Zadar

The historic capital of Dalmatia, Zadar looks into the middle of the Adriatic and is one of the most “Italian” cities of the Balkan Peninsular, thanks to its boating links, especially those connecting the town to Ancona. Surrounded by the mountain chain of the Velebit, a Unesco protected nature reserve, it is one of the best destinations in Europe for those who love nature, within easy reach of some of the most beautiful national parks including, Krka, isole Kornati, Velebit and Paklenica. Crystal clear waters and thousands of little islands and natural beaches, make this places ideal for those wanting to relax.

Up until the 1940s, Italian, both the language and the culture, were common among the majority of the population here which was slowly eroded during the second world war and the successive political and ethnic persecutions. Today there is still an Italian community here even if in a much smaller number that still tries to maintain its identity.

The city has recently received lots of investment to turn it into a tourist hub that is able to welcome the many visitors that choose Zadar not only for the beautiful town and art that can be found here but also for the excellent value for money of the services offered. In the stunning centre of Zadar, you can see examples of all the periods that in the last three thousand years have made this one of the most important cities on the Adriatic: Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Napoleon, the Habsburgs... a complex and fascinating story, that can be seen in the walls of the city, the roman forum, the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, the church of San Donato, palaces and fascinating piazzas.

Visiting it from the sea is an unmissable experience from which you can admire the amazing panorama of the city and understand why Zadar was voted the European Best Destination 2016.