Explore History, Sea & Culture on Foot in Zadar

Starting Point: Greeting to the Sun (Pozdrav Suncu) & Sea Organ (Morske orgulje)

A 22-meter-wide solar installation made of glass plates that captures sunlight during the day and creates a magical light show at sunset. Designed by architect Nikola Bašić, it symbolizes the connection between nature, people, and the cosmos. On the same spot is unique architectural sound installation with marble steps hiding organ pipes underneath, played by the rhythm of the waves. Also created by Nikola Bašić, it’s often called “music of the sea.”

1. Fosa Marina & Statue of Špiro Brusina

A peaceful marina beside the city walls, once a key harbor. The statue of Špiro Brusina, a prominent local scientist and writer, marks the city’s dedication to cultural and natural heritage.

2. Land Gate (Kopnena vrata)

Zadar’s grand historical entrance, built in 1543 in the Renaissance style with the winged lion of St. Mark, a symbol of Venetian rule. It once served as a ceremonial gateway and part of the city's fortifications.

3. Five Wells Square (Trg Pet bunara)

A charming square featuring five aligned wells, built in the 16th century to supply the city with water during the Ottoman siege. Today it’s a peaceful public space next to Queen Jelena Park.

4. People’s Square (Narodni trg)

Zadar’s main city square since the 13th century, surrounded by historical buildings like the City Guard with its clock tower and the City Loggia. It remains a lively hub of public life.

5. Kalelarga (Široka ulica)

Zadar’s main promenade and one of its oldest streets – even older than the city of Rome. Full of shops, cafés, and street life, it’s a beloved heartline of the Old Town.

7. City Walls and Venetian Bastions

Part of Zadar’s UNESCO-listed fortifications, built to defend the city from Ottoman invasions. Today, the walls offer scenic views of the harbor and insight into 16th-century military architecture.

8. Roman Forum, Church of St. Donatus & St. Anastasia’s Cathedral (Sv. Stošija)

The Roman Forum, built in the 1st century BC, was once the center of civic life. Adjacent to it stands the Church of St. Donatus, a 9th-century pre-Romanesque masterpiece and symbol of Zadar. You`ll also see the largest cathedral in Dalmatia, built between the 12th and 13th centuries, housing the relics of Saint Anastasia. Its bell tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.

End of tour: Return to Sea Organ or stay by the waterfront

Return to Sea Organ, find the best place to sit and enjoy the sound of the sea and sunset lights. It`s the perfect way to reflect on Zadar’s 3,000 years of history.