A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Annecy vs. Zadar for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Annecy or Zadar?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Annecy and Zadar can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a quaint, storybook, and charming alpine town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Zadar

Zadar is a vibrant, laid back, and relaxed town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Annecy and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Annecy or Zadar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Annecy than Zadar, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Annecy is better known for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Zadar is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Annecy is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Also, Annecy is famous for Palais de l'Isle. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Annecy different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Annecy and Zadar.

Annecy offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Zadar. 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.

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

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Annecy is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

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 Annecy or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Annecy and Zadar.

If you're looking for night time activities Annecy has a few options to choose from. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Annecy or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Annecy is not a resort destination.

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.

Annecy is not a resort destination.

Is Annecy or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Annecy is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Annecy is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Annecy or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a great town for the beache. However, Annecy is not a beach destination.

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.

Annecy is not a beach destination.

Is Annecy or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is an amazing alpine town to visit for its old town. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

Annecy offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Is Annecy or Zadar Better for Hiking?

Annecy is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Annecy is a popular spot for hiking. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Zadar?

If you're looking to go shopping, Annecy and Zadar both offer plenty of notable spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Annecy. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Many visitors go to Zadar to go shopping. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Is Annecy or Zadar Better for Families?

Annecy is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Annecy is a very kid-friendly alpine town. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

Zadar is a family-friendly alpine town. 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 Annecy or Zadar Better for Couples?

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

Annecy makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

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 Annecy or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

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

It's common for backpackers to visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Is Annecy or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is a great town for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

Zadar is very popular with students. 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.

Annecy is not popular with students.

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

Annecy and Zadar both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Zadar has a few public transit options. There are 11 bus lines that travel around town.

Is Annecy or Zadar a more walkable city?

Annecy and Zadar are great when it comes to walkability.

Annecy is a very walkable alpine town. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Annecy or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Annecy than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Annecy, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

Families should spend more time in Annecy than Zadar. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Annecy, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zadar than Annecy 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 Zadar.

One day in Annecy or Zadar?

Even though Annecy is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This alpine 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Zadar. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Annecy or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Zadar is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Annecy or Zadar?

Annecy is a fun place to experience. Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zadar. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Annecy or Zadar?

Annecy is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal destination of Zadar. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, 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 Annecy and Zadar, we can see that Annecy 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 Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy 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 Annecy Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Annecy or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 45% larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Annecy 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 Annecy or Zadar?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Annecy or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Annecy during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Annecy is cooler than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Annecy. In the summer, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Zadar. The autumn months attract visitors to Annecy because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

In the autumn, Annecy is cooler than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Annecy in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Annecy usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Annecy or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Zadar. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Annecy in the winter. In January, Annecy is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 4°C (39°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Annecy often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Annecy for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Annecy is cooler than Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Annecy usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Annecy usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Annecy