Zadar is a surprisingly versatile spot for photography lovers. Its combination of rugged landscapes, historic sites, and stunning islands offers plenty of opportunities for capturing memorable images. Among the top experiences we recommend, the Velebit Mountains & Zrmanja Canyon Photo Tour stands out for its dramatic scenery and adventure vibe—perfect if you want to combine a scenic drive with photo stops in wild Croatia. We also love the Plitvice Lakes transfer tour with a pro photographer for its balance of comfort and professional guidance, making it ideal for travelers who want high-quality shots of one of Croatia’s most iconic national parks. Lastly, the Ugljan and Pašman Islands tour with a pro photographer captures Croatia’s island charm, with scenic ferry rides, panoramic views, and quiet villages perfect for nature and village photography.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the top three photography experiences in Zadar. Each tour offers a distinct style—whether rugged mountain landscapes, pristine lakes, or idyllic islands—so you can pick the one that best suits your style and interests.
1. Zadar: Private Velebit Mountains & Zrmanja Canyon Photo Tour
This tour combines the rugged beauty of the Velebit Mountains with the stunning Zrmanja Canyon. Starting with a private SUV, you’ll explore the wild heart of Dalmatia with a local guide and professional photographer who will help you capture the sweeping vistas. The tour includes stops at Maslenica Bridge, a striking piece of engineering, and Zrmanja River, famous for its emerald waters and waterfalls.
One of the highlights is visiting Modrići, the birthplace of football legend Luka Modrić—an unexpected photo stop for fans and history buffs alike. Then, there’s a scenic drive to Tulove Grede, a surreal limestone formation that makes for dramatic photos, especially at sunset. The tour offers the option to indulge in a traditional Dalmatian tasting, with local wine and cheese, perfect for relaxing after a day of shooting.
This experience is best suited for those who love rugged outdoor landscapes and are comfortable with a bit of adventure—think bumpy mountain roads and outdoor photo ops. Priced at $353 for groups up to four, this private tour offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized guidance and unique photo opportunities. Reviewers praise the guide’s local knowledge and the variety of stunning locations.
Bottom Line: If you crave wild scenery and a hands-on approach to capturing Croatia’s mountain and canyon landscapes, this tour will deliver.
2. Zadar: Plitvice Lakes: Transfer Tour with pro photographer
For around $588, this luxurious transfer tour takes you from Zadar to the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park with the benefit of a professional photographer by your side. The tour includes a private vehicle and flexible stops, letting you customize your journey. Once at the lakes, your photographer will help you capture the park’s signature terraced lakes, waterfalls, and lush greenery, ensuring you walk away with stunning images.
What sets this tour apart is the high-quality deliverables: you’ll receive 50 digital photos and 3 video reels, making it ideal for travelers who want professional-grade souvenirs. The experienced guide will assist with composition and lighting, allowing even novice photographers to improve their skills while exploring the park’s main highlights and hidden corners.
Guests praise the personalized experience and the ability to take home professional images without the hassle of planning logistics. The tour is perfect if you’re interested in nature photography, or simply want a stress-free day with top-tier results.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a premium experience with professional guidance and excellent photo results—ideal if you value comfort and high-quality keepsakes.
3. Zadar: Ugljan and Pašman Islands tour with pro photographer
At $353 for groups up to four, this private island tour is a fantastic way to combine scenic ferry rides with authentic island charm. Starting with a ferry from Zadar to Ugljan, known as the “Green Island,” you’ll get plenty of opportunities for landscape, village, and coastal photography. Your professional photographer guide will help you capture the olive groves, quaint villages, and quiet beaches that make these islands so photogenic.
A highlight is visiting St. Michael’s Fortress, which offers panoramic views over the Zadar Channel—an excellent spot for wide-angle shots. The day continues exploring charming villages, with enough flexibility to focus on what interests you most. After the tour, you’ll receive 50 professionally edited photos and 3 reels of video, perfect for sharing your Croatian island experience.
This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed pace, scenic vistas, and a touch of local life. The combination of ferry rides, panoramic viewpoints, and quiet fishing villages makes for a diverse set of photos—plus, the professional guidance ensures your shots are magazine-worthy.
Bottom Line: If you’re drawn to island life and want to photograph Croatia’s coastal villages, this tour is a relaxed yet comprehensive choice.
How to Choose
When deciding between these photography experiences, consider your interests and travel style. If rugged mountains and dramatic landscapes excite you, the Velebit Mountains & Zrmanja Canyon Tour offers an adventurous day with stunning scenery. For those seeking iconic landscapes and high-quality images, the Plitvice Lakes transfer provides a luxurious, professionally-guided experience. If island charm and coastal villages appeal more, then the Ugljan and Pašman Islands combine scenic ferry rides with intimate village photography.
Think about your budget, preferred pace, and what kind of images you want to bring home. The private tours are generally more flexible—so if you want to customize your day, those are better options. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to ensure your preferred dates and guide availability.
Final Thoughts
Zadar offers a range of photography adventures, from mountain panoramas to island villages. Whether you want rugged landscapes, pristine lakes, or coastal scenery, there’s an experience suited for you. The Velebit Mountains & Zrmanja Canyon is perfect for those craving adventure and wild scenery, while the Plitvice Lakes offers a premium, high-quality photographic experience. For lovers of islands and tranquil villages, the Ugljan and Pašman Islands rounds out the options beautifully.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early and preparing your camera gear will help you make the most of these stunning locations. These experiences give you the chance to capture Croatia’s natural beauty in ways that will last long after your trip ends.