Zadar is a gem on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. This guide has everything you need to make the most of your visit. As your cruise ship docks at the Zadar Cruise Port, you’re just steps away from an amazing adventure.
About Zadar Cruise Port
Zadar Cruise Port is relatively new, with a terminal that opened in April 2019. The Seatrade Cruise Awards named it Port of the Year that same year. The port spans over 18,000m² across two levels and handles both cruise and Ro-Ro passengers, meeting high-security standards.
How Far Is Zadar Old Town from the Cruise Port?
Most online sources say Zadar Cruise Port is about 1.5 kilometers from Zadar Old Town. But that is only true if you have wings to fly. In the picture below I made precise calculations based on the shortest walking roads you can take. It is around 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) from the old town center.
Can You Walk Into Zadar from the Cruise Port?
Walking from Zadar Cruise Port to the Old Town is doable and straightforward. Just a few simple turns and you’re on your way!
Expect to get there in about 35-45 minutes at a relaxed pace.
One heads-up: about 80% of the way has little to no natural shade, and summers here can be scorching, especially around midday.
If you want to reach the Old Town quickly and see even more, our bike and e-scooter rentals are the way to go. You’ll reach the Old Town in five minutes and be free to explore more of Zadar’s sights and experiences.
Top 5 Attractions to Visit from Zadar Cruise Port
Zadar is more ancient than Rome, said the Byzantine Emperor Constantine Porphyrogenitus in 950. He interpreted the Latin name of the city, Iader (Iadera), as ‘iam erat,’ meaning ‘once was,’ suggesting it existed before Rome.
St. Donatus Church and Roman Forum
This spot is the heart of Zadar’s history. St. Donatus Church is an impressive, round, pre-Romanesque church that dates back to the 9th century. It feels like stepping into a time machine!
Right next to it is the Roman Forum, built in the 1st century BC. You can wander among ancient ruins and feel the history under your feet. I always recommend starting here to truly experience the roots of Zadar’s culture.
The Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun
This is a must-see—and must-hear—experience! The Sea Organ is an architectural masterpiece. Built into the coast it plays music using the waves of the Adriatic. Trust me, standing there, listening to the unique tunes, is something special. Especially at sunset!
Museum of Ancient Glass
This museum is a hidden gem that might really surprise you! It features over 5,000 ancient glass objects, from delicate jewelry to beautifully crafted vessels. Many date back to Roman times (1st century BC to 5th century AD). It’s incredible to think something so fragile could survive for thousands of years.
One highlight is the live glassblowing workshops, where you can watch artists shape glass just like in ancient times. If you’re curious about history or unique crafts, this museum is worth a visit.
Zadar Islands
You won’t find this in most tourist brochures, but if you want to explore beyond Zadar’s Old Town, the islands are a great choice.
Croatia, known as the “Land of a Thousand Islands,” actually boasts 1,244 islands of all shapes and sizes. The Zadar archipelago has about 300 islands and islets, making it one of the most island-rich areas in the Adriatic.
Ugljan and Pašman
Ugljan, often called the “green island” thanks to its lush olive groves, is the closest and easiest island to reach from Zadar.
Zadar Cruise Port also serves as a ferry port, so you’re in luck. It’s just a 200-meter walk to catch a ferry that runs all day.
In just about 25 minutes, you’ll be stepping foot on Ugljan, ready to soak in its charming villages, hidden beaches, and scenic trails. But keep your eyes open—the ferry quickly stops at Ošljak, the tiniest inhabited island in Croatia. It’s a cool little detour you don’t want to miss.
If you’re up for a climb, don’t miss Saint Michael’s Fortress in Preko. Perched 265 meters high, it offers stunning views of over 200 islands in the Zadar archipelago and the Kornati National Park—a sight you’ll never forget
A bridge connects Pašman to Ugljan, making it easy to hop between the two.
Pašman offers breathtaking views of the Kornati Islands and is known for its crystal-clear waters and unspoiled nature.
The best way to explore both islands is by bike or e-scooter. Going there without any vehicle might be too much.
Zadar War Zone & Bibinje
Bibinje, just a kilometer from Zadar Cruise Port, offers a genuine experience of Mediterranean life—far from tourist crowds. Locals here live at a slower pace, catching up over coffee or tending their fishing boats.
The area also has a deep connection to Croatia’s recent history. Križ Hill, a key Serbian base during the Croatian War of Independence, still holds remnants like underground bunkers and a Serbian T-55 tank in Zadar’s Dračevac suburb.
This route is for those curious about Croatia’s past. Be aware, though, that Križ Hill involves an uphill climb, and our e-scooters can make it a lot easier to explore.
Plan Your Perfect Zadar Day with Our Rental Service!
Ready to make the most of your time at the Zadar Cruise Port? Whether you want to explore ancient history, discover Zadar’s attractions, or go beyond the Old Town, we’ve got you covered.
Our bike and e-scooter rentals give you the freedom to see it all—from the Roman Forum and Sea Organ to the islands of Ugljan and Pašman.
We bring your rental straight to the port to make starting your adventure easy. Simply reach out via WhatsApp to book your ride. Once you’re finished, we’ll pick it up for you without any hassle
Don’t miss out on an amazing day—book your bike or e-scooter now and start your Zadar adventure
