A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Zadar for Resorts, Beaches, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Antalya or Zadar?

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

Should I visit Antalya 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Zadar

Zadar is a relaxed, coastal, and vibrant town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Antalya and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Zadar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Antalya than Zadar, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Antalya is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Antalya different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Antalya is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Antalya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

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 Antalya or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Antalya and Zadar can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zadar makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Antalya or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Antalya is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Antalya offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

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 Antalya or Zadar Better for Music?

Antalya is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Zadar is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Antalya is active and vibrant. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Zadar is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot 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, Antalya is a great choice. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

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 Antalya or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's good scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Antalya and Zadar.

Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

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 Antalya or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot 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 Antalya. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

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 Antalya or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the high quality old towns in both Antalya and Zadar.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

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 Antalya or Zadar Better for Hiking?

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

Antalya is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Zadar?

Antalya is an amazing vacation spot to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antalya make it a world-class shopping destination. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Zadar has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Is Antalya or Zadar Better for Families?

Antalya 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.

Antalya is a very kid-friendly vacation spot. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Zadar is a family-friendly vacation spot. 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 Antalya or Zadar Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Antalya and Zadar make for a high quality place to visit.

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Couples visit Zadar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Antalya or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antalya and Zadar are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Zadar. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

Is Antalya or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya 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.

Antalya is not popular with students.

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

Antalya is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Antalya has some very good public transit options. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

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

Is Antalya or Zadar a more walkable city?

Zadar is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Antalya or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Antalya than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antalya 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 Antalya.

One day in Antalya or Zadar?

In Antalya, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this luxurious destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This vacation spot 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.

In Zadar, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antalya or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. 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.

In Zadar, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zadar has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Zadar?

Antalya is a fun place to experience. In Antalya, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling 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.

Zadar is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Zadar?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the luxurious destination of Antalya. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zadar. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Zadar. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Turkey, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Turkey, 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 Antalya and Zadar, we can see that Antalya 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 Antalya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antalya 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 Antalya Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Zadar?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Antalya 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 Antalya 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 Antalya or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Zadar. The summer months attract visitors to Antalya because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

In July, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Zadar. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Zadar. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Zadar. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Zadar in the Autumn?

Both Zadar and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Antalya is a little warmer than Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antalya usually receives less rain than Zadar. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Antalya during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Antalya for the museums, 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 the winter, Antalya is a little warmer than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Zadar. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Zadar. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Zadar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Zadar. Many visitors come to Antalya in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Zadar. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Zadar during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives less rain than Zadar. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Antalya