Excursion d'une journée guidée des lacs de Plitvice au départ de Zadar avec billets
4.91 687 avis10h
dès 45 €
Voir les disponibilitésBudget quotidien (milieu de gamme)
147 €
Hôtel par nuit (milieu de gamme)
95 €
Meilleurs mois
Mai, Sept, Oct
Langue · Monnaie
Croatian · Euro
Discover Zadar
Zadar isn't just another Croatian coastal city; it's a living timeline where ancient Roman stones whisper beneath your feet while the Adriatic Sea plays symphonies. Forget the generic 'hidden gem' label—this is where you'll find the world's only Sea Organ, a set of marble steps ingeniously designed to transform wave energy into haunting, ever-changing music, right next to the Sun Salutation, a solar-powered light show that dances across the waterfront at dusk. This is the city that captivated Alfred Hitchcock, who declared its sunset "the most beautiful in the world," a spectacle best witnessed from the Riva promenade, cocktail in hand, as the sky ignites over the Zadar Channel and the distant islands of the Kornati archipelago.
Beyond the famous installations, Zadar's soul lies in its compact, pedestrian-friendly Old Town, a peninsula layered with 3,000 years of history. You can sip coffee amidst the columns of the Roman Forum, then walk two minutes to the 9th-century St. Donatus Church, its cylindrical form a symbol of the city. Unlike the more crowded Dubrovnik or Split, Zadar retains a genuine, lived-in charm where locals outnumber tourists in many squares, and the pace feels refreshingly authentic. It's a city for curious travelers who want to experience cutting-edge art, touch ancient history, and witness legendary sunsets, all without breaking the bank.
Why Visit Zadar?
1
Experience Architectural Alchemy: Where else can you hear a musical instrument played by the sea and watch a light installation powered by the sun? The modern Sea Organ and Sun Salutation on the Riva are globally unique artistic feats that interact directly with nature, offering a free, unforgettable sensory experience every day.
2
Walk Through Millennia in One Afternoon: Zadar's compact Old Town is an open-air museum. Stand on the original Roman pavement of the Forum, enter the pre-Romanesque St. Donatus Church, admire the gold and silver treasures in St. Simeon's Church, and stroll along 16th-century Venetian walls—all within a 15-minute walk.
3
Chase the World's Most Famous Sunset: Take Hitchcock's word for it. The daily ritual of watching the sun melt into the Adriatic from the western Riva promenade is a communal event. Join locals and travelers, find a spot on the steps or at a cafe like The Garden, and witness the sky perform in shades of orange, pink, and purple.
4
Gateway to Island Paradise: Zadar's archipelago is stunning. Use the city as a base for a day trip to the Kornati National Park, a sailor's dream of 89 barren, rocky islands, or hop on a short ferry to the serene beaches and olive groves of Ugljan and Pašman, known as "Zadar's green islands."
5
A Budget-Friendly Adriatic Alternative: Compared to Dubrovnik and Split, Zadar offers exceptional value. Enjoy fresh seafood dinners, quality local wine (like Pošip or Plavac Mali), and comfortable accommodation often at a fraction of the cost, making a Croatian coastal holiday more accessible.
6
A City of Authentic Vibes: Zadar feels real. In the evening, the squares like Narodni Trg come alive with families, students, and friends socializing over coffee or beer. You'll find fewer massive cruise ship crowds, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of its cafes, konobas (taverns), and hidden courtyards.
Zadar est Connue Pour
Sea Organ
sunsets
Roman ruins
Hitchcock quote
affordability
Prêt à explorer Zadar?
Zadar Neighborhoods
Old Town (Puntamika)
The historic heart of Zadar, situated on a compact peninsula. This entirely pedestrianized area is a maze of marble streets, ancient ruins, and medieval churches, all surrounded by imposing Venetian walls. The vibe is a captivating blend of historical weight and lively modern cafe culture.
Highlights:
Roman Forum
St. Donatus Church
St. Anastasia's Cathedral (Sv. Stošija)
The Land Gate (Kopnena Vrata)
Five Wells Square
Archaeological Museum
Narodni Trg (People's Square)
Best for:
History Buffs
Photographers
Walkers
Culture Seekers
Riva & The Greeting to the Sun
The vibrant waterfront promenade stretching along the western edge of the Old Town. This is the city's living room, especially at sunset. The vibe is social, scenic, and slightly magical, centered around the two famous modern installations.
Highlights:
The Sea Organ (Morske Orgulje)
The Greeting to the Sun (Pozdrav Suncu)
Sunset viewing points
Open-air cafes and bars
Ferry port views
Yacht marina
Best for:
Sunset Chasers
Romantic Evenings
Families
First-time Visitors
Borik
A relaxed, resort-style area located a short drive or bus ride north of the Old Town. Known for its long pebble beaches, pine tree shade, and numerous hotels and apartments. The vibe is laid-back, beach-focused, and perfect for a tranquil holiday base.
Highlights:
Borik Beach
Kolovare Beach
Hotel complexes
Sports facilities
Family-friendly restaurants
Quiet pine forests
Best for:
Families with Children
Beach Lovers
Travelers Seeking Resort Amenities
Those Wanting Quieter Accommodation
Puntamika & Diklo
Residential neighborhoods just west of the Old Town, across the small Jazine bay. These areas offer a glimpse into local life, with markets, neighborhood cafes (kafići), and excellent swimming spots less frequented by tourists. The vibe is authentic, local, and pleasantly unassuming.
Highlights:
Puntamika Beach (local favorite)
Diklo Beach
Local produce market
Authentic konobas like Konoba Dalmacija
Views back to the Old Town
Residential charm
Best for:
Budget Travelers
Long-term Stays
Travelers Seeking Local Experience
Swimmers Preferring Quieter Spots
Principales Attractions
1
Sea Organ2
Sun Salutation3
Roman Forum4
St. Donatus Church5
Sunset at the Riva6
Kornati Islands Day TripLes meilleures visites et activités à Zadar
Les visites et billets les plus réservés par les voyageurs, avec les notes et avis Viator.
Zadar : Excursion en bateau de luxe aux 3 îles avec Aperol Spritz et plongée en apnée
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Zadar : Excursion en bateau sur l'île de luxe, plongée avec tuba et vin illimité
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Voir les disponibilitésQue faire à Zadar →
Visites et prix de Viator, une société Tripadvisor. Les prix varient selon vos dates. Nous pouvons percevoir une commission si vous réservez, sans frais supplémentaires.
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •For the best Sea Organ sounds, visit during high tide or when stronger winds create bigger waves. The lower steps, closer to the water, offer the most immersive acoustic experience.
- •Buy a 'Zadar Card' if you plan to visit multiple museums. It offers discounted entry to several major sites like the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Ancient Glass.
- •The best place for a swim near the Old Town is at the tip of the peninsula near the "Foša" harbor. Locals jump off the rocks here for a refreshing dip in the clear sea.
- •Avoid the overpriced, tourist-trap restaurants on the main squares. Walk a block or two inland to streets like Stomorica or Široka for better value and more authentic konobas.
- •For a unique perspective, climb the bell tower of St. Anastasia's Cathedral. The view over the red roofs of the Old Town and the islands is worth the small fee and the narrow staircase.
- •If you visit the market (tržnica) near the Forum, go in the morning for the freshest produce, fish, and local cheeses like paški sir (Pag island cheese).
- •Public drinking water from fountains in the Old Town is safe and delicious. Carry a refillable bottle and look for the small brass taps on walls.
- •The local bus to Nin (where you'll find the famous Queen's Beach) departs from the main bus station. It's a cheap and easy way to visit another historic town and unique sandy beach.
- •In summer, many shops and smaller businesses close for a midday break (siesta) from about 1 pm to 5 pm, especially outside the main tourist core.
- •For a fantastic, free panoramic view of the city and archipelago, take a short walk or drive up to the Vidikovac lookout point on the hill above the city.
Zadar Food Scene
Zadar's cuisine is a delicious testament to its Dalmatian roots, emphasizing the freshest seafood, locally pressed olive oil, and vegetables from the hinterland. Dining is a relaxed, social affair, often in family-run konobas (taverns) where the day's catch is simply grilled and served with blitva (Swiss chard with potatoes).
Must-Try Dishes
Brudet (fish stew with polenta)
Grilled squid or octopus
Pašticada (beef stewed in prunes and wine, served with gnocchi)
Maraschino liqueur (local cherry liqueur)
Pršut (Dalmatian smoked ham) with Pag cheese
Fresh oysters from nearby Ston or Nin
Populaire Auprès
culture lovers
photographers
budget travelers
sunset chasers
Best Time to Visit Zadar
Spring
Spring in Zadar is mild and blooming. Temperatures are pleasant (15-22°C), ideal for sightseeing without the summer heat. The sea is still cool for swimming, but the countryside is lush and green.
Pros:
- + Fewer crowds
- + Comfortable temperatures for exploring
- + Lower accommodation prices
- + Lush, green landscapes
Cons:
- - Sea is generally too cold for swimming
- - Some beach bars/seasonal restaurants may not be open yet
- - Occasional rain showers
Summer
Summer is peak season, with hot, sunny days (averaging 27-30°C) and warm sea perfect for swimming. The city is vibrant, with all attractions, restaurants, and boat tours in full swing. Evenings are lively and long.
Pros:
- + Perfect beach and swimming weather
- + All attractions, tours, and events are operating
- + Lively atmosphere and long daylight hours
- + Warm sea temperatures
Cons:
- - Highest crowds and prices
- - Can be very hot for midday sightseeing
- - Requires booking accommodation and popular tours well in advance
Autumn
Early autumn (September-October) is arguably the best time to visit. The sea retains summer warmth, the air is still pleasant, and the summer crowds have dissipated. It's harvest season for grapes and olives.
Pros:
- + Warm sea, ideal for swimming
- + Fewer tourists and lower prices
- + Pleasant weather for activities
- + Beautiful autumn light for photography
Cons:
- - Unpredictable weather in late October/November
- - Some seasonal businesses start to close after mid-October
- - Shorter days
Winter
Winter is quiet and mild (around 9°C), with a strong local feel. While not a beach holiday, it's a time for experiencing Zadar's cultural life, cozy cafes, and enjoying the city without tourists.
Pros:
- + No crowds and lowest prices
- + Authentic local atmosphere
- + Mild weather compared to northern Europe
- + Cultural events and Christmas markets
Cons:
- - Many tourist-focused businesses (boat tours, beach bars) are closed
- - Sea is too cold for swimming
- - Shorter, cooler, and potentially rainy days
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Day Trips from Zadar
Kornati National Park
1.5 - 2 hours by organized boat tour
A breathtaking archipelago of 89 mostly barren, rocky islands and islets. A day trip here is a journey into a stark, beautiful maritime landscape, perfect for sailing, swimming in crystal-clear coves, and hiking to cliff-top viewpoints.
Sailing through the maze of islands
Swimming at pristine coves like Levrnaka
Hiking on Kornat Island for panoramic views
Enjoying a fresh fish lunch on a secluded beach
Nin & Queen's Beach
30 minutes by car or bus
A historic town known as the first capital of the Croatian kings, set on a tiny island in a lagoon. Nearby lies its famous attraction: the vast, shallow Queen's Beach (Kraljičina plaža), perfect for families.
Visiting the 9th-century Church of the Holy Cross
Seeing the world's smallest cathedral (St. Anselm's)
Relaxing on the unique sandy Queen's Beach
Exploring the salt pans and museum
Paklenica National Park
45 minutes by car
A dramatic contrast to the coast, Paklenica is a canyon carved into the Velebit mountain range. It's a paradise for hikers and climbers, offering stunning gorges, dense forests, and panoramic views of the Adriatic.
Hiking the Velika Paklenica canyon
Visiting the Manita Peć cave
Rock climbing on famous routes
Spotting wildlife like griffon vultures
Zadar Budget Guide
Zadar is one of the more affordable major destinations on the Croatian coast, offering good value, especially compared to Dubrovnik. Costs spike in July and August.
Budget
€40-60 per person for hostels, self-catering, street food, and public transport.
per day
Mid-Range
€80-120 per person for a private room/apartment, meals at mid-range konobas, museum entries, and occasional taxis.
per day
Luxury
€200+ per person for boutique hotels, fine dining, private boat tours, and premium experiences.
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Eat the 'marenda' (daily lunch special) at konobas for a huge, cheap meal.
- •Stay in the Borik or Puntamika areas for better apartment value than the Old Town.
- •Buy bus tickets from the driver as single tickets; multi-day passes aren't cost-effective for short stays.
- •Bring a water bottle and refill at public fountains—tap water is excellent and free.
- •Many museums have free entry on certain days or times; check their websites in advance.
Zadar Hidden Gems
The Gold and Silver of Zadar (St. Simeon's Church)
Inside the unassuming St. Simeon's Church lies an astonishing treasure: the ornate silver-gilt chest (ark) of St. Simeon, a masterpiece of medieval goldsmithing.
Most visitors overlook this church for the more famous St. Donatus, but its interior holds one of the most valuable and artistically significant religious artifacts in Croatia.
Arsenal Building & Museum of Ancient Glass
A beautifully restored 18th-century Venetian arsenal that now houses a modern museum dedicated to ancient Roman glassmaking, with an active glassblowing workshop.
The building itself is a stunning piece of industrial heritage, and the museum's collection is world-class. Watching glassblowers create replicas using ancient techniques is mesmerizing.
Petar Zoranić Square (Trg Petra Zoranića)
A small, charming square tucked away behind the Roman Forum, centered around a beautiful old well and surrounded by picturesque stone buildings.
It's a peaceful, photogenic spot that feels like a secret courtyard, offering a quiet escape from the more crowded main streets just steps away.
Beach Bar Bamboo (at Puntamika Beach)
A laid-back, rustic beach bar built into the rocks at the local-favorite Puntamika Beach, west of the Old Town.
It has a fantastic, unpretentious vibe, great cocktails, and direct access to clear water for a swim. It's where the cool locals go, not the tourists.
The "Foša" Harbor Swimming Spot
The tip of the Old Town peninsula, near the ancient Foša sea gate, where concrete platforms and ladders provide easy access to the deep, clear sea.
It's the closest proper swimming spot to the historic center, popular with locals for a quick, refreshing dip without needing to go to a formal beach.
Zadar Culture & Customs
Zadar's culture is a blend of Dalmatian laid-back charm and a deep, layered history. Life moves at a slower pace here, centered around family, good food, and socializing in cafes. The city takes immense pride in its Roman, medieval, and Venetian past, which is visibly woven into its urban fabric.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Greet shopkeepers and staff with a friendly 'Dobar dan' (Good day).
- •When toasting, say 'Živjeli!' (Cheers!) and make eye contact.
- •Dress modestly when entering churches (cover shoulders and knees).
- •Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is standard in restaurants.
- •Be patient; service can be relaxed. It's not rudeness, it's the Dalmatian tempo.
Useful Phrases
Dobar dan - Good day(DOH-bar dahn)
Hvala - Thank you(HVAH-lah)
Koliko košta? - How much does it cost?(KOH-lee-koh KOSH-tah?)
Gdje je...? - Where is...?(Gdyeh yeh...?)
Jednu kavu, molim - One coffee, please(YED-noo KAH-voo, MOH-leem)
Oprostite - Excuse me / Sorry(Oh-PROHS-tee-teh)
Frequently Asked Questions about Zadar
How many days do I need in Zadar?
Two full days is ideal to see the main sights of the Old Town, experience the Sea Organ at sunset, and visit a museum. With three days, you can comfortably add a day trip to the Kornati Islands, Nin, or Paklenica National Park.
Is Zadar safe for tourists?
Yes, Zadar is very safe. Violent crime is extremely rare. Standard precautions apply: watch your belongings in crowded areas and be aware of your surroundings at night, but the Old Town and main areas are well-lit and populated until late.
Can I use Euros in Zadar?
Yes, Croatia adopted the Euro (€) in January 2023. All prices are now in Euros. Some smaller vendors might still quote in the old currency (Kuna) out of habit, but payment is exclusively in Euros.
Do I need to rent a car in Zadar?
Not for staying within the city. The Old Town is walkable, and buses serve beaches and nearby towns. A car is highly recommended if you want the freedom to explore the surrounding region, like Paklenica or the hinterland villages, at your own pace.
What is the best way to get to the islands from Zadar?
The passenger ferry (trajekt) from Zadar's main port goes to Preko on Ugljan island (25 min). For other islands like Dugi Otok or Silba, or for tours to Kornati, you need to take a catamaran or join an organized boat tour, which depart from the same port area.
Is Zadar good for families?
Absolutely. The pedestrian Old Town is safe for kids, the Sea Organ is fascinating for all ages, and the nearby sandy Queen's Beach in Nin is perfect for young children. The Borik area offers family-friendly beaches and accommodation with pools.
When is the Sea Organ most active?
The Sea Organ's sound depends on wave activity. It's most audible and impressive during higher winds and rougher seas, which create stronger waves. On a completely calm day, the sounds will be very faint.
Are there sandy beaches in Zadar?
The immediate Zadar area has mainly pebble and rock beaches. For sand, you need to take a short trip. The famous Queen's Beach (Kraljičina plaža) in Nin, about 30 minutes away, is a long, shallow sandy beach ideal for families.
Zadar Itinéraires
Guides de Voyage
Comparer avec D'autres Villes
Combien coûte un voyage à Zadar ?
Coûts quotidiens habituels pour un voyageur, d'après les prix moyens dans le pays (Croatia).
| Petit budget | Milieu de gamme | Confort | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hébergement (par nuit) | 40 € | 95 € | 160 € |
| Repas et boissons (par jour) | 15 € | 32 € | 60 € |
| Visites et activités (par jour) | 8 € | 20 € | 45 € |
| Total par jour | 63 € | 147 € | 265 € |
Les estimations n'incluent pas les vols ni les transports longue distance. Comparer les coûts quotidiens entre villes
Où dormir à Zadar
Des hôtels proches du centre de Zadar, du petit budget au luxe. Les prix sont des tarifs par nuit habituels lors de notre dernière vérification.
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