This is part two of my solo travel series on the Zadar region, Croatia. Click here to read part one.
With its collection of coastlines, cultures and cuisines along the sparkling Adriatic Sea, Croatia is a magical country to visit. Dubrovnik may be the glittering jewel in the crown of the country’s Adriatic coast for many travellers. However, there is every reason to check into lesser-visited Zadar for its ancient architecture, modern intricacies and proximity to many national parks and islands in Croatia.
If you like extra perks such as fewer tourists and more affordable prices, Zadar is a firm favourite in Croatia.
Zadar has a lot to keep you busy if you only have a day. At the same time, it is well-situated for more wondrous explorations on a longer stay. What’s not to love?
Where to stay in Zadar
Situated next to the Roman Forum, Boutique Hostel Forum offers a stylish hostel experience in the heart of the Old Town. The quirky hostel incorporates aspects of Zadar’s character into the design, including the “Zadar blue and orange” colours which reflect the city’s blue skies and sunsets. There is a choice of accommodations to suit different travellers, from four-bed dorms to private rooms. I recommend this hostel for its neatness, helpful staff and central location. Use my referral link and save £15 off your booking. Address: Široka ulica 20, 23000, Zadar, Croatia
With all that said, and you checked in, here are three ideas on how to spend your time in this cool city.
1. Explore Zadar Old Town
The evocative Old Town is an eclectic fusion of past and present. Compact and delightfully walkable, it echoes with ancient history through centuries-old Roman churches, Venetian grandeur and Baroque architecture. Muted pastel buildings line marble-clad alleyways filled with a plethora of sights and sounds.
All the while, more quirky charms keep Zadar young. The contemporary Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun installations tell a story of a city unafraid to push the boat out. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll at your own pace, or a guided tour, you won’t forget Zadar in a hurry. Check out the post below for some of the highlights of an Old Town tour.
Related Post – Zadar, Croatia: Portrait of an Ancient City with a Modern Soul
2. Take a daytrip to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park is an enchanting splendour of turquoise lakes and gushing waterfalls against a backdrop of limestone cliffs. It is one of Croatia’s most popular tourist attractions for good reason. Best of all, the World Heritage-listed wonder is easily reachable from Zadar. The most convenient way to get there is by car or private transfer, which your hotel/hostel can help you arrange. Check out the highlights of my visit in the video below.
3. Visit the island of Ugljan
Ugljan is the closest island to Zadar – so close, in fact, you can see it across the water from Zadar. This makes it an easy (half) day trip, especially for those short on time. Known as the “Olive Island”, the economy of Ugljan is mostly based on olive growing, fishing and tourism. The picturesque island is a paradise for beaches, bays and watersports.
Getting to Ugljan from Zadar
Jadrolinija ferry services depart regularly from Zadar to Preko in Ugljan with a journey time of twenty minutes. Ferry prices start from 15kn per adult (about £2) each way. Friendly on the pocket, no? Click here for the latest ferry prices.
What to do on Ugljan Island
Will the invitingly clear Adriatic sea tempt you into languid relaxation on one of the island’s 46 beaches? Will you ramp up the action and take to the island by bike? Or will it be a little bit of both? The pace is all yours to decide according to the island experience you want.
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WoW Tip: Hire a bike from Zzuum, a leading tourist agency based in Zadar Old Town. Zzuum offers holiday packages around cycling tourism and active experiences in the Zadar region, with exceptional customer service to match. Plus, you can take your bike onboard the Jadrolinija ferry and – presto! – arrive in Ugljan already armed for your island exploration. Address: Federica Grisogona 11A, 23000 Zadar, Croatia.
So there you have it! Which of these three activities would you do if you had one day in Zadar? Let me know in the comments below…
[…] is the first part of my solo travel series on the Zadar region, Croatia. Click here to read Part […]
[…] the stress out of planning, leaving you time to get in the right mind frame to enjoy your trip. In Zadar, for instance, I asked my hostel to arrange return transfers to Plitvice Lakes National Park with a […]