Travel Guide North Dalmatia with travel tips for North Dalmatia
Dalmatia is a region on the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea. Its name comes from the Dalmatae, an Illyrian tribe that controlled the region in the first millennium BC. The Dinaric Alps run from northwest to southeast, and in the north the seasons are distinct with cold, snowy winters and hot dry summers. Politically it is now divided with the northern half belonging to Croatia, while the southern section belongs to Montenegro.
History
In the second century BC, Dalmatia was invaded by the Romans, but continued to rebel until 10 AD when it was completely conquered and divided. At the fall of the Roman Empire it was overrun by Goths, but then became part of the Byzantine Empire. During the Middle Ages the area was besieged by many potential rulers. Following that Dalmatia was controlled by Venice, the Ottomans, Napoleon, and in 1815 became a province under the Emperor of Austria. After WWI, it was split between the Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, finally becoming Yugoslavia. Presently most of Dalmatia belongs to Croatia, with only the southern Bay of Kotor being part of Montenegro.
Arts & Museums
Zadar is the most important city of northern Dalmatia, population 76,000. Most of the town is surrounded by historic walls with two city gates dating from the 16th century, and a tower 300 years older yet. The city is home to dozens of churches worth visiting, the oldest of which is Sveti Donat which was built at the beginning of the 9th century. Zadar is home to a National Museum and a Theater House. The Arsenal is a modern gallery hosting music and cultural events. The modern monuments to the Sun, and the nearby Sea Organ are considered great achievements of contemporary Croatian Art.
Nightlife
During the winter, nightlife is focused in the cities, such as Zadar and Rijeka. In summer, the islands become popular. Pubs, bars, and baristas are popular, and music ranges from folk to jazz, rock, disco and soul. For the most part the scene is casual. Dance clubs generally become active around midnight. The Arsenal is not only an arts center, but runs a popular bar and restaurant.
How to get
One can fly into Zadar, but the larger airport is in Zagreb. Construction of new highway makes the drive between the two cities only 2-3 hours. Taxis and car rentals are possible. Bus and train service are also available but are slower. The new A-1 coast highway makes access to coastal cities much easier than in the past. Ferries also travel from Italy to many Dalmatian islands and coast cities.