Vir

The port city of Vir lies on the southern side of the island of the same name. Vir island lies north of the coastal town of Zadar and is located in the Northern Dalmatia region and is connected to the mainland by a bridge near to Privlaka that was built in 1976. The island of Vir belongs to the Zadar archipelago comprising of 89 islands and islets. Among these, the island of Vir is the eighth largest with an area of 22.38 km². The island with its 1,600 inhabitants is popular amongst vacationers for its Mediterranean climate and its typical Dalmatian atmosphere. This charm is created, on the one hand, by the rustic stone houses that blend with the island's modern apartments in the center as well as by the lively and bustling, wide promenade and by the beautiful bays and beaches that can be found around Vir. In addition to doing sports at sea (such as sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling), many visitors go to the outskirts of Vir, with its rolling hills, for hiking and cycling.

Those interested in cultural and historical heritage should visit the ancient fortress of Kastelina, which has been renovated along with a surrounding watchtower around the year 2000. The only remains still left, however, are those from the former fortification from the 17th century. The cityscape of Vir is also adorned by the parish church of Sveti Juraj (Saint George) whose special feature fascinates visitors: The bell tower of the church stands on the opposite side of the road and is not, as usual, attached to the church building.

During the day and at night the harbor with its popular waterfront promenade is a popular meeting place for relaxing hours in the various taverns, restaurants and bars, or even for a romantic walk along the gently rocking boats. There is, for example, a beautiful hike leading to the lighthouse of Vir, officially named the "Old Captain's House" which lies about 7 km from the center.

If you want to turn night into day, there are some clubs and cocktail bars in Vir- including the disco, Bar More. During the summer months, many bars provide live music or festive events to enliven the city. One special event is the "Vírská noc" (The Night of Vir), which is traditionally held in August and, like in many other places in Croatia, revives the customs and traditions of the region. With dance, music and a large fireworks, the Vírská noc celebrates the 1908 transfer of the island from its former owner to the families living on the island.

The small boat harbor of Vir sits in the center, where here the promenade runs around it with its restaurants, bars and cafés. From here, many tourists start excursions to the nearby islands of Ugljan and Pag, as well as to the aquarium in Zadar.

Along the southern coast there are numerous romantic coves and wild beaches where dogs are allowed. Along the whole coast of Vir there are many beautiful beaches.