Zadar in Croatia

You're spending your vacation in Croatia and just can't decide - city or beach? Luckily, you don't have to think any further, because in Zadar, both are possible!

I'm packing my suitcase and taking: a city map, comfortable shoes, and of course a beach outfit! Because who says that you can't have a beach vacation in a city? Zadar promises centuries-old walls, rich culture, and even great swimming bays. Join us on a stroll through Zadar and discover why this charming harbor city is definitely worth a visit.

Croatia is world-renowned for its beautiful bathing bays with crystal-clear water and unique nature. If you've ever made a trip to the Plitvice Lakes National Park, you know exactly how breathtaking it can be here. But Croatia has a lot to offer not only in terms of nature; you should also not miss many cities. Besides Zagreb and Dubrovnik, Zadar is one of the absolute highlights. Stroll through the old town in the morning, relax at the beach during the day, and dive into the lively nightlife in the evening - welcome to Zadar!

Zadar is located on a narrow peninsula on the Adriatic Sea, only a drawbridge connects the old town of Zadar to the mainland. From Germany, some flights even go directly to the city's own airport, with direct flights currently available from Berlin, Düsseldorf, and Cologne. Within Croatia, you will also find a good bus network, making it easy to travel from Dubrovnik and Zagreb.

The impressive old town of Zadar still reminds us of its past as a Roman fortress and is framed by a colossal city wall. As you stroll along ancient gates and Venetian buildings, it feels like a journey back in time. Make sure to take a closer look at these structures:

Tip from Urlaubsguru: Visit Restaurant Bruschetta. The meat platter is especially famous beyond the city walls, but the rest of the menu is convincing too. You can also make reservations online, so nothing stands in the way of your cozy dinner with a sea view.

People's Square Narodni Trg: Between a successful mix of historic buildings and cozy cafés and restaurants, public life thrives. Take a seat under one of the umbrellas and order yourself Pasticada. With this hearty meat dish from Dalmatian cuisine, you can take a break from sightseeing and watch the colorful hustle and bustle of the square. There are also some great vegetarian dishes, so there is really something for everyone's taste.

The gentle sound of the sea is probably one of the most beautiful melodies in the world. A local architect has given the sea another voice. Walk down the sandy stairs until the waves tickle your feet and listen to the unique sounds.

The steps incorporate a system of flutes and pipes, through which the incoming waves create a natural melody. Listen to the ocean's organ and let yourself be enchanted for a moment. If you can tear yourself away from the melody of the sea, you must continue your way to the 'Greeting to the Sun.' In the evening, a beautiful light show awaits you at the very tip of the peninsula. Three hundred glass plates interrupt the cobblestone promenade and form a circle with a diameter of 22 meters.

This architectural masterpiece is meant to represent all the planets of the solar system and their surrounding orbits. The modern character of the installation provides a successful contrast to the original old town. Zadar's sunsets have even captivated the famous director Alfred Hitchcock - don't miss this magical time of day and watch the sun sink below the horizon. Listen to the gentle sounds of the sea and lose track of time with the colorful light show along the promenade.

For your bathing pleasure, you don't even have to leave Zadar, as Borik and Kolovare beaches are easily accessible from the city center. The long Borik beach is about four kilometers from the center. Fine pebble and sandy areas lead gently into the crystal-clear sea, the blue flag flutters gently in the wind, indicating excellent water quality. Find a shady spot, listen to the sound of the waves, and enjoy the vacation vibe. Consider booking a lovely accommodation near the beach.

Also popular, both with tourists and locals, is Kolovare Beach. Here too, you can look forward to excellent water quality, with shade provided by the surrounding pine forest. By the way, both beaches have everything you need for a perfect day by the sea, from beach bars and public showers to water sports providers. Just don't forget your water shoes; there are many sea urchins.

Are you enchanted by Zadar and want to explore more of Croatia's beauty? With a rental car, you can drive along the coast and stop at one of the many small coves. Discover Paklenica National Park with its high peaks, deep gorges, and waterfalls. In the Velika Paklenica gorge, there is even an underground tunnel - once a closely guarded secret. Today, the space has been transformed into a presentation center, where there's even an artificial climbing wall. At the embedded screens, you can learn more about climbing, so you too can soon tie the perfect bowline. Once back outdoors, you can explore the marked hiking trails, hop on a mountain bike, or even try a real climbing route.

Have you ever heard of the Plitvice Lakes? In under two hours from Zadar, you can reach this unique natural paradise. Roaring waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green slopes - it's so beautiful that I've dedicated an entire article in my travel magazine to this enchanting place, where you can find everything about Plitvice Lakes National Park. Even closer is the Krka National Park, where you will be enchanted by impressive waterfalls and stunning nature, and to top it all off, you can also swim.

Are you planning your next vacation or city trip? Then you know by now that you have found the perfect vacation destination with Zadar. Let yourself be enchanted by its historical past, listen to the sounds of the sea organ, and enhance your summer tan at the beach.