booked tickets
From Zadar: Plitvice Lakes with Boat Ride & Zadar Old town tour
Dugi Otok - full day kayak adventure
Spearhunter
Speed Boat Zadar
Zadar Adventures
Zadar Archipelago
Zadar Boat Tour
Private Boat Excursions Zadar
Romeo&Juliet Excursions Zadar
Talvi Tours
Imperial Transfers Croatia

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The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

A gorgeous view overlooking Split, Croatia on a bright and sunny summer day

Croatia has been a bustling tourist hot spot for six or seven years now. Shaped like a boomerang and bordering Bosnia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Slovenia, this small country of four million people punches well above its weight. You can spend time relaxing on the sunny Adriatic Sea, hop between hundreds of rugged and remote islands, feast on Italian-esque cuisine, or travel inland and visit stunning waterfalls and lush national parks.

While there is a lot to see and do here , most travelers confine their visit to Dubrovnik or Split. And sure, those are cool cities. But Croatia has much more to offer.

But when you only have a week and you want the sun, I understand why you’d want to focus on that part of Croatia. (Pro tip: Like a lot of Southern Europe, it’s best to avoid Croatia during the warm-weather summer months. In addition to the high temperatures and high prices, you’re going to be sharing the country with an army of tourists. If you go in winter, the weather is cooler and the prices are much gentler, but many tourist towns, such as Dubrovnik, practically shut down from late October until mid-April. Your best bet is April-May and early September until early November. Crowds will be smaller and prices won’t be through the roof.)

So, to help you plan your trip, I’ve created this ideal seven-day itinerary for southern Croatia. It covers the highlights while also getting you off the beaten path. You’ll see cities, beaches, villages, and have plenty of time to soak up the local pace of life.

Table of Contents

Days 1 & 2: Dubrovnik

Day 3: split, day 4: hvar, days 5 & 6: sibenik and krka national park, day 7: zadar, get your in-depth budget guide to europe.

A stunning view over the Old Town of Dubrovnik, Croatia with the Adriatic Sea in the distance

While most of Croatia is affordable, Dubrovnik is no longer cheap. A lot of cruises stop here now and prices have skyrocketed in recent years. That said, there are a few things here that are worth forking out outrageous fees for:

Walk the Old Town Walls Walking the medieval walls is a must if it’s your first time visiting. The entrance fee isn’t cheap at 35 EUR, but the stroll offers incredible views of the Old Town and the sparkling Adriatic Sea. It’s 60-90 minutes of awe and totally worth the price tag.

Summit Mr. Srd Take the cable car up to the top of Mt. Srd. It towers over the Old Town, and while it costs 27 EUR, once you take the ride and see the view you’ll realize it was well worth the cost. If you’re on a budget, you can also hike to the top. There’s a dirt trail that will take you to peak, but it’s a challenging hike. Give yourself about an hour each way. Once at the top, you can take a seat at the restaurant and nurse an overpriced beverage while taking in the jaw-dropping view.

Visit the War Photo Ltd. Museum There are not a lot of great museums in Dubrovnik, but make sure you visit War Photo Ltd., a gallery started by New Zealand-born Wade Goddard, a former war photographer. The permanent exhibition on the Balkan wars of the 1990s will help you get a better understanding of what went on here 30 years ago. It’s sobering, but eye-opening. Admission is 10 EUR.

Explore Gruž If you want to escape the tourist crowds, especially when there’s a cruise ship in port, head to Gruž, a once-gritty neighborhood on the marina that now boasts several great restaurants and cafés. It’s also home to Dubrovnik Beer Company, the city’s first and only brewery. The cavernous taproom is a lovely place to sip a local beer after a day of exploring.

When you get hungry in Gruž, check out Kiosk, an outdoor casual spot that serves up Dalmatian Coast fare with some global twists. Or for something truly memorable and very Dalmatian, book a spot at Marija’s House, where chef Marija Papak opens her home to visitors during the warm-weather months and cooks up a nightly feast of peka cuisine — lamb, pork, and/or octopus slow-cooked under a bell-like lid on the grill that renders the meat impossibly tender and delicious.

The stunning coastline of Split, Croatia on a beautiful sunny day

The chief attraction in Split is impossible to miss. When Roman Emperor Diocletian decided to retire to the area where he grew up — the central Dalmatian Coast — he had a massive, lavish palace built right on the beach. He died a few years after he moved in, and what happened next is quite interesting: over the centuries, as the palace began to crumble and become a ruin, the city basically moved in and made it part of the fabric of the town.

Today, you can stroll around the center of Split and suddenly realize you’re actually inside the palace. What was once a hallway, for example, is now a narrow, limestone-clad lane. What might have been a bedroom is now a seafood restaurant.

Much of the palace is free to walk around in. If you want an in-depth look at it, though, there are plenty of guided tours .

And while you’re in Split, also don’t miss St. Duje’s Cathedral, Klis Fortress (featured in Game of Thrones ), and the Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments (home to some 20,000 relics and artifacts).

The other main reason why Split should be on your itinerary is that it’s the main transportation hub for ferries to various islands in central Dalmatia. After spending an evening in town, hop on a morning ferry to Hvar, one of Croatia’s coolest islands, a pleasant one hour and forty-five minutes. If you want to get there more quickly, there’s also a catamaran.

The beautiful waters in a bay on Hvar, Croatia on a sunny summer day with old buildings in the background

It also has attracted a wild party scene. All the boat tours stop here for their passengers to get wasted and go clubbing at the world-famous Carpe Diem so keep in mind this island has a party scene – but there’s a lot more to the island!

For somewhere more laid-back, check out Stari Grad, literally “Old Town,” located on the opposite side of the island from Hvar Town. Recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, it boasts a warren of narrow, stone-blanketed lanes. Be sure to also take a hike through the island’s many olive groves and lavender fields.

If you don’t have your own vehicle, there’s a wine and olive oil tasting tour to this side of the island (you’ll make a stop at the lavender fields too).

The beautiful Krka waterfalls in a national park in Croatia, surrounded by lush greenery

Šibenik is also the gateway for exploring nearby Krka National Park and its stunning waterfalls . Make sure you also get there early to beat the tourist buses to see 14th-century Visovac Monastery in the middle of an island on the Krka River. Park admission ranges from 7 EUR in the low season (January-February) all the way up to a staggering 40 EUR during peak season (June-September).

The long, stone steps along the Dalmatian Coast of Zadar in Croatia

The city also has a unique sea organ. Located on a set of steps that descend into the sea, the organ makes sounds as the waves crash through it, creating a strange but harmonious sound that sounds like whale calls. The organ consists of 35 tubes and was designed by architect Nikola Basic. Come here at sunset to soak in the picturesque views and listen to the captivating sounds of the sea. After all, Alfred Hitchcock said Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world, making this a fitting destination to end your week-long trip along the coast.

With over a thousand islands, numerous beaches, and countless hiking trails, you could easily spend months exploring Croatia and still only scratch the surface. But, if you only have a week, this itinerary will show you the highlights while whetting your appetite for future visits. While it’s not quite as cheap as it used to be, the country offers lots of value and is super easy to explore.

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Book Your Trip to Croatia: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

SafetyWing (best for everyone)
Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Croatia? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Croatia for even more planning tips!

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The scenic view of Korcula town and its historic houses in Croatia

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Croatia’s most beautiful seaside destinations

Croatia offers more than 1,100 miles of meandering mainland coast backed by rugged limestone mountains, along with hundreds of scattered islands and islets, of which 47 are inhabited. It is also dotted with historic and beautifully preserved harbour towns, relics of the four centuries between 1420 and 1797 when it was occupied by the Venetians. This combination makes it the perfect option for those who like to combine cultural sightseeing with lazing on the beach.

Here you’ll also find an exhilarating combination of water sports (sailing, scuba diving, sea kayaking and wind surfing) and land-based adventure activities (mountain biking, hiking and rock climbing), plus authentic local cuisine, showcasing the region’s Adriatic seafood, olive oil and wine.

What’s more, Croatia, despite being an EU member since 2013, does not use the euro. So expect your pound to stretch much further here than in other Mediterranean favourites such as France and Italy.

But where to go? Below is our guide to Croatia’s five coastal regions: South Dalmatia, Central Dalmatia, North Dalmatia, Kvarner and Istria. Within each region, one beach and two standout towns have been highlighted, along with a nearby not-to-be-missed inland attraction, food and wine suggestions, and hotel recommendations. Remember that there’s very little sand in Croatia – almost all the beaches are of pebble and rock, or in some cases you swim from man-made concrete bathing platforms with steps into the sea.

Search Croatia’s coast by region

South Dalmatia: Dubrovnik and Korčula
Central Dalmatia: Split and Hvar
North Dalmatia: Zadar and Pag Town
Kvarner: Mali Lošinj and Rab Town
Istria: Pula and Rovinj

South Dalmatia

You can fly direct to South Dalmatia’s largest city, Dubrovnik , from various UK airports, with British Airways , EasyJet , Jet2.com and Ryanair .

Dubrovnik, formerly known as Ragusa, was for centuries a wealthy independent city-republic, which slowly expanded to include a stretch of coast and the tiny Elafiti islets.

From Dubrovnik’s Gruž port, you can make day trips by boat to the Elafiti, as well as the island of Mljet, where Mljet National Park encompasses two stunning turquoise lakes, rimmed by dense woodland – rent a bike and cycle around the lakes, or hire a kayak and paddle across.

Northwest up the coast, tiny Ston (famed for excellent fresh oysters and mussels) is the gateway to the rugged Pelješac peninsular, which produces some of Croatia’s top red wines, notably Dingač. Opposite Pelješac, verdant Korčula is South Dalmatia’s biggest island.

Where to go

Dubbed the “Pearl of the Adriatic” by Lord Byron, Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most visited (and expensive) destination. In the past, its extraordinary wealth was based on seafaring and trading – today it thrives on tourism. The Unesco-listed old town is protected by sturdy medieval fortifications. Walk a full circuit of the ramparts, then explore the stone alleys, packed with noble Baroque palazzi, elegant churches, museums, restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops. Even some first-time visitors may well recognise the city – it starred as the fictional King’s Landing in Game of Thrones.

Korčula Town

Perched on a tiny fortified peninsula on the island of Korčula , this medieval settlement is based on a herringbone plan, with a series of stone stepped alleys leading up to a main pedestrianised thoroughfare. On the main square, see the 16th-century cathedral with a finely carved portal, and nearby, the Marco Polo Interpretation Centre in the supposed birthplace of the 13th-century explorer

The best beach

Escape Dubrovnik’s summer crowds with a ferry ride to the nearby islet of Lopud , home to Šunj, one of Croatia’s rare sandy beaches. The sea is warm and shallow, ideal for children, and there are several beach bars hiring sun-beds.

The best day trip

Green and rugged Konavle offers a glimpse of old-fashioned Dalmatian rural villages, which for centuries provided Dubrovnik with wine, olive oil, cheeses, meat and vegetables. Have lunch by the waterfalls at Konavoski Dvori then drive down to the 15th-century Sokol Tower at Dunave, for superb views over the valley, with its elegant cypress trees and carefully tended vineyards.

Where to eat and drink

A rustic agrotourism eatery, the lovely Konoba Maha serves local specialities such as Žrnovski makaruni (homemade pasta with pesto, sundried tomatoes and goat’s cheese) and barbecued lamb. It lies in the hills behind Korčula Town.

On the Pelješac peninsula, the Korta Katarina winery in Orebić runs informative guided tours of its cellars and vineyards, followed by tastings. Be sure to try their highly esteemed ruby red Korta Katarina Plavac Mali.

Where to stay

South of Dubrovnik, in Cavtat, welcoming Hotel Cavtat sits in a bay with a pebble beach and is a good budget-friendly choice.

On the coast, immediately outside Dubrovnik’s medieval walls, Hotel Excelsior offers understated luxury and a spa.

See our complete guide to the best hotels in Dubrovnik and planning the perfect holiday in Dubrovnik .

Central Dalmatia

Fly direct to Central Dalmatia’s largest city, Split, from various UK airports, with British Airways , Wizz Air , EasyJet and Jet2.com .

Split , Croatia’s second biggest city (after the capital, Zagreb) is backed by rugged mountains, and fronted by a busy little port, with regular ferries and catamarans to the nearby islands of Brač , Hvar , Vis, as well as Korčula and Lastovo (officially in South Dalmatia).

Down the coast from Split, Mt Biokovo rises 1,762m, casting its shadow over the 40-mile Makarska Rivijera, where you’ll find some of Croatia’s best mainland beaches and shimmering turquoise waters. Up the coast, Šibenik is an up-and-coming destination with a Unesco-listed cathedral and four renovated fortresses.

Within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace, a magnificent Roman monument built by the eponymous emperor in the 3rd-century, Split’s old town is Unesco-listed. A labyrinth of stone alleys, Venetian-era houses and churches, it centres on the Roman peristyle (arcaded square), overlooked by the Cathedral. Immediately outside the walls, the pazar is a colourful open-air fruit-and-vegetable market.

West of town, in a 1930s villa set in gardens by the sea, the Meštrović Gallery displays the works of Croatia’s greatest 20th-century sculptor, Ivan Meštrović.

Croatia’s trendiest island destination, Hvar Town on the island of Hvar is built around a deep sheltered harbour, overlooked by a hilltop castle. Hvar’s pricey seafood restaurants and cocktail bars are much loved by yachters, who moor up along the quayside on summer evenings.

An absolute stunner, Zlatni Rat is a 450-metre long fine pebble spit, jutting out from the coast in Bol on the island of Brač. It’s a fantastic spot for water sports – try wind surfing, kite surfing and scuba diving, or just hire a pedalo.

From the seaside town of Šibenik, excursion boats sail up the River Krka to Krka National Park near Skradin. Immersed in dense woodland, the river thunders through a rocky gorge, in a series of rapids and seven waterfalls – follow a series of raised wooden walkways through the lush coppices and over the tumbling cascades.

For sophisticated contemporary dining, book a table at Pelegrini , opposite Šibenik’s cathedral. Chef Rudolf Štefan uses seasonal Dalmatian ingredients to create dishes such as hake with Jerusalem artichokes and prosciutto, or lamb with beans. It gained a Michelin star in 2019.

On the island of Hvar, in Jelsa, the Tomić winery showcases the local grape varieties Bogdanuša, Pošip and Plavac Mali. Its VIP tasting includes a tour, followed by the chance to sample six different wines paired with savoury snacks.

A superb choice for families, the Blue Sun Elaphusa in Bol on Brač has a kid’s club and outdoor pools, and is just a 10-minute walk from Zlatni Rat beach.

Overlooking the harbour in Hvar Town, Hotel Adriana has funky contemporary interiors and a spa with an indoor rooftop pool.

See our complete guide to the best hotels in Split .

North Dalmatia

Zadar is North Dalmatia’s main city and port. You can fly here direct from various UK airports with Ryanair .

Founded by the Romans, Zadar has a tumultuous history, having been raided during the Crusades, heavily bombed during the Second World War, and blockaded during the Croatian War of Independence. Nonetheless, today it’s a cheerful university town and popular holiday destination.

Northeast of Zadar, the imposing Velebit mountains run parallel to the coast. From Zadar, ferries run to nearby islands, and excursion boats take day-trippers to the uninhabited rocky islets and turquoise waters of Kornati National Park.

The long skinny rocky island of Pag , known for its flavoursome Paški sir cheese made from sheep’s milk, is connected to the mainland by a road bridge.

Built on a small peninsula, fortified by the Venetians, Zadar’s car-free old town centres on what was once a Roman forum. It is home to the 9th century Church of St Donat and the 12th century Cathedral of St Anastasia, with a bell-tower you can climb for fantastic views of the town, sea and mountains.

For something more contemporary, on the seafront promenade you’ll find two quirky installations, the Sea Organ (2005) and the Greeting to the Sun (2008), both by local architect Nikola Bašić.

On Pag, Pag Town is a 15th-century walled Renaissance settlement, with attractions including a proud church, the Bishop’s Palace, and the Lace Gallery displaying lace made by Benedictine nuns. Beyond town lie the vast salt pans upon which Pag’s wealth was founded, and a dairy making Pag cheese.

A wide arc of smooth white stones fringes the translucent turquoise bay, backed by pinewoods, at Saharun beach, near Božava on the island of Dugi Otok . It’s quite remote but you can arrive by excursion boat from Zadar.

From the seaside town of Starigrad Paklenica, hike up the dramatic Velika Paklenica Canyon in Paklenica National Park on the southern slopes of Velebit, to visit Manita Peć, a limestone cave adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.

In Novalja on the island of Pag, Boškinac uses locally reared lamb and fresh Adriatic seafood to create sublime modern dishes. It was given a Michelin star in 2019.

On the limestone slopes behind the seaside resort of Petrčane, Kraljevski Vinogradi winery is open for tasting – try their white Pošip and reds Plavac Mali and Crljenak..

On the island of Dugi Otok, Villa Nai is a superb boutique property set amid olive groves, with eight rooms and suites, two restaurants and an outdoor pool.

In Pag Town, Hotel Pagus has a pebble beach out front, a small spa and is kinder on the budget.

Direct flights to the Kvarner region’s main city, Rijeka, are fairly limited, with only Ryanair offering a service from the UK. Alternatively, fly to nearby Pula or Zagreb.

Overlooking the Kvarner Gulf, and backed by the pine-clad mountains of Gorski Kotar, the industrial port city of Rijeka, with its Austro-Hungarian architecture, was European Capital of Culture 2020. Nearby, Opatija, now a somewhat dowdy resort, is the birthplace of Croatian tourism - wealthy Central Europeans began convalescing here, enjoying the mild climate and therapeutic seawater, in the late 19th century.

From Rijeka, ferries and catamarans run to the nearby islands of Lošinj, Cres and Rab, while the nearest and biggest island, Krk, is joined to the mainland by a road bridge. Lošinj, “the island of vitality”, offers several upmarket hotels with spas; wild and rugged Cres is known for sheep farming; Rab has some of Croatia’s rare sandy beaches and a medieval capital.

Mali Lošinj

On the island of Lošinj, Mali Lošinj is built around a long narrow sheltered bay, backed by pinewoods. Historically its wealth was based on seafaring and shipbuilding, then in the late-19th-century it became a place of convalescence for Austro-Hungarian aristocracy, who built gracious villas overlooking the bay. Today it is home to several plush waterside hotels, complete with spas.

Rising from the sea upon a small narrow peninsula, car-free Rab Town takes you back to medieval times. Three parallel cobbled main alleys are linked by stone steps, with attractions including monasteries, churches and four elegant bell towers.

On Rab’s northeast coast, near Lopar, Paradise beach (Rajska plaža) is a sandy one-mile strip with a shallow sea, water sports facilities and beach volleyball, giving onto shallow water, ideal for kids.

High above the Kvarner Gulf, in the mountains of Gorski Kotar, you’ll find Risnjak National Park . From the ticket office at Crni Lug, hike the three-mile Leska educational path, an easy circular route taking you through meadows and woodland and ideal for families with kids.

Feast on tuna tartare, homemade ravioli and succulent Kvarner shrimp at Rivica , overlooking the fishing harbour in Njivica on Krk. It’s highly esteemed by foodies and sailing crews, and dates from 1934.

Light and dry Vrbnička Žlahtina (made from a grape indigenous to Krk island) is a superb summer wine, produced in the hill village of Vrbnik on Krk. Several wineries are open to the public, the oldest and best known being Nada , with a stone cellar for tasting, a gourmet restaurant and a shop.

On Lošinj, the posh Boutique Hotel Alhambra occupies two early 20th-century villas and offers retro design, Michelin-starred dining and a spa.

In Beli on Cres, the informal Pansion Tramontana is a fine choice for families, with interconnecting rooms, hiking trails and a nearby beach.

Istria’s main city, Pula , is served by direct flights from various UK airports, operated by British Airways , EasyJet, Jet2 and Ryanair .

Sitting on the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, Pula was founded by the Romans – it’s somewhat brash, but is a good starting point for a boat trip to Veliki Brijun, a tiny islet with pristine lawns and woodland within Brijuni National Park .

Istria’s most popular seaside resorts, Rovinj and Poreč, lie on the west coast, with centuries-old pedestrian-only historic centres, and big modern hotels hidden by landscaping.

An industrial port with cranes and a shipyard, Pula’s skyline is dominated by the Arena, a well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, originally designed to seat 20,000 spectators and now hosting summer concerts. Pula’s other ancient Roman relics include the Forum Square, rimmed with cafes and overlooked by the 1st century Temple of Augustus, and a monumental Triumphal Arch

On Istria’s west coast, Rovinj is one of Croatia’s prettiest and most upmarket destinations. Pastel-coloured Venetian-era facades rim a sheltered harbour, filled with fishing boats and overlooked by an 18th-century hilltop church. South of town, past the sailing marina, Zlatni Rt park is planted with pines, cypresses and cedars, and rimmed by tiny coves with pebble beaches.

On the southernmost point of the Istrian peninsula, within the pine-scented Kamenjak Nature Park , Mala Kolombarica is an expanse of flat rocks jutting out into the deep blue Adriatic. Come here to sunbathe, or test your courage diving or somersaulting into the sea. There’s a beach bar and it lies just outside Pula.

Head inland

Often compared to Tuscany , inland Istria has undulating hills planted with vineyards and olive groves, and walled medieval hilltop towns such as Motovun. Foodies will love its agrotourism eateries and rustic konobe (taverns), which make the most of the region’s olive oil and cheeses, and the tartufi (truffles) unearthed in the Mirna Valley.

Rovinj now has two Michelin-star restaurants: Monte , next to the hilltop church, and Agli Amici Rovinj, at the Grand Park Hotel. Both serve superb Modern Mediterranean cuisine based on local seasonal produce.

Set amid lush vineyards, the Meneghetti Winery near Bale produces nine different wines, including the prize-winning Meneghetti red. They do tasting by appointment, and it doubles as a hotel.

The Park Plaza Histria lies by the sea, just outside Pula.

The Grand Park in Rovinj offers elegant contemporary architecture in a blissful coastal location.

See our complete guide to the best hotels in Croatia and plan the perfect holiday with our ultimate two-week itinerary .

This article was first published in March 2021, and has been revised and updated.

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Plitvice Lakes National Park forum

We were planning on getting the bus from Split to Zadar.

On a different day we would like to get the bus from Zadar to Plitivice lakes to then continue onto Zadar on the same day.

I am unsure of a few things such as which bus company is best to book through and how far in advance?

I have read some articles about buying tickets in person the day before rather then online but don’t want to risk not getting the bus we want.

I’m also concerned if I book the bus in advance I’ll either cut our time in Plitivice lakes short or be left standing around waiting for too long.

Any advice or tips will be appreciated !

Book a few days in advance for August. Tickets for popular routes do sell out. Make sure you have evidence of booking to show the driver.

Just to be sure, allow 6 hours at Plitvice.

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