A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Albufeira vs. Zadar for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Albufeira or Zadar?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Albufeira or Zadar? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Albufeira

Albufeira is a popular, activity-filled, and high energy resort town. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Zadar

Zadar is a coastal, vibrant, and laid back town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Albufeira and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Albufeira or Zadar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Albufeira than Zadar, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Albufeira is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Zadar is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Albufeira is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its golden beaches and limestone cliffs. Also, Albufeira is famous for Praia da Falesia. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Albufeira different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Zadar and Albufeira. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Albufeira or Zadar?

Zadar is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

Zadar offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The old town is like a living museum, with city walls and a historic gate. The Church of St. Donatus, Zadar Cathedral, and the Zadar Archaeological Museum are all fascinating places to visit in town, but if you're looking for the most unique sight, make sure you check out The Sea Organ and The Sun Salutation.

Albufeira does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Albufeira or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Albufeira and Zadar both to be high quality destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Albufeira. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, the city also has the widest selection of restaurants. There are traditional options that serve up classic dishes like grilled sardines, as well as international restaurants with traveler favorites. As expected, you'll find a lot of seafood, but you'll also find inland influences from local farms in the area.

Zadar has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is filled with outdoor cafes that serve up a healthy and delicious selection of recipes. The ingredients are fresh and local with olive oil and seafood making frequent appearances on the menus. Prices are also reasonable.

Is Albufeira or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Albufeira is an amazing resort town to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Albufeira has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's probably the most infamous party destination in the Algarve and it won't disappoint. During the peak summer months you'll find the streets around the popular "Strip" filled with tourists and party-goers. There are hen and stag parties, backpackers, and drunken travelers out for a good time. The Strip has become so popular that there are now bars and clubs on the adjacent streets as well. If you're not staying in the area, you'll likely want to take a taxi, as it's a couple kilometers outside of the town center.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Zadar. The town comes to life at night when the bars and restaurants fill with people chatting and socializing. This is an easy place to enjoy the evening as almost all of the nightlife venues are within a five minute walk of each other.

Is Albufeira or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Albufeira is an amazing resort town to visit for its resorts. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Albufeira is a great choice. As the largest resort town in the Algarve, you'll find a wide selection of hotels to choose from. Party-goers will want to stay near the Strip while families will prefer the old town or resorts in Olhos de Agua.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Zadar. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Is Albufeira or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Albufeira is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Albufeira. There are countless vendors who will take you by boat to explore the underwater world, either by snorkeling or scuba diving. The marine life is impressive and the water is generally clear.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Zadar. This is an easy place to snorkel because the water is so clear. There are also half and full day snorkeling trips that take you to some of the best spots.

Is Albufeira or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Albufeira is an amazing resort town to visit for the beache. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Albufeira. With their golden sands and blue waters, the beaches are world class. The area also has a diversity of beaches that are perfect for all types of vacationers. For water sports, head to Praia dos Alemaes but for relaxation and catching some rays check out Praia da Falesia. You'll find some interesting rock formations at Praia dos Olhos de Agua. One of the most convenient beaches to town is Praia dos Pescadores. For nightlife you'll want to head to Praia da Oura.

Zadar is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are some nice beaches outside of town with one of the most famous being Sakarun Beach, which is part of the Zadar archipelago. There are a handful of beaches nearby that are pebbly and popular with the locals. These include Puntamika Beach and Beach Borik.

Is Albufeira or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is a great destination for its old town. However, Albufeira does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Zadar. The small old town is filled with charm and character. It's a walled medieval town that can easily be explored in a few hours.

Albufeira does not have a historic old town.

Is Albufeira or Zadar Better for Hiking?

Albufeira is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Albufeira is a good destination for hiking. There are countless coastal walks that are perfect for all skill levels. Many offers stunning views along the rocky coast and pass through natural settings. Popular trails in the area include Praia Grande Interpretation Trail and Paderne Castle Trail.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Albufeira or Zadar?

Zadar is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Zadar offers some nice shopping areas. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Albufeira has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find most of the shops are geared toward souvenirs or beach items, particularly near the beach and marina. If you look hard you might find some nice ceramics or items made of cork.

Is Albufeira or Zadar Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Albufeira or Zadar.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Albufeira. Despite it's reputation as a party-hard city, there are actually a lot of family-friendly activities in the area. Because it's the largest resort town in the Algarve, it also has the most activities to choose from, including theme parks, water parks, dolphin watching, ropes courses, go karting, and more. The best area's for families are in the old town or the most of the family-friendly resorts outside of town. Families should avoid staying near "the Strip."

Zadar offers lots of family activities. It's fun to explore the small medieval old town, but the kids will also appreciate getting out of town and enjoying the nearby activities. It's definitely worth visiting Pag Island or any of the other natural settings that are nearby. There are also several beaches near town. In town, make sure you hear the Sea Organ and dance at the Sun Salutation.

Is Albufeira or Zadar Better for Couples?

Albufeira is an amazing resort town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Albufeira makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For an active honeymoon or couple's retreat, this resort town has it all. Beautiful beaches, adventure-filled activities, a wild nightlife scene, and excellent resorts and restaurants all make for a memorable couple's getaway.

Zadar makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This charming seaside town is fun to explore as a couple. There's a walled medieval town that is small and easy to wander around. There are also nearby beaches and great restaurants to explore. A highlight of a visit is watching the stunning sunsets by the water.

Is Albufeira or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Albufeira is an amazing resort town to visit for backpackers. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Albufeira. If you're looking for a party, then you found it. The area is a top pick for European holidays, so you'll find plenty of energy and activities around town. There are also golden beaches and a decent selection of hostels to choose from.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Zadar. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

Is Albufeira or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is a great destination for students. However, Albufeira is not popular with students.

Zadar is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. The laid back lifestyle and low cost of living make this a great place to be a student. It's a relaxed environment with many nearby places to explore.

Albufeira is not popular with students.

Is Albufeira or Zadar Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Zadar is a popular place for its public transit. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Zadar, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 11 bus lines that travel around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Albufeira. There are regional buses and even trains, but do take note that many of the train and bus stations are a good distance outside of town.

Is Albufeira or Zadar a more walkable city?

Zadar is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Albufeira is a resort town with minimal options for its ease of walking around.

Zadar is a very walkable town. The old town is particularly walkable and can easily be explored on foot in a few hours.

Albufeira is generally not a very walkable resort town. Most people prefer to hire a car, but if your hotel is near the beach and you're ok with walking to restaurants, then you may be able to get away without one. If you hope to travel into the countryside at all then a car is necessary.

For even more information, also check out Is Albufeira Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Albufeira?

How long in Albufeira or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Albufeira or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Albufeira than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Albufeira, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

Couples should spend more time in Albufeira than Zadar. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Albufeira that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Albufeira than Zadar if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Albufeira.

One day in Albufeira or Zadar?

In Albufeira, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this high energy destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Zadar. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zadar has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Albufeira or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Albufeira. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant destination of Zadar. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Albufeira or Zadar?

Albufeira is a fun place to experience. In Albufeira, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxed town of Zadar. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Albufeira or Zadar?

In Albufeira, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this vibrant destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Zadar is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Albufeira and Zadar, we can see that Albufeira is more expensive. And not only is Zadar much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zadar would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zadar and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Albufeira would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Albufeira than you might in Zadar.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Albufeira Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Albufeira or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Albufeira. When comparing the sizes of Albufeira and Zadar, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Albufeira or Zadar?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Albufeira or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Albufeira and Zadar. The summer months attract visitors to Albufeira because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

Albufeira is around the same temperature as Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 25°C (78°F) in July, and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In July, Albufeira usually receives less rain than Zadar. Albufeira gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Albufeira or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Albufeira as well as Zadar. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Albufeira this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Albufeira is around the same temperature as Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Albufeira in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in October than Zadar. Albufeira gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Albufeira or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Albufeira are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Albufeira for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Albufeira is generally a little warmer than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Albufeira average around 11°C (52°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In January, Albufeira usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Albufeira gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Albufeira or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Albufeira during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Albufeira in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Albufeira is around the same temperature as Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Albufeira averages around 15°C (60°F) in April, and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Albufeira usually gets less rain in April than Zadar. Albufeira gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Albufeira