1. Sunsets

You can’t deny the fabulous sunsets of Zadar. After all, it was Alfred Hitchcock who exclaimed back in 1964 that “The sunset of Zadar is the world’s most beautiful and incomparably better than in Key West, Florida”. With dazzling red and yellow tones, the sunsets in Zadar are a true sight. The best vantage point to see it for yourself, is to take a short walk up to the Bell Tower of St Anastasia. Once on top, you’ll see exactly what he meant.

2. Cheese

Zadar has a bustling farmers market, which runs every day of the week, and is full of locally grown produce. Head to the end stalls located closest to the fishmongers, and look for the sign that reads Paški sir, which means cheese from the Island of Pag. This tangy cheese is produced from sheep’s milk, just over an hour away. The sheep graze on nothing more than grass, various herbs and aromatic plants and the flavour is unique and great paired with a Croatian white wine.

3. Free outdoor entertainment

I still flip flop about which is better, the old world charm of Zadar or the Sea Organ and Greetings to the Sun. These two art installations make both day and night come alive on the promenade. The Sea Organ is just that, an organ played by the sea. Waves push air through 35 underwater pipes, and the music pop ups all along the promenade. The Greeting to the Sun creates a light show each evening, which makes for a great a family activity – especially with ice cream.

4. Its size

Size matters, and in this case the fact that Zadar is a small city is what makes it so great. You don’t need more than a day to walk from one end to the other and back again stopping at all the main sights, or one of many cafes. Zadar really has a relaxed vibe. Head straight to the 2,000 year old Roman Forum and you’ll see just what I mean.

5. That its not popular

Even in peak season, the ancient city of Zadar is not as crowded as some of the other Dalmatian coastal towns, like Split or Dubrovnik. Although I suspect given its charm and proximity to great day trips like Dugi Otok and Plitvice Lakes National park, it won’t stay unknown for long. I suggest you hurry and come see for yourself.