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Zadar

Croatia · Coast · EUR · 44.115800, 15.225100
Family friendly 7.2/10 · Rank 607 of 2 709
Best season: April-June, September-October

Best for

Zadar is an ideal place for those seeking a combination of history, sea and unique sound installations. It is recommended for couples, families and cultural travellers. Suitable for nature and island hopping lovers. Least suitable for vibrant nightlife lovers.

Best season

April-June, September-October

Daily budget
$98.00 (≈ 8 224 ₽ · ≈ 88 EUR)
For 7 days
$686.00 (≈ 57 569 ₽ · ≈ 613 EUR)
Zadar is a city on the Dalmatian coast, famous for its Roman ruins, Venetian heritage, and some of the most beautiful sunsets in Europe. Its main attractions include the Sea Organ — a unique architectural installation that plays music powered by the waves, and the Greeting to the Sun — a light show on the waterfront. The city is also an excellent starting point for visiting Plitvice Lakes and Paklenica National Parks.
Summer
28.5°C
Winter
2.0°C
Sea
25.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

moderate

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

Zadar residents are proud Dalmatians, preserving Roman and Venetian heritage. They are friendly and open. The atmosphere in the city is lively and authentic.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Unique Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun
  • Rich historical heritage (UNESCO site)
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Fewer tourists than in Split and Dubrovnik
  • Proximity to national parks
  • Excellent cuisine
  • Affordable prices

Cons

  • Windy
  • Limited nightlife
  • Beach overcrowded in August
  • Infrastructure is poorly developed
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
25.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
28.5°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
28.5°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
5.7°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
10.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
2.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
23.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
25.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
November-February
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
mixed (pebble, sand, concrete)
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Borik / Kolovare
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Zadar is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards. Main risks are jellyfish in summer.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins are found on rocky bottom areas along the Zadar coast, especially near rocky shores
  • Water shoes recommended when swimming near rocks

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs are present in some bays near Zadar, but they are rare and do not form large formations
  • Do not step on or touch corals when diving

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are occasionally found off the coast during summer months.

Sharks — details

  • Sharks are found in Adriatic waters off Zadar, but attacks on humans are extremely rare
  • Swimming on guarded beaches and following warning signs recommended
Attractions

Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun

Unique sound and light installations on the waterfront. The Sea Organ creates music with the waves.

Roman Forum

The heart of ancient Zadar with temple ruins and columns. One of the largest forums on the Adriatic.

Church of St. Donatus

A 9th-century Byzantine church with a circular plan. A symbol of Zadar and a UNESCO site.

Cathedral of St. Anastasia

A 12th-century Romanesque cathedral with a tall bell tower. From the top, a panoramic view.

Zadar Waterfront

A scenic seaside promenade with the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun. A popular walking spot.

Paklenica National Park

A canyon with hiking trails and climbing routes. 30 minutes from Zadar.

Best areas

Old Town (on the peninsula)

The heart of Zadar with Roman ruins, churches and the waterfront. The best area for tourists.

Borik Area

A coastal area with a beach, hotels and restaurants.

Must-try food

Paštrmada

Salted lamb that is marinated and dried. A signature dish of Dalmatia.

Brodet

A thick fish stew made from different types of fish. A popular coastal dish.

Školj

Dried fish served with potatoes and olive oil.

Paški sir

The famous cheese from the island of Pag with a piquant flavour.

Maraschino

A cherry liqueur produced in Zadar.

Where to go next

Paklenica National Park

A canyon with hiking trails. 30 minutes away.

Pag Island

An island with cheese and beaches. 1 hour by ferry.

Dugi Otok Island

An island with the white sandy beach Sakarun. 1.5 hours by ferry.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
moderate
Getting there
Nearest airports
Задар (ZAD).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required (Schengen)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
April-June, September-October
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$22.00
≈ 1 846 ₽ · ≈ 20 EUR
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$51.00
≈ 4 280 ₽ · ≈ 46 EUR
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$75.00
≈ 6 294 ₽ · ≈ 67 EUR
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 134 EUR
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽ · ≈ 107 EUR
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 63 EUR
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 11 EUR
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 27 EUR
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 3 EUR
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$4.50
≈ 378 ₽ · ≈ 4 EUR
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.80
≈ 67 ₽ · ≈ 1 EUR
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 9 EUR
Burger
Average price for a burger
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 4 EUR
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 22 EUR
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽ · ≈ 2 EUR
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 7 EUR
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 40 EUR
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 11 EUR
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 22 EUR
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 45 EUR
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 63 EUR
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$65.00
≈ 5 455 ₽ · ≈ 58 EUR
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$16.00
≈ 1 343 ₽ · ≈ 14 EUR
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 13 EUR
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Frequently asked questions
Zadar: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is April-June, September-October. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Zadar: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +28.5°C, during the day — up to +28.5°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Zadar: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +2.0°C, during the day — up to +10.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Zadar: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +25.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Zadar: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on November-February. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Zadar: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "mixed (pebble, sand, concrete)" surface, golden sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Borik / Kolovare. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Zadar: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Zadar: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Zadar is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards. Main risks are jellyfish in summer.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Zadar: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $98.00 (≈ 8 224 ₽ · ≈ 88 EUR) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Zadar: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $22.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $51.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $75.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $150.00 per night, an apartment — $70.00 per night, a villa — $120.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Zadar: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $12.00, dinner at a restaurant — $30.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $4.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.80. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Zadar: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $25.00, a single public transport ticket — $2.00, a short taxi ride — $8.00, car rental — $45.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Zadar: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun — Unique sound and light installations on the waterfront. The Sea Organ creates music with the waves.; Roman Forum — The heart of ancient Zadar with temple ruins and columns. One of the largest forums on the Adriatic.; Church of St. Donatus — A 9th-century Byzantine church with a circular plan. A symbol of Zadar and a UNESCO site.; Cathedral of St. Anastasia — A 12th-century Romanesque cathedral with a tall bell tower. From the top, a panoramic view.; Zadar Waterfront — A scenic seaside promenade with the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun. A popular walking spot.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Zadar: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Paštrmada — Salted lamb that is marinated and dried. A signature dish of Dalmatia.; Brodet — A thick fish stew made from different types of fish. A popular coastal dish.; Školj — Dried fish served with potatoes and olive oil.; Paški sir — The famous cheese from the island of Pag with a piquant flavour.; Maraschino — A cherry liqueur produced in Zadar.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Zadar: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Old Town (on the peninsula) — The heart of Zadar with Roman ruins, churches and the waterfront. The best area for tourists.; Borik Area — A coastal area with a beach, hotels and restaurants.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Zadar: is a visa required?
Visa: not required (Schengen). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Zadar: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Задар (code ZAD). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $25.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Zadar: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — EUR. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $98.00 (≈ 8 224 ₽ · ≈ 88 EUR). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Zadar: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Zadar: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Zadar: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Paklenica National Park — A canyon with hiking trails. 30 minutes away.; Pag Island — An island with cheese and beaches. 1 hour by ferry.; Dugi Otok Island — An island with the white sandy beach Sakarun. 1.5 hours by ferry.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.2/10
Overall rank: 607 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 420

Best season

April-June, September-October

Useful information

Currency: EUR
Coordinates: 44.115800, 15.225100