Introducing Zadar
Zadar (ancient Zara), the main city of northern Dalmatia, is one of Croatia’s more underrated destinations. The marble, traffic-free streets follow the old Roman street plan and still contain some Roman ruins and several medieval churches. Massive 16th-century fortifications still shield the city on the landward side, with high walls running along the harbour. The Old Town has been rebuilt many times, leaving it with a curious combination of traditional houses, boxy modern constructions and shapeless malls. By day, there are a number of intriguing museums to explore, and the tree-lined promenade along Obala Kralja Petra Krešimira IV is perfect for a lazy stroll. There are a few small beaches east of the Old Town and more to the west at Borik. By night, Zadar’s large student population pours into the town’s bars and cafés while their parents sample one of the town’s growing number of fine restaurants. For a break, everyone heads by boat either to the offshore island of Ugljan or further afield to Dugi Otok.
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Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
