Is Zadar Worth Visiting? These 10 Photos Will Help You Decide

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If you’re traveling in Croatia, you may find yourself asking the same question we did: “Is Zadar worth visiting?”

It’s the 5th biggest city in the country and is located along the coast between Zagreb and Split.

For travelers in the capital city that want to visit the beach, it’s easier and cheaper to visit than the more popular towns of Split and Dubrovnik (of Game of Thrones fame).

Daniel and I had a three day weekend to fill and knew we had to see the famous Croatian coast during our five week stay in the country. We went to Zadar, Croatia and discovered some good and some bad aspects to this beach-side getaway.

The good: The old town was beautiful and the nearby islands are nice.

The bad: The beaches in Zadar are nothing special and Zadar is expensive.

All in all, though, I recommend a trip to Zadar for anyone who wants to stick close to Zagreb (personally, I hate long bus rides) and backpackers or digital nomads who are on a budget as well.

Our three day weekend definitely drained the wallet so I can’t even imagine what our bank account would look like if we went to Split or Dubrovnik instead.

So, is Zadar worth visiting?

Everyones’ travel style is different so that’s a question only you can answer. Check out these 10 photos of Zadar beaches, the Old Town, nearby islands, and more to help you decide!

Zadar Marina in the Old Town

Cobblestone Streets in Zadar Old Town

The View from the Zadar Church Tower

Zadar Old Town at Night

View of Preko on the Zadar Ferry Ride to Ugljan Island

Swimming on Ugljan Island near Zadar

Swimming on Ugljan Island near Zadar

Taking the Ferry Back to Zadar at Dusk

Watching Swimmers Jump From the Zadar Diving Platforms near Zadar Beach

Nighttime in Old Zadar

So, what do you think? Is Zadar worth visiting?

This city may not be as popular as Split or Dubrovnik, but it’s also less expensive and less crowded.

Plus, there are some amazing day trips to nearby Zrce beach, the Kornati Islands, Krka National Park, Ugljan Island and more for adventurers on a budget.

Hopefully, this Zadar photo diary helps you make a decision on whether or not Zadar, Croatia is the right beach town for you, and I hope you enjoy your trip!

Ready to go? Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights to Zadar and then explore accommodation like unique stays on Airbnb or the top-rated hotels on Booking.com to plan the perfect night, weekend, or long-term stay in the city.

This article is part of the Zadar Series. Read the rest below:

How to Get from Zagreb to Zadar

3 Best Cheap Restaurants in Zadar

How to Take a Day Trip from Zadar to Ugljan Island

Then, explore the complete Croatia series for more to see, do, eat, drink, and discover in the country.

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