2-Day Local-style Family Adventure: Food, Wine & Nightlife in Zadar

Zadar, Croatia

2 days

White marble steps of the monument to the sun
Human sihlouettes surrounding the light display of the monument to the sun
Adriatic coast and lighthouse
Aerial view of the old town
Cloister of the Franciscan monastery

About Zadar, Croatia

Discover the captivating charm of Zadar, Croatia, a city rich in history and culture. Nestled on the Dalmatian Coast, Zadar offers a unique blend of ancient Roman ruins, medieval churches, and modern attractions. Visit the Sea Organ, a unique architectural marvel that creates music from the waves, or the Sun Salutation, an interactive light display. Explore the city's old town, filled with cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and the stunning St. Donatus Church. Take a ferry to the nearby Kornati National Park, a cluster of islands offering pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Zadar has something to offer. Experience the magic of Croatia in Zadar.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Zadar's Historic City Center and Vibrant Night Markets

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the ancient Roman Forum, the largest on the eastern side of the Adriatic. This bustling square is filled with locals and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant present.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Croatian lunch in one of the family-friendly restaurants in the city center. Try local dishes like 'pasticada', a slow-cooked beef dish, or 'brudet', a fish stew.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the Riva, Zadar's seafront promenade. Don't miss the Sea Organ, an architectural marvel that creates music with the waves, and the Greeting to the Sun, a solar-powered light installation.

Dinner

For dinner, head to a local 'konoba', a traditional Dalmatian tavern. Here you can sample local wines and enjoy fresh seafood dishes while soaking up the relaxed atmosphere.

Evening

End your day with a visit to one of Zadar's vibrant night markets. These markets offer a variety of local products, from food and wine to crafts and clothing, making them a perfect spot for some late-night shopping.

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the Church of St. Donatus, one of Zadar's most iconic landmarks. This 9th-century church offers stunning views of the city and the sea from its bell tower.

Lunch

For lunch, try 'peka', a traditional Croatian dish cooked under a bell-like dome, in one of the local restaurants. This hearty meal is perfect for refueling before your afternoon adventures.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Zadar Archaeological Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from the region's rich history. Afterwards, take a walk in the nearby Queen Jelena Madijevka Park, the oldest public park in Croatia.

Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Zadar at a restaurant offering panoramic views of the city. Try local dishes like 'grilled fish' or 'octopus salad', paired with a glass of local wine.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to one of Zadar's popular nightclubs or bars. Enjoy live music, dance, and soak up the vibrant nightlife of this charming city.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Roman Forum

1
Roman Forum

The social, economic and religious center during the Roman times, offering a glimpse into the ancient history of Zadar.

Attractions
Landmarks
Sea Organ

2
Sea Organ

An experimental musical instrument which plays music by way of sea waves and tubes located underneath a set of large marble steps.

Attractions
Landmarks
Greeting to the Sun

3
Greeting to the Sun

A monument to the sun which consists of 300 multi-layered glass plates placed on the same level with the stone-paved waterfront in the shape of a 22-meter diameter circle.

Attractions
Landmarks
Church of St. Donatus

4
Church of St. Donatus

A church named after the bishop who commissioned its construction. It's one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture in Dalmatia.

Religious Sites
Landmarks
Architecture
Zadar Archaeological Museum

5
Zadar Archaeological Museum

The Zadar Archaeological Museum is a museum located in Zadar, Croatia. It was founded in 1832 and it is one of the oldest museums in Croatia. The museum collects, researches, and presents the archaeological heritage of Zadar and its surroundings from prehistoric times, through the Roman period, to the end of the Middle Ages.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

6
Queen Jelena Madijevka Park

The oldest public park in Croatia, known for its beautiful fountains and greenery.

Parks
Gardens

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Peka

Peka

A traditional Croatian dish that is usually prepared with octopus, lamb, veal, or chicken, along with potatoes and other vegetables. It's cooked under a bell-like dome, or 'ispod čripnje'. This method of slow cooking gives the dish a unique flavor that is a must-try when in Zadar.

Paški sir

Paški sir

A hard, sheep's milk cheese from the island of Pag. It's known for its distinct flavor due to the island's unique vegetation, which the sheep feed on. It's a popular part of the local cuisine in Zadar.

Maraschino

Maraschino

A distinctive cherry liqueur that originated in Zadar. It's made from the Marasca cherry, a variety native to the Dalmatian coast. The liqueur has a unique, slightly bitter taste and is often served as a digestif.

Crni rižot

Crni rižot

A black risotto made with cuttlefish or squid, rice, garlic, red wine, and olive oil. The ink from the cuttlefish or squid gives the dish its black color and a rich, briny flavor. It's a common dish in Zadar and along the Dalmatian coast.

Pršut

Pršut

A dry-cured ham similar to Italian prosciutto. It's typically served thinly sliced as an appetizer or part of a charcuterie board. Pršut is a staple in Zadar and throughout Croatia.

Brudet

Brudet

A fish stew made with several types of fish and shellfish, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of herbs and spices. It's a traditional dish in Zadar and along the Adriatic coast.

Rakija

Rakija

A strong fruit brandy that is popular in Croatia. It's made from a variety of fruits, including plums, grapes, and apricots. Rakija is often served as an aperitif in Zadar.

Rožata

Rožata

A traditional Croatian custard pudding similar to flan. It's made with eggs, sugar, milk, and a local liqueur called rosin, which gives it a unique flavor. Rožata is a popular dessert in Zadar.

Skuta

Skuta

A fresh cheese similar to ricotta. It's often served with salads, pastries, or as a dessert with honey. Skuta is a common part of the local cuisine in Zadar.

Kroštule

Kroštule

A traditional Croatian dessert made from dough that is deep-fried and sprinkled with powdered sugar. Kroštule is a popular treat in Zadar, especially during the Carnival season.

Bobići

Bobići

A traditional Croatian dish made with corn, potatoes, and various vegetables. It's a hearty and comforting dish that is often enjoyed in Zadar.

Ožujsko

Ožujsko

A popular Croatian beer that is often enjoyed in Zadar. It's a light lager with a crisp, refreshing taste.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Zadar, Croatia is from late May to early September. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city's historical sites, enjoying the beautiful beaches, and participating in outdoor activities. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October are also great times to visit, with pleasant weather and slightly cooler temperatures.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 30

Thu

Statehood Day

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi

June 22

Sat

Day of Antifascist Struggle

August 5

Mon

Victory Day

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day

November 18

Mon

Remembrance Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

St Stephen's Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Zadar is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, including the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun, are within walking distance from each other.

Zadar is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike paths and rental shops. It's a great way to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.

Zadar's public bus system is reliable and covers most of the city and surrounding areas. It's a cost-effective way to get around, especially for longer distances.

Taxis are readily available in Zadar. They can be hailed on the street, booked via phone, or picked up from designated taxi stands. It's a convenient but more expensive option.

Uber is available in Zadar, offering a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. You can book a ride using the Uber app on your smartphone.

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore outside of Zadar. However, keep in mind that parking in the city center can be challenging.

Zadar is a coastal city with numerous islands nearby. Ferries and catamarans operate regular services to these islands, offering a unique way to explore the region.

A tourist train operates in Zadar, offering a fun and convenient way to see the city's main sights. It's especially popular with families and those with limited mobility.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Zadar, Croatia as a first time visitor

1

Zadar is a coastal city in Croatia, located on the Adriatic Sea.

2

The official language is Croatian, but English is widely spoken, especially among the younger generation and in tourist areas.

3

The local currency is the Croatian Kuna (HRK). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

4

Zadar has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer temperatures range from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C), while winter temperatures range from 40°F to 55°F (4°C to 13°C).

5

Tipping is customary in Croatia. It's common to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants and cafes.

6

Zadar is known for its seafood. Be sure to try local specialties like black risotto, made with squid ink, and buzara, a shellfish stew.

7

Public transportation in Zadar is reliable and affordable. The city has a good network of buses, and taxis are also readily available.

8

Zadar is a safe city, but like any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

9

Croatia is a member of the European Union, but it is not part of the Schengen Area. This means you may need a visa to visit, depending on your nationality.

10

Zadar has a rich history, with Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian influences. It's worth taking a guided tour to learn more about the city's past.

11

The city is pedestrian-friendly, with many of the main attractions located within walking distance of each other.

12

Zadar is known for its stunning sunsets. The best place to watch the sunset is from the Sea Organ, an art installation that plays music powered by the waves.

13

Croatia uses the Type C and Type F plug sockets. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

14

Tap water is safe to drink in Zadar, but bottled water is also readily available.

15

Zadar is a great base for exploring the surrounding region, including the Kornati Islands and Plitvice Lakes National Park.

16

The city has a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and vacation rentals.

17

Zadar has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs located in the Old Town.

18

The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Zadar Summer Theatre Festival and the Full Moon Festival.

19

Shopping in Zadar offers a mix of high-end boutiques, local artisan shops, and markets. The city is known for its handmade lace and maraschino liqueur.

20

Emergency numbers in Croatia are 112 for general emergencies, 194 for medical emergencies, and 192 for the police.

Basic Croatian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Bok

bohk

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Doviđenja

doh-vee-jen-ya

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Molim

moh-leem

Asking for something

Thank you

Hvala

hva-la

Showing appreciation

Yes

Da

dah

Agreeing or confirming

No

Ne

neh

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Oprostite

oh-pro-stee-teh

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Ne razumijem

neh rah-zoo-me-yem

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

Govorite li engleski?

goh-voh-ree-teh lee eng-les-kee?

To ask if someone speaks English

Where is the bathroom?

Gdje je kupaonica?

gd-yeh yeh koo-pah-oh-neet-sah?

To ask for the bathroom location

I need a doctor

Trebam liječnika

treh-bam lee-yeh-chnee-kah

In case of medical emergency

Help

Pomoć

poh-mohch

In case of emergency

How much does it cost?

Koliko to košta?

ko-lee-ko toh kosh-tah?

To ask for the price

I would like to order

Želim naručiti

zheh-leem nah-roo-chee-tee

Ordering food or drink

Water

Voda

voh-dah

Ordering water

Beer

Pivo

pee-voh

Ordering beer

Wine

Vino

vee-noh

Ordering wine

Cheers

Živjeli

zhee-vye-lee

Toasting

Good morning

Dobro jutro

doh-broh yoo-troh

Morning greeting

Good night

Laku noć

lah-koo notch

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Swimwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-sized body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-sized first aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency (Croatian Kuna)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank for charging on the go

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Water bottle

  • Guidebook or map of Zadar

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Reusable shopping bag

Weather Conditions

When planning a visit to Zadar, Croatia, it's important to consider the weather as it can greatly influence your travel experience. Zadar experiences a Mediterranean climate, which means warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. If you're a sun-seeker, the best time to visit Zadar is from June to September when the weather is typically sunny and warm. During these months, the average high temperatures range from 80°F to 90°F (27°C to 32°C), perfect for beach activities and exploring the city's outdoor attractions. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. For those who prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April-May and October-November. During these periods, the weather is generally mild with average high temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C). This is a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. If you plan to visit during the winter months from December to February, be prepared for cooler and wetter conditions. Average high temperatures during this time range from 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C), and there can be occasional rainfall. However, this is also a great time to enjoy Zadar's indoor attractions, such as its museums and churches, without the crowds. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to pack layers to accommodate for changing weather conditions. Also, don't forget to pack sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially if you're visiting in the summer months. Lastly, keep an eye on the local weather forecast during your trip to help plan your activities and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit to Zadar.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

12° / 2°

January is the coldest month in Zadar, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 12°C. It's a quiet time to visit, but pack warm clothes.

February

13° / 3°

February is still chilly with temperatures slightly higher than January. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded places.

March

16° / 6°

March sees the start of spring with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 16°C. The weather is mild, making it a good time for sightseeing.

April

19° / 9°

April is a pleasant month with temperatures ranging from 9°C to 19°C. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities.

May

23° / 13°

May offers warm temperatures ranging from 13°C to 23°C. It's an excellent time to visit the beaches and enjoy water sports.

June

26° / 16°

June marks the start of summer with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 26°C. It's the perfect time for sunbathing and swimming.

July

29° / 19°

July is the hottest month in Zadar with temperatures ranging from 19°C to 29°C. It's the peak tourist season, so expect crowded places.

August

29° / 19°

August is equally hot as July with temperatures ranging from 19°C to 29°C. It's a great time to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Zadar.

September

25° / 15°

September offers pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. It's a good time to visit for those who prefer less crowded places.

October

21° / 11°

October sees the start of autumn with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 21°C. It's a good time to enjoy the fall colors in Zadar.

November

17° / 7°

November is a bit chilly with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 17°C. It's a quiet time to visit, but pack warm clothes.

December

13° / 3°

December is the start of winter with temperatures ranging from 3°C to 13°C. It's a festive time to visit with Christmas markets and celebrations.

Did you know?

Did you know that Zadar, Croatia is home to the world's first sea organ which produces music by the sea waves?

1 of 10

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