Top 4 Itineraries in Zadar

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Photo of Zadar archipelago. Kali on Ugljan island turquoise sea and walkway view, Croatia.
Photo of Zadar historic Fosa harbor bay in Zadar ,boats and architecture colorful view, Croatia.
Top 4 Itineraries in Zadar
Top 4 Itineraries in Zadar
Top 4 Itineraries in Zadar
Top 4 Itineraries in Zadar
Top 4 Itineraries in Zadar
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By Justin Crabbe

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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!

Find Trips to Zadar

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.

Enter your dates below to discover the best travel packages in Zadar and start planning your next trip!

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

Photo of Zadar archipelago. Kali on Ugljan island turquoise sea and walkway view, Croatia.

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

Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Pula. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

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
Set out on a day of discovery and visit Forum Square, Montezaro Park, Verudela Canyon, Temple of Augustus, and Aquarium Pula. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Fažana and Pula, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest.

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)
Spend the day exploring Golden Cape, Church of St. Euphemia, Lim/Leme Fjord, Park forest Zlatni Rt, and Panorama. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace. End the day by checking into a new hotel, conveniently located in central Rovinj.

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
Continue your journey through Poreč, Mugeba, and Gedići, where you can explore Jama - Grotta Baredine, Aquapark Aquacolors, Euphrasian Basilica, and Tractor Story. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot.

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
Drive through Plitvica Selo and Općina Plitvička Jezera, stopping to visit Great Waterfall and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Don't forget to embrace the opportunity to explore smaller towns and hidden gems along the way. Conclude your day by settling into a centrally located hotel in Plitvička Jezera.

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
Spend time discovering The Greeting to the Sun, Narodni trg, Market Zadar, Archaeological Museum Zadar, and Church of St. Donatus, with plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities or enjoy local culture. After a day of exploring, check into a hotel in Zadar.

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
Explore Skradinski Buk waterfall and Krka National Park at a relaxed pace. Make spontaneous stops for sightseeing, photography, or lunch at a family-run restaurant.

Day 8: Explore Split

Continue your road trip through Split, enjoying the flexibility to explore Croatian Maritime Museum, Golden Gate, Split City Museum, and Diocletian's Palace and nearby points of interest. As the day winds down, arrive at a new hotel in central Split.

Day 9: Wander Through Trogir

Visit Trogir Old Town, Sjeverna vog, and Kamerlengo Castle as you navigate scenic routes. Take time to enjoy local markets, trails, or viewpoints that catch your eye. At the end of the day, check-in at a comfortable hotel in central Pula.

Day 10: Bid Farewell to Pula

  • Departure city: Pula
  • Driving distance: 4 metres, approx. 2 minutes
  • Sightseeing: Pula Citadel
Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Pula. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

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

Photo of Zadar historic Fosa harbor bay in Zadar ,boats and architecture colorful view, Croatia.

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

Photo of town of Zadar historic peninsula panoramic aerial view, Croatia.

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.
With a well-planned 7-day beach vacation itinerary in Zadar, you can fully unwind, knowing your time is optimized for some of the best local beaches and daily activities.

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

Photo of two girls walking on top of Sun Salutation installation near the sea shore against the background of a hill range and cloudy morning sky, Zadar, Croatia.

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.
For more ideas, explore our complete selection of weekend trips to Zadar. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Zadar itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

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!

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