Introduction
Discover the ultimate Zadar itinerary with our top 4 picks. From attractions that capture the essence of Zadar to in-depth experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots, there’s an itinerary here for everyone. Keep reading to start planning your trip to Zadar.
A well-designed Zadar itinerary should capture the essence of the city by blending sightseeing with authentic local experiences. Crafting the perfect itinerary can take many hours of research and planning if you don’t know where to start.
To simplify your planning, we have reviewed the biggest selection of vacation packages in Zadar and curated the top 4 best itineraries. These travel plans cover everything you need to consider when planning a trip to Zadar.
For the ultimate experience, you’ll also need the perfect place to stay. Luckily, the list of top-rated hotels in Zadar includes options for every budget and preference.
So, why wait? Scroll down to discover 4 perfect itineraries for Zadar!
Popular Types of Trips to Zadar
No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Zadar.
If you only have a few days, Zadar weekend getaways are the perfect option. A 3 to 5-day stay in Zadar offers just enough time to soak in the highlights
For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Zadar are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Zadar’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.
For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Zadar offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover Croatia's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.
For sun seekers, beach vacations in Zadar offer the perfect escape. Whether 5, 7 or 10 days, spend them unwinding on sandy shores, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the coastal beauty.
Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Zadar truly unforgettable!
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If you’re as convinced as we are that Zadar belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Zadar are just a quick search away.
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The Top 4 Best Zadar Travel Itineraries
Discover the perfect Zadar itinerary with our handpicked list. Whether you're in Zadar for a short stay or a longer visit, there's an itinerary for you.
With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these 4 itineraries will help you experience the best of Zadar without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Zadar!
4. The Ultimate 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary Through Zadar and Beyond
A scenic 10-day road trip through Poreč, Rovinj, Trogir, Fažana, and Split is one of the best ways to experience Croatia. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.
A 10-day itinerary means that Zadar can easily be combined with other top destinations in Croatia without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Poreč, Rovinj, Trogir, Fažana, and Split by public transport, renting a car in Croatia opens up a whole new level of freedom!
So, with 10 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Pula
- Arrival city: Pula
- Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Pula, e.g., Grand Hotel Brioni Pula, A Radisson Collection Hotel
- Sightseeing: Pula Arena
Day 2: Explore Fažana and Pula
- Destinations: Fažana and Pula
- Driving distance: 28.27 km, approx. 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Pula, e.g., Grand Hotel Brioni Pula, A Radisson Collection Hotel
- Sightseeing: Forum Square, Montezaro Park, Verudela Canyon, Temple of Augustus, and Aquarium Pula
Day 3: Discover Rovinj and Bubani
- Destinations: Rovinj and Bubani
- Driving distance: 64.22 km, approx. 1 hour and 35 minutes
- Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Rovinj, e.g., Family Hotel Amarin
- Sightseeing: Golden Cape, Church of St. Euphemia, Lim/Leme Fjord, Park forest Zlatni Rt, and Panorama
- Recommended tour: Istria in 1 Day Tour (from Pula or Medulin)
Day 4: Experience Poreč, Mugeba, and Gedići
- Destinations: Poreč, Mugeba, and Gedići
- Driving distance: 97.22 km, approx. 1 hour and 58 minutes
- Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Rovinj, e.g., Family Hotel Amarin
- Sightseeing: Jama - Grotta Baredine, Aquapark Aquacolors, Euphrasian Basilica, and Tractor Story
- Recommended tour: Rovinj walking tours
Day 5: Enjoy Sightseeing in Plitvica Selo and Općina Plitvička Jezera
- Destinations: Plitvica Selo and Općina Plitvička Jezera
- Driving distance: 298.9 km, approx. 3 hours and 54 minutes
- Accommodation: hotel in Plitvička Jezera, e.g., Plitvice Green Valley
- Sightseeing: Great Waterfall and Plitvice Lakes National Park
Day 6: Embrace the Spirit of Zadar
- Destinations: Zadar
- Driving distance: 147.54 km, approx. 2 hours and 27 minutes
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Zadar, e.g., Hotel A'mare
- Sightseeing: The Greeting to the Sun, Narodni trg, Market Zadar, Archaeological Museum Zadar, and Church of St. Donatus
- Recommended tour: Zadar Historical Guided Walking Tour
Day 7: Spend Time in Skradin and Grad Drniš
- Destinations: Skradin and Grad Drniš
- Driving distance: 183.62 km, approx. 2 hours and 48 minutes
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Zadar, e.g., Hotel A'mare
- Sightseeing: Skradinski Buk waterfall and Krka National Park
- Recommended tour: Zadar City Tour 120min Walk
Day 8: Explore Split
- Destinations: Split
- Driving distance: 157.47 km, approx. 1 hour and 57 minutes
- Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Split, e.g., Boutique Hotel Mirjam
- Sightseeing: Croatian Maritime Museum, Golden Gate, Split City Museum, and Diocletian's Palace
- Recommended tour: Five Island Speedboat Tour Featuring the Blue Cave and Hvar from Split, Croatia
Day 9: Wander Through Trogir
- Destinations: Trogir
- Driving distance: 520.95 km, approx. 5 hours and 47 minutes
- Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Pula, e.g., Grand Hotel Brioni Pula, A Radisson Collection Hotel
- Sightseeing: Trogir Old Town, Sjeverna vog, and Kamerlengo Castle
Day 10: Bid Farewell to Pula
- Departure city: Pula
- Driving distance: 4 metres, approx. 2 minutes
- Sightseeing: Pula Citadel
Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Zadar for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.
3. The Top Recommended 5-Day Zadar City Itinerary
Enjoy a 5-day city break in Zadar with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.
With a long list of top-rated attractions in Zadar and Zadar's widest selection of tours and activities at your fingertips, it's easy to plan a travel itinerary filled with unforgettable moments and discoveries.
No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 5-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Zadar without the hassle of planning.
Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Zadar
Arrive in Zadar and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town, discovering highlights like Kolovare Beach.Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Pizzeria Šime is a top-rated recommendation. Say 'cheers' and set the tone for an amazing vacation ahead!
Day 2: Discover Zadar's Most Iconic Attractions
Enjoy your first full day in Zadar by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic The Greeting to the Sun and Sea Organ.One of the best ways to quickly learn how to navigate the city is to join one of the many great city sightseeing tours in Zadar. Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Zadar in the same amount of time.
In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!
Day 4: Explore the Local Flavors of Zadar
Start the day with breakfast at a local cafe before you head out to explore. Roman Forum, Arsenal Zadar MS, Riva Zadar, Cathedral of St. Anastasia, and Church of St. Donatus are attractions you could discover today.Afterward, enjoy lunch or visit a local market. Spend the afternoon shopping for unique souvenirs to memorialize your city break in Zadar.
For a fun and interesting evening, check out the food and drink tours in Zadar. Take the opportunity to sample local specialties and learn more about the food culture of Croatia!
Day 5: Savor Your Final Moments in Zadar
Spend your last few hours in Zadar soaking up the charm of the city at your own pace. Stroll through favorite spots or revisit local markets before bidding farewell to the city.We recommend booking your transfers from Zadar in advance.
For more inspiration, explore the complete selection of city breaks in Zadar, all including pre-planned itineraries you can customize to suit your style. Start with a ready-to-go Zadar travel plan and make it your own by selecting tours, accommodations, and more.
2. The Best 7-Day Zadar Beach Vacation Itinerary
A 7-day beach vacation in Zadar offers the perfect mix of sun, sand, and relaxation.
Highlights of the best beach vacation itinerary in Zadar:
- Beaches: Spend your days at Plaza Zdrijac, Bilotinjak beach, and Kraljicina plaza.
- Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxing stay close to the beach at places like Zaton Holiday Resort for easy access to nearby dining and activities.
- Beach activities: Dive into beachside fun with options like sup-surfing, surfing, and kiting or windsurfing, and more.
- Dining experiences: Savor the flavors of the coast at AENONA, Bastion, and Fančita, and other nearby dining spots.
- Nightlife: Enjoy live music and late-night entertainment at bars like Galapagos Cocktail Bar, Caffe Bar Šumpreš, and The Beach Bar, and more.
- Cultural experiences: Explore Sea Organ, Church of St. Donatus, and Narodni trg, local markets, and souvenir shops.
Day 1: Begin Your Beach Escape in Zadar
Arrive in Zadar, settle into your hotel, and take in the sea breeze as you prepare for 7 days of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Plaza Zdrijac or explore the attractions near your accommodation as you settle in Zadar.Day 2: Relax at a Top Local Beach
Enjoy a day under the sun at Bilotinjak beach, a top beach in Zadar. In the afternoon, make sure to visit Plaža Sapavac and Plaža Jadro for an exploration of local attractions. As evening approaches, head to one of the best restaurants in the area to taste the freshest local dishes.Day 6: Explore the Local Scene
Spend a sun-filled day at Kraljicina plaza. In the afternoon, explore the local scene by visiting Vecka Kula Beach and Maslenica bridge. As the day winds down, enjoy a meal and a refreshing drink while admiring the beautiful views.Day 7: Say Farewell to Zadar
Wrap up your trip with a leisurely morning exploring any missed highlights in Zadar. Pick up last-minute souvenirs, grab a coffee at a beachfront café, and savor one last view of the sea before you say goodbye.For more beach vacation ideas, explore all beach vacations in Zadar. Whether you're seeking a brief escape or an extended stay by the sea, these trips offer pre-planned, customizable itineraries, making it simple to enjoy the best of Zadar's coastline.
1. The Perfect 3-Day Zadar Weekend Itinerary
A 3-day weekend getaway in Zadar offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life.
However, with a well-planned Zadar itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.
With 3 days to spend, this is the perfect Zadar weekend itinerary for your trip:
Day 1 - Arrive in Zadar
Arrive in Zadar around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.- Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
- Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, for example, visiting Kolovare Beach, and soak in the surroundings.
- Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.
Day 2 - Discover Zadar’s Famous Sights
Maximize your first full day in Zadar with sightseeing, food, and drinks.- Morning: Visit The Greeting to the Sun early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
- Afternoon: Continue to Roman Forum, stopping by Narodni trg for a break and some photos.
- Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.
- Tip: Use part of the morning to join one of the many city sightseeing tours in Zadar and get a guided journey through the top attractions in the city.
Day 3 - Depart from Zadar
Make the most of your last few hours in Zadar before your departure.- Morning: Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery or café and take a final stroll nearby.
- Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute sightseeing.
What To Discover Next in Zadar
As you explore Zadar, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered.
Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Zadar for you.
Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Zadar in a way that feels truly unforgettable!