Chasing Spectacular Zadar Sunsets – All You Need to Know

Spectacular Zadar Sunsets

Not many people have heard of the Croatian town of Zadar. However, if it sounds familiar, it’s likely you have heard the rumours around the spectacular Zadar sunsets.

The famous Zadar sunset was highly praised by Alfred Hitchcock. He once proclaimed, “Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world, more beautiful than the one in Key West, in Florida, applauded at every evening.“

For once, the hype is justified. The Zadar sunset is truly something not to miss! In this post, we aim to fill you with inspiration through striking sunset photos. These are taken on a Google Pixel by total amateurs and are unedited – we can take zero credit here! We have also included some practical tips for you to use while chasing the incredible Zadar sunsets.

Why we Love the Zadar Sunset

We have visited Zadar a few times now and we always make time to watch the amazing sunsets. It is such a relaxing time of the day and even novices like us can capture some pretty pictures. Whatever time of year you visit Zadar, you will be treated to a spectacular show. The popular sea organ and sun salutation locations can get busy, so take a stroll along the promenade until you find the perfect spot to have the Zadar sunset all to yourself.

Watching the Zadar sunset allows you to reconnect with nature. Such a fundamental, basic and certain solar act is definitely something that will make you re-evaluate things for the better. We all need time to decompress and we find that watching the Zadar sunset (or any sunset really) is a great way to do this.

There is something so hypnotic about watching a sunset anywhere in the world. It is a constant for everyone and a reassuring and calming presence in busy lives. Take time out of your hectic day and enjoy a few minutes of peace while taking in the magnificent Zadar sunsets.

Where is Zadar?

Zadar is in Central Croatia, between the Velebit mountain range and the Adriatic Sea. It is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia. This lesser know seaside town is a great place to go if you want to avoid the summer sunseekers to the south in Dubrovnik or Split.

Where to Watch the Zadar Sunset

Have we piqued your interest in Zadar sunsets? Now you need the perfect spot to watch the flaming, amber sky. There are a few contenders for best place to see the sunset in Zadar. If you have a few evenings in Zadar, we would advise trying out some different locations.

Watch the Zadar Sunset at the Sea Organ

The Sea Organ and the surrounding area is one of the best places to watch the Zadar sunsets. Gaze to the west and watch the beautiful burning sphere disappear behind the islands. This is a really popular place to watch the sunset as there is also the Greetings to the Sun monument here. This installation absorbs solar energy during the day and performs a light show at night.

Sitting by the Sea Organ means you also get to enjoy the pleasant sounds generated by the waves and “organ” pipes.

Address: Obala kralja Petra Krešimira IV, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Queen Jelena Madijevka and Foša Harbour for Amazing Zadar Sunsets

Queen Jelena Madijevka Park is beautiful during the day and even better at sunset. Look across Foša Harbour and the Lion’s Gate to enjoy the show.

Make sure you return during the day to relax in the oldest park in Zadar.

Address: 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Zadar Sunsets from Five Wells Square 

Next to the Park is the Five Wells Square. These five 16th century stone wells make a beautifully interesting place to sit back and watch the Zadar sunsets.

Address: Trg pet bunara 1, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Cathedral Bell Tower

Climb to the top of the bell tower for an amazing view of the ancient old town. Time it right to catch the captivating Zadar sunsets.

While you’re there, check out the ancient Roman Forum that sits right in front of the Cathedral.

Address: Široka ul. 24A, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

Orgulje Cafe for Phenomenal Zadar Sunset Views

Orgulje Cafe is very close to the Sea Organ. If you fancy a cocktail with your sunset view, this is the place to be. It is a little bit more pricey than other bars in Zadar. However, we would say the view was worth it.

Address: prilaz hrvatske čitaonice, 23000, Zadar, Croatia

When to Watch the Zadar Sunset

Of course, sunsets don’t happen at the same time every night! To time your viewing just right, you will need to take into account the weather and time of year. For the most accurate Zadar sunset times, click HERE. We would recommend arriving at your chosen spot around 20 – 30 minutes before the scheduled sunset time. That way you can enjoy the full show that the Zadar sunsets will perform.

Zadar can get quite wet in November and December. Obviously, wet, cloudy days are not the best for viewing sunsets. The best months to visit are generally March to September. This is more likely to guarantee some spectacular Zadar sunsets.

Where did Alfred Hitchcock Watch the Zadar Sunset?

Alfred Hitchcock enjoyed the Zadar sunsets from the comfort of his hotel. He stayed for one night at the Hotel Zagreb on the coast of Zadar. It is, unfortunately, now closed as a hotel but the building can still be seen along the coast.

The Zadar sunsets are incredible. However, there is a lot more to this ancient town than pretty skies. Follow our Zadar series to find out more about this civilisation that predates the Romans!

How to get to Zadar

Zadar has its own airport and good connections from the terminal to the city. We took the local bus from the airport and arrived in the old town in around 20 minutes. A one way ticket cost about €3.

Low cost airlines have flights from many European cities and fares are really reasonable. We flew from Edinburgh for €40. However, we met two fellow Scots who had managed to book return flights from Edinburgh to Zadar for €20 – bargain!

If you are already in Croatia, you can reach Zadar by bus from most of the main cities. There is also the option of taking the train from some of the main European hubs – such as Vienna – to Zagreb and then travelling onwards to Zadar from there.

Where to go next?

Looking for more Croatian inspiration? Take a look at these UNUSUAL THINGS TO DO IN DUBROVNIK.

Final note: Things change when travelling in the Balkans and there is not much information online. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. However, we found people to be really friendly and super helpful.

Have you experienced the Zadar sunsets or visited Croatia? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!

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Spectacular Zadar Sunsets – All You Need to Know