5 Day Zadar Itinerary

Visiting Zadar for five days is a great way to get to know both the town’s attractions and the surrounding region. With more than enough time to explore, most of the Croatian coast opens itself up for day-trips while a vibrant city filled with history, culture and natural beauty remains the focal point of your stay. We’ve prepared a handy rundown of must-see attractions and destinations to help you make sure you’re maximizing your visit without over-stacking your itinerary.

DAY 1: EXPLORING THE OLD TOWN

We highly recommend you start off by getting to know Zadar’s historic Old Town. Get going from the peninsula holding it and easily venture from one point to the other on foot. Zadar’s Kalelarga, a bustling main street reminiscent of old times, leads from the Venetian Land Gate to the waterfront, offering at every turn a glimpse of the town’s cobblestone alleys. The Bell Tower, found along the historic promenade, provides stunning views of surrounding islands and red rooftops, while The People’s Square invites visitors to enjoy local life, music, and refreshments. Adjacent to the Bell Tower, the Cathedral of St. Anastasia stands as a testament to Dalmatia’s rich history, soon to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Amidst the ancient ruins of the Roman forum lies the Church of St. Donatus, a historic staple of Zadar, with intricate surrounding altars, colonnades, and sculptures. Museums, viewpoints and local experiences await, immersing you in the town’s diverse attractions and leisure activities. Finally, a waterfront stroll reveals contemporary art installations like the melodic Sea Organ and interactive Sun Salutation, offering a delightful conclusion to the day’s exploration.

DAY 2: KRKA NATIONAL PARK

Start your day in style with A’mare’s breakfast menu. Light, fresh, and appetizing dishes that showcase the best local cuisine has to offer will fill you up and prepare you for an engaging trip to Krka National Park. An early morning drive, with scenic views and a stunning landscape along the way, will get you there in no time, so you’ll have the rest of the day to take in the cascading natural beauty, pristine waterfalls, and eternal sunshine.

With our partner Authland, we provide you the best trip to Krka. There’s plenty to do, so first embark on a panoramic cruise of the park or discover Skradinski buk, Roški slap, and other landmarks. As the day comes to an end, travel back to the city to savor a majestic sunset, said to have wowed even Alfred Hitchcock.

DAY 3: BEACH DAY

No trip to the Dalmatian coast is complete without a relaxing beach day and after two intense days, some fun-in-the-sun is well overdue. Luckily, Zadar has more than plenty swimming spots on disposal, so your options are virtually endless. Whether you prefer lively beaches with amenities like Kolovare or Puntamika or cozier options with plenty of natural shade and fragrant pine forests like Borik or Punta Bajlo, Zadar caters to every preference. If the city’s throng proves overwhelming, go beyond town limits for some truly unique swimming spots. After taking in the Adriatic and swimming in crystal-clear seas, unwind at one of the nearby bars, then head home to A’mare Restaurant for a home-made and delicious dinner to complete a perfect day.

DAY 4: THE CITY OF NIN AND ZRMANJA CANYON

By car or by bus, don’t miss a quick visit to the charming town of Nin, known for its historical significance and unique attractions. First visit the Salt Museum, where you can learn about traditional harvesting methods practiced for centuries, then head to the Romanesque Church of St. Nicholas or the smallest cathedral in the world, the Church of the Holy Cross, dating all the way back to the 9th century. Just outside Nin, you’ll find the Nin Lagoon, a shallow, sandy area known for its therapeutic mud. For a kid-friendly outing, visit the Queen’s Beach instead, with shallow waters and sandy shores. Afterward, for a thrilling mid-day, visit the Zrmanja canyon, with options like rafting or kayaking amidst the breathtaking scenery. In addition to natural beauty, the Zrmanja river area is rich in cultural and historical sights; guided tours and excursions are available. A visit to these spots will prove an unforgettable experience for travelers in the Zadar region.

DAY 5: HOP TO UGLJAN ISLAND

With your trip coming to an end, opt for a relaxing half-day at the island of Ugljan. Renowned for its lush landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, Ugljan boasts pristine beaches and waterfronts. Engage in outdoor activities like hiking or cycling through olive groves and pine forests or indulge in delicious Dalmatian cuisine at local taverns. Then head back to the city for a breather with coffee or ice-cream at the People’s Square, soak in the atmosphere of the city at Queen Jelena Madijevka Park or look around for local gift-shops and souvenirs. If it’s a Friday or Saturday night, A’mare’s end-of-the-week events will provide a truly memorable experience with exquisite food, an intimate atmosphere and comely music.