Have you ever been to Croatia? Did you visit Zadar? Well, it’s my hometown. I grew up there and left it immediatelly after the last war. Every time I return I feel as I had never left it at all. It’s the place where you simply feel at home. 

This time of year it’s crowded by tourists from all over the world. This because it’s well connected with all the principal european cities (Zadar airport is distant about 12 km from the town) and it gives a possibility to have a great vacation  without spending to much money. What can you do there and why shouldn’t you absolutelly miss it if you decide to reach Croatia? Sun and sea are the principal attractions for young people and the ancient history for the seniors. Zadar is the ideal starting point for any destination as it is located in the middle of the Adriatic sea which guarantees quick access to some of the most beautiful Croatian islands. The old town is small, visitable even in one day if you decide to travel around.  You shouldn’t miss: St. Donat (a particular church from 9th century, a symbol of Zadar, used today as a place for concerts which hosts in July the Musical evenings in Zadar);  

Cathedral of Saint Anastasia, Church of St. Krsevan, Church of St. Mary with the Permanent exposition of Gold and Silver of Zadar, Church of St. Simeon and Archeological Museum.

Don’t miss a walk near the sea  with the recently constructed new attractions : Greeting to the sun (Pozdrav suncu) and Sea organ (Morske orgulje).

From Zadar you can take a ferryboat to reach many islands. One day in Preko on Ugljan Island is a good option. Another possibility is to take one of the organized day tours to Kornati National Park. It’s not very expensive and during the cruise among the islands you will have a possibility to swim and take a lots of sun. The only beach in Zadar is on Kolovare (10 minutes walk from the old town). Punta Bajlo is an alternative for those swimmers who love rocks and a deep sea. If you prefer a sand beach you have to go to Nin. For a nightlife I suggest Zaton, Petrcane and Pag island.

The ferry to Preko departs from the old town port. You don’t have to book the tickets in advance. You can get to Nin, Zaton, Petrcane and Pag by bus (from the main station or from the old town) or by car. Consider that if you stay in old town you don’t need a car. Parking places are very expensive and it’s difficult to find them free in the summer. I suggest to rent a car only if you decide to go out from the town. For example to Biograd, Sibenik or Split. National Parks Krka and Plitvice are not very distant and should be visited by the travellers. If you decide to stay in Zadar, enjoy its genuine food, the smell of it’s clean air and don’t miss the beauty of its sunset.