Zadar tours

Things to do in Zadar

Welcome to Zadar, a city where the Adriatic's embrace meets ancient walls, and the Sea Organ's melody creates an unforgettable soundtrack. Here, Roman ruins coexist with contemporary art in a city that invites exploration. With a local guide, delve into Zadar's vibrant life, uncovering stories buried in its streets. Whether wandering through lively markets or enjoying a distinctive sunset, private tours bring you closer to Zadar's true nature. This city is not just a place to see—it's an experience to be lived, with your guide leading you into its very heart. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Zadar. Explore Zadar your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Zadar tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Zadar for every interest, including: History tours: Trace Roman stones at the Forum, step into the 9th-century Church of St. Donatus, and walk the Venetian Land Gate and city walls while hearing how merchants and soldiers moved through these gates. You can climb the Cathedral of St. Anastasia’s bell tower for harbour views and watch a glassblowing demo at the Museum of Ancient Glass. Day trip tours: Go with your guide to Krka National Park to follow the Skradinski Buk boardwalks and ride the boat to Visovac Island, or head to Plitvice Lakes for quieter trails your guide knows. You can also take a private boat into Kornati National Park or drive to Pag Island to taste Paški sir at a family dairy in Kolan. Architecture tours: Compare the Roman Forum’s layout with Venetian additions like Five Wells Square and the Arsenal, then see contemporary design at the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun on the Riva. Your guide can point out Sanmicheli’s Renaissance details on the Land Gate and explain how the cisterns once supplied Five Wells Square. The Old Town is easy to walk, and city buses link the ferry port and newer neighbourhoods. For beaches, islands, or national parks, schedules can be limiting, so you can book chauffeured tours or ask your local guide about tours with private transportation. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Zadar inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Explore Zadar with a private walking tour and dive into its vibrant neighborhoods with the help of a local guide. Discover which areas fit your interests and immerse yourself in the city's unique atmosphere. - Old Town: Perfect for cultural tourists, this area is filled with Roman ruins and historic churches. Enjoy the lively atmosphere with local markets and street performances. - Kolovare Beach Area: Families and beach lovers will enjoy the sandy shores and clear waters. It's a great place for a relaxing day out with plenty of dining options. - Petrcane: Ideal for those seeking a quieter experience. This small village offers beautiful beaches and a taste of local life, away from the hustle and bustle. Day trip ideas from Zadar From Zadar, you can reach waterfalls, islands, and small historic towns with short day trips, and private tours make it simple to match nature, beaches, or old stones to your pace. Plitvice Lakes National Park: Follow wooden paths between clear lakes and waterfalls on loop trails that scale to your energy, a strong pick if you like easy hiking, photography, and a full day in nature. Krka National Park and Šibenik: See cascades and karst rivers, then pair it with Šibenik’s stone lanes and coastal views, a handy combo if you want nature in the morning and a compact old town in the afternoon. Pag Island: Cross the bridge to lunar-like hills, salt pans, and beaches, with cheese tastings and the ancient olive groves of Lun, which works well if food, quiet coves, and short scenic drives sound right for your day. Nin: Explore a tiny island town with Roman remains, a salt museum, and sandy, shallow beaches, making it easy if you’re after gentle history, easy swims, and wind sports when the breeze picks up. Kornati or Telašćica by boat: Spend a day on the Adriatic hopping between islands for cliff views and calm bays, good for snorkelling, light hikes, and sea panoramas without long road time. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Zadar most travellers miss.