Enjoying Zadar (Region) in Autumn
Autumn in Zadar
Mesmerizing blue sea, sensational shades of orange on the evening sky at sunset… Yeah, the amazing colours of Zadar do not fade once autumn sets in. In fact, the vibrant city continues to work its special magic this time of year.
Breezy & bright
No summer heat, no crowds. Days are getting shorter and there’s a drop in temperature, yet the weather remains most agreeable. You can expect 20-23 degrees with generally sunny skies, not to mention that the sea is still warm enough for a swim in early autumn. Later on in the season, occasional showers become more possible and temperatures tend to go below 20 degrees, but it usually stays warmer than on the continent.
With less visitors strolling along the old cobbled streets of Zadar, it’s easier for you to pace yourself as you explore the city and its attractions. Be it as you take a walk along the historical walls, past medieval squares and gates (UNESCO World Heritage Site), or as the sea ambiance takes your breath away on the promenade at sunset. Right next to the Sea Organ and the Greetings to the Sun.
Promenade at sunset
Mediterranean evergreen
While deciduous trees start dressing into colours of autumn, before shedding leaves altogether, refreshing Mediterranean greenery is here to stay. With pleasant weather, the timing couldn’t be better for exploring all the autumn shades in Zadar and beyond.
So, rent a bike and go on a tour of Zadar parks (Queen Jelena Madije Park & Vladimir Nazor Park in the town centre, and Musapstan on the outskirts). If you have time to spare, why not also hop to the island of Ugljan just across the city for a hike or bike? The Paklenica National Park is also a top destination for hiking (and rock climbing) this time of year (ticket price: €6 in October, €4 in November).
Buzzing hinterland
Autumn is the busiest time of year in olive groves and vineyards in the Zadar hinterland. Namely, it’s when local farmers harvest the fruits of months-long hard labour. So, use the opportunity to taste excellent wine, olive oil and eco products in a lovely ambiance.
Head to the area of Ravni kotari, where you can find various local farms offering traditional setting with authentic products, such as Ražnjevića dvori, Lolina Vatrenica, Izletište Dalmatina, Konoba Kamenjak (Vrana Lake Nature Park), Dida Jere, Roca, Vuksan, and others.
Olive harvest in Zadar Region
Golden opportunity…
…To eat well! Apart from the buzz of olive groves and vineyards, early autumn in Zadar comes with delicious bites to eat. Namely, Zadar Street Food Festival takes place from September 22 to October 1 at the Beach & Cocktail Bar Bamboo (peninsula Puntamika) and features great entertainment as well. Just 10 days later (October 10-15) take your taste buds on a juicy journey with the Meat Festival, held at the historic Old Market.
Sparkling blue(s)
Appreciate the beautiful shades of blue across the Zadar region! Take a kayak tour around the historical peninsula to get a different perspective of the city. Why not also explore the beauties of nature in the vicinity?
Add a special adventure to your holiday by going rafting down the Zrmanja river during the month of October! (The current price is €50 per adult). The lovely river and its canyon can also be admired by going on a bike tour. Another spectacular river with waterfalls and cascades, which also happens to be the second most visited national park in Croatia, is just an hour away from Zadar. The Krka, indeed, is well worth the visit, and the prices are €20 (October) and €7 (November; note that not all attractions can be accessed as of this month).
Krka Waterfalls in Autumn
Joys of autumn
Yes, nature may be slowing down, but Zadar’s fun vibe continues in autumn. So, take a moment to enjoy the city and the region, be active and delight in great food. And let autumn charm you with its unique colours in Zadar (region)!
Prefer deciding on the spur of a moment or planning ahead? Both organized tours and spontaneous trips can turn out great in Zadar! And if you get caught up in the rain in Zadar, don’t worry, you can still have a blast!
