Zadar is a famously beautiful gem along the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia that transports visitors back in time with its gorgeously preserved historic core, stuns with its sea views, and entertains with its streets filled with architectural wonders, special surprises, and culture. Zadar is, in a sense, one giant outdoor museum. Those, therefore, who like to wander pretty seaside cities, enjoy cultural pursuits, and generally have plenty to see and do without any sense of rush or chaos, will find that Zadar is the perfect blend of relaxing and stimulating. There are all sorts of attractions and appealing traits that we could mention but, if you are considering a villa in Zadar and need a little extra push then here are five great reasons to make this stunning city your next holiday destination...
1. The unbelievably picturesque looks of the city
As noted above, Zadar is located along the Dalmatian coast, lapped by the Adriatic, and boasts a lovely Old Town. Those who visit, therefore, should expect to be truly stunned by the perfect meeting of these two elements: little winding cobblestone streets lined with shops and eateries, gorgeous old churches and ancient monuments around every corner, a blend of eras and architectural styles on display from Ancient Rome to Gothic wonders to Renaissance beauties, views down to the glittering blue bay and bobbing boats in the harbour from throughout the town, lively little squares with bars and live music, grander and more elegant thoroughfares that have been popular for centuries like the lovely main street that is Kalelarga, promenades along the sea that are dotted by art installations like the Sea Organ and the Monument to the Sun, pretty pastel buildings clustered together, and the distinctive influence of the historic period of Venetian rule felt throughout the city. Cinematic and truly picturesque, a vacation in Zadar is sure to capture your heart.
2. The magical sunsets (and excellent climate)
One of the elements most noted for contributing to the famous beauty of Zadar is her sunsets. Hitchcock named them the loveliest in the entire world and many visitors to the city agree. In fact, the famous sunsets of Zadar have actually become one of the biggest reasons as to why some tourists come to the city in the first place. Each evening throughout the year (but especially during the peak tourism months of the summer), you will find the seaside promenade clustered with people awaiting the performance of the setting sun. Some sit out with drinks, some gather by the Sea Organ and Monument to the Sun to add the music of the sea to the experience and then take in the solar-powered light show that takes place once the sun has disappeared, and some enjoy the changing skies from in the water itself with a dip in the day-warmed sea. Whichever camp you find yourself in, you’re sure to appreciate this remarkable spectacle that is one of the absolute musts for anyone who finds a vacation rental in Zadar. In addition to these rich gold and red sunsets that burn themselves into the memory, Zadar also boasts an excellent climate as it is protected from winds and the open sea by a number of islands in the neighbouring archipelago. It is, in fact, known to have the most pleasant climate in the entire Adriatic.
3. The buzzing atmosphere
While not as well-known as some other cities in Croatia, Zadar is increasingly popular. So, while not as overrun as some places in the summer months, you’ll find plenty going on and lots of other travellers. As well as fellow tourists, however, you will encounter a lively atmosphere from the rich nightlife, cultural scene, and atmosphere of locals going out and enjoying their lovely city, its bars, its restaurants, its cafes, and its pretty streets. Wander about and you’ll always stumble upon places with exciting things going on, from live music to popular hotspots heaving with patrons to delicious-smelling eateries full of in-the-know residents, to picturesque squares dotted with a range of charming little businesses. All you have to do is get out there and you’re sure to find remarkable local businesses and exciting experiences!
4. The access to nature
Due to its location in the heart of the Adriatic, in an archipelago with over twenty bigger and about three hundred smaller islets and rocks, close to three famous nature parks (including Telašćica, Velebit, and Vransko jezero) and five national parks (including Paklenica, Plitvice Lakes, Kornati Islands, Krka and Sjeverni Velebit) Zadar is a city that has near unrivalled access to nature. Lots of companies in the harbour offer boating expeditions, connections, and day-trips to nearby towns and cities, to the aforementioned parks and islands, and just leisurely jaunts or tours along the coast. Those who like to hike, do water sports, and take in nature, therefore, have plenty of opportunities to do all that and more while also making the most of all of the cultural and cosmopolitan pursuits on offer in the city. Plus, without even having to leave the city, there are some beaches to enjoy, views over the surrounding natural beauty to admire, and plenty of spots right in the historic centre to swim just off the waterfront. So, if you want to enjoy a city break but you also love nature, a holiday in Zadar is possibly one of the best destinations you could choose in all of Europe.
5. The incredible food
Last, but certainly not least, as you have your different adventures while on vacation in Zadar, you’ll likely work up an appetite and you’ll be well-rewarded by the local culinary culture and scene. Of course, as a coastal city, there are plenty of incredible seafood dishes to try from shellfish to tuna tartare to squid-ink risotto and more. There are also plenty of hearty and satisfying Italian-influenced dishes to try while in Zadar, with lots of incredible pasta and pizza options that are definite crowd-pleasers. And then there is Peka, a way of life and a way of preparing dishes that is unique to Croatia and involves using a dome or bell-shaped terracotta or steel lid to cook all sorts of foods perfectly. Done slowly and carefully, this results in unbelievable flavours that are well worth waiting for! Classics done this way include octopus and veal with potatoes and veg but you’ll also find all sorts of modern and innovative takes on this tradition today. Sample all of these sorts of meals and cuisines in restaurants ranging from little family-run traditional spots to sleek and stylish modern eateries to contemporary gems trying to bridge the gap and preserve local ways. And, of course, no matter where you go or what you eat, be sure to wash it all down with the famous and award-winning wines of Zadar... Truly, those who want to eat really well will find a villa in Zadar!
So, if you are planning your next getaway and you are not quite sure where to go, then we think a holiday in Zadar should most certainly be on your shortlist for the above reasons and many, many more besides. Come and fall in love with this magical gem on the Adriatic in Croatia...