A Visitor’s Guide to Zadar – a very popular summer holiday spot
Zadar is a beautiful coastal destination in the region of Dalmatia, Croatia. It is a very popular summer holiday spot for travellers who want the perfect climate, stunning beaches and a vibrant culture.
In addition to the beach attractions, Zadar also boasts a number of historical and religious landmarks and attractions in the town. If you are planning an upcoming trip to Zadar, use this guide to learn more about the most popular attractions in the area. Read on for information on their locations, nearby accommodations and costs.
Museum of Ancient Glass
As one of the newer museums in Zadar, the Museum of Ancient Glass receives a large number of international visitors each day and is steadily increasing in popularity among local residents as well.
It houses an impressive collection of glass items ranging from practical to decorative and even some ancient Roman pieces. The museum also holds the ancient and modern equipment used to make glass items and offers tutorials to interested visitors. Even if the glass items don’t appeal to you, the museum is housed in the impressive Cosmacendi House, built in the 19th century.
Museum of Ancient Glass, Zadar
In the area are plenty of accommodation options for visitors. Expect to find boutique hotels as well as affordable local guesthouses all within walking distance of the Museum of Ancient Glass. Admission is 30 kn per person.
Kalelarga
Literally translated into English as the Wide Street, Kalelarga is the most famous street in all of Zadar. If you only have a chance to see one place in the region, it should be this street.
It runs from east to west and leads tourists from the People’s Square to the Roman Forum. Both are outdoor recreation spaces beloved by locals and visitors alike. Relax in one of the area cafes or just admire the fountains and children playing in both destinations.
Kalelarga, Zadar
Walk the length of the Kalelarga and take in the impressive architecture on either side. Although there are some medieval buildings, significant damage occurred to the street in World War II.
Nonetheless, the newer buildings were constructed in the old style to create a cohesive look in the neighbourhood. A number of accommodations are found along the Kalelarga including hotels and hostels. Prices will tend to be higher in this area than in other districts of Zadar.
Sea Organ
Known to locals as the Morske Orgulje, the Sea Organ is an incredible fixture along the coast of Zadar. At first glance the structure just looks like a set of odd steps heading down to the seafront.
What you can’t see, however, is that underneath the stairs are dozens of pipes that hold whistles. As the waves come in underneath the stairs, they push air into each of these pipes and whistles.
The sound is a beautiful melody that is always unique and changes depending on the tides and the weather. Built by renowned architect Nikola Bašić, the Sea Organ is one attraction you absolutely should not miss while in Zadar. There are no costs required to view this attraction or even to walk right onto it and admire the sea below.
Some of the nicest Croatian villas in Zadar are found just a few minutes from the Sea Organ along the coast. Villa rental can be a wonderful way to enjoy privacy and exclusivity in this beautiful area.
Zadar cathedral (Cathedral of St. Anastasia)
The Museum of Ancient Glass, the Kalelarga and the Sea Organ are just three of the many incredible tourism attractions on offer in Zadar. Other popular options include the Archaeological Museum, the 14th century University of Zadar, the St. Anastasia Cathedral and the fascinating old town which boasts more than 30 different churches.
