A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Belfast vs. Zadar for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Belfast or Zadar?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast 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.

Belfast

Belfast is a under-rated, authentic, and affordable city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife and shopping.

Zadar

Zadar is a laid back, relaxed, and coastal 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.

Belfast and Zadar: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Belfast or Zadar?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Zadar than Belfast. While Belfast is larger than Zadar, Zadar has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Zadar is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Belfast attracts visitors for its big city activities. Belfast is more touristy than Zadar and is known for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles". Zadar is famous for its historical sights and waterfront setting. It is also well known for the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Belfast different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Belfast
Zadar

Zadar is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Zadar is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Belfast
Zadar

Zadar is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Belfast
Zadar

Both Belfast and Zadar are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

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 Belfast or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Belfast
Zadar

Zadar is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast is not a resort destination.


Is Belfast or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Belfast
Zadar

Zadar is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Belfast or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Belfast
Zadar

Zadar is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast is not a beach destination.

Is Belfast or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Belfast
Zadar

Zadar is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Belfast does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Zadar to see the historical old town. 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.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Zadar?

Belfast
Zadar

Both Belfast and Zadar are nice shopping destinations.

Belfast is a great destination for shopping. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

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 Belfast or Zadar Better for Families?

Belfast
Zadar

Belfast and Zadar are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Belfast is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

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

Belfast
Zadar

Zadar is a well-known place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Zadar is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.


Is Belfast or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Belfast
Zadar

Zadar is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city 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.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or Zadar Better for Students?

Belfast
Zadar

Zadar is a well-known place for students. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Belfast. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

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

Belfast
Zadar

Zadar is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.


Is Belfast or Zadar a more walkable city?

Belfast
Zadar

Zadar is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Belfast or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Belfast 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 Belfast, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

Couples should spend more time in Zadar than Belfast. 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Zadar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Belfast 1-3 
    Zadar 1-2

One day in Belfast or Zadar?

In Belfast, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this affordable destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Belfast or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belfast. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Belfast or Zadar?

Belfast is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the destination of Belfast. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Belfast or Zadar?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the authentic destination of Belfast. 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 Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Zadar or Belfast?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Belfast is £133, while the average daily cost in Zadar is £77. 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 Belfast and Zadar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Belfast £68
    Zadar £44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Belfast £136
    Zadar £88
Compare Hotels in Belfast and Zadar

Looking for a hotel in Belfast 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 Belfast


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: Belfast Hotel Prices and Zadar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Belfast £14
    Zadar £8.20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Belfast

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Belfast:

  • Belfast Accommodation to Belfast City Airport (BHD) - Departure Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Holywood Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bangor Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast International Airport (BFS) to Belfast City - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast City to Belfast International Airport (BFS) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisburn Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Private Belfast Arrival Transfer- Belfast City Airport to Belfast Hotel / Accomm: $44
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Belfast Airport: $44
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Crawfordsburn: $50
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bangor Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $54
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisburn Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $55
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Groomsport: $57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zadar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zadar:

  • Private Transfer from Borik Zadar to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $37
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Borik Zadar: $37
  • Private Transfer from Zadar city to Zadar Airport: $41
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Hotels to Zadar Airport: $41
  • Private Transfer to/from Zadar Airport: $46
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport to Zadar : $49
  • Transfer from Zadar Airport to Zadar City: $49
  • Split Airport (SPU) to Zadar hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $55
  • Zadar hotels to Split Airport (SPU) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Transfer from Zadar airport to Vir: $63
  • Private Transfer from Biograd Na Moru to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $68
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Biograd Na Moru: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Belfast or Zadar?

Prices for flights to both Zadar and Belfast 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
    Belfast £51
    Zadar £24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Belfast

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

  • Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $81
  • Belfast Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $108

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.
    Belfast £18
    Zadar £17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Belfast

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Belfast are as follows:


  • Movie Tickets
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in Belfast

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

  • Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.00
  • Belfast's Iconic Sites: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.47
  • Museum Ticket: $6.90
  • Hillsborough Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $12
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour Belfast: $15
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour: $15
  • Crumlin Road Gaol Experience: $18
  • 2.5-Hour Street Murals Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Belfast Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Belfast Murals Political Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Line of Duty Guided Walking Tour: $21
  • Belfast Line of Duty Walking Tour: $22

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
    Belfast £7.86
    Zadar £9.99

Sample the Local Flavors in Belfast

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Belfast:

  • Pub Crawl and Bar Walking Tour with Two Drinks: $15
  • Belfast Pub Crawl: $15
  • Explore & Taste: Distillery Tour at Titanic Distillers: $32
  • Belfast Giant's Causeway and Titanic Distillery Whiskey Tour: $69
  • VIP Skip-the Line Titanic Museum and Distillery Tasting Tour: $119

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 Belfast and Zadar, we can see that Belfast 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 Belfast would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Belfast 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 Belfast Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Belfast or Zadar?

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

Both Zadar and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Belfast in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Belfast is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Belfast in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Zadar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Belfast usually receives more rain than Zadar. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Belfast 15°C (59°F) 
    Zadar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Zadar in the Autumn?

Both Zadar and Belfast during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Belfast for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Zadar because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Belfast is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 9°C (48°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in October than Zadar. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Belfast 9°C (48°F) 
    Zadar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Belfast and Zadar. The winter months attract visitors to Belfast because of 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.

The weather in Belfast can be very cold. Belfast is much colder than Zadar in the winter. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Belfast usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Belfast 4°C (39°F) 
    Zadar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Zadar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Belfast as well as Zadar. The activities around the city are the main draw to Belfast this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Belfast is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Belfast in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Zadar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the spring, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Belfast gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets less rain in April than Zadar. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Belfast 8°C (46°F) 
    Zadar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Zadar and Belfast

Belfast Zadar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)