Skip the Dubrovnik Crowds For The Seaside Town of Zadar Where You Can Hear the Ocean Sing
This lesser-known town on the Dalmatian Coast is home to Roman ruins, epic sunsets, and a sea-powered instrument you have to hear to believe.
An ancient port city on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, Zadar is increasingly showing up on Croatia itineraries for Adriatic cruises.
And that’s how this Croatian gem crossed my radar this summer, as an unexpectedly charming stop on our European summer cruise.
The seaside town is a fascinating blend of Roman history, modern art, and laid-back Mediterranean vibes.
But what really makes it stand out is its locally-famous Sea Organ—a one-of-a-kind musical instrument played entirely by the movement of the waves. (Yes, really.)
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Zadar may not be as flashy as Dubrovnik or Split, but that’s part of its charm.
It’s got a relaxed, authentic feel, with locals chatting over espresso in centuries-old squares while cruise passengers wander cobbled alleys they probably didn’t expect to love so much.
If you’re planning a trip along the Adriatic—or docking here for the day—Zadar is a a great little town that deserves a visit.
How to Get to Zadar
Zadar is located in northern Dalmatia, so it’s a great starting point for a Croatian coastal road trip like the one we did a few summers ago.
Read More: Dazzling Dalmatia: The Best of the Croatian Coast in 7 Perfect Days
By Air ✈️
Zadar Airport (ZAD) is small but well-connected, especially in the summer months. You’ll find seasonal direct flights from cities across Europe, including London, Paris, and Vienna.
From the airport, it’s a 15–20 minute drive to the Old Town.
By Cruise Ship 🚢
If you’re arriving by ship, Zadar’s sleek, modern cruise terminal is a pleasant surprise.
It’s full of helpful information and maps for exploring Zadar’s Old Town on your own.
The Gaženica Cruise Port is about 4 km (2.5 miles) from the Old Town. Taxis, shuttles, and public buses are available at the port to get you into the historic center in under 15 minutes.
Cruise visitors usually have 4–8 hours in port—plenty of time to hit the highlights. We had 8 hours in port which gave us plenty of time to explore Old Town Zadar while my sister and her family opted to do a day trip to nearby Krka National Park (more on that in a moment!).
By Car or Bus 🚗
Zadar is easily reachable by road:
- Split to Zadar: Less than 2 hours by car or bus
- Zagreb to Zadar: Less than 3 hours
- Dubrovnik: Less than 4 hours
There are direct buses from major cities across Croatia.
Where to Stay in Zadar
If you’re staying overnight (and you should), here are a few excellent places to call home:
Hyatt Regency Zadar – For a modern 5-star hotel with sea views, it’s hard to beat the Hyatt Regency. When it comes to amenities, this hotel is loaded.
Highlights include a hot spring bath, a spa and wellness center, a sauna, an indoor swimming pool, a steam room, hammam, and hot tub. There’s also a beautiful outdoor pool.
Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel – Set just steps from the Sea Organ, this boutique hotel is perfect for travelers who love design and location. The rooms are modern with a rustic twist, and the on-site wine bar is a great touch.
Bastion Heritage Hotel – Housed in a renovated 13th-century fortress, this is one of Zadar’s top luxury stays. It’s right in the Old Town, offers great views, and even has a spa.
Boutique Hostel Forum – If you’re on a budget or just want something social, this perfectly located hostel has stylish shared and private rooms.
Zadar’s Old Town is compact and walkable, so staying within or just outside the walls is ideal.
7 Fun Things to Do in Zadar
1. Listen to the Sea Organ
This is hands down the coolest attraction in Zadar. Built into the waterfront promenade, the Sea Organ (Morske orgulje) is an architectural sound installation that turns the sea into a musician.
As the waves push air through a series of underwater pipes, they create an ever-changing melody that’s both haunting and beautiful.
It’s especially magical at sunset. You’ll find people sprawled along the white stone steps, listening in quiet awe.
It’s one of the most original public art pieces I’ve seen anywhere in Europe—and a reason to visit Zadar all on its own.
2. Watch the Sunset at the Greeting to the Sun
Right next to the Sea Organ is another modern installation: the Greeting to the Sun, a giant solar-powered disc that lights up after dark. As the sky fades to pink and orange, the glass panels come to life with LED colors powered by sunlight collected during the day.
Fun fact: Alfred Hitchcock once said Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world (and the Zadar tourism office is still getting lots of mileage out of that statement!).
3. Wander the Roman Forum
Right in the heart of the Old Town, you’ll find the remains of Zadar’s Roman Forum, dating back to the 1st century BC.
Anchored by the historic Church of St. Donatus, it’s the largest Roman Forum in Croatia. It’s a great place to stroll among ruins, sit on ancient stone benches, or just take in the scene with a coffee in hand.
4. See the Lovely Churches of Zadar
Church and Monastery of St Mary – Built in 1091 in the Pre-Romanesque style, the most beautiful part of the Church and the Benedictine Monastery of St Mary is the bell tower.
Cathedral of St Anastasia – Zadar’s main cathedral, the Cathedral of St Anastasia was built in the 12th and 13th centuries.
It carries the name of the Sirmian martyr, to whom two popes bowed down (Alexander the III, who visited her tomb, and Pope John Paul II, who bowed down in 2003) in front of the main gate of the Cathedral.
5. Step Through the Land Gate
The imposing Land Gate (Kopnena vrata) is the historic entrance to the Old Town. Built in the 1500s by the Venetians, it’s a great spot to start your walking tour. Look up—you’ll see the winged lion of St. Mark, a symbol of Venetian rule.
6. Visit the Museum of Ancient Glass
Don’t let the name fool you—this is one of Zadar’s most fascinating museums. The Museum of Ancient Glass houses thousands of ancient Roman glass artifacts, and even offers live glassblowing demonstrations. It’s small but beautifully curated.
It’s also a great option for a rainy day or cruise stop when you want something a little different than your usual Old Town stroll.
Adult tickets are just 6,00 € and can be booked at the door, no need to book in advance. For more information, check the Museum of Ancient Glass Website.
7. The Best Day Trips in Zadar
Zadar is close to two of Croatia’s most beautiful national parks, Krka and Plitvice.
If you have the time, a day trip to one of these stunning parks is a must. Here are the best day trips to visit them:
- From Zadar: Plitvice Lakes with Boat Ride & Zadar Old Town Tour
- Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting, Boat Ride & Zadar Old Town
There are also some terrific historical and food tours in Zadar, here are a few of my favorites:
- Zadar City Tour 120min Walking Tour
- Zadar Food Tasting & Old Town Guided Walking Tour by Šušur
- From Zadar: Island-Hopping Speedboat Tour with Drinks
So, add Zadar to your Croatia itinerary!
Zadar surprised me—in the best way. It’s got Roman ruins and Venetian gates, yes, but also modern art, sea melodies, 5-star hotels, and seaside charm.
If you’re building out your Croatia itinerary, Zadar is a terrific addition. It’s easy to reach, easy to love, and offers a quieter, more authentic experience than some of Croatia’s busier coastal towns.
And once you’ve heard the Sea Organ play its ghostly song at sunset, you won’t forget it.
Looking for more terrific destinations in Croatia? Start here:
Pula’s Stunning Roman Arena is One of the World’s Best Preserved (& It’s Not in Italy)
The Enchanting Istrian Town of Rovinj Has Seaside Italian Vibes (with Croatian Prices!)
Plitvice Lakes, Croatia: This UNESCO Waterfall Wonderland is Europe’s Dreamiest National Park💦
The Dazzling Croatian Island of Korcula Has a Walled Old Town And a Unique Claim to Fame