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

Should you visit Bressanone or Zadar?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bressanone and Zadar can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bressanone

Bressanone is a charming, quaint, and picturesque town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Zadar

Zadar is a coastal, vibrant, and laid back town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Bressanone and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
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 Bressanone or Zadar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zadar. Although Bressanone and Zadar are both popular with visitors, Zadar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zadar is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Bressanone is known for its hiking and small town charm. Bressanone is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its charming old town and its idyllic setting. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting. It is also home to the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Bressanone different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bressanone
Zadar

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Bressanone or Zadar.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bressanone. Most visitors simply enjoy soaking up the town's atmosphere, but sights around town include The Royal Palace, the cathedral, and Franzenfeste Fortress.

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.


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

Bressanone
Zadar

Foodies will find both Bressanone and Zadar both to be excellent destinations.

Dining out in Bressanone is an experience not to be missed. Despite its small size, there are many family run restaurants that make use of ingredients from local farms. The town also hosts a few culinary festivals throughout the year.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Zadar. 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 Bressanone or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Bressanone
Zadar

Zadar is a town with good options for its evening party scene. However, Bressanone is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

Zadar has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Bressanone doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small town with some quaint bars and pubs where you can enjoy a beer and chat with other visitors.

Is Bressanone or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Bressanone
Zadar

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

In Zadar, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Bressanone is not a resort destination.


Is Bressanone or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bressanone
Zadar

Zadar is a town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bressanone is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Bressanone is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bressanone or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Bressanone
Zadar

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

The beaches at Zadar attract visitors from all over. 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.

Bressanone is not a beach destination.

Is Bressanone or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Bressanone
Zadar

Both Bressanone and Zadar have excellent historic old towns worth visiting.

Bressanone is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The cathedral and beautiful old buildings make this a charming place to explore.

There are many historical things to see 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 Bressanone or Zadar Better for Hiking?

Bressanone
Zadar

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

Bressanone is a popular spot for hiking. There's a huge variety of hikes in the surrounding countryside. You can walk alongside the river, head into the foothills, or explore the nearby vineyards.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bressanone or Zadar?

Bressanone
Zadar

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zadar and Bressanone.

Many visitors go to Bressanone to go shopping. The medieval streets are lined with family-owned shops, boutique clothing stores, and other unique local shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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 Bressanone or Zadar Better for Families?

Bressanone
Zadar

Zadar is a town with good options for its family-friendly activities. However, Bressanone is a town with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Zadar. 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.

For families, Bressanone is not always the best place to visit. It's a great town to take a lunch break. The kids will enjoy wandering the alley-like streets. There's a river through town and great views of the Alps.


Is Bressanone or Zadar Better for Couples?

Bressanone
Zadar

Both Bressanone and Zadar are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Bressanone frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This charming town is seeped in romance. The quaint streets and surrounding mountain setting make this an idyllic place to take a romantic trip.

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 Bressanone or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bressanone
Zadar

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

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Bressanone. There's a couple of hostels and cheaper guesthouses in town, so backpackers can enjoy a few days in this picturesque alpine town.

Is Bressanone or Zadar Better for Students?

Bressanone
Zadar

Zadar is a great destination for students. However, Bressanone is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Zadar. 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.

Bressanone is not popular with students.


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

Bressanone
Zadar

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

You'll find some public transit in Bressanone, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

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

Is Bressanone or Zadar a more walkable city?

Bressanone
Zadar

Bressanone and Zadar both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Bressanone is a very walkable destination. The town is compact and small enough to explore on foot.

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 Bressanone Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Bressanone?

How long in Bressanone or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bressanone or Zadar to fill your time. In our opinion, Zadar has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Zadar than Bressanone. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Zadar than Bressanone. 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 Bressanone. 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 Bressanone 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 Bressanone or Zadar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bressanone 1-2 
    Zadar 1-2

One day in Bressanone or Zadar?

Even though Bressanone is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant town of Zadar, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zadar, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Bressanone or Zadar?

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

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Zadar, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Bressanone or Zadar?

Bressanone is a fun place to experience. Bressanone is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Zadar, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Bressanone or Zadar?

Bressanone is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


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


Which place is cheaper, Zadar or Bressanone?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bressanone is €138, 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 Bressanone and Zadar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bressanone 72
    Zadar 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bressanone 144
    Zadar 102
Compare Hotels in Bressanone and Zadar

Looking for a hotel in Bressanone 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 Bressanone


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: Bressanone Hotel Prices and Zadar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bressanone 23
    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 Bressanone or Zadar?

Prices for flights to both Zadar and Bressanone 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
    Bressanone 47
    Zadar 28
Typical Food Prices in Bressanone

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Bressanone:


  • Gelato
    2.20

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.
    Bressanone 20
    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
    Bressanone 26
    Zadar 12
Typical Alcohol Prices in Bressanone

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Bressanone:


  • 1/2 Litre of wine
    9.00
  • 2 Glasses of Wine
    7.00

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


Which is Bigger, Bressanone or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bressanone. When comparing the sizes of Bressanone 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.