In 2026, Zadar continues to shine as a vibrant Adriatic destination where history, culture, and nature come together in unforgettable ways. Wander through the charming Old town and discover ancient landmarks like the Roman Forum, St. Donatus church, and the stunning bell tower of St. Anastasia´s Cathedral offering panoramic views of the sea and city. Experience the unique sound of the Sea Organ and the magical light show of the Greeting to the Sun-two iconic waterfront attractions that define Zadar´s seaside charm. Explore crystal-clear waters on boat tours, sea kayaking adventures, or relaxing beach days along the beautiful coastline and nearby islands. Dive into local culture through seasonal festivals, culinary experiences, museums, and lively nightlife, making Zadar an excellent choice for every kind of traveler in 2026.
Zadar offers so much to see – from historical monuments and charming streets to unique modern installations. While it’s hard to choose the highlights, below are some of the Zadar 2026: what to see and experience.
1. Land Gate
Land Gate once served as the main entrance to the city. Built in the 16th century, it dates back to a time of great danger, when the Ottoman army threatened to conquer the city. During this period, Zadar was the strongest Venetian fortress in the region. Land Gate, together with the city walls and fortifications, is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Google maps location: click here
2. Five wells square
Five wells square is actually a large cistern for drinking water with five decorated well crowns. It was constructed in 16th century to provide sufficient supplies of drinking water for the city’s residents. From here, you can climb the steps leading to a beautiful park, where you can admire picturesque views of Foša Port and the Land Gate.
Google maps location: click here
3. St. Donatus church
The Church of St. Donatus dates back to the 9th century. Named after Donatus of Zadar, a bishop and one of the city’s most celebrated saints, the church was built under his initiative. With its monumental size and distinctive cylindrical shape, it is one of Zadar’s most recognizable landmarks. Today, the Church of St. Donatus stands as a symbol of the city—so don’t forget to snap a few spectacular photos while you’re there.
Google maps location: click here
4. Roman Forum
The Roman Forum in Zadar was built between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century AD and was commissioned by the first Roman Emperor, Augustus. In ancient times, the Forum was the center of public life, surrounded by shops, temples, and a basilica used for public gatherings. Today, only decorative elements, the original pavement, and the stairs remain preserved in their original location.
Google maps location: click here
5. Cathedral and the bell tower of St.Anastasia
The Cathedral in Zadar is the largest church in all of Dalmatia, Croatia’s coastal region. Its origins date back to an Early Christian basilica built between the 4th and 5th centuries, while much of its present-day appearance was shaped in the Romanesque style during the 12th and 13th centuries. Local visitors can enter the cathedral free of charge to experience this peaceful sacred space and admire its valuable sacral art but touristic visit costs 3 EUR.
Google maps location: click here
Bell tower of Zadar’s cathedral is 42 m high and fun fact is that it was build in 2 different periods. Ground and 1st floor were made in the 2nd half of 15th century and it was finished some 400 years after according to the ideal concept of an English architect Thomas G. Jackson, most recognized by his work at Oxford university. During your visit, you’ll learn more about the bell tower’s intriguing history through informative panels displayed along the walls. However, history isn’t the only reason to climb to the top. The real highlight awaits above—a spectacular panoramic view of the Old Town, the wider city area, the sea, and the islands scattered across the Zadar Channel. The entrance fee to the bell tower is €3.00, while a combined ticket for the cathedral and bell tower is available for €5.00.
6. People’s square
People’s Square is the center of urban life in the city of Zadar. In the medieval period, it was known as Platea Magna. Dominating the square is the City Guard with its clock tower, surrounded by other historic buildings. This is the perfect spot for visitors who want to experience the local lifestyle—sit back, relax, and enjoy a cup of delicious coffee served on the sunny terraces.
Google maps location: click here
7. Sea organ
The popular Sea Organ is a stairway stretching 75 meters along Zadar’s waterfront. Designed as a unique musical instrument, it creates haunting melodies using nothing but the power of the sea. Beneath the large marble steps lie 35 pipes of varying lengths and diameters, through which the waves push air to produce an ever-changing, one-of-a-kind sound. It’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike to relax, linger, and simply listen to the sea as it plays its own natural melody.
Google maps location: click here
8. Tasting the liqueur Maraschino
Maraschino is Zadar’s traditional liquor made by secret recipe from the specific type of cherries called Marasca cherries. This small, slightly sour fruit grows wild throughout the Zadar region. The first written recipe for this herbal liqueur was recorded by pharmacists of the Dominican monastery in Zadar at the beginning of the 16th century, when Maraschino was originally used as a medicinal potion. Over time, the recipe was gradually refined and perfected. By the 18th century, Maraschino had become a prestigious drink, gaining worldwide fame and finding its place at European royal courts. It was enjoyed by British King George IV and Queen Victoria, French kings Louis XVIII, Charles X, and Louis Philippe, Russian Tsar Nicholas I, Napoleon Bonaparte, Marshal Marmont, and the legendary Giacomo Casanova. Its admirers also included Alfred Hitchcock, as well as writers and artists such as Rudyard Kipling, George Bernard Shaw, Charles Baudelaire, Ernest Hemingway, Orson Welles, and Charlie Chaplin.
So, once you’re in Zadar, don’t miss the chance to taste this noble liqueur and travel back in time through its unique aroma. You can find Maraschino in almost every bar in the city, or end your day by watching Zadar’s famous sunset while sipping a delicious Maraschino-based cocktail.
9. Visit Duke’s palace
Once in Zadar, you should visit the Duke’s Palace, a renovated historic complex that brings together a museum, concert hall, exhibition space, and multimedia center under one roof. The palace holds exceptional value for the people of Zadar. First mentioned in the 13th century, it once hosted city council meetings and later served as the residence of the duke during the period of Venetian rule. Today, visitors can explore its exhibition halls and admire works by local artists, as well as pieces by world-famous names such as Andy Warhol, Marc Chagall, or Salvador Dalí—depending on the exhibition on display at the time of your visit. You can also watch films or attend classical music concerts organized by the Zadar Concert Office, held in the palace’s concert hall. To truly live like a local, be sure to check the current events program at the link here.
10. Ride in a row boat
In Zadar’s Old Town, in marina, search for a row boat sign and hop in a wooden boat to enjoy short boat ride to get across the sea to the opposite side of the marina. The boatmen of Zadar, known as barkajoli, have been transporting people between the peninsula and the mainland for over eight centuries, saving locals and visitors alike a 5-kilometer walk around the coastline — no matter the weather conditions. This unique tradition has been passed down from father to son, generation after generation. There’s no fixed schedule; as soon as the boatman sees you waiting at the dock, he’ll approach. Zadar’s barkajoli are super friendly, they will help you to get in the boat. Once on the mainland, enjoy a pleasant seaside walk or settle into a nearby café and sip a delicious coffee, just like the locals do.
11. Glass blowing demonstration using ancient techniques
Museum of Ancient glass is a one-of-a-kind cultural institution, not just in Croatia, but in the world. This specialized archaeological museum houses a unique collection of around 5,000 glass objects from antiquity, all discovered in Zadar and dating from the 1st century BC to the 5th century AD. Before the museum opened, this valuable collection was featured in numerous international exhibitions in Rome, Venice, Lisbon, and other cities. A highlight of the museum is the glassmaking workshop, where you can watch live demonstrations of traditional glass-blowing techniques. In the museum’s gift shop, you can purchase exquisite handmade glass jewelry, vases, or plates. Entrance fee is €6.00.
12. Zadar Virtual Walking tour
Experience Zadar like never before on a walking tour with virtual reality (VR)! This innovative tour takes you through the Old Town with an expert assistant to eight of the city’s most iconic sites. Using VR glasses, you’ll see how Zadar looked during different historical periods—step into the past and explore over 2,000 years of history. The built-in audio guide, available in seven languages, provides fascinating details about the city and its historic events. You have no longer to imagine what Zadar looked like, you will just put on VR glasses and experience the most important moments in Zadar’s history and experience Zadar in a new and innovative way.
Highlights of the tour include:
- The Roman Forum, built 2000 years ago
- Zadar in 1202 and the IV Cruscade attack on the city
- Former Green market and how Zadar looked before World war II
- Aerial bombing of Zadar in World War II
- St. Anastasia Cathedral, including areas usually closed to the public
- St. Chrysogonus Church and its former cloister of the church
- St. Simeon’s Church and its silver pleated chest
- Main entrance gates into the city during Roman period and Middle ages, plus the Venetian-built city walls under UNESCO protection
You’ll enjoy 3D models, 360° views, animations, and immersive sound effects—making history come alive in an entirely new way.
Duration: 2 hours
Languages: Croatian, English, German, Italian, French, Spanish, and Esperanto
13. Zadar City Walking tour with licensed guide
You can explore Zadar old town with a licensed guide. Experienced licensed guides will share fascinating facts about the city’s buildings, history, and way of life, and even reveal some secrets about Zadar and its citizens. In the city tour you will visit Greeting to the Sun, a modern art installation located in the western part of the old town, the Sea Organ, the Forum, the former Ancient Forum, the church of St. Donatus, the Archbishop’s Palace, the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, the main street Kalelarga, the main square with the City Hall from the 16th century. and an 18th-century clock tower, a town guard, and a 12th-century town lodge. After a pleasant walk through the city streets, you will taste Zadar’s Maraschino, a liqueur with a rich taste produced from special cherry sort.
Guides are available in: Croatian, English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Norwegian, Swedish, Polish, Czech, Russian, Slovenian, Romanian, Hungarian, Catalan, Chinese and Japanese.
Additional options that can be arranged:
- all churches in Zadar
- St. Anastasia’s bell tower
- Museum of Ancient glass
- Museum of Ilusions
- Permanent exhibition Gold and Silver of Zadar
There’s also a new guided tour that combines exploring the city with tasting local delicacies—a perfect way to experience Zadar like a local.
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