Things to Do in Greeting to the Sun

Zadar, a coastal city on Croatia's Dalmatian coast, has managed to blend ancient Roman ruins with some surprisingly modern attractions. The city's compact old town sits on a peninsula jutting into the Adriatic, where marble streets lead past Byzantine churches and Venetian architecture. What really sets Zadar apart, though, is how it's embraced contemporary art installations alongside its historical treasures - most famously the Greeting to the Sun, a massive solar-powered light installation that transforms the waterfront into an ethereal light show every evening. The city feels authentically Croatian rather than overly polished for tourists, which means you'll find locals actually living their daily lives among the ancient stones. Zadar works well as both a destination in itself and a strategic base for island-hopping, since ferries depart regularly for the nearby Kornati archipelago and other Adriatic islands. The combination of Roman forums, medieval churches, and cutting-edge installations creates an unexpectedly layered experience.

Zadar's food scene balances traditional Dalmatian cuisine with modern interpretations, and you'll find genuinely good restaurants rather than just tourist traps. The old town has several excellent konobas (taverns) serving fresh seafood and local specialties like pašticada (slow-cooked beef) and black risotto. For something different, try the newer restaurants around Kalelarga street that put contemporary spins on Croatian classics. The morning market near Five Wells Square offers excellent local produce, and the nearby streets have casual spots perfect for a quick lunch between sightseeing.

Late spring through early fall (May through September) offers the warmest weather and longest days, with July and August being peak season but also most crowded and expensive. June and September might actually be ideal - warm enough for swimming but with fewer crowds and better prices. Winter can be surprisingly pleasant for sightseeing, with mild temperatures and almost no tourists, though many restaurants and attractions have reduced hours. The shoulder seasons also mean you'll have Greeting to the Sun and the Sea Organ largely to yourself.