The beautiful coastal city of Zadar is home to an undeniably picturesque Old Town with little cobblestone streets and architectural gems from various periods throughout history. Perched on the Dalmatian Coast and lapped by the Adriatic, this pretty town with its cinematic looks also boasts some unique and interesting tourist attractions and art installations including the Sea Organ and the Monument to the Sun. Each evening, unbelievable sunsets that Hitchcock named the loveliest in the world take place over the water with an audience waiting along the seaside promenade to enjoy the show with drinks or just with people they love. Add to this that Zadar is known for having the most pleasant climate in the entire Adriatic, the excellent nearby beaches, and the range of natural wonders that are located close to the town and you have a perfect recipe for a truly relaxing seaside getaway in the prettiest of surroundings.
For those looking to unwind, take things slow, and enjoy the good life, a villa in Zadar really is just the thing! And, as you wander the historic streets, enjoy wholesome adventures exploring the area, and work up an appetite, you will discover and incredible culinary heritage that is just waiting for visitors to dive into! Of course, you can head to various family-owned traditional restaurants and the more slick and modern eateries that are dotted throughout the town but if you are staying in one of our wonderful vacation rentals in Zadar and want to make the most of having your own kitchen then you should head to the Trznica Zadar market to stock up on the freshest local ingredients.
Located right in the heart of the Old Town, the Trznica Zadar market is well used and well loved by both locals and tourists alike. It is a bustling, open-air market that offers a wide variety of local produce, meats, cheeses, and seafood and is a must-visit for any foodie or traveller looking to experience authentic Croatian cuisine.
There is nothing quite like the feeling of strolling around a market while on vacation and the Trznica Zadar market does not disappoint. As you wander through the market, you’ll be greeted by the colourful displays of fresh fruits and vegetables along the canopied stalls that fill the square. From juicy tomatoes to sweet strawberries, there is no shortage of delicious and unbelievably fresh produce to choose from.
In addition, as it is a seaside town, you will be able to get your hands on some of the freshest and tastiest seafood that you will find in the region and there is an especially large variety to choose from and peruse in the fish market hall. For a small extra fee, the sellers will also clean and prep the fish for you, making your life easier and your holiday even more relaxing!
Local cheeses, Croatian cured meats, honey made in the surrounding area, freshly baked bread and various treats and sweets, olive oil from the groves of Zadar, delicious truffles that have been scavenged from the lush green landscape of Istria, and many other typical and regional culinary delights are also all available to purchase. Some can be enjoyed in your holiday rental in Zadar or brought on picnics while you watch that famous sunset or packed for boat trips along the coast or even brought home as souvenirs and gifts. There is a whole world of flavour to be discovered and savoured throughout your time in Zadar!
The Trznica Zadar market i not just a place to shop for food, it is a place to immerse yourself in the culture of the area. You can sample some of the cheeses and wares, enjoy the sounds and hustle and bustle, take in all of the sights and smells, and observe this lively social hub where locals gather to catch up with friends and neighbours. There is a real sense of community at the market and you can do as the locals do and sit out and enjoy a coffee or a drink at a nearby coffee shop or bar and relax for a while as many people do after getting what they want at the stalls.
If you are after more shopping experiences and more typical souvenirs, you’ll find clothing and tourist stalls on an adjoining street just off the square. Furthermore, there is also an antiques market that is located in the Old Town, on Jurja Barakovića Street. Open daily from 9am to 1pm and 3pm to 8pm, this is where you’ll find really unique souvenirs and gems. There are lots of lovely homewares and little objets d’art with military memorabilia from the days of Yugoslavia and earlier being popular, glassware, vintage and antique cameras, paintings and prints, candlesticks, china, and all sorts of singular treasures. For those who really lovely to dig through a market in search of something special, this is a must.
So, if you have found a villa in Zadar and you are looking for an authentic Croatian foodie experience, a visit to the Trznica Zadar market is a must, and if you get a taste for the markets, then be sure to check out the antiques market as well. Sample some of the best local produce, meet friendly locals, find some special little gems to bring home with you, and slow down to really make the most of, and enjoy, this utterly gorgeous seaside town in Croatia!