Zadar

Where to shoot

• St. Donatus — a circular ninth-century church built over the old Roman forum, its plain stone drum is Zadar's most recognizable landmark.
• Roman Forum — the largest Roman square on the Adriatic's eastern coast, its column stumps and paving stones still scattered in the open air.
• Sea Organ — steps cut into the seafront with hidden pipes that turn waves into an ever-changing, ambient chord.
• Sun Salutation — a circle of solar panels beside the Sea Organ that stores the day's light and glows in patterns after sunset.
• Roman Forum — the ancient civic square scattered with columns beside the round Church of St. Donatus
• Sea Organ — a wave-powered musical installation set into the marble waterfront steps
• Greeting to the Sun — a solar-powered glass disc in the quay that lights up after dusk
• St. Donatus — a distinctive 9th-century circular church rising over the forum ruins

When to go

Late spring through early autumn (May–September) for warm swimming weather and long evenings on the waterfront; arrive an hour before sunset regardless of season to claim a spot on the sea-wall steps.

What to eat

Look for grilled Adriatic fish and black risotto (crni rižot) in the konobas tucked into the old town's back streets, and stop at the morning fish and produce market near the port for the freshest catch and local fruit.

Where to stay

Base yourself inside the old town peninsula, within walking distance of the forum and the waterfront, so the Sea Organ and sunset are a short stroll rather than a planned outing.