A city with a total land area of 25 sq km (9.65 sq mi), Croatia’s Zadar continuously attracts visitors every year for its lovely Roman ambiance. Located on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, Zadar is an artsy destination, and among its famous installations to watch out for are the Sun Salutation and the Sea Organ. A visit to this city is like taking a languid trip down memory lane. Here and around, you will find several UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the ethereally beautiful Venetian gates. If you’re clueless about where to stay, fret not. From cheap accommodations to luxury villas, you’ll surely find one that fits your budget. And for an immersive experience of the city, you may as well hop on a boat to visit nearby islands, swim in the Adriatic Sea, and explore hiking trails. Explore any of these top-day trips from Zadar, Croatia.
1. National Park Kornati
Visiting National Park Kornati grants you the rare opportunity to dive into the waters of the Adriatic Sea. If that is a goal you want to tick off soon, join this full-day tour. Lucky you, the tour takes you to several other stunning swimming locations, such as Lojena Beach on Levrnaka, Fortress of Tureta, and Kornati Islands National Park. Meals (i.e., breakfast and lunch) and park fees are included in the tour package. All you have to do is to bring your sense of adventure and, of course, your swim essentials!
Book Tours : Excursion to Kornati National Park from Zadar
2. Sibenik
Sibenik is an ideal spot for sightseeing around Zadar after exploring the waters of the Adriatic Sea. It is home to the UNESCO heritage site - Cathedral of St. James - as well as the magnificent multi-layered Skradinski Buk waterfall in Krka National Park.
You can visit all these beautiful spots when you book this full-day trip, running about eight to nine hours. The tour also includes a quick trip to the local museum, which will turn your holiday both fun and educational.
3. Velebit National Park
Velebit is Croatia’s largest mountain range, an ideal hiking location for adventure seekers due to its crags and over 150 caves. The national park has received the coveted European Destination of Excellence award for its sustainable operations. Hence, you are assured of a thrilling escapade to the wilderness when you take a day tour of this well-protected national park. Light trekkers should not worry as there are easy guided trails that you can take with family and friends for half a day. You can also bike in Velebit National Park if uphill cycling is your kind of adventure. As there are many entrances, schedules, rates, and activity tours to choose from, you are wise to visit the park’s official website for updated information.
Velebit National Park
Address: 53274, Krasno Polje, Croatia
Website: Velebit National Park
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 8am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
Price: From 7 USD
4. Krka National Park
How do you like the idea of bathing under the Croatian sun with impressive waterfalls in the backdrop? Krka National Park in Croatia is notable for its series of seven waterfalls, from south to north. The walking trails in the north allow you to enjoy a nice view of the historic water mills in Šibenik-Knin County. You have two hours of free time when you can dine, swim in what probably would be the most striking water cascades you will see in Croatia, rub elbows with other day-trippers, or walk around to snap pictures.
Tip from Content Creator
Looking for your waterfall fix in Croatia? Then look no further than Krka National Park, which is home to some seriously impressive falls! Many people visit on a day trip from Split, Dubrovnik, or Zadar, but you can also stay next to the park in Skradin and beat the tour groups in the morning. Entrance to the park costs around 13 GBP (16.43 USD) but this rises to about 22 GBP (27.81 USD) in the peak months of July and August. It’s expensive but then again that’s in line with the whole of Croatia.
5. Klis Fortress, Split and Trogir
Have you ever been on top of a real fortress? Grab this full-day guided tour for that rare opportunity to get up close to Croatia’s renowned medieval Klis Fortress, which has about 2,000 years of colorful history. Witness more historical sites as you explore the cities of Split and Trogir. Among the highlights of your trip is the famous Diocletian’s palace, where the epic television series, Game of Thrones, was filmed. If you are a movie fan, you know what to do next - book the tour.
Book Tours : From Zadar: Klis Fortress, Split and Trogir
6. Plitvice National Park
A day trip from Zadar to Plitvice National Park is a worthwhile adventure. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is truly a wonder to visit. Join this full-day tour of the terraced lakes and lush greenery in Plitvice, also known as Devil’s Gardens. You get to ride a boat and witness firsthand the crystal clear waters of Croatia. While swimming is not allowed in any of the lakes at the national park, your host takes you to cool places where you can lounge and eat your breakfast (meals are included in the tour).
Put on your trekking shoes and prepare your body for hours of walking on this nature trip that will surely keep your spirits high.
7. Dugi Otok (Long Island)
Escape to the unspoiled paradise of Dugi Otok, a hidden gem nestled in the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Croatia. This long and slender island is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.
Explore the island’s rugged coastline, where dramatic cliffs meet crystal-clear waters, creating breathtaking vistas. Discover secluded coves and pristine beaches, perfect for sunbathing or swimming in the refreshing Adriatic. Hike through lush pine forests and enjoy panoramic views from hilltop viewpoints. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Telašćica Nature Park, home to saltwater lakes and dramatic cliffs. When you get hungry, delight in the local cuisine, with fresh seafood and traditional dishes that tantalize the taste buds.
8. Pag Island
Pag Island is a stunning destination nestled in the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Croatia. Known for its gorgeous beaches, vibrant culture, and lively festivals, Pag Island offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Explore the island’s diverse coastline, with pristine sandy beaches, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters that beckon for a refreshing swim or sun-soaked relaxation. Experience the island’s natural wonders, from the lunar-like landscape of the famous Pag Triangle to the picturesque sunsets that paint the sky with breathtaking colors. When night falls, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Novalja, known for its lively beach clubs and renowned music festivals like Zrće Spring Break and Sonus Festival.
Book Tours : Island of Pag Cultural Tour from Zadar
9. Kornati Archipelago
Water babies will enjoy this nine-hour, small-group sailing tour to Kornati Archipelago (sometimes referred to as Stomorski Islands) in the south of Zadar. Kornati Archipelago consists of 140 islets that make up 300 sq km (115 sq mi) of raw, undiluted tropical beauty. You will stop at Telascica Nature Park, where you’ll enjoy a rich display of flora and fauna. Feel free to check out the park’s deer sanctuary, swim in the cove, and climb up a cliff to catch a good view of the Adriatic Sea. Your kind skipper even teaches you the basics of sailing on your return trip.
Book Tours : Kornati Archipielago Sailing Tour from Zadar
10. Mostar
Mostar is widely known for its iconic 16th-century Ottoman bridge called the Stari Most, which means “Old Bridge.” This UNESCO heritage site is surrounded by lovely stone houses. If you’re looking for a romantic backdrop, then join this full-day tour to Mostar, which lies between Bosnia and Herzegovina, about three hours from Zadar. You’ll discover mosques and bathhouses that look stylishly vintage by today’s standards. What’s nice about this tour is that your host gives you the liberty to spend your free time the way you want to.
Book Tours : Private Full - Day Tour: Mostar from Zadar
11. Medjugorje
Medjugorje is one of the most visited apparition sites in Europe, attracting about one million tourists every year to this quaint little town in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You’ll get to see the places where Virgin Mary was believed to have made an appearance since 1981. Until today, people still report seeing Mary in different parts of Međugorje. Fortunately, you can see these places and learn the relevant stories when you join this day tour, which offers plenty of time for self-paced exploration.
Book Tours : Private Full - Day Tour: Medjugorje from Zadar
12. City of Pag
If you’re staying in Zadar for a week, you are wise to experience both adventure-filled and slow-paced experiences. Venture into the City of Pag, a quaint city on an island within easy reach from Zadar. You’ll go through vineyards and fields, taste different kinds of cheese, and, above all, dine in at Hotel Boškinac for a sumptuous four-course lunch. You’ll not only indulge your sight with stunning views but also fill your stomach with Croatia’s regional tastes.
Spend summer in the charming Croatian city
Summer vacations almost always include beaches, trees, and powder-blue skies. But hey, they can be romantic, artsy, and intimate too if you include Zadar in your travel itinerary in Croatia. This lovely island city by the Adriatic Sea offers Roman gates, vineyards that seem to stretch on forever, magnificent water cascades, and scenic beach locations. Your best guide to exploring this summer destination is this list of top day trips from Zadar, Croatia.
Frequently asked questions about the day trips from Zadar, Croatia
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