Starigrad

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Top 10 attractions in Starigrad

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Zadar City Gate
No. 10 of Best Things to Do in Dalmatian coastal

Zadar City Gate

4.4
4.6/5
19 reviews

Zadar City Gate is the land gateway to the old town of Zadar, Croatia, and was once part of the fortifications of the Republic of Venice. Designed by Venetian architect Michele Sanmicheli and completed in the mid-16th century, it is considered one of the representative works of Renaissance architecture in the Dalmatian region. The gate is adjacent to the small fishing port of Foša and is modeled after the shape of an ancient Roman triumphal arch: the central opening was for carriages and horses, while the two narrower side openings were for pedestrians. The columns support the pediment above, creating a rigorous and ceremonial proportion. It is especially worth taking a closer look at the decorations on the gate: the relief of St. Chrysogonus, the patron saint of Zadar, riding a warhorse, appears in the same frame as the winged Lion of St. Mark, symbolizing Venice. On one side is the city's own guardian, and on the other is the mark of its former ruler, condensing this dual historical memory. The gate was originally surrounded by a moat, which has now become a corner of the harbor, but standing in front of the gate, one can still feel the imposing atmosphere of the fortress entrance from that time. Passing through the gate, you enter the old town. The Roman Forum, the Church of St. Donatus, and the Sea Organ by the sea are all within walking distance, making this a perfect first stop for exploring the old town. Early morning or evening, when the light is soft and the crowds are fewer, is a great time for taking photos and enjoying the view in peace.

Zadar · 26.4 km from Starigrad
Gondola Ride
2026 Europe 50 - Night Attractions

Gondola Ride

8.4
4.0/5
311 reviews

The Gondola Ride is a classic way to experience the charm of Venice's water city: boarding a slender, flat-bottomed traditional wooden boat, gliding slowly along the Grand Canal and narrow alley-like waterways, admiring the stone facades of palaces, old bridges, and water gates from the water's perspective—a view unmatched by walking or larger cruises. Gondolas were first documented in Venice as early as the 11th century; since 1562, local laws have required the boats to be painted black, with the black hull paired with an iron ornament at the bow resembling a comb—its teeth said to represent Venice's six districts—becoming its iconic feature. The boat also hides clever design: the entire vessel is built asymmetrically, slightly tilting left to counterbalance the force of the gondolier rowing with a single oar on the right stern, ensuring straight and steady movement. During the experience, pay attention to the contrast between the two waterways: the grand canal is wide and bustling, with palaces and bridges passing by in succession; after turning into narrow tributaries, the water surface quiets down, with the mottled traces of ancient walls close at hand. The gondoliers, mostly dressed in striped shirts, stand at the stern, maneuvering the boat through bridges and alleys with a single long oar, and some might even sing a few lines of a boat song when in high spirits; if you set sail during dusk, the sunset glow cast on the ancient facades creates an even better atmosphere. Though the entire journey is not long, it encapsulates Venice's daily aquatic life of "streets as rivers and boats as cars."

Italy · Venice

Experiences you can't miss in Starigrad

Featured Food & drink in Starigrad

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Zadar: Unlimited Wine Boat Tour with 3 stops & Snorkeling
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4.9/5
· 133 reviews
Duration: 3–4 hrs
Free cancellation
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99.2% of travelers recommend
FromUS$20.60
From Split: Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting Tour
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4.9/5
· 3.5k reviews
Duration: 10 hrs
Free cancellation
100 consecutive positive reviews
FromUS$51.33
Kornati And Telašćica Boat Tour: Swimming, Snorkeling & Wine
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4.5/5
· 4 reviews
Duration: 4.5 hrs
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Romantic Sunset tour around Zadar with Unlimited Wine
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5.0/5
· 27 reviews
Duration: 75–90 mins
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27 consecutive positive reviews
FromUS$26.16
Zadar: Tour to 3 Islands with Snorkeling,Wine&Optional Lunch
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5.0/5
· 188 reviews
Duration: 3–4 hrs
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100 consecutive positive reviews
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Zadar: Old Town Walking Tour with Maraschino Tasting
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5.0/5
· 3 reviews
Duration: 1.5 hrs
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Zadar: 3-Stop Island Hopping on Speedboat + Unlimited Wine
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5.0/5
· 3 reviews
Duration: 135–240 mins
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Kornati Adventure: 3 Stops, Swim & Lunch Choice
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Duration: 9 hrs
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FromUS$84.20

Featured Day tours in Starigrad

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Blue Cave - Stiniva Beach - Budikovac Island - Hvar - Pakleni Islands Day Tour
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FromUS$187.27
From Split or Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Tour with Entry Tickets
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4.9/5
· 13 reviews
Duration: 12–12.5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
FromUS$99.91
From Omiš: Krka Waterfalls and Trogir Group Tour
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5.0/5
· 2 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
FromUS$57.25
Zagreb to Split Group Transfer with Plitvice Lakes guided Tour
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4.6/5
· 107 reviews
Duration: 12 hrs
English
Free cancellation
90.7% of travelers recommend
FromUS$159.58
Panorama guided Zadar Eco Tuk Tuk tour
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4.4/5
· 69 reviews
Duration: 90–120 mins
English
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FromUS$63.15

Featured Culture & history in Starigrad

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Zadar Highlights Audio Tour: A Journey Through Centuries
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Duration: 1 hr
Filipino
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Sandy Audio Tour: Echoes of Heritage in Historic West Sandy
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Duration: 45 mins
Filipino
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20% off
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FromUS$4.48US$5.61
Krka Waterfalls tour with Trogir Walking tour and Krka panoramic boat cruise
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4.9/5
· 545 reviews
Duration: 510 mins
Free cancellation
98% of travelers recommend
FromUS$51.67

Featured Outdoor & sports in Starigrad

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From Zagreb: Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke Small Group Day Trip
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Duration: 5.4 hrs
English
Free cancellation
FromUS$143.44
From Split: Krka Waterfalls Tour, Boat Cruise & Swimming
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4.9/5
· 1.7k reviews· 29 booked
Duration: 10 hrs
Free cancellation
29 consecutive positive reviews
FromUS$39.92
From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour
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5.0/5
· 77 reviews
Duration: 12 hrs
Free cancellation
77 consecutive positive reviews
FromUS$72.97
Zadar: Island Hopping Boat Tour & Blue Bay Swim with Drinks
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5.0/5
· 6 reviews
Duration: 4 hrs
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Zadar: Adriatic Sailing Tour with Snorkeling and SUP
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Duration: 4 hrs
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★ Zadar: Speedboat Tour to 3 Islands with Swim & Drinks
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4.9/5
· 17 reviews
Duration: 4 hrs
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From Biograd/Tkon: Kornati & Telašćica Full Day Cruise
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4.9/5
· 14 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
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FromUS$67.36

Free things to do in Starigrad

What travelers say about Starigrad

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天生哥October 6, 2019
5.0
The ancient city is located on a peninsula and has hundreds of years of well-preserved human cultural heritage. Figure 1 is the Zadar Gate, which was built by the Venetians in 1543. The flying stone lion statue of St. Mark in the center of the gate shows its royal origin in the Venetian period. Under the stone lion is the equestrian statue of the patron saint, guarding the history of Zadar.

Zadar City Gate

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Alaine08January 26, 2025
5.0
Our experience in Venice was unforgettable, thanks to the perfect combination of a serene gondola ride and an insightful walking tour. The gondola ride was peaceful and gave us a unique view of the canals, while our guide was fantastic—knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. We learned so much about the city's history and hidden gems as we walked through its charming streets. A truly memorable way to experience Venice from both the water and the land. Highly recommend this experience for anyone visiting!

Gondola Ride

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Starigrad?

Don't miss these attractions in Starigrad: Modrič cave, Church of the Holy Spirit, and Zadar City Gate. If you like Food & drink, try Zadar: Unlimited Wine Boat Tour with 3 stops & Snorkeling. If you enjoy Day tours, try Blue Cave - Stiniva Beach - Budikovac Island - Hvar - Pakleni Islands Day Tour.

You can give Zadar: Unlimited Wine Boat Tour with 3 stops & Snorkeling and From Split: Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting Tour a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Blue Cave - Stiniva Beach - Budikovac Island - Hvar - Pakleni Islands Day Tour, 1-day tour to Krka National Park and Skradin town in Croatia | Includes admission ticket and cruise experience, and 1-day tour from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes | World Natural Heritage + In-depth experience of folk village. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of November 5, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Starigrad is around USD 57.25 – USD 249.69. Rates vary by duration, group size, transportation, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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