7 Free Things to See and Do in Zadar
Get your freebies in Zadar! Feel free to experience the very best of the city not for little money, but at no cost whatsoever. Zero. Nil. Nada. Still in doubt? Then check this out:
Sea Organ
It’s music, it’s the promenade, it’s the sea! Most importantly, it’s completely for free. The Sea Organ, one of the most popular modern attractions in the city, is an architectural sight that always gives you a unique experience. Just take a moment, sit on those promenade steps and let the sea work its magic.
Greetings to the Sun & the sunset
Wave to the setting sun … and get ready for the show! As the sky becomes painted in amazing colours for the most beautiful sunset in the world, the Greetings to the Sun (Sun Salutation) comes to life. The light installation was created by Nikola Bašić, who also did the Sea Organ, and pays tribute to Zadar and the solar system in the most spectacular way.
Greetings to the Sun
Walking tour of the city
Walk right this way! Or this one. There is not only one right way to get to know the historical peninsula, so you can see all the sights with a bit of planning. After all, surely you want to snap a pic by the defensive walls and under the city gates (UNESCO World Heritage Site), by a well on a Five Wells Square. Or by the Roman pillar on Petar Zoranić Square. How about the clocktower on People’s Square (Narodni trg)? Don’t miss the remains of the Roman Forum either.
City beach
Go for a swim in the city! No, you can’t dive off the promenade (unless you’re taking part in the Millennium Jump in the summer). But, you can find refreshment on the central beach Kolovare just south of the historical peninsula. It’s lively, it’s clean and there’s no entry fee.
Local lifestyle
Mingle with the locals! Chat up people selling fish, fruit and vegetables on the buzzing market. Soak in the sun on a terrace of a bar along Kalelarga (central street officially named Široka ulica). Join in the fun in Varoš and Kampo Kaštelo neighbourhoods. Sure, a coffee or a beer may not be for free, but the insight into the local lifestyle sure is and is well worth it.
Local lifestyle
Events and festivals
Let Zadar entertain you! The city knows how to party throughout the year, so join in the fun flowing down the streets. There are a number of events and festivals held on the historical peninsula featuring concerts, street performances and food fests. Just keep your eye on the calendar!
The best lookouts
Technically, none is a 100% for free. However, when staying at the Boutique Hostel Forum, you won’t be charged extra for one of the best views of the city. And for a few others you only need peanuts. In other words, for just a couple of euros you can climb the Belltower of St. Anastasia’s Cathedral or the Captain’s Tower. But it’s worth it.
The best things in life are for free
And Zadar can really show you how it’s done! At no extra charge.
Most of the free sights also happen to be the most Instagram-worthy places in Zadar. So, don’t miss the chance to share your very own experience. Just as you might like to explore other city beaches in addition to Kolovare.