Things to Do in Five Wells Square
Five Wells Square, Hrvatska - Complete Travel Guide
Five Wells Square (Trg pet bunara) is located in the heart of Zadar, one of Croatia's most captivating coastal cities on the Dalmatian coast. This historic square, dating back to the 16th century, gets its name from the five ornate wellheads that once provided fresh water to the city's residents. The square serves as a charming gateway between Zadar's ancient Roman ruins and its vibrant modern waterfront, surrounded by medieval architecture and bustling cafés.
Zadar itself is a remarkable blend of ancient history and contemporary innovation, famous for its unique Sea Organ and Sun Salutation installations along the waterfront. The city offers visitors a perfect combination of Roman and Venetian heritage, stunning Adriatic sunsets, and easy access to nearby national parks and islands. With its compact old town peninsula surrounded by crystal-clear waters, Zadar provides an authentic Croatian experience without the overwhelming crowds of Dubrovnik or Split.
Top Things to Do in Five Wells Square
Explore Zadar's Historic Old Town
Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of Zadar's peninsula, discovering Roman ruins including the Forum and St. Donatus Church, along with Venetian architecture and medieval city walls. The compact old town is easily walkable and filled with archaeological treasures spanning over 2,000 years of history.
Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but consider a 2-3 hour walking tour (€15-25 per person) for deeper historical context. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting for photos and fewer crowds.
Experience the Sea Organ and Sun Salutation
Visit Zadar's famous waterfront installations where the Sea Organ creates haunting melodies from wave action, while the nearby Sun Salutation light show begins at sunset. These modern art installations have become iconic symbols of the city's creative renaissance.
Booking Tip: Free to experience anytime, but arrive 30-60 minutes before sunset for the best atmosphere. The area can get crowded during peak season, so weekday visits are more peaceful.
Take a Day Trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Journey to Croatia's most famous national park, featuring 16 terraced lakes connected by cascading waterfalls and wooden walkways through pristine wilderness. The park offers several hiking routes through stunning turquoise pools and lush forests.
Booking Tip: Book tickets online in advance (€10-40 depending on season). Full-day tours from Zadar cost €50-80 per person. Visit early morning to avoid crowds, and allow 6-8 hours for the complete experience.
Island Hopping to Kornati National Park
Embark on a boat excursion to the Kornati archipelago, consisting of 89 mostly uninhabited islands known for their stark beauty and crystal-clear waters. The islands offer excellent swimming, snorkeling, and hiking opportunities with panoramic Adriatic views.
Booking Tip: Full-day boat tours range from €40-80 per person including lunch. Book with reputable operators that include swimming stops and national park entrance fees. Tours run April-October with best conditions May-September.
Visit Paklenica National Park
Explore the dramatic canyons and hiking trails of Paklenica National Park, located in the Velebit mountain range just an hour from Zadar. The park offers everything from easy nature walks to challenging rock climbing routes through spectacular karst landscapes.
Booking Tip: Park entrance costs €7-10 per person. Guided hiking tours available for €30-50 per person. Bring sturdy hiking shoes and water. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable hiking conditions.
Getting There
Zadar is easily accessible by air through Zadar Airport, located 12km from the city center with direct flights from major European cities. The airport shuttle bus costs €4 and takes 20 minutes to reach the old town. By road, Zadar is connected via the A1 highway to Zagreb (3 hours), Split (1.5 hours), and other major Croatian cities. Bus connections are frequent and affordable, with companies like FlixBus offering international routes. Ferry connections link Zadar to various Adriatic islands, and the city serves as an excellent base for exploring the Dalmatian coast.
Getting Around
Zadar's historic old town is entirely pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot, with most attractions within a 10-minute walk of Five Wells Square. The city operates an efficient local bus system (€1.50 per ride) connecting the old town to residential areas, beaches, and the airport. Taxis are readily available but relatively expensive for short distances. Car rental is recommended for exploring nearby national parks and coastal areas, with several agencies located near the old town. Bicycles can be rented for €10-15 per day, though the old town's cobblestone streets make walking more practical for sightseeing.
Where to Stay
Old Town Peninsula
Borik Resort Area
Diklo Waterfront
Puntamika District
Arbanasi Neighborhood
Bibinje Coastal Area
Food & Dining
Zadar's culinary scene beautifully combines traditional Dalmatian cuisine with modern gastronomy, emphasizing fresh seafood, local olive oil, and regional wines. The area around Five Wells Square and throughout the old town features numerous konobas (traditional taverns) serving grilled fish, black risotto, and peka (slow-cooked meat and vegetables). Popular local specialties include Pag cheese, Maraschino liqueur (invented in Zadar), and fresh Adriatic seafood. For fine dining, several upscale restaurants offer contemporary interpretations of Croatian cuisine, while casual eateries and pizzerias provide affordable options. The daily fish market near the harbor is perfect for experiencing local food culture, and many restaurants source ingredients directly from nearby farms and fishing boats.
When to Visit
The ideal time to visit Zadar is during late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) when weather is warm but not overwhelming, crowds are manageable, and accommodation prices are reasonable. Summer months (July-August) offer the warmest weather and liveliest atmosphere but also bring peak crowds and highest prices. Winter visits (November-March) provide a more authentic local experience with mild temperatures, though some tourist services may be limited and weather can be unpredictable. The shoulder seasons also offer the best conditions for hiking in nearby national parks and comfortable exploration of the historic sites around Five Wells Square.
Insider Tips
Visit the local green market (Gradska tržnica) near Five Wells Square early morning for the freshest produce and authentic local atmosphere
Climb the Bell Tower of St. Anastasia Cathedral for panoramic views of the old town and surrounding islands - it's often overlooked by tourists
Book dinner reservations in advance during summer months, especially for waterfront restaurants, as the best spots fill up quickly with both tourists and locals