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

Should you visit Arachova or Zadar?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Zadar, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Zadar

Zadar is a coastal, vibrant, and laid back town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Arachova and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Arachova or Zadar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Zadar are popular destinations, Arachova has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arachova is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, and small town charm, while Zadar attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Arachova is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also well known for Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Zadar is famous for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Arachova different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Zadar Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Zadar

Arachova is a popular place for snow skiing. However, Zadar is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Zadar is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Zadar

Both Arachova and Zadar have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Arachova is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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.

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

Arachova
Zadar

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Zadar can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Zadar has a huge number of terrific 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 Arachova or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Zadar

Arachova 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.

Arachova offers plenty to do in the evening. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

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 Arachova or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Arachova
Zadar

Zadar is well known for its resorts. However, Arachova is not a resort destination.

Zadar is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Arachova is not a resort destination.

Is Arachova or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Arachova
Zadar

Zadar is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Zadar has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Arachova or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Zadar

Zadar is well known for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Zadar. 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.

Arachova is not a beach destination.


Is Arachova or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Zadar

Arachova and Zadar both have very good historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Arachova to see the historical old town. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Zadar is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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 Arachova or Zadar Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Zadar

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

Arachova is a popular spot for hiking. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Zadar?

Arachova
Zadar

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zadar and Arachova.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Zadar. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.


Is Arachova or Zadar Better for Families?

Arachova
Zadar

Arachova 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.

Arachova is a very kid-friendly town. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Zadar is a family-friendly 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 Arachova or Zadar Better for Couples?

Arachova
Zadar

Arachova and Zadar are both very good to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Zadar is a great town if you're traveling as 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 Arachova or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Zadar

Zadar is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


Is Arachova or Zadar Better for Students?

Arachova
Zadar

Zadar is well known for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

Zadar is a great town to visit as a student. 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.

Arachova is not popular with students.

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

Arachova
Zadar

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arachova and Zadar.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

While Zadar offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are 11 bus lines that travel around town.

Is Arachova or Zadar a more walkable city?

Arachova
Zadar

Zadar is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Zadar?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Arachova or Zadar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Zadar 1-2

One day in Arachova or Zadar?

In Arachova, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This 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.

The beautiful town of Zadar offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Arachova or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zadar, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Zadar?

Arachova is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Arachova. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Zadar is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Arachova or Zadar?

You'll find museums and skiing around the bustling destination of Arachova. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Zadar is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Zadar or Arachova?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Zadar is €89. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arachova and Zadar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Zadar 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Zadar 102
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Zadar

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Zadar? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arachova


Hotels in Zadar


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Zadar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Zadar 9.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zadar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zadar:

  • From Plitvice Lakes Private Round-Trip Transfer: $398
  • From Private Transfer to Dubrovnik Airport: $609
  • From Zagreb & Franjo Tudman Airport Private Transfer: $459
  • Krka National Park Private Tour from Zadar with transfer to Split: $283
  • Private One Way Transfer from Split to Zadar: $276
  • Private Transfer from Biograd Na Moru to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $68
  • Private Transfer from Borik Zadar to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $37
  • Private Transfer from Starigrad Paklenica to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $107
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Šibenik: $194
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Biograd Na Moru: $68
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Borik Zadar: $37
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Murter: $194

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Zadar?

Prices for flights to both Zadar and Arachova change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arachova 29
    Zadar 28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zadar

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zadar.

  • Small Group Cooking Class: $39
  • Private City Tour and Cooking Class: $96
  • Gourmet Sunset dinner on board: $218

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Zadar 19

Tours and Activities in Zadar

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zadar are as follows:

  • Old Town Walking Tour: $16
  • Zadar historical guided tour: $16
  • Zadar Historical Guided Walking Tour: $16
  • Old Town Highlights Guided Walking Tour: $18
  • Group History Walking Tour in Zadar Old Town: $20
  • Guided City Walking Tour: $21
  • The Ultimate Zadar Walking Tour: $22
  • Early Morning Walking Tour of the Old Town: $24
  • Old Town Evening Group Guided Walking Tour: $24
  • Zadar City Tour 120min Walk: $24
  • Early Morning Walking Tour of the Old Town in Zadar: $26
  • Evening Walking Tour of the Old Town: $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Zadar 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Zadar

Also in Zadar, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting, & Old Town Tour: $52
  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting, Boat Ride & Zadar Old Town: $53
  • Craft Gin and exclusive brandies in unique distillery: $60
  • Wine Tasting with Finger Food: $64
  • Private City and Wine Tour in Zadar with Eco Tuk Tuk: $98


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Arachova and Zadar, we can see that Arachova 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 Arachova would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arachova 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 Arachova Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Zadar. Many visitors come to Arachova in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Arachova is around the same temperature as Zadar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Zadar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Zadar. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Zadar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Zadar. Most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Zadar because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Arachova is generally around the same temperature as Zadar. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 19°C (67°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the autumn, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Zadar. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Zadar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Arachova because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

Arachova is a little warmer than Zadar in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Zadar during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Zadar. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Zadar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Arachova during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Arachova is around the same temperature as Zadar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arachova in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Zadar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the spring, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Zadar. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Zadar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Zadar and Arachova

Arachova Zadar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)