Is Zadar Worth Visiting for Tourists?
Discover the Dalmatian Coast’s Most Overlooked Gem
Tucked quietly along Croatia’s central Adriatic coastline, Zadar is often passed over for its more high profile neighbors such as Split to the south, and the UNESCO laden Plitvice Lakes inland. Yet it is the best logistically positioned city in the country for those who want to maximize they stay in Croatia and take the time to explore this ancient port city still refreshingly grounded in everyday Dalmatian life.
Zadar is not only worth visiting, it’s one of the most rewarding places to experience the essence of coastal Croatia.
A City Framed by Sea and Stone
Zadar’s charm lies in its contrasts: Roman ruins and Byzantine churches meet modern art installations like the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation. The city’s Old Town, set on a narrow peninsula, is surrounded by centuries old Venetian walls and the crystal clear Adriatic Sea. Cobbled lanes lead to sleepy squares, sun drenched cafés, and lively markets. It’s compact, walkable, and atmospheric, yet never overcrowded.
Logistically, Zadar is a breeze. The Zadar airport is just 20 minutes from the city center. Small, modern and efficient, it feels like a private airport connected by road to the A1 motorway. Ferries at Zadra Port link the city to nearby islands, while day trips to Split, Šibenik, or even Plitvice are well within reach. Public transportation in addition to Flix Bus, Bla Bla Car, Uber, Bolt and car rentals are available. City of Zadar is also perfect for biking around along the coast and offers bike rentals. There are many boat day trips you can book along the city that are really worth it.
The Natural Advantage: Parks, Lakes, and Island Views
Nature lovers will find Zadar ideally positioned as a launchpad for exploration. Just 45 minutes away lies Paklenica National Park , a rugged canyon system in the Velebit mountains, known for its dramatic hiking and world class rock climbing.
To the southeast, Vrana Lake Nature Park offers a serene counterpoint Croatia’s largest lake, rich in biodiversity and beloved by birdwatchers, ideal for biking as it offers bike trails. Nearby, the panoramic Vidikovac Kamenjak viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of lake Vrana, the Adriatic coast, and the Kornati Islands.
Day trips to Krka National Park (1.5 hours), Plitvice Lakes (2 hours), and the Kornati archipelago (via boat) provide additional options for nature and photography enthusiasts.
Culinary Heritage and Olive Oil Culture
The Dalmatian Coast is synonymous with quality olive oil, and Zadar is no exception. While the local markets offer a variety of options, those seeking authenticity and purity will appreciate one producer in particular: Dalmatian Underdog.
This bio certified extra virgin olive oil is produced in small batches just outside the city and reflects the full bodied, herbaceous intensity of Dalmatian terroir. Cold pressed using modern methods and harvested with care, it is a standout product both in quality and provenance.
What sets Dalmatian Underdog apart besides its organic certification and rich flavor profile is its exclusivity. The oil is sold only directly from the producer, at:
Ivana Rendica 24, 23000 Zadar, Croatia
This direct to customer approach ensures the freshest product and a truly local experience. Travelers can visit the address to purchase the oil in 3 liter or 5 liter aluminum cans, designed specifically for travel. Durable, leak-proof, and accepted in checked luggage under most airline regulations. It’s the ideal culinary souvenir for those looking to take a piece of Dalmatian Coast home.
Regional Reach: Zadar, Split, Pag and Šibenik
Zadar’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the broader Dalmatian region. Split, with its Roman palace and coastal energy, is just under an hour south by car. The smaller but culturally rich Šibenik, home to the Cathedral of St. James and the Krka waterfalls, lies just over an hour away. Island hopping opportunities abound, with Pag, Ugljan, and Dugi Otok all easily accessible. Check out Sibenik’s cultural events as they tend to have amazing concerts, outdoor movies in epic settings such as Barone Fortress & St. Michael’s Fortress. Island of Pag is know for the oldest olive grove in the entire Adriatic coast dating back to B.C. and for the party scene with the best trending DJ’s in the world. Pag is also know for it’s gastronomy where you can visit Michelin star restaurant and hotel Boskinac.
Conclusion: Understated, Underrated and Absolutely Worth It
In a country rich with postcard perfect towns and coastal icons, Zadar holds its ground not with grandeur, but with grace. It offers history without the crowds, nature without the hassle, and culture without pretension. It is a city to be explored at your own pace, with the space to breathe, reflect, and wander.
For those seeking a more grounded, more personal Croatian experience, Zadar is not just worth visiting, it’s essential. And for travelers wishing to capture its flavor in the truest sense, a visit to Dalmatian Underdog is the perfect final stop: one where the land speaks through the olive oil, and the journey continues at your table, long after the coast fades from view.
