Luggage storage Zadar

About Zadar

Zadar is a city that goes back a long way. The oldest continually inhabited city in Croatia, the area has been home to people since the Stone Age, and the city that now stands here was founded all the way back in the 9th century BC.

Of course, the Illyrian tribe that founded the city would hardly recognize the place today. Due to its coastal location, Zadar was an important port and fishing village for its first settlers, but also a base for piracy. The Illyrians had frequent contact with the Phoenicians, the Greeks, and other Mediterranean powers. And with the rise of the Roman Empire, Zadar became a Roman settlement in 59 BC.

Zadar’s Roman period lasted until the collapse of the Western Empire in 476 AD. After this, it became part of the Eastern Roman Empire, also known as the Byzantine Empire. In 998, however, it fell into the hands of the increasingly powerful Venetian Republic. It then became ruled by Hungary before being sold back to the Venetians.

By the 16th century, the area around Zadar was being conquered by the Ottoman Empire, making the city an important stronghold against this rising power. As a result, Zadar flourished during this period, bolstered by the Renaissance that was sweeping through Italy. The city became an important center of arts and culture.

In 1797, Venice fell, and Zadar became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Following the First World War, this Empire, too, collapsed. Zadar became a part of Italy until 1947, when it joined Yugoslavia. Finally, this country fractured in the 1990s, and Zadar became part of the new country of Croatia.

All these waves of invasion and conquest have given the city a rich history that shows in its varied architecture. It's this history, along with its gorgeous coastline and splendid weather, that continues to attract tourists today.

Things to do in Zadar

Often rated as one of Europe's top tourist destinations, Zadar is one of the jewels of the Adriatic. Millions of tourists visit Croatia each year, and Zadar is one of the most popular cities in the country with visitors. Take a look at all there is to do in this coastal town, and it's easy to see why.

• Step back in time at the city walls. Rated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Zadar's walls protected it from the Ottoman Empire and are still largely intact today. The ancient fortifications of the city are a testament to Zadar's importance in the region.
• Hear the music of the ocean at the Sea Organ. This art installation was built in 2005. Large marble steps lead to the water, and when waves break over the steps, they play music through cleverly designed vents in the stone. Don't miss the nearby Greeting to the Sun, a solar-powered lighting display made by the same artist.
• Learn more about the city's long and complicated history at the Archaeological Museum. This museum displays artifacts from Zadar's prehistoric period all the way up to medieval times. It's the best place to get a handle on the changing patterns of occupation the city went through.
• Soak up the atmosphere of the city at the People’s Square. Surrounded by historic buildings, the square is full of sidewalk cafés, bars, and restaurants, and is the place to see or be seen in Zadar. Grab a drink or a bite to eat and watch the world go by in this attractive location.
• Explore the beautiful islands and rocky coves of the coastline with a boat trip from Zadar. Not far outside the city, you'll find what feels like an unspoiled wilderness along the Croatian coast. Charter a boat in the city and head out to explore a wilder side of the Mediterranean.

Transit options in Zadar

• Zadar airport connects the city to the capital, Zagreb, and other cities throughout Europe. Planes fly to Zadar from the UK, Belgium, Germany, France, and other destinations in the summer.
• A shuttle bus connects the airport to the center of the city. It is timed to match up with incoming flights, so the schedule varies according to what flights are coming in. The journey to the city takes around 20 minutes.
• Zadar's main bus and train stations are right next to each other and close to the city's heart. Croatian trains don't enjoy a high reputation, but long-distance bus is a popular way to get around. You can reach Zadar by bus from Zagreb, Pula, Split, and other cities further afield.

Luggage storage in Zadar

The old town of Zadar is still contained by its ancient fortifications, and this is the area where most visitors tend to spend their time. Rich in historical monuments, it’s also a great place to explore with no particular destination in mind. The old streets, quirky stores, and lively bars and cafés will quickly charm you.

Exploring on foot is always easier when you don’t carry heavy bags with you. Bounce can help you find a local business where you can store your bags for as long as you like. Drop off any size of bags they’ll be safe and sound until you return.

Activities and attractions near Zadar

• Paklenica National Park:  This park is famous for its rocky karst formations, which make it a popular place for climbers and cavers. But it's also a fantastic place to hike. Hundreds of miles of trails wind through the forests and mountains of this stunning park, and the spectacular gorges of Mala and Velika are some of the most popular places to explore. The park makes a wonderful escape from the city, so drop off any heavy bags at a Zadar luggage storage shop and see it for yourself.
• Borik Beach: Just to the north of the city, this popular beach has won a Blue Flag for the cleanliness of the water. Reliably warm and sunny, it's a perfect place to take a dip or even go snorkeling or scuba diving. You can rent an umbrella and a beach chair from the nearby hotel, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants where you can get some refreshments once you had enough of sun and sand. Make things easier on yourself by leaving your belongings at a luggage storage service in Zadar before heading to the beach.
• Plitvice Lakes National Park: In case Paklenica wasn't stunning enough, Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most celebrated natural areas in all of Europe. Ninety minutes north of Zadar, the park is easily reached by regular buses that bring millions of tourists here every year. Venture just a little from most popular trails, though, and you'll feel as though you have this grand wilderness to yourself. The gorgeous lakes, rivers, and waterfalls have made the park famous, and offer the perfect photo opportunity to make everyone back home green with envy.