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

Should you visit Bari or Zadar?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bari and Zadar. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bari

Bari is a local, cultural, and authentic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Zadar

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

Bari and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bari or Zadar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bari than Zadar, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bari is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Zadar is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Bari is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also home to San Nicola. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Bari different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bari 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.

Bari offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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 Bari or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bari is an amazing port city 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, Bari is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

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 Bari or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Bari 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.

Bari offers plenty to do in the evening. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

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 Bari or Zadar Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Zadar to choose from. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Bari is not a resort destination.

Is Bari or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Bari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bari or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a great town for the beach. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its beaches.

Many people visit Zadar for it's beautiful 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.

Bari is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Is Bari or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the superb old town areas in both Bari and Zadar.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Bari or Zadar?

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

Bari has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Zadar is a great destination for 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 Bari or Zadar Better for Families?

Bari 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.

Bari is a very kid-friendly port city. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

Zadar is a family-friendly port city. 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 Bari or Zadar Better for Couples?

Zadar is a great town for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Bari or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Bari and Zadar are superb places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

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 Bari or Zadar Better for Students?

For students, both Bari and Zadar are superb places to visit.

Many students visit Bari. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Zadar is a very popular port city 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.

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

Bari and Zadar both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Bari offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

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

Is Bari or Zadar a more walkable city?

Bari and Zadar are superb when it comes to walkability.

Bari is a very walkable destination. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

Zadar is very walkable. 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 Bari Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Bari?

How long in Bari or Zadar?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Zadar than Bari. 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 Bari 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 Bari.

One day in Bari or Zadar?

In Bari, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Zadar. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bari or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bari or Zadar?

Bari is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bari. 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the vibrant destination of Zadar. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bari or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the local destination of Bari. 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.

The coastal town of Zadar offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Bari or Zadar?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Bari 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 Bari 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 Bari or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Bari during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bari this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bari is generally around the same temperature as Zadar. Daily temperatures in Bari average around 25°C (76°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bari. In the summer, Bari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Bari gets 336 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Bari usually gets less rain in July than Zadar. Bari gets 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bari or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bari and Zadar. Many travelers come to Bari for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Bari is around the same temperature as Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bari averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. Bari usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Bari gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bari usually receives less rain than Zadar. Bari gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bari or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bari as well as Zadar. Many visitors come to Bari in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Bari is a little warmer than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bari in January average around 10°C (49°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Bari often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Bari gets 110 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Bari usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Bari gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bari or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Bari are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Bari is generally around the same temperature as Zadar. Daily temperatures in Bari average around 14°C (58°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bari. Bari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar during spring. Bari gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bari usually receives less rain than Zadar. Bari gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Bari