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Home > A Local’s Guide On Things To Do In Zadar, Croatia

A Local’s Guide On Things To Do In Zadar, Croatia

Written by our local expert Mate

Mate is Croatian and owns a transport company in the Balkans, he has visited over 30 countries. He is an expert on all things transportation as well as food and wine.

I have lived in Zadar for a decade, and it’s changed significantly in those ten years. But one thing that has not changed is its beauty. Ever wondered about all of the top things to do in Zadar? We have a few suggestions on what to see and do in Zadar – our hometown!

Zadar isn’t as well known as its coastal neighbors like Split , the famed walled city of Dubrovnik , or even  the capital, Zagreb . It has been overlooked as a destination by many people traveling to Croatia , but that’s a mistake.

Let me tell you that this ancient seaside city is jam-packed with incredible sights. I know; it’s my hometown!

Zadar is the second-largest city in Dalmatia and one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Now it’s time to share my hometown of Zadar and give her a moment to shine on Chasing the Donkey.

This is our guide on what to do in Zadar, what to see in Zadar, including all the major Zadar sights, and suggestions on where to lay your head after all the sightseeing.

Warning: this Zadar Croatia travel guide is long, very long.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Top Things To Do In Zadar, Croatia

There is no shortage of things to see and do in Zadar; here are just a few ideas to get you started:

1. The Sea Organ

One of the best things to see in Zadar is the Sea Organ. The magic of the Sea Organ, known as the Morske orgulje in Croatian, is mesmerizing. Okay, it’s not real magic.

The music comes from the waves. The waves push air through 35 underwater pipes stretching across 70 meters, and the sound pops up all along the waterfront promenade known as the Riva.

Now, I know I said it was an organ, and it is; I don’t think you can make a song request or even expect to hear anything you’ll recognize. Because it’s nature, the notes played are a touch haunting, very enchanting but always relaxing.

The Sea Organ, created by Croatian architect Nikola Bašićis, is a harmonious mix of modern design and nature. Sit on the broad marble steps that flank the water or along the long rows of bench seating. It’s an area you can enjoy all year round.

We always love taking our friends to see the Sea Organ, which never ceases to amaze our visitors. On a hot summer day, we pack towels because this inevitably happens.

Being one of the significant Zadar attractions, the Sea Organ is busiest at sunset, with hordes of photographers and sungazers waiting to see one of the famous sunsets. This is one of the top 5 things to do in Zadar.

And we recommend you get ice cream from Slasticarna Donat . It’s the best ice cream in town. Now, I can’t recommend a flavor because there are far too many. I can only suggest you close your eyes and point and take what you get. Once you have your ice cream, you can sit along the steps and enjoy the show.

2. Greeting To The Sun

After you’ve watched the sunset, turn to your right, and just next door is a solar-powered work of art that explodes with an array of brightly colored lights – The Greeting to the Sun. Tap dance, tip-toe, or waltz across its glass surface as it changes hues.

The Greeting to the Sun consists of 300 multi-layer glass plates in the shape of a circle 22 meters in diameter. It is conceived as a spatial installation in the form of an amphitheater surrounded by stone blocks with a presentation of all Solar System planets and their orbits.

This light display is one of many great family activities when traveling with children in Croatia . The same artist who created the Sea Organ also created the Greeting to the Sun and made something uber-cool again.

3. Catch A Sunset On The Riva

It’s well known that Croatia is the home of the world’s best sunset. Well, that is at least according to Alfred Hitchcock, who in 1964 was staying in room 204 of the now closed Hotel Zagreb along the Riva in Zadar and claimed:

“The sunset of Zadar is the world’s most beautiful and incomparably better than in Key West, Florida.”

Make sure to see it for yourself!

4. Take A Zadar Food And Wine Tour

If you want something unique and interactive, a food and wine tour + cooking class might be just what your taste buds need. We loved this tour so much that we devoted a particular post to our experience . Check it out for an overview of foods and wines you can expect to sample from the Zadar region .

Additionally, for more culinary delights, joining a cooking class in Zadar is also an unforgettable experience.

5. Explore The Top Wineries In Zadar On Your Own

If wine is your scene, then there are a few wineries not to be missed. We dedicated an entire post on the region’s top wineries and what to drink here.

6. Museum Of Ancient Glass

One of our favorite museums in Zadar is this one. This museum is home to numerous glass artifacts, some of them dating as far back as the 1st century and others that were created far more recently.  

Demonstrations of various glass-working techniques, including bead making and glass blowing, are also held at this spot. Visitors can easily stroll the halls, where additional exhibits touch on such topics as the origins and history of glass.

A visit to the Ancient Museum of Glass in Zadar is an absolute must-do when you visit Zadar. Moreover, because the museum continuously organizes new events and houses temporary exhibitions, you can always go back for round two or three, even if you have been once. 

Tickets are inexpensive, and the displays have cards with information in English, so you can easily walk the museum on your own without a guide.

7. Gold & Silver Museum

Another of our favorite Zadar museums is this one. Head to the church of St Mary’s, and then turn left. There, you’ll see a small door selling tickets. The Benedictine nuns have preserved this museum with priceless treasures and have been since WWII.

The priceless treasures are so well maintained for items that are centuries old. Of particular note are fabrics embroidered with golden threads made by local nuns, crowns, and a set of hands of several saints enclosed in gold.

8. The Museum Of Illusions Zadar

This fascinating museum is where you can have a mind-blowing adventure where nothing is like it seems. At the museum, your senses will be tested, your brain challenged, and most importantly, you will have an absolute blast.

You may have already heard about the one in Zagreb , but the one in Zadar is different. The Zadar Museum of Illusions brings many new exhibits, including a bamboozling vortex tunnel, the first of this type in the region, a room of mirrors that distort everything providing a unique perspective on reality, a room with a chair that changes the perception of the size of people and will have you scratching your head wondering what is going on.

As if that was not already enough fun, in the museum, you can defy gravity and walk on the wall of a room. Just like Spiderman! And, for anyone wanting to test their brain, there are several didactic puzzles that will challenge even the sharpest of sharp minds.

9. Tentative UNESCO Site – Episcopal Complex

The Episcopal Complex area that was proposed to be included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Croatia lies in the historic heart of Zadar . This is a popular attraction in Zadar , located within the Old Town.

It comprises several historic buildings, including the iconic Roman Forum with its temple ruins; the Archaeological Museum ; and the Episcopal Complex itself, which consists of the St. Donatus Church , the Cathedral of St. Anastasia , and the Archbishop’s Palace , among various other structures.

The Episcopal Complex is so remarkable because it offers an architectural timeline of Zadar’s history, from Roman times to the Middle Ages and modern times. The history of Zadar dates back to Roman times. In the 1 st century B.C., the settlement became a Roman colony, which resulted in a new layout according to Roman town planning principles with longitudinal and transversal streets that divided the town into rectangular building blocks and squares.

Here’s a bit more about the buildings included in the Episcopal Complex:

Roman Forum

As a kid from Sydney, I had never seen anything like it. It really got me thinking about the world, its many ancient sites. This is where I got my inspiration to travel.

The Forum in Zadar is located in the heart of Old Town Zadar, where passersby can walk among the remains of the Romans. The Forum was established by the Emperor Augustus and was built from the 1st century BC to the 3rd century AD. It’s is located beside St. Donat’s Church.

Why not relax at one of the cafes in the Forum and take in the history and gorgeous architecture of the area? 

Local tip: Look at the foundations of St. Donat’s church, and you will see the remains of Roman structures that were reused.

Archaeological Museum

Found across the street from St. Donat’s Church, this museum provides travelers with some background information on Croatia’s history, from prehistoric times to around the Middle Ages. The museum is very well organized, and excellent English translations accompany most of the displays.

You will want to allow several hours for your visit. 

St. Anastasia’s Cathedral

Head up high to the viewing area. Once there, you’ll have magnificent panoramic views across the St. Donat’s Church and Roman Forum and the Velebit Mountains.

Most travelers visit for the magnificent views from the bell tower. Climbing this structure is a feat not for the faint of heart or the mobility impaired because the steps are very steep. Admission to the bell tower costs only a few euros. Travelers should note that this portion of the site remains closed on Sundays and holidays.

If you choose not to climb the bell tower, you can still enjoy its beauty from the outside, especially at night when the lights inside are on, streaming out from all of the tower windows. 

St. Donat’s Church

Those interested in architecture and still wondering what to see in Zadar will want to make their way over to this church because it is widely considered among the finest examples of Byzantine church architecture.

The rounded interior is designed so that the light that falls into the sanctuary creates varied patterns at different times of the day. However, because the inside of the building is somewhat plainly decorated compared to the exterior, those of you who are not architecture enthusiasts may only want to view the building from the outside rather than venturing in.

Once night falls during the summer; you can enjoy the sounds of the Musical Nights Festival . This classical music festival runs from July to August each year, bringing the 9th-century St. Donat’s Church and Roman Forum to life.

10. Narodni Trg (People’s Square)

This square has been at the center of public life in Zadar for generations, as far back as the middle ages. Even today, people use it as a meeting point. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes. Sit down, relax, and watch the world go by, or discover Zadar with this fun, interactive new game – Jadera Secrets – that starts in the Peoples Square and literally walks you through the Old Town’s history.

While in the square, snap a picture of the city sentinel’s clock tower – it’s quite the sight!

11. Venetian Works Of Defense – Grimaldi Bastion

The city walls , with a series of powerful bastions, were added to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Croatia in 2017 as part of the Venetian Works of Defense. These works stretch out across three countries—Croatia, Italy, and Montenegro . The site comprises six different defense works extending over 1,000 kilometers along the eastern Adriatic coast. Together, they made up the so-called ‘Serenissima’ in the 16 th and 17 th centuries, the most crucial era in the history of the Venetian Republic.

Grimaldi Bastion along with the Land Gate are great examples in Zadar. 

Here’s a little more on the Zadar Venetian Works of Defense & Surrounding Area:

Queen Jelena Madijevka Park & Grimaldi Bastion

Queen Jelena Madijevka Park is the city’s oldest public park, and it leads directly to the Land Gate and the entrance to Old Town. The park was built on top of the city’s fortification military structure – the Grimaldi Bastion by Five Wells Square. As the park sits higher than Old Town, it’s quite a unique chance to enjoy Dalmatian flora while admiring excellent views of the city and harbor.

Foša Land Gate Zadar

People often ask me about things to see in Zadar. To me, no visit to Zadar is complete without looking at (and a photo of) the Land Gate located next to the port of Foša. Built by the Venetians in 1543, this massive Zadar city gate served as the main entry into the city. An excellent example of the Venetian Republic Lion is at the top of the gate.

Five Wells Square

While checking out Queen Jelena Madijevka Park and the Land Gate, make sure to see Five Wells Square, where the Venetians created a drinking cistern for the city, using a design of 5 wells in the same square (hence the name). 

These wells still stand today and are a cool way to understand the way life was led in the past. 

12. Take A Romantic Boat Ride Across The Jazine

The Jazine harbor has a footbridge connecting the main area of Zadar to Old Town, which takes about 20 minutes to travel by foot. However, if you are in the mood for a more romantic crossing, consider hiring the little red boat (locally know as barkarjol), rowed by barkarjoli, to take you across. It’s cheap and historic – someone has been rowing this style of boat here for 800 years.

To find the boat, head to thejetty by the Tankerkomerc building on the mainland side of the footbridge.

13. Zadar Pijaca

The Zadar Pijaca (market) has been operating since the Middle Ages and is quite large by Dalmatian standards. It’s your typical market with fresh food and vegetables. Pick up some famous Pag cheese (Paski Sir)  from one of the local producers or try out the award-winning Gligora cheese.

If you get to the Pijaca, don’t miss the Peskarija (fish market). This place has a wide variety of fish available and changes daily. If you’re staying in Zadar and have a kitchen at your disposal, the Pijaca and Peskarija are where you can pick up everything you need to try and cook some Croatian recipes .

14. Church Of St. Simeon

This church is famous for the silver casket found at the church’s altar where legend says the mummified body of St. Simeon was finally laid to rest. 

The casket contains many detailed inscriptions and reliefs, and is considered to be the most valuable work of Medieval goldsmith art in Croatia. The Chest of St. Simeon was made in 1380 from embossed silver sheet metal by the goldsmith Franciscus de Mediolano, who had a workshop in Zadar

15. The Sphinx

Yes, you read it right; there is a sphinx in Zadar. This sphinx, however, was not built by the Ancient Egyptians but made by a local artist named Giovani Smirich.

He had the sphinx built in 1918 after the death of his wife as a memorial to her. Interestingly, this sphinx is distinctly different from its Egyptian relatives in that it’s made of concrete and has fingers instead of paws. You’ll find the sphinx in the garden of Villa Attilia, located in the bay of Maestral, which is in Brodarica.

It’s quite a walk to get there, so make sure you wear some comfy travel shoes.

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What to do around zadar: day trips from zadar.

The Zadar region extends many kilometers around Zadar Old Town – and it’s effortless to get around by car or private transfer .

Here are some short day trip ideas you can take and ideas for things to see around Zadar:

Paklenica National Park

Paklenica National Park is about a 40-minute drive from Zadar. All you need to do is  follow the signs to Starigrad Paklenica , which is the location of the entrance to the park. Paklenica National Park is utterly beautiful and really popular with climbers and hikers. We strongly recommend this as one of your day trips from Zadar.

The park was established in 1949 and is Croatia’s second-oldest national park, behind Plitvice Lakes National Park  in Northern Dalmatia.

Paklenica National Park is 95 km2 and consists of two dolomite limestone canyons called Velika (Big) Paklenica & Mala (Small) Paklenica in the Velebit M ountains, which is Croatia’s most extensive mountain range . Mrs. CtD always says that the Velebit often looks like a Hollywood backdrop on a clear day.

The park has around 150km of hiking trails , which will ultimately take you up to the highest peak of Vaganski Vrh at 1,757 meters if you have the legs for it. The mountains rise sharply from the sea, and while the park initially looks very rocky, you’ll be surprised to find out that 75% of the national park is, in fact, primarily beech and black pine forest.

• Starigrad Paklenica Jeep Safari

Add  the first capital of Croatia, Nin , to your list for another great day trip from Zadar. It’s only 15 km from Zadar, so the drive is conveniently short. Alternatively, you can easily catch a bus as well.

The town of Nin has a long history, 3,000 years, in fact, which is evident when you walk through the town. Nin town center is located on a small island in the middle of a shallow lagoon and is connected to the mainland by two stone bridges.

Make sure you check out the Roman ruins, including the mosaic tiles that were discovered, rub Gregory of Nin’s (ninski Grgur) toe for good luck, visit Solana Nin to learn how salt has been produced for centuries and don’t forget to get a photo at the church of Saint Nicholas.

Krka National Park

One of the most scenic parts of Dalmatia is undoubtedly the famous Krka National Park . Few places in Europe are as naturally beautiful, and with the mighty Krka River running through it, there are some spectacular waterfalls to check out.

These are, without a doubt, some of the most iconic features of the region overall. They were even featured in Game of Thrones . Especially Skradinski Buk, the most spectacular of all Krka National Park waterfalls, even beats all of Plitvice Lakes’ waterfalls in terms of size and volume.

It’s one of the best day trips from Zadar!

• Getting From Zadar To Krka National Park

Kornati National Park

Stretching along the central part of the Croatian Adriatic are the Kornati Islands . If you’re in Zadar, you absolutely have to go and see the Kornati Islands for yourself. 

The Kornati Islands were designated a national park in 1980. The park comprises 89 islands, islets, and reefs and is perfect for sailing or cruising . The islands are very barren and rocky, with little vegetation on them.

The Adriatic Sea is at its glorious best in the park, crystal clear, and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving . Also, some cool remote restaurants are scattered throughout the Kornati Islands that can only be reached by boat. One of the best restaurants is Konoba Opat.

Explore The Islands Of Zadar

The Zadar archipelago has hundreds of islands, most of which are not inhabited. This region’s islands, sea, and coastline are absolutely stunning and best seen by boat . We have previously spent a week sailing through the Zadar archipelago and had an incredible time.

One of the highlights was stopping at an islet between Molat and Silba and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic with no one in sight. The Adriatic was ours for that moment in time; definitely a unique experience.

If you don’t have a boat, it’s easy to take a ferry to the family-friendly islands near Zadar . Numerous ferries are leaving daily. They make going on day trips from Zadar a piece of cake. The islands I would suggest are Dugi Otok (for Telašćica Nature Park, see below), Ugljan, Pašman, Molat, Iz, and Ist.

Pag Island is perfect for Zadar day trips because it’s connected to the mainland by a bridge, so it’s easy to reach. Pag Island is famous for clubbing in Zrce, Pag Cheese (Paski sir), sheep, and lace.

If you’re young and into partying all night long, Zrce is undoubtedly the place for you. Through summer, they have clubs that operate 24/7. Aquarius and Papaya are the two big clubs, and throughout summer, there are numerous events with the world’s biggest DJs playing.

An absolute must-try – Pag cheese (Paski Sir).

It’s a sheep’s milk cheese, and what makes it so good is the milk that comes from the Pag ewes. They live on a diet of wild grass and herbs, which imparts a unique flavor to the milk and, in turn, the cheese.

You can try the cheese at roadside stalls from local producers or go to Kolan for a factory tour at the  award-winning Gligora Dairy as we did . Afterward, head to the tasting room and try the variety of cheeses they offer.

Telašćica Nature Park

Telašćica Nature Park is located on Dugi Otok and consists of thirteen islands, islets, and reefs and is a popular destination for boat enthusiasts and day trips from Zadar . Telašćica Nature Park is known for its massive cliffs that plunge into the Adriatic and the unique Salt Lake Mir, which is said to have curative properties.

We have been to Telašćica many times, and it’s a great day trip . We love swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear bay. Oh, and I must mention the local donkeys that wander the park, who are extremely friendly!

Benkovac Farmers Market

The Benkovac Farmers Market is held on the 10th of every month, and many locals make day trips from Zadar to get to this massive market . Benkovac market is all about locals picking up monthly supplies for rock-bottom prices.

You can buy almost anything in this market, from livestock and food to clothes and tractors. This market has basic facilities, so don’t expect pretty cafes and soy caramel cappuccinos to be available. Many years ago, Mrs. CtD tried to convince me to buy her a donkey on our visit.

Don’t leave without eating some spit-roasted lamb, though. It’s mouthwateringly delicious!

A few kilometers from Benkovac are the remains of the ancient town of Asseria.

The Liburnians built this town, then later taken over by the Romans, and it was an important position on the route between present-day Zadar and Split , as well as other regional municipalities. The remains are 600 by 150 meters, and much of the site is yet to be excavated. However, plenty remains to see with the three-meter-thick ramparts and cippi (Liburnian carved tombstones).

Rafting & Kayaking The Zrmanja And Krupa Rivers

We always recommend rafting or kayaking along Croatia’s most beautiful rivers in crystal-clear waters.

They’re surrounded by a karst canyon that makes it easy on the eyes and fun!  Almost anyone can do this activity because it requires no experience whatsoever. This is definitely a great activity if you’re visiting Croatia with kids. Rafting will get you up close and personal with nature, and you can even swim under the Krupa waterfalls.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

In just under two hours, you can be at the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park .

Plitvice Lakes is a National Park, and in 1979 was awarded recognition as a  UNESCO world heritage site . This UNESCO site has sixteen lakes and a series of gushing waterfalls. The lakes are famous for their stunning colors, which change from shades of teal, turquoise, and dark blues to grays throughout the year. The shades vary due to the number of minerals or organisms in the water.

The Best Beaches In Zadar

Zadar County is home to many beaches (including a few hidden gems!). Here are just a few we love:

Kolovare Beach

Kolovare is a public beach in Zadar City. This Zadar beach is clean (Blue Flag status, to be exact!) and has all the necessary facilities, including showers, toilets, changing stalls, lounge chairs, and beautiful pine woods that provide excellent shade when the sun gets toasty.

This beach is ideal for families with children or teens, as the water sports options and other activities are endless. Get your kiddos excited with a game of beach volleyball or ping pong, a chance to parasail or ride water bikes, or even take a short cruise on a yacht or catamaran. Plus, given its proximity to the Old Town, you still have all the restaurants, bars, and shopping at your fingertips.

Borik Beach

Borik Beach lies four kilometers from the Old Town of Zadar, and buses are a convenient transportation to and from its sandy/pebble shores. It’s part of the Falkensteiner Resort, which has a family holiday vibe and is a favorite Zadar beach.

They have geared the beach so that the children can be entertained. The beach itself is shallow with a sandy bottom . Borik Beach Zadar also has all the facilities you’ll need for a day out, such as food and drinks, toilets, changing stalls, and showers if you want to wash the sandy sea from your skin before dinner in the Zadar city center.

Diklo Beach

Further west from Borik, you will find Diklo. This area of the seashore is less touristy than Borik, and visitors love the relaxed, quiet vibe of the area. Diklo has a few beaches that are all pebbly. Scattered along the way, visitors will find cafes, restaurants, and various vendors selling food and drink.

The waterfront is clean, making it great for families on holiday . The area also hosts many sporting events in the Zadar region, an excellent place for participating in a few water sports activities while in Croatia .

Explore Beaches Further Away

Zadar County is blessed with numerous stunning beaches . Here  are the best beaches in the Zadar region:

Petrćane Beach

Petrćane is a beautiful village located between Nin and Zadar. The town has a stunning harbor and boasts many pebble and concrete beaches for visitors to enjoy. Once in the water, sandy floors make these great beaches for families. The waterfronts along this village are also perfect for those seeking recreational sports on holiday.

Complete with restaurants, hotels, and ways to easily travel to Zadar for additional cultural sightseeing, the village of Petrćane has become a tourist destination visitors choose as their home base when exploring the Zadar region. This is one of my favorite Zadar beaches.

Zaton Beach

Zaton Beach is quite possibly one of the most extensive beaches in the Zadar region and another with the desired Blue Flag status. You will find these sandy/pebble shores just west of Zadar. Beach day equipment is available for rent, including scooters, and bar and food choices are nearby for those needing refreshments.

This beach is part of the famous Zaton Holiday Resort , which has received excellent reviews from families with children. The use of the resort’s nearby pools and slides are also available. This Zadar beach is definitely one for the family.

Queens Beach Nin

We can’t leave the famous sandy Queens Beach of Nin off our list. This three-kilometer stretch of sand near the town of Nin runs along the Privlaka peninsula and is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is an excellent beach for families with small children, as it has been awarded Blue Flag status for its cleanliness. The waters are shallow, while the sand is ready for castle building.

If you are looking for something more unique to do while visiting Queens Beach, go kite-surfing or find the peloids of Nin to apply to your skin, a healthy mud known worldwide for its incredible benefits for skin and other ailments. Many people use this Zadar beach in summer, so get in early and grab your spot.

Pisak And Kulin Riviera

Pisak and Kulin are beautiful natural pebble beaches located on the Starigrad Paklenica Riviera shore in northwest Zadar.

If your holiday plans include visiting Paklenica National Park for a few days, a stop at these beaches is worth considering. The beaches are known for being family-friendly. Kulin is one of the top ten beaches of the Adriatic, while Pisak is known for its crystal-clear waters.

The area along the Riviera, at the foot of the Velebit mountains, provides stunning natural beauty and shade from pine and beech trees. If you’re in Paklenica , this should be your go-to beach.

Sakarun Beach

Leave the city behind with a day at Sakarun Beach. About thirty kilometers west of Sali on Dugi Otok, this pebble/sand beach is one of the most beautiful in the region and arguably even Croatia. Shallow waters bring warmer sea temperatures and the opportunity to walk far into the bay. Grab your snorkel gear and a towel to spend the day here.

Cocktails and bites to eat are available at two locations along the shore, and a train also makes a stop here should you need public transport. This Zadar beach is just stunning.

Zlatna Luka Beach, Sukosan

In Sukosan, just southeast of Zadar, is Zlatna Luka Beach, a pebble beach along a road featuring palm and pine trees, chemical toilets, showers, and changing rooms.

This is an excellent destination if you want to escape busy Zadar for an afternoon and relax on a quiet-ish beach .

Additionally, this is also the location of the Zlatna Luka Diving Center, which organizes diving excursions to the spectacular Kornati National Park.

Duboka Draga

Located in Vrsi, this beach can be hard to find, but worth the effort if you dare! This wholly wild and natural beach , away from the city and the villages, is where you’ll find a beautiful view of Velebit Mountain .

This beach is accessible only by car, and there isn’t much room for many people to laze about. The sea here is extremely enticing, even though there are no facilities at the beach.

To access the beach, you need to walk a long distance along a stony path – but it is absolutely worth it once there.

Where To Stay In Zadar: Find Zadar Accommodation

If you’re looking for a hotel in Zadar or any other type of Zadar accommodation, we have selected the best in each category for you to choose from in this post about where to stay in Zadar here.

Where To Eat In Zadar: Our Fave Zadar Restaurants

You’ve made the journey to Zadar and now need to know where to eat. Given this is our hometown, we have some great tips for you. These are the restaurants in Zadar that we recommend.

Restaurant Foša

If you are looking for something a bit more upmarket, Foša is the restaurant for you. Serving traditional Dalmatian food with a bit of a modern twist, this place specializes in fish and has a huge Croatian wine list to go with it. More than 120 varieties! Located in the little Foša harbor of Old Town, after which this restaurant is named, enjoy breathtaking Adriatic Sea views from the terrace. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a big night out. This is one of my favorite Zadar restaurants.

Restaurant Bruschetta

Known for its beautiful plates of hearty Mediterranean and Dalmatian cuisine, enjoy lunch or dinner at this establishment. The menu has excellent options for all palates, from pizza to octopus salad , and the prices are reasonable. House wines are delicious and come highly recommended. Enjoy dining indoors or take a seat on the charming patio. Free Wi-Fi is available if you need to catch up on a few emails or post some holiday shots online. This is the Zadar restaurant we love for pasta dishes.

You’re in for a real treat when dining at Pet Bunara. Serving up a fusion of contemporary dishes alongside Mediterranean meals, stop in for lunch, dinner, or simply a glass of delicious house wine. The prices are reasonable, the staff are knowledgeable, and the service is fantastic. Whether you want a romantic evening or a family dinner, this charming and cozy restaurant does it right.

Nostalgie Restaurant

Located in the heart of the Zadar Old Town, Nostalgie Restaurant is a well-rated restaurant in a relatively quiet area. People appreciate the service, decor, ambiance, and location. Its menu features a variety of dishes, but there is a main focus on fish and seafood . Order a seafood platter, fish soup, ravioli with crab filling, or tuna steak, sit back, and enjoy an evening in a typically Dalmatian restaurant.

Konoba Pece

As one of the best konobas in the region, this gem sits on a hilltop in the little hamlet of Vinjerec, just north of Zadar. The interior may seem a bit plain, but don’t let that fool you. The food that is served here is unlike anything you’ve tried before. Fish are caught fresh daily, and the dishes prepared with them are delightful and flavorful. If you love seafood, this konoba is an absolute must!

Local Tip: Book in advance and ask for a table on the terrace because the view is absolutely breathtaking.

Bon Appetit

Bon Appetit has already made a name for itself as one of the “must-try eateries” in the city. This popular and well-rated restaurant serves modern Mediterranean and Dalmatian food, including fresh fish, pork ribs, and excellent wines. You can dine in the cozy atmosphere of its interior or sit outside overlooking the waterfront at sunset.

Restaurant/pizzeria 4 Kantuna lies in the very heart of the Old Town of Zadar and is a beautiful place for a hearty dinner after a long day of exploring. The restaurant’s menu is almost overwhelmingly extensive and features a modern interior design. There’s everything from portions of pasta, risotto, bruschettas, and salads to fish and seafood, steaks, and lamb chops. The star of the menu, however, is the pizzas.

Not technically in the restaurant in the strictest sense of the word, ART Kavana is a superb pastry, dessert, and cake shop. If you didn’t order dessert with dinner and suddenly find yourself craving something sweet, there’s no better place to go in Zadar than this one.

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Best Coffee In Zadar

Get ideas on where to get a cup of joe & cake in Zadar.

Coffee and Cake

This well-rated and ever-so-popular establishment features a warm and cozy space where the coffee is tasty, and cakes are homemade. Sit inside, or choose a table on the terrace for world-class people-watching. Situated in the middle of the Old Town, it’s the perfect place to rest your legs during a long exploratory walk in the afternoon. Follow the page here. 

A favorite meeting place for locals, this cafe is perfect for grabbing an afternoon coffee. Enjoy seating on the terrace and prices that won’t break the bank.

Cool Bars In Zadar

Here are a few bars in Zadar for you to enjoy a cold drink!

After wandering about Zadar’s Old Town, why not pop into Deja Brew, a bar in Zadar that has live music and a killer selection of drinks? At Deja Brew, you can choose from 9 beers on tap, 57 beers, 76 whiskeys, 15 gins, 13 vodkas, 9 Tequilas, and 17 rums, and kick back and enjoy the low-key, laid-back vibe. All cocktails are made from scratch; no premise sugar mixes here like many other bars.

Lounge & Bar Ledana

This bar’s live music, outdoor seating, and chilled vibe make it a favorite in the city. Found in the garden of Queen Jelena Park, it boasts multiple terraces for watching performances while sipping a refreshing beverage. The neon lighting gives it a funky atmosphere at night; sun lovers will enjoy soaking up the rays in the afternoon.

Beach Bar Bamboo

If you find yourself at Beach Diklo for the day, definitely grab a cocktail at Beach Bar Bamboo. Taking in city view while relaxing in loungers by the sea, it will make your beachy day complete. 

Lounge on sofas atop the old city walls at The Garden while listening to all forms of jazz, dub, electronica, and Latin music. Gaze over the harbor while enjoying a pre-dinner drink or spend the evening in the open air, watching the sun drop to the chill tunes.

Tequila Sunrise Beach Bar

Described as a hidden gem of Croatia by a fellow blogger, this unpretentious bar has a prime waterfront location about 30 minutes on foot from Old Town Zadar. Skip the crowds, and grab a bite and a cold beverage at this local hangout while catching one of Zadar’s beautiful sunsets.

Zadar Events And Festivals

One of the unique Zadar events, Škraping, is an international trekking race on sharp island rocks. It takes place in March every year, and its name comes from the local term for the sharp rocks. Over 1,000 competitors from all over Europe join in the challenge, and media and guests can watch. Climbing, jumping, walking, open-space orienteering, and adventure tourism are the main characteristics of this international event.

Musical Evening In St. Donat

A series of concerts performed by outstanding Croatian and international ensembles (both in the orchestral and soloist categories) can be enjoyed during July and August. Visitors and locals alike can purchase tickets for each evening’s performance for this cultural experience.

Full Moon Festival

If you are in Zadar during the summer on the night of a full moon, head to the Riva. The lights along the Riva are turned off at night, and instead, torches and candles are lit up, casting off a magical yellow glow alongside the sea. 

As you walk the Riva, boats will sell fish along with other local wares. 

Fig Festival

Since the first fig tree arrived in Dalmatia figs, have been produced in abundance. The annual Zadar Fig Festival takes place every September and involves tasting all manner of delicious fig-related snacks!

Spanning over three days, the Fig Festival involves workshops, tastings, and the opportunity to buy mouth-watering products.

Friday Festice

This fun, free festival takes place each Friday from June to September. The streets of Old Town will transport you back in time with festive klapa singing groups along with loads of traditional snacks, drinks and stalls selling Dalmatian treats. 

Zrce Beach Festivals, Novalja

Throughout the summer, Zrce Beach comes to life with numerous electronic music festivals drawing tens of thousands of party-goers from across the globe to see the best international DJs. Some of the biggest festivals worth attending are the Hideout Festival, Sonus Festival, Black Sheep Festival, and Spring Break Europe. If you need an airport transfer to one of these festivals, we can get you there with our new Airport Transfer Business.

How To Get To Zadar

• Air:   Zadar has its airport , so book flights directly to Zadar if traveling by plane. Many international flight options are available to Zadar from starting locations all over Europe. You can also use Croatia Airlines to book short flights to Zadar from other Croatia airports. The airport is located approximately 8 kilometers from town, so further transit (via car, bus, private transfer , or taxi) is necessary upon arrival
• Bus:  Transport via bus is available from Croatia’s main towns – Zagreb , Dubrovnik, Split, Rijeka, and more. If you fly into another of Croatia’s airports to start your holiday elsewhere, use the Zadar Bus Website to locate the bus line and timetable that fit your needs
• Ferry: Not only can you hop on a ferry to Zadar from nearby islands (Dugi Otok, Silba, Mali Losinj, Rava, and Ugljan), but you also can take an overnight ferry service from Italy to reach Croatian shores. Local tip: The ferry from Italy only stops in Zadar during the summer months of June to September. So, if visiting during other months, opt for the year-round ferry to Split and then travel by bus or car to Zadar
• Car: If you enjoy taking in the countryside at your own pace and enjoy the adventure of driving new roads while on holiday, renting a car is always an attractive option—no need to wait for public transport time schedules. A drive from Split will average shy of two hours, while a trip from Zagreb will take around three hours. Stop along the way when the fancy strikes you, and have transportation at your beck and call all holiday! Not to mention, you can drive the quick 90 minutes to Plitvice Lakes National Park once you’ve arrived

Zadar Airport

Zadar Airport (ZAD) is located in Zemunik Donji. It offers various flight options to both domestic and international destinations. Some popular destinations that you can fly to from Zadar Airport include:

• Domestic Destinations within Croatia: Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Pula, and Rijeka
• European Destinations: Frankfurt, London, Munich, Vienna, Warsaw, Stockholm, Oslo, Brussels, Rome, Paris, Barcelona, Dublin, and many more
• Seasonal Charter Destinations: During the summer season, Zadar Airport also offers charter flights to popular vacation destinations in countries such as using Ryanair to fly to Vienna, Sofia, Hamburg, Marseille, Bucharest, Liverpool, Aarhus, Stockholm, Rzeszów, Berlin, Budapest, Bremen, Bournemouth, Frankfurt Hahn, Manchester, Munster, Birmingham, Newcastle, Pisa, Rome, Turin, Bologna, Leeds Bradford, Bordeaux, Edinburgh, Milan Malpensa, and Paris Beauvais

It’s important to note that flight routes and destinations may vary depending on the airline and the season. It’s always best to check with airlines or travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight options from Zadar Airport.

Traveling To Further Destinations

Traveling after a visit to Zadar is as easy as catching any of the ferries , buses, trains, or planes that initially got you to the city.

Dubrovnik, Split & Zagreb

Daily buses leave Zadar to Dubrovnik, Zadar to Split, and Zadar to Zagreb .

Dalmatian Coast Islands

Zadar is a great home base for visiting the beautiful Dalmatian coast islands, easily accessible by ferry or boat hire. Our favorites include Pag , Kornati Islands (Local Tip. Eat at Konoba Opat), and Dugi Otok . Dugi Otok is where we spotted our first donkeys , inspiring the name of this blog.

Plitvice Lakes

Zadar is also an excellent starting point for exploring Plitvice Lakes and then traveling to other cities afterward. Plitvice lies roughly midway between Zadar and Zagreb. Buses are available from the central bus station from either town. From Zadar, it takes two hours, and from Zagreb , it takes two hours and 20 minutes. We suggest that if you’re coming from elsewhere in Croatia, you take the bus to one of these towns first.

If you’re planning to drive to Plitvice, the route is easy to find and is approx 155 kilometers from Zadar, 130 kilometers from Zagreb, 280 kilometers from Split, and around 465 kilometers from Dubrovnik .

I know that was a massive post of Zadar tourist information,  such as things to do in Zadar, where to go, what to eat, and places to sleep, but that’s not ALL Zadar has to offer. So, if I’ve missed one of your favorite Zadar highlights, let me know below!

• What To Pack For Croatia
• Croatian Food You’ve Gotta Try
• Check Out Croatia’s Stunning Beaches
• Absolute Best Things To Do In Croatia

Comments (103)

The light show looks amazing! I wanna see that. And, that’s pretty awesome what Hitchcock said–I can’t really argue with him!

Yeah he is kind of famous…

HA! Love your slide! If I had read your posts a year ago, I’d have definitely visited Croatia before leaving Europe. Not only gorgeous scenery, but also cool art installations – I’m sold! Good luck!

Damn! Well never fear we’re not going anywhere so Zadar will be awaiting your return at some point.

Before reading your blog posts on Croatia, the only place I had heard in Croatia is Dubrovnik. Your writing makes me realize how much Croatia has to offer.

Thanks Nanette. Zadar is not as big as Dubrovnik, but still loads to do and see. It’s a great base to see many other things as well…. come on over.

I want a lighted floor like that! However, those sunsets are the true light show.

What neat attractions! I would love to see these and we can probably spend hours at the Sea Organ just listening to the sounds of nature. Love the slide show action here.

You really could, just bring a hat and water, it can get HOT!

Wow, Zadar looks beautiful – we didn’t make it there during our visit to Croatia but you continue to do a great job of persuading us to visit again! Thanks for hosting :)

Just dont try and charge me for your airfare back :) I’ll shout the ice cream…

Gorgeous pictures, what a wonderful place! Love the sound of the sea organ too! :)

I’ll definitely come back to this post when I plan a trip to Zadar – thanks!

i love the lit floor, that looks fantastic!

I have never been to Zadar, it looks a lovely place. The sea organ looks so cool!

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Zadar, Croatia

Hey there, fellow wanderer! Welcome to Zadar, a hidden gem nestled along the stunning Adriatic Coast of Croatia. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, Zadar offers a unique travel experience for adventurers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts alike. Zadar is pretty special to me. After dreaming for literally years to visit Croatia, I finally started my Adriatic coastline road trip from this very small city. This comprehensive travel guide will provide you with essential information to make the most of your visit to Zadar, including how to get there, what to know before you go, transportation options, the best time to visit, and an exciting array of activities and day trips.

Where is Zadar?

Zadar is a historic city located in Croatia, situated on the Adriatic Sea. It occupies a prime spot on the Dalmatian coast in the northern part of the country.

Getting to Zadar

So you want to know how to get to Zadar. Let’s explore the possibilities.

By air: Like I said, for me, Zadar was my starting point in Croatia and I got there by air, coming from Bucharest. If you are from a major European city, chances are you can hop on a plane that will whisk you to Zadar International Airport (ZAD).

🚖 If you need a reliable, licensed taxi for getting from Zadar airport to your accommodation in Zadar, book your ride in advance .

By road: If you have a car and you’re down for a road trip, rev up your engines and hit the highways! Zadar is easily accessible by well-maintained roads, connecting you to the rest of Croatia and neighboring countries.

By Ferry: Fancy a sea voyage? Zadar has got you covered! Hop aboard a ferry from one of the nearby Croatian islands or even venture from Italy. I experienced a full night on the Adriatic Sea while going from Dubrovnik to Bari (Italy). Even though I didn’t take any ferry to or from Zadar, I can assure you that if you choose this option you will have a very special experience.

What to Know Before Going to Zadar

Currency: Keep those coins jingling! Croatia dances to the rhythm of the Croatian Kuna (HRK). While it’s advisable to have some cash on you, please note that mostly you can pay with a card. To benefit from low exchange rates and high flexibility, I recommend using Revolut .

Language: Don’t worry about mastering Croatian in a flash! Of course, it’s always useful to know a few usual phrases, but I was surprised at how many people knew English in this country. Therefore, don’t worry too much about language barriers, you’ll always find a Croatian willing to help you out.

🗣️ Read more: How to get past the language barriers in a foreign country.

Local Customs: Croatians are known for their warm hospitality. It’s customary to greet people with a friendly “Dobar dan” (Good day) and to say “Hvala” (Thank you) when receiving service.

Safety: Zadar is generally a safe city, but it’s always recommended to take normal precautions like anywhere else. Keep an eye on your belongings, avoid isolated areas at night, and follow local advice for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Where to stay

If you’re a solo traveler or a backpacker on a budget, a hostel might be the best option for you.

I recommend Sky Hostel , which not only is the absolute cheapest accommodation on Booking.com, but it also has stellar reviews. Here you benefit from free parking, tea and coffee makers in all rooms, a 24-hour front desk (which means you can arrive at any hour, even at night), towels and linens included in the price, and much more.

For couples, I recommend Villa Queen . The property is modern, super clean, and has an excellent price. It’s not very central, but if you have a car you can move around easily (parking is free), but walking to the city center is also doable.

If you’re feeling more comfortable in a cozy hotel room, why not give Hotel Sky a chance?

If your requirement is to stay right in the Old Town, this modern apartment is the right choice. It features a private kitchen, where you can prepare your meals. There is also a coffee machine which comes complimentary to the balcony and terrace.

For the luxury life lovers, I recommend Apartment Bruno – a beachfront apartment, very modern and stylish. It is a 2 bedroom apartment, very spacious, with a hot tub. The perfect place to take amazing photos with a glass of champagne!

For groups, check out this 3 bedroom apartment , located very close to the city’s main points of interest and with plenty of space for all your friends!

Getting Around Zadar

Zadar is a compact city that can be easily explored on foot. Here are some transportation options within the city:

Public Transportation: Zadar has an efficient public bus network that connects different parts of the city. Tickets can be purchased on board or at newsstands.

Bicycles: Zadar is a bicycle-friendly city with well-marked bike lanes. You can rent bicycles from various rental shops to explore the city and its surroundings.

Taxis and Ridesharing: Taxis are available throughout the city, and ride-sharing services like Uber operate in Zadar, providing convenient transportation options.

Best Time to Visit Zadar

Zadar experiences a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Zadar is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller. Summer (July and August) is the peak tourist season, offering beach activities, lively festivals and events but with larger crowds and higher prices.

I visited Zadar in September and although the sun had some strong rays from time to time, the weather enabled me to walk around the city all day long, without continuously looking for shade. It also rained one day while I was there, so you have to take into account the chances of rainfall when visiting in Autumn (or Spring), especially if you’re in town for only a day or two (for some that might ruin the experience). Also, if you want to go to the beach, the summer months (even September to some extent) are ideal to hit the waves and catch a tan. My Croatian friend told me that in the summer the weather is way too hot and that September is perfect for the beach, but if you ask me, I would have preferred the mercury to be a little bit higher in the thermometer. I guess it’s a matter of personal preference. Hence, I didn’t sunbathe at any beach in Zadar, but I did it later on, in the islands near Dubrovnik.

Things to Do and See in Zadar

The sea organ and sun salutation.

Witness the unique seafront installations that combine art, nature, and technology. The Sea Organ creates melodic sounds as the waves interact with the organ pipes and the Sun Salutation mesmerizes visitors with its colorful light display.

St. Donatus Church

Explore this remarkable 9th-century church, an iconic symbol of Zadar. Its circular shape and Byzantine architecture are truly captivating. You can buy a ticket to visit it the interior as well, but know that you’ll find almost nothing on the inside and honestly, I wish I didn’t spend the money. There is no actual museum, the walls are not painted and when I was there, some construction materials were left around the church. Let’s just say that for me, it was much more impressive from the outside. I heard that the building has amazing acoustics and for that reason, it houses the event Musical Evenings in St Donatus , so if you’re interested in classical music you can use the opportunity to see the church from the inside as well.

Zadar Cathedral

Visit the stunning Cathedral of St. Anastasia, a magnificent Romanesque building adorned with intricate stone carvings and a bell tower offering panoramic views of the city.

Five Wells Square

Discover the historic square featuring five wells, built in the 16th century to provide the city with water during sieges. The square is now a lively gathering place with cafes and art exhibitions.

Zadar Archaeological Museum

Delve into Zadar’s rich history at this museum, housing a collection of artifacts from ancient times to the Middle Ages.

Captivating Day Trips from Zadar

Plitvice lakes national park.

Embark on a day trip to one of Croatia’s most remarkable natural wonders. Plitvice Lakes National Park boasts a series of turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests, creating a picturesque paradise for nature enthusiasts.

How to get from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park: You can reach the park only by car or bus. Both options will take around 1 hour and a half. Unfortunately, you’ll find little information online about the buses, so you’ll have to ask around at the Central bus station. The last bus from Plitvice to Zadar is pretty early in the afternoon and we were close to missing it, so make sure you’re there on time.

🚍🚏 To get the latest info about bus options and make reservations, check Omio .

There is also the option to book a day trip with a knowledgeable guide. Here are some options:

• Full-Day Tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park from Zadar
• Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour from Zadar
• Plitvice Lakes Day Tour from Zadar-TICKET INCLUDED Simple, Safe
• Plitvice lakes self guided tour with booked tickets

Kornati National Park

Join a boat tour from Zadar to the mesmerizing Kornati archipelago, a protected area encompassing 89 stunning islands and islets. Enjoy sailing, swimming, and exploring the untouched beauty of this marine wonderland.

How to get from Zadar to Kornati National Park: You can only book a sightseeing excursion by boat to get to Kornati. There is no ferry and no way to reach the area by car or bus. Here are some of the top boat tour options available:

• Excursion to Kornati National Park from Zadar
• Private Speedboat tour to National Park Kornati Islands

Nicknamed the ‘ancient Croatian royal town’, Nin has a calm atmosphere. The town is home to the ruins of an old Roman temple as well as the smallest cathedral in the world, the Church of the Holy Cross. Apart from its historical importance, Nin has beautiful sandy beaches, like Queen’s Beach, which is well-known for its healing mud.

How to get from Zadar to Nin: Easily accessible by bus or car, the approximately 15-kilometer journey takes less than 30 minutes, making it a convenient escape.

You might also be interested in these options that include a guide:

• Visit the centuries-old town of Nin and swimming and return to Zadar
• Private Tour: Nin and Royal Vineyards from Zadar

Krka National Park

Experience the natural splendor of Krka National Park, known for its magnificent waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. Take a refreshing swim beneath the cascades and explore the park’s network of wooden walkways.

How to get from Zadar to Krka National Park: You can either drive from Zadar to Krka National Park or take the bus. Although the car is slightly faster than the bus (the time difference is of about 20 minutes), the bus option is cheaper (around 10 euro per person).

If you prefer to be comfortable and accompanied by a guide, give these options a chance:

• Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting, Boat Ride & Zadar Old Town
• Krka Waterfalls from Zadar -TICKED INCLUDED, Simply and Safe
• Krka Waterfalls day tour from Zadar – TICKET & PICNIC INCLUDED

Although Split deserves a few days of exploration, if you’re short on time you can visit it in only a day. Split, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a striking fusion of culture, history, and scenic beauty. Diocletian’s Palace, an ancient Roman marvel that sits at the center of Split’s old town, is the city’s crown jewel. Explore its winding streets, which are dotted with quaint cafes, stores, and historical sites. In addition, Marjan Hill’s pine forests and vast panoramas create a serene escape, while the Riva promenade offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Split’s rich history, vibrant atmosphere, and coastal allure make it an unmissable destination for anyone exploring the Dalmatian region.

How to get from Zadar to Split: Buses leave from Zadar frequently (Flixbus has the lowest prices), and the drive along the breathtaking Dalmatian coastline is an enjoyable experience. The bus ride can take from 2.5 hours to 3.5 hours, depending on your departure hour (I took a Flixbus at 5:30 in the morning because of this exact reason – it was the fastest option). If you have a car, you can get to Split in about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

🚘 Because Split is a major destination, you might want to go alongside an experienced guide. If that’s the case, consider seeing Trogir and Split in the same day with this tour .

🚗🧳 If you want a private, stress-free transfer between Zadar and Split, hotel-to-hotel, check this option .

👉 To get more ideas, check this detailed list of day trips from Zadar .

Conclusion – Is Zadar Worth Visiting?

Of course! Without a doubt, Zadar is worth visiting. With its medieval churches, Roman ruins, and architecture with Venetian influences, this city is rich in history. Beyond its historical charm, Zadar has special attractions like Sun Salutation, a modern art work that combines the sun and sea to create an enthralling experience, and the mesmerizing Sea Organ. For history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies alike, its breathtaking coastline with crystal-clear waters, neighboring national parks like Plitvice Lakes and Krka, and mouthwatering local cuisine make it a well-rounded destination. In addition, Zadar’s warm ambience and breathtaking sunsets are truly unforgettable!

Plan your visit wisely, immerse yourself in the local culture, and let the magic of Zadar unfold before your eyes.

ℹ️ You might also be interested in other destinations in Croatia: Exploring Kolocep Island: A Guide to the Best Things to Do

• ← 15+ Ideas for Taking Amazing Travel Photos on Holiday (+Examples For Inspiration)
• 10 Destinations That You Can Visit as Day Trips From Zadar →

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Flights to zadar - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends for flights to zadar to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest day to fly to zadar, based on kayak data, the cheapest day to fly to zadar is monday where tickets can be as cheap as $1,166. on the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is saturday, where prices are $1,761 on average., what is the cheapest time of day to fly to zadar, the cheapest time of day to fly to zadar is generally at night, when flights cost $1,117 on average. the most expensive time of day to fly to zadar is generally in the evening, which is peak travel time and where the average cost of a ticket is $1,356., how long is the flight to zadar, the duration of your flight to zadar depends on your departure and arrival airports. obviously any flights that include a layover will also be longer. the most popular routes to zadar on kayak are from new york , which takes 10h 25m, newark , which takes 12h 25m, los angeles , which takes 14h 00m, and miami , which takes 14h 05m., good to know, when to book flights to zadar, faqs - booking zadar flights, are travel visas required to fly into zadar airport.

US citizens visiting Croatia for tourism or business are allowed entry without a visa, as long as they have a valid passport and do not stay in the country for over 90 days. Once in Zadar, visitors must register with the local police within 24 hours of arrival. Generally, hotels and other rental accommodations will take care of this registration for their guests.

Is it possible to get to Zadar Airport via public transportation?

If you’re planning to use public transportation to get to Zadar Airport, you can take a bus directly from the city center to the airport that runs throughout the day. Catch it on Liburnska Obala Street, right near the Zadar ferry stop. The bus ride costs about $4 and includes storage for your baggage.

Are there any hotels that offer shuttle services to Zadar Airport?

Many of the hotels in both Zadar and its surrounding areas offer shuttle services to the Zadar Airport. For example, City Class Accommodation, located in the Old Town area of Zadar, offers 24-hour round-trip shuttle service to the airport upon request, so this way you don't have to worry about transport.

Can I exchange my currency into Croatian kuna at the Zadar Airport?

Yes, at the Zadar Airport, not only is there a travel agency to help you plan your trip but there is also an ATM and currency exchange windows. These currency exchange spots are located both inside the terminal near the baggage claim area and close to the entrance of the airport before the security check.

How far is Zadar from central Zadar?

The distance between Zadar and downtown Zadar is 6 miles.

What is the name of Zadar’s airport?

All flights to Zadar land at Zadar. The airport code is ZAD,and it can also be referred to as Zadar.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to Zadar?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to Zadar.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to Zadar?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Zadar is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to Zadar?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Zadar with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to Zadar?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Zadar up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Which airline offers the most flights to Zadar?

Of the 2 airlines that fly to Zadar, Croatia Airlines offers the most flights, with around 16 per week, followed by Trade Air with 2 flights per week.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Zadar

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Zadar flight deals.
• Zadar Airport (ZAD) is about 12 miles from the city center. A taxi ride or drive in a car rental into Zadar typically takes about 15-20min. Zadar Airport operates flights from all over Europe.
• If you’re a business traveler needing to get some work done at Zadar Airport, you can access the on-site Business Lounge, located past the airport security check, near the gates and café. The lounge offers complimentary food and beverages, TV, magazines, comfortable seating, and Wi-Fi.
• If you need to park a vehicle in the airport parking lot, the first 10min are free, which is convenient if you’re picking someone up at the airport and only need to park your car for a short time. However, once you’ve passed the 10-minute marker, you can expect to pay about $4 an hour.
• For passengers with reduced mobility traveling through Zadar Airport, assistance services are available upon request when you book your flight. This assistance is available from check-in until you board the aircraft. The parking lot also offers 16 handicapped spots for better access in and out of the terminal.
• If you’re sending your child on a flight without you, Zadar Airport provides services for unaccompanied minors. This service provides an escort within the airport for children traveling alone, as well as assistance once the child is the plane. However, the parent or person taking the child to the airport is still required to stay until the airplane takes off.

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Find which airlines fly direct to Zadar, which days they fly and book direct flights.

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United States to Zadar

Austrian Airlines, Croatia Airlines, Discover Airlines, +7 more

Austrian Airlines, Croatia Airlines, +8 more

Air Serbia, Austrian Airlines, Croatia Airlines, +3 more

Air Serbia, Austrian Airlines, +4 more

Austrian Airlines, Croatia Airlines, Discover Airlines, +6 more

Austrian Airlines, Croatia Airlines, +7 more

Air Serbia, Austrian Airlines, Croatia Airlines, +5 more

Air Serbia, Austrian Airlines, +6 more

Austrian Airlines, Croatia Airlines, Discover Airlines, +5 more

Austrian Airlines, Croatia Airlines, +6 more

Air Serbia, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, +10 more

Air Serbia, Austrian Airlines, +11 more

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Schedule and on time departure and arrival were great. The crew was good, but a change in aircraft bumped many of us from our expected seats. It was a crowded flight, but the cabin crew did their best to keep things under control.

The crew was attentive but not intrusive, and was always kind in every interaction.

Austrian airline they cancel my fight , and the couldn’t give me flight , they said only available flight 4th and after , I sacked for refund, even from you KYAK , and tell now no any refund , because what happened I lost more money because I have to stay in hotel and then I buy new ticket

Management and staff att viena wasn’t professional,and they are not good by how to communicate and solve the problem, I was shocked , as I know Austrian airlines was amusing Thank you

I bought the ticket a month before my flight but checked in couple hours before my flight and had to wait seat assignment just before take off. On top of that there was not enough room in the overhead bin for my luggage.

The baggage arrived damaged and i spent EUR 300 on the baggage a month ago. No responsibility from airline or the handles.

Tight connection from Austrian Airlines made this challenging. Our luggage did not make it, delivered the next day at noon. Flight itself was very full, not especially comfortable.

The flight was late. We accommodated other missed flights, and the plane was full of people, without space to store carry-on luggage. They lost our checked luggage for the entire flight and delivered it after two days.

Premium Economy is good value in comparison to Business Class. Not all the perks of Business but a lot of leg room and wider seat and elbow room. Food was very good. I even asked for a Gruner Veltliner wine which was not on the trolley and the attendant went into Business/First to get me a glass. Nice little touch. I would like to have a wider selection of music -- more 70's-80's (guess how old I am).

There were a number of passengers scheduled to transfer to the flight from Vienna to Warsaw. None of them made it because the crew failed to assist them in getting to the gate for the Warsaw bound flight in time. It could have been done very easily with proper assistance.

Bordón could be bettet if the company say before boarding the order of the different groups.

Checked in is easy and it was a smooth flight from LAX to Munich

There is no recline on flight from DFW to FRA. Middle eastern airways provide better recline option for the same class. FRA to Bangalore has better recline option. I bid 100$ for premium economy, my request was declined. But staff handled it without issues.

The Lufthansa part was wonderful. The short connection flight was not.

German crew were very kind. Food was okay but can be better, especially bread was not good, Garbage collection was very poor.

Awful Terrible staff poor communication Flight delayed for an hour with no apology or explanation and no help re missing connecting flight. Resulted in a 7 hour layover at Munich waiting for another connecting flight. Only 15 euros refreshment voucher given. Will not fly Lufthansa again

Both flights were late for what appeared to be the airline’s not having the planes ready. Arrived over 6 hours late.

It was a busy flight and all the crew were very helpful and gracious

Seats were not the most comfortable and food options weren’t great but overall but everything else was excellent

Check-in very easy and smooth. Plane and crew were nice. Seat open next to me created more space. Food was fair but plentiful. Lots of movies and I was able to sleep some on the way to Munich. Very tight connection, about an hour. Fast through passport control and a bit of a walk to last G terminal gate but I made my connection to Palma. Unfortunately, my luggage did not make it. It is now almost 24 hours since I anded and still NO luggage. I know it landed last night on another flight. Local delivery should be today to my hotel in Palma but nothing yet. I asked about the tight connection when I checked in and was assured they would get my luggage to the connecting flight. Very disappointing it missed my flight but more disappointing that it has taken so long to arrive. Failure on the airlines and service to get my luggage to date.

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Zadar (ZAD) Croatia

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Where your journey begins.

• Kornati National Park
• National Park Krka
• Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Zadar – sightseeing tour of the city

Rafting Zrmanja

Bungee jump maslenica bridge.

• The Best of Long Island
• Sakarun Half-Day Beach Escape
• Nature of Kornati & Telašćica

NATIONAL & NATURE PARKS

• Nature Park Telaščica
• National Park Paklenica

A day trip to one of the most magnificent rivers in Europe. Rivers Zrmanja and Krupa are truly glorious with their magnificent waterfalls, spectacular canyons… ...

We are able to offer diving trips and sign you up for diving lessons in one of our partner schools....

Maslenički bridge - a jump from 56 meters in height....

Everything you need to know about ZED travel

Non-rev travel is the best job perk in the world. How can you not love the ability to jump on a flight whenever your airline has an open seat available ? Surely it would take years to visit every destination that your airline flies to, but you might eventually feel limited by your own network. 

Fear not, fellow nonrev! Today, we dive into the world of ZED travel where your standby privileges extend to other airlines besides your own (some that you have never even heard of before). 

What is ZED travel?

ZED, short for Zonal Employee Discount , is a set of agreements between hundreds of partner airlines that allow their employees to book discounted plane tickets on each other’s aircraft.

Put simply, an airline employee (and sometimes their guests) can buy discounted tickets on another airline as long as the two airlines have a ZED agreement in place. 

ZED ticket fares are broken into three fare buckets (Low, Medium, and High) to determine how large the discount will be. Depending on the agreements your airline has in place, these ZED tickets can be either standby or positive-space seating. For most U.S.-based airline employees, you can expect your ZED tickets to be NRSA only.

Why should you look for ZED fares?

So now that you know what ZED fares are, it is important to understand why you may need to utilize this type of ticket when traveling.

There are two main reasons why a non-rev might elect to book a ZED ticket on another airline:

• The airport they are heading to/from is not served by their own airline so they need to fly on a different airline to reach their destination
• The airport they are heading to/from does not have any open seats on their own airline so they need to fly on a different airline to secure a seat

My very first ZED flight was a fifth-freedom flight from SCL to EZE on Air Canada while I was hopping around South America on a wine-tasting trip. I have also had the pleasure of flying legs on Iberia & Alaska to visit airports that I couldn’t get to on my own airline. US-based non-revs can take solace in the fact that many international airlines don’t oversell their flights, so open seats can be easier to come by.

No matter how large your airline’s route map is, ZED travel opens up a world of new possibilities for non-rev travelers. 

Which airlines have ZED agreements?

As of January 2021 , ZED MIBA reported a total of 222 member companies (with an additional 37 partial partners) in their network. Virtually every large- & mid-size airline around the world is connected by some sort of ZED agreement.

It is important to remember that being a member airline is just the first step. As an employee (or non-rev passrider), you will also need to confirm whether or not your airline has a bilateral agreement in place with any other airline you are considering flying with.

For example: Frontier Airlines has a very unique set of established agreements when compared with airlines like Southwest or American. A Frontier employee will have very different ZED options in their portal when compared with the airlines available to a Southwest employee.

Your airline should have a section in the employee site that clearly spells out which airlines are bookable in your ZED portal.

Where can I book ZED tickets?

Every airline has a different process for employees who want to book ZED fares. There is no one-size-fits-all solution here.

MyIDTravel is one of the most popular tools that airlines use for their ZED agreements. Many airlines still use this portal to allow their employees to buy ZED tickets. This is the service that my airline uses to support leisure travel on other airlines.

ID90Travel , a service that provides interline discounts to airline employees, recently added a ZED flight listing tool to their own app. A smaller number of airlines currently have agreements in place with this app, but it has a nicer interface (and more accurate flight load data) than myIDTravel.

Check your airline’s ZED travel policies to understand which website(s) are available to you.

How do I know if there will be an available seat on my ZED flight?

Both MyIDTravel & ID90Travel display recent load factor information. This helps users determine the likelihood of getting a space-available seat assignment.

Each of these portals displays the information in different ways. Here is a quick breakdown to help you better understand the information shared:

MyIDTravel , the most prevalent booking portal for ZED ticketing, uses a smiley face system to rate how open or full a flight is:

• Happy Green Face : flight loads are wide open
• Serious Yellow Face : there are some seats available
• Sad Red Face : there are little to no seats available

However, MyIDTravel’s smiley system is notoriously clunky. The good news is the site also allows you to see how many seats are available in each fare bucket. 

In general, airline fare classes fall under the following categories that you can see in the MyIDTravel screenshot below:

• Economy : Y , B, H, K, M, L, V, S, N, Q, O  
• Business : J , C, D, I,  Z
• First : F , R, A

In practice, most ZED travelers are really only worried about the bolded “Y” fare. Y is the industry standard for economy/coach class tickets. Since most ZED agreements default to space-available bookings in economy, the number of seats available in Y should give you an idea of if there are open seats.

Using this Iberia flight as an example, I can see that this LHR-MAD flight has at least 9 seats available in economy. MyIDTravel never plugs a double-digit number in this field, so we can interpret “Y9” to mean “there are 9+ seats available in economy class”.

MyIDTravel does not show users the standby list for each flight, but I would feel confident that I would get a seat assignment on this Iberia flight based on this screenshot. 

I D90Travel uses a different approach with their app-based interface. Instead of giving you a peek into the number of seats available by fare class, their app provides an estimated range of available seats in economy.

The below example shows a United ORD-IAH flight that has “5% or fewer [seats] available” in economy class. ID90Travel also provides a link to show you the Stand-by List (although I have never found this feature to populate data).

How much do ZED tickets cost?

The ZED agreement negotiated between your airline & the airline you want to fly determines the price you will pay for your ticket. ZED pricing is split into three fare tiers: low, medium, and high. ZED Low fare is your cheapest option and is often reserved for alliance/strategic airline partners.

Additionally, ZED tickets are priced by segment. A nonstop JFK-MAD ticket is cheaper than a JFK-MAD routing with a DUB layover (assuming both tickets are priced within the same ZED fare bucket).

After taking the ZED fare bucket, the airline’s base fare & any taxes/fees (like those imposed by governments or airports) determine your ticket price. For reference, a one-way ZED Medium ticket from the west coast of the US to Europe currently costs no more than $200. 

Seasoned non-rev travelers may know that there is open proposal to update the ZED ticketing buckets with 2 new “super” fare classes:

• Super Low Fare : 25% less than ZED Low fare
• Super High Fare : 125%-250% cost of MT fare (increases on a scale of flight segment length)

These ZED fares were proposed in early 2021, so keep an eye out on these in the future.

How do I travel once I have purchased a ZED ticket?

Because every airline has unique ticketing & listing policies, it is important to look up the latest info on http://www.flyzed.info/ each time you want to travel. In addition to the FlyZED site (which is updated by individual airlines), your own employee portal may have airline-specific guidelines as well.

In my experience, getting ticketed is just the first step. Making your actual flight listing may require an online (or in-person) check-in process. Here are a few examples from my ZED travel adventures:

• Iberia (MAD-GRX): I booked my ZED ticket through MyIDTravel and presented my e-ticket number to the IB ticket counter in Madrid where I was immediately assigned a confirmed boarding pass.
• Alaska Airlines ( SJC -DAL): I booked my ZED ticket through MyIDTravel and checked in at the ticket counter to receive my standby boarding pass.
• Air Canada (SCL-EZE): I booked my ZED ticket through MyIDTravel and presented my e-ticket number to the AC ticket counter in Santiago where I was handed a standby boarding pass.

Make sure to read your ticketing airline’s directions carefully so you don’t miss a step! 

Final Thoughts on ZED Travel

ZED travel is an amazing way to expand your non-rev possibilities. Whether you want to travel to an international destination that isn’t in your airline’s network or just need an alternative route because your own flight filled up, ZED travel gives non-revs a ton of flexibility.

Learning your own airline’s rules & policies can take some time, so it’s no wonder that ZED travel is intimidating. Don’t let that discourage you from trying! If you need additional help, the airline’s ticket counter staff are a wonderful resource. Just make sure to announce that you are an airline employee who wants to list on a ZED fare so they know exactly what you need!

Have you flown on a ZED fare before? Let us know what tips & tricks you have for fellow airline employees who want to take their first ZED flight!

Related Posts:

68 thoughts on “Everything you need to know about ZED travel”

As you mentioned on MyIDTravel in case it displats “Y9” there 9+ seats available….would this be the same logic used for Business Class Zed tickets as well?

Exactly right! For business class, you will want to check the J fare class. “J9” would indicate that there are at least 9 open seats in business class.

do you happen to know what XC means through southwest?

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Which zed airlines offer business or first class listings?

It depends on what agreements your airline has signed other other carriers, so it will vary for a lot of people. That said, we have heard plenty of stories of nonrevs getting upgraded by crew after boarding!

If there are business open seats can you ask for that seat or do you just go where the ticket agent places you?

how about Southwest X9? 9+ seats?

Hey Scott at SWA the X class of service is our non-revenue class. Like a companion pass ticket in which someone just pays the taxes.

If there is an option on ID90 to list for 1st class and coach can you list for both and get a refund on the one you don’t use?

i am American airline employee, booked ticket on Turkish airline through myIDTravel. It says no listing required on Turkish Airline, first come first serve on the day of travel at Turkish airline counter at the airport. When I showed my ticket Turkish employee told me there is no information in their computer. I showed them my booking on myIDtravel but still they could not found it. Later they handover to their supervisor and he printed my boarding pass. On the way back at Istanbul I faced same problem and after talked to many related people they said they don’t have any information. I have to come back so I bought full price ticked at the airport. I called american airlines and they told me my booking is good and it is in AA system, while Turkish airlines said there is nothing.

Do you have any idea why it happened and how to solve this problem in future.

This one is easy. Sabre does not generate a pnr in the unique TK CRS. Once you have your ticket issued , all you need is the ticket number. In Istanbul there is a special counter for staff travel.In smaller airports approach the more knowledgeable staff at the business class counter. Once you give them the ticket number , The agent builds the TK pnr right there and issues the boarding pass.That is why there is no listing with TK and the PNR used to issue your AA 001 ticket is a ghost PNR which does not generate a PNR with TK. Good luck next time!

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Hello, I would like to know the actual costs an airline has to pay to be part of myID service and how they can be part of it. The current company I work for has no such agreement and I wondered how they could apply. Thank you

For 1 st coupon -no seats, i bought a tkt for this segm. Can i use 2 nd coupon with OK status of 1 st coupon? Thank You

What ZED fare should I purchase for standby on premium economy on LX. I checked the availability and there is only few business class seats left but plenty premium economy seats are available. Should I purchase ZED business or should I purchase ZED economy?

Hi there. What is the best way to handle exceeding baggage weight limits with ZED? I am flying DFW-EZE-AEP-PSS with AA on the international and AR on the intra-Argentina flight. My 2 bags will not meet the 1 bag 33 pound request. Any help to forego a huge fee?

Hi could you advise if you can raise a baggage claim on a ZED fare my bags went to DFW and we weren’t able to board the flight due to loads ! AA are refusing the claim as a ZED fare but we didn’t get bags for 3 days so stuck in LAS with no luggage and needed essential items? Any advice would be great thanks !

Hi. I’m an IATA member airline retired person. Does any airlines gives zed ticket for employees children.

Southwest X9 what does this mean?

Can my children, age 19-22, travel by themselves on a ZED fare?

Hi, I am retired from an airline . I have a question. I have a son age us 23 years old. I could get ZED ticket from other airlines for my son . But this year because of get 23 years old his rights finished. My question is if my single brother or sister has rights to get ticket from other airlines without any age of limitation. Why my son not rights to have ZED ticket. It doesn’t make sence . And is there any airlines give ticket over 23 years old son or daughter. If you answer my question I’ll be appreciated.

question regarding proposed change to zed fare buckets. I’m with ua and present we have zl with several carriers that allow us to purchase business zed fares at a higher rate. Would those rates dramatically increase under the 2 bucket proposal?

Hello, I am allowed to book ticket in business class. Would I get refund of fare difference if I end up travelling in economy due to lack of availability?

Is Philippine airline standby policy first come per serve?

If we have purchased a Zed standby ticket, but don’t make the flight due to loads, is it possible to be refunded the ZED fare? (DL employee looking to Zed on UA out of Munich)

Yes! You should always get a refund for a ZED fare that you were unable to fly on due to flight loads.

Can we expect ZED fares to increase once the new 2 tiered system. I’m with UA and they said the ZED fare purchasing system would be down Oct 19-20 while they update it.

How do you cancel a Zed fare on ID Travel with KLM ?

Did anyone figure out the XC code on Southwest?

Hello, I will be flying ZED on China airlines from LAX to TPE. There are no coach seats open but plenty in economy Plus. Will they allow me to sit in economy plus or will they just not board me and fly the trip with empty seats in economy plus. What do airline normally do in these cases would be helpful hint as to what they will do.

Thanks Art Anderson

I am interested in traveling on Ethiopian Airlines. Next to seats available there is an N. I have also noticed on Turkish next to seats available there is an R. No other information is available. Does anyone have an explanation?

I am looking into flying via ID90 on AA from PHL to PLS. There are two non-stop flights 2 hours apart (0830 & 1030). If I list for the 0830 flight and it is full, can the ticket agent slip my pass to the 1030 flight? Or do I have to purchase two tickets and later seek a refund for the flight I did not take? Thank you.

I am retired staff with ZED ticket try to travel from DAC to DFW on QR but at ck-in counter DAC could not find my ticket number and finally bought full fare ticket. I don’t know what happened at DAC Airport. My outbound DFW-DAC on QR without any issue.

Hello, does anyone know how does the reservable ZED tickets work? Are you still on sby or do you get a full reserve. Thanks.

does the employee always need to travel in order for the companion partner or parents to fly? Or they the employee just get a ticket for them without employee flying. Thank you

The answer to this will vary from airline to airline. For example, my parents can fly ZED without me being with them.

Does anyone know what happens to a ZED fare if you book it, pay for it and then you end up leaving your airline? Do you lose the ZED booking?

If the flight is full will the agent roll the ZED non-rev ticket holder over to the next available flight or does this require a separate ticket for the next flight. Thanks

When traveling on Zed tickets what is my boarding priority code when using Silver Airways??? I am an AA employee traveling with spouse and children.

You’re right about TK……..PNR is worthless to them, but ticket number makes it all happen. Question……….their N followed by a number is always BOLD and their Y followed by a number (usually 9) is always un-BOLD. EX: Y9 N3 (BOLD). Which one is the more reliable number? In fact N is always BOLD on every myidtravel inquiry and always has a 1,2,3 number despite green smiley face, Thanks.

When we tried to fly to Honolulu from LAX we had trouble getting on the flights because they were all booked up, and all the nonrev were taken! Each flight had only one seat available, and my partner was not going to leave me (while pregnant), and I wasn’t going to leave him, since he needed me to book the flights for us (That’s what I call love, folks). Three days of waiting in an airport and I finally reached out my company’s travel expert who gave us this beauty of a trick: fly to a less popular destination on, and try an airline with bigger planes. So, we booked a flight through Hawaiian to Maui and took an island hopper to Honolulu. So, sometimes the quickest way to your destination is going to a different location first.

This is a great tip! Always keep an eye out for other airlines or airports if the nonstop flights don’t look good. Stringing together a standby trip on multiple airlines can be intimidating, but ZED agreements can offer you exponentially more options to get to/from your destination.

Hola ! puede volar un acompañante solo con los boletos Zed ?

Hello, how can I fly with ZED with my husband and his service dog? He has a medical condition, that requires him to have SVAN, will this be an issue withing ZED ?

I always wonder which airline does the upgrade for interlines. Is there such list. I have checked with my own airline (canadian airline) and none of that is existent. any 3rd party website such as this?

Whether or not you can get upgraded during interline travel will often depend on your specific airline’s agreement with each OAL. I wish I had a better answer, but your best bet is to check your airline’s policies.

Before how many days of travel, can I make the zed fare ticket. Suppose I make now for after 20 days and by that time the gets full. would the airline give me seat

Hello! Regardless of how far in advance you book your ZED far ticket, seats won’t be assigned to anyone on the standby priority list until the day of the flight.

Hi, I was checking Turkish ticket from HKG to IST, the loading page is an orange face and shows Y9, N0. In the Zed agreement i read TK economy class is N, so does it means it give no seat to ID travel even the flight is not full? Or I can still get the seat if the flight if the flight really not full?

Thanks a lot

Both Y & N are economy fare classes, so my guess is that you would receive a seat assignment on that flight (assuming no other changes) even if the N bucket happened to be full.

can i book zed once at the gate?

Have any having issue in booking flight on TK thru myidportal…. they keep rejecting my CC saying “Name Or Surname” mismatch

Is there a limited number times you can use ZED fares/interline?

How do you purchase a Zed Fare on Qatar. It is on the list of Zed airlines, but says you have to purchase a ticket for your flight first. Is there anywhere to get clarification.

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Interline Staff Travel Agreement – where can I get latest version. The last one I saw was 2019

Question: in Interline Staff Travel Agreement (ISTA) did definition of a retiree recently changed? 2016 ISTA version says: Retiree – a former Employee of a Member or its SAF who has retired from permanent full-time or part-time service under the retirement program of that Member or its SAF. It does not have any details on retirement program restrictions.

Hi, how far in advance can I purchase a zed fare? Is 6 or 8 months too far?

In my experience, ZED fares cannot be purchased for departure dates that are more than 90 days into the future.

Hello I have ZED tickets for me and my buddy with IBERIA, but I can’t really make the flight. Can my Body still travel without me? or is she going to be denied because I am a no Show?

We will by flying into LHR on DL from the US, and plan on a ZED flight on BA, out the same day. Can we purchase ZED tickets prior to our departure from the US and print out standby boarding passes that allow us to go directly to our connecting terminal without having to go through ticketing?

I see you and others mentioned “positive space” ZED tickets as a possibility, but no agreements mention positive space. I’m with a major airline- MyIDTravel has a selection for “R2 Standby” or “Bookable”. Is bookable mean positive space. It leads to an empty page. Has anyone actually booked a discount positive space ticket on another airline, and if so, was it worth it?

When flying ZED how to they prioritize seat assignments? who bought first, checked in first? Or my company hire date?

what happens if you book zed fares in economy but there is no seat left. do i get upgraded to business there is 7 seats left? currently on the emirates flight from DXB to HAN, J7 and O2

Most OALs that I’ve flown with won’t upgrade ZED fares, but you can probably expect that some of the revenue pax will be upgraded to a higher cabin (and therefore opening up Y seats).

AA says zed fare travel to and from Cuba is restricted. Does that mean banned.?

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Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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