There Must be Something in the Water in Zadar

CBS Golazo and BBC Sport recently highlighted the unusual concentration of world-class football talent tied to Zadar and its surrounding region, posing a question that sounds almost like a tourism slogan: There must be something in the water in Zadar?

Given the names, the question makes perfect sense.

Luka Modrić, one of the greatest footballers of his generation, grew up in Zadar. Dominik Livaković, the spectacular goalkeeper and hero of the Croatian national team, also hails from here. Martin Erlić, a rock in the national team's defense, is another proud Zadar native. The narrative extends to Joško Gvardiol, whose family roots tie back to Novigrad just outside the city, as well as Šime Vrsaljko, former Atletico Madrid defender, the legendary Zlatan Ibrahimović, who shares a maternal connection to the Zadar region and even Christian Pulišić, nicknamed Captain America, the midfielder of AC MIlan and one of the best US national team players of all time, whose father is originally from the lovely island of Olib. Looking further back, the area has birthed some true legends of the game, like Dado Pršo, Danijel Subašić or Josip Skoblar, the Olympique de Marseille icon and winner of the 1971 European Golden Boot award. Even though this story is all about football, the locals affectionately tend to say that God created man and Zadar created basketball.

Of course, the secret isn't just in the water, though we love how it sounds!

Zadar is a city where sports, the sea and the Mediterranean way of life naturally complement each other. Children grow up outdoors spending their days between local playgrounds, the waterfront (called Riva), beaches, schoolyards and tight-knit neighborhoods. This is a place where kids play football and basketball after school, live their life outdoor and learn from an early age what matters just as much as raw talent: perseverance, rhythm, grit and a deep sense of community. 

That is precisely why this isn't just a sports story; it's a tourism story too.

It is a destination where history meets modern life, famed sunsets blend with an athletic spirit and cultural heritage coexists with vibrant Mediterranean energy. Here, you can stroll through the ancient Roman Forum, listen to the Sea Organ, greet the Sun at the waterfront and swim in crystal-clear waters right in the heart of the city, all while discovering why our lifestyle is making headlines in the football world.

Zadar possesses something you cannot simply replicate: a relaxed, laid-back pace that encourages movement, community bonds and big dreams. We are thrilled to see global media recognize this unique side of our city. For us, it is another wonderful opportunity to showcase Zadar as an inspiring destination for athletes, travelers, families, as well as anyone passionate about the sea, history, gastronomy and active holidays.

Meet. Feel. Explore. Zadar.