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

Should you visit Chania or Zadar?

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

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

Chania

Chania is a historic, idyllic, and charming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food. See Chania travel costs.

Zadar

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

Chania and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Zadar?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chania than Zadar. While Zadar is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chania is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Zadar is known for its resorts and impressive beauty. Chania is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also home to The Venetian Harbor. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Chania different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chania 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.

Chania offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historic sights such as the Venetian Lighthouse, the Castle of Gramvoussa, the Ottoman Baths, and the Clock Tower. There's also the Archeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.

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 Chania or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chania 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, Chania is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

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 Chania or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Chania and Zadar.

Chania has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town is more known for its relaxed vibe in the evening than its all-night parties. Many visitors enjoy a laid back night in one of the town's many local pubs. You'll find the most charming places tucked away down side alleys in the old town.

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 Chania or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is well known for its resorts. However, Chania 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.

Chania is not a resort destination.

Is Chania or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find good snorkeling or scuba diving in both Chania and Zadar.

Chania has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

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.

Is Chania or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Chania is an amazing city to visit for the beach. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Chania. You'll find picturesque beaches near town that have white sand or colored pebbles. The beaches range from urban and crowded to hidden gems, but each has striking blue water and the atmosphere of paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

Zadar is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Is Chania or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Chania and Zadar both have very good historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Chania to see the historical old town. Surrounding the Venetian Harbor is the town's old town. It's filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes that offer a quaint atmosphere for visitors.

Zadar is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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 Chania or Zadar Better for Hiking?

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

Chania is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Zadar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zadar and Chania.

Many visitors go to Chania to go shopping. Head to the old town to browse shops selling local favorites such as traditional island knives and locally made ceramics. There are also jewelry boutiques and other clothing shops around town.

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 Chania or Zadar More Beautiful?

Zadar is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Chania is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Zadar attracts visitors from all around. It's a charming medieval town that is at its most beautiful during the spectacular sunsets.

Chania is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chania or Zadar Better for Families?

Chania 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.

Chania is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring the old town, with its many markets and shops. Wandering around the harbor is also a highlight for many families. There are also several kid-friendly museums such as the Minoan's World 3D Museum and 9D Cinema, the Maritime Museum, and the Archaeological Museum of Chania. There are also kid-friendly activities just outside of town like a visit to Lake Kournas or any of the nearby archeological sites.

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 Chania or Zadar Better for Couples?

Chania and Zadar are both very good to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Chania frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

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 Chania or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania and Zadar are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chania is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

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

Is Chania or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is well known for students. However, Chania is not popular with students.

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.

Chania is not popular with students.

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Chania, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

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

Is Chania or Zadar a more walkable city?

Chania and Zadar both are very good when exploring on foot.

Chania is a very walkable destination. The historic center and harbor areas are compact and walkable. There are some beaches outside of town that can be walked to as well if necessary.

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 Chania Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Chania?

How long in Chania or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chania or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chania than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Chania, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

Couples should spend more time in Chania than Zadar. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chania that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chania 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 Chania.

One day in Chania or Zadar?

In Chania, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this charming destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

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 Chania or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chania. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. 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 Chania or Zadar?

Chania is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Chania. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Chania or Zadar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the idyllic destination of Chania. Most people come for the beaches. 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 coastal 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Chania and Zadar, we can see that Chania is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chania Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chania or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 31% larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Chania 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 Chania 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 Chania or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Zadar. Many visitors come to Chania in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In Chania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Zadar during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Zadar. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chania or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Chania as well as Zadar. Most visitors come to Chania for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Zadar because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Chania is a little warmer than Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the autumn, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Chania gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Zadar. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Chania because of the museums, 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.

In the winter, Chania is a little warmer than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chania in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Chania usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Chania. In January, Chania usually receives more rain than Zadar. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chania or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Chania during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Chania is generally a little warmer than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 17°C (62°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chania. In the spring, Chania often gets more sunshine than Zadar. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Chania usually gets less rain in April than Zadar. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Chania