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

Should you visit Bordeaux or Zadar?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a elegant, charming, and romantic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zadar

Zadar is a coastal, vibrant, and laid back town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bordeaux and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Zadar?

You'll generally find more things to do in Bordeaux than Zadar. Bordeaux is bigger than Zadar, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bordeaux is better known for its food, shopping, and big city activities, while Zadar is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Bordeaux is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Also, Bordeaux is famous for Cathédrale Saint-André. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Bordeaux different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Bordeaux and Zadar.

Bordeaux offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

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 Bordeaux or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux is an amazing 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, Bordeaux is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Bordeaux or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Bordeaux or Zadar has a better nightlife scene.

Bordeaux has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

If you're looking for night time activities Zadar has a few options to choose from. 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 Bordeaux or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a great destination for its resorts. However, Bordeaux is not a resort destination.

Zadar is known as a popular and fun resort destination. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Bordeaux is not a resort destination.

Is Bordeaux or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bordeaux is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Zadar has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Bordeaux is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bordeaux or Zadar Better for Beaches?

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

Zadar is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Bordeaux or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is a great destination for its old town. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town 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.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Zadar?

Bordeaux is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

Bordeaux is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

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 Bordeaux or Zadar Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bordeaux or Zadar.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bordeaux. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Zadar offers lots of family activities. 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 Bordeaux or Zadar Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Bordeaux frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Zadar is a great city 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 Bordeaux or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zadar is a great town to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Bordeaux or Zadar Better for Students?

Bordeaux and Zadar are high quality places to visit for students.

Bordeaux is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

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.

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

Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux has some very good public transit options. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

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

Is Bordeaux or Zadar a more walkable city?

Bordeaux and Zadar both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Bordeaux is a very walkable city. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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 Bordeaux Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Zadar?

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

Families should spend more time in Zadar than Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux or Zadar?

In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this romantic destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This city 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 Bordeaux or Zadar?

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

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 Bordeaux or Zadar?

Bordeaux is a fun place to experience. In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Bordeaux or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the elegant destination of Bordeaux. 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.

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 The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, 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 Bordeaux and Zadar, we can see that Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Zadar?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bordeaux and Zadar. The summer months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

Bordeaux is cooler than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In Bordeaux, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bordeaux usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bordeaux usually receives more rain than Zadar. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bordeaux as well as Zadar. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bordeaux is cooler than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bordeaux in October average around 14°C (58°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the autumn, Bordeaux often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Bordeaux gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets more rain in October than Zadar. Bordeaux gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Bordeaux are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bordeaux 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 January, Bordeaux is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 6°C (43°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Bordeaux usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Bordeaux. In January, Bordeaux usually receives more rain than Zadar. Bordeaux gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Bordeaux during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bordeaux in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Bordeaux is cooler than Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Bordeaux often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Bordeaux gets 190 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets more rain in April than Zadar. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Bordeaux