Zadar is a city on Adriatic coast and one of the most unique destinations in Croatia, known for its Roman ruins, Medieval Croatian architecture, Venetian gates and city walls, art installations and beautiful sandy beaches. Many travelers visit this intriguing city to discover its historic old town, taste delicious seafood and enjoy dreamy sunsets.

However, if you are staying in Zadar for several days then you should consider exploring Zadar’s wider area and here is the list of 9 exciting things to do in Zadar and its wider area with activities and unique destinations that can be seen only during your stay in Zadar.

 

1. Panoramic flight

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Take unforgettable panoramic flight and experience Zadar’s historical old town from air. Enjoy spectacular views of Kornati National Park and its archipelago of 89 islands and islets, admire enchanting azure color of the sea, see amazing heart shaped island, discover high cliffs in Telašćica Nature Park and make stunning photographs along the way. To find out how long does the flight takes and how to make a reservation, check the link here.

 

2. Jeep safari on Velebit mountain

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Jeep safari in Velebit mountain Nature park (see more here) is exciting off-road adventure in which you will drive on macadam road built through mountain in 19th century, climb to the most attractive mountain peak at 1.100 meters height, admire breath-taking view of Zadar hinterlands and the sea, have delicious lunch with local specialties at one of the most beautiful viewpoints, take stunning panoramic photos of unique karst landscape and if you are lucky you may even meet wild horses that live on the mountain.

 

3. Kayaking on river Zrmanja

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Kayak safari on Zrmanja river (check the link here) is a real treat for all that seek active vacation and great outdoor activities. This kayaking adventure with a skipper goes through 14 km long trail down emerald green Zrmanja river with numerous rapids and waterfalls. You can take your camera with you and keep it in waterproof box and take beautiful photos of magnificent nature and wild life.

 

4. Rafting on river Zrmanja

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Spectacular rafting experience on Zrmanja river which is often called “Beauty and the Beast” due to its wild waters with numerous rapids and waterfalls that guarantee fun and unforgettable moments. Check more here.

 

5. Boat tour to sandy beach Sakarun

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Take organized boat tour from the city port in Zadar to Dugi otok (or Long island in eng.) where you will discover one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Croatia. Sakarun beach became famous due to its specific white sand and crystal clear sea. This 800 m long beach is surrounded by pine tree forest. Notice this tour is available only during summer (link here).

 

6. Speed boat tour to Kornati islands National Park

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Take exciting speed boat tour to Telašćica Nature Park and Kornati islands National park. You will enjoy riding in a speed boat across Zadar archipelago to discover salt lake that has higher salt content than the nearby sea, 166 m high cliffs and some of 89 islands of Kornati archipelago, the most indented group of islands in Mediterranean. Check more at link here.

 

7. Bike tour on island Ugljan

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Embark on a bike tour to island of Ugljan and discover charming fishing village, beautiful coves, small harbors, traditional stone houses, olive tress groves and many more. The island is distanced just a short ferry ride from Zadar and you will enjoy picturesque bike ride through so called “Green island” full of Mediterranean vegetation. Check the tour here.

 

8. Sailing to heart shaped island Galešnjak

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Discover the beauty of sailing and sail to World’s most famous heart shaped island Galešnjak. The island was “discovered” by Google Earth in 2009. It is uninhabited, doesn’t have any facilities and represents true peace oasis. Due to its unique heart shape it is favorite destination for couples to enjoy romantic moments. Check more about the tour here.

 

9. Hiking in Paklenica NP

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Hiking in Paklenica National park starts at the bottom of canyon and will take you through the most famous hiking and rock climbing center in Croatia. You will walk to discover magnificent karst landscape and enjoy in breathtaking views of the entire Zadar’s County and surrounding sea. Find out more at the link here.