A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cefalu vs. Zadar for Couples, Food, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Cefalu 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 Cefalu 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.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a charming, coastal, and historic fishing village. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Zadar

Zadar is a relaxed, coastal, and vibrant town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cefalu and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cefalu or Zadar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cefalu than Zadar, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cefalu is better known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Zadar is more popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Cefalu is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. Also, Cefalu is famous for the beaches. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Cefalu different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zadar is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.

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

Foodies will find both Cefalu and Zadar both to be superb destinations.

Cefalu has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

Dining out in Zadar is an experience not to be missed. 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 Cefalu or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Zadar is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

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.

Cefalu is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

Is Cefalu or Zadar Better for Resorts?

There are superb resorts to choose from in both Cefalu and Zadar.

There are plenty of resorts in Cefalu to choose from. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

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.

Is Cefalu or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cefalu 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.

Cefalu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cefalu or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Cefalu and Zadar both offer superb beaches.

Many people visit Cefalu for it's beautiful beaches. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

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.

Is Cefalu or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

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 Cefalu or Zadar Better for Hiking?

Cefalu is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Cefalu is a good destination for hiking. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Zadar?

Zadar is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

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.

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Cefalu or Zadar Better for Families?

Both Cefalu and Zadar are notable family-friendly destinations.

Cefalu is a family-friendly fishing village. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.

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.

Is Cefalu or Zadar Better for Couples?

Cefalu is an amazing fishing village to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Cefalu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

Zadar makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Cefalu or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Zadar. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

Is Cefalu or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cefalu is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Cefalu is not popular with students.

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

Zadar is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Cefalu or Zadar a more walkable city?

Cefalu and Zadar are superb when it comes to walkability.

Cefalu is a very walkable fishing village. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

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 Cefalu Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Zadar?

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

Families should spend more time in Zadar than Cefalu. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zadar than Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Zadar?

Even though Cefalu is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This fishing village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Zadar. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Cefalu or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cefalu. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Cefalu or Zadar?

Cefalu is a fun place to experience. Cefalu is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zadar. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Cefalu or Zadar?

Cefalu is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid back destination of Zadar. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Cefalu. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu 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 Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Zadar. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cefalu this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cefalu is around the same temperature as Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cefalu this time of the year. In the summer, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in July than Zadar. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Zadar in the Autumn?

Both Zadar and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cefalu for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cefalu is around the same temperature as Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cefalu in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar during autumn. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cefalu or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Cefalu during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cefalu 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 January, Cefalu is generally a little warmer than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 10°C (51°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Zadar. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cefalu or Zadar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Zadar. Most visitors come to Cefalu for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Cefalu is around the same temperature as Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In Cefalu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar during spring. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Zadar. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Cefalu