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

Should you visit Cologne or Zadar?

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

Should I visit Cologne 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.

Cologne

Cologne is a vibrant, colorful, and fun city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, 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.

Cologne and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Zadar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne than Zadar, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cologne is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Zadar is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Cologne is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also home to The Cologne Cathedral. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cologne 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.

Cologne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. At the heart of the city is Cologne Cathedral, which is stunningly intricate and highlights High Gothic architecture. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Other famous sights around town include Cologne City Hall, the Wallraf-Richartz & Ludwig Museums, and Hohenzollern Bridge.

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 Cologne or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zadar is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cologne. The food scene consists mostly of brewhouses and pubs, where you'll find local cuisine. There are also a number of international restaurants around town if you want something a little different. In particular, you'll find many Turkish kebab shops near the train station. Local dishes from Cologne include Halve Hahn (an open face sandwich), Hämmche (pork with sauerkraut or potatoes), and Mettbrütche (minced pork bread roll). For a sweet treat, there is no shortage of donut shops with decadently decorated toppings.

Is Cologne or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Cologne is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Cologne offers plenty to do in the evening. Head to one of the many beerhalls to check out the local nightlife scene. Make sure you try the local beer, Kölsch. Some of the most popular places for night include Ona Mor, Pepe, and Engel & Weiss.

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 Cologne or Zadar Better for Resorts?

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

Cologne is not a resort destination.

Is Cologne or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cologne 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.

Cologne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cologne or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is well known for the beach. However, Cologne 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.

Cologne is not a beach destination.

Is Cologne or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is well known for its historic old town charm. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

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.

Cologne is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old Town is large, but its mostly been rebuilt with modern buildings. There are plenty of shopping areas where you can buy name brand clothing or sample sweets.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Zadar?

Cologne 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.

Cologne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There is no shortage of clothing shops around Cologne. You'll find all of the major European chains with many souvenir shops mixed in. Schildergasse is a major shopping street in town, but there are also many shopping malls to choose from. For local markets, head to Wilhemplatz.

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 Cologne or Zadar Better for Christmas?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas activities. However, Zadar does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne is a world class destination during the Christmas season. Cologne is one of the top Christmas destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Zadar does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Zadar Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas markets. However, Zadar does not offer Christmas markets.

The holiday season is a very popular time to visit Cologne because of the beautiful Christmas markets. Cologne is one of the top Christmas market destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Zadar does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Zadar Better for Families?

Cologne 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.

Cologne is a very kid-friendly city. In addition to the stunning cathedral and impressive bridge, this city has many great playgrounds including Rheinpark, right across the river from old town. Kids who like high places will enjoy the view from the top of KölnTriangle. Popular kid-friendly museums in town include Odysseum and the Chocolate Museum. And if you have a day to spare, head to the indoor waterpark at Aqualand.

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 Cologne or Zadar Better for Couples?

Zadar is well known for couples. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Zadar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Cologne is a nice destination for couples. The city has a number of activities that couples will enjoy such as walks along the river, dining at nice restaurants, and Rhein River cruises. Also make sure you put a lock on the Hohenzollern Bridge to declare your commitment to each other.

Is Cologne or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is well known for backpackers. Also, Cologne 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.

Cologne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.

Is Cologne or Zadar Better for Students?

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

Cologne is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city is large enough to attract international students for all types of studies. It's also well connected to the German train system so it's easy to get out and explore the area.

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

Cologne is an amazing city to visit 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.

Public transit in Cologne is top-notch. KVB operates the system that includes trains, trams, and buses. The city is also easily connected to other nearby towns so it makes a great base for exploring the entire area.

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

Is Cologne or Zadar a more walkable city?

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

Cologne is a very walkable destination. If you stick to the Old Town and nearby neighborhoods, you'll be able to explore easily 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 Cologne Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Zadar?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Zadar than Cologne. 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 Cologne 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 Cologne or Zadar?

Each neighborhood in Cologne has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Cologne or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cologne. 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 Cologne or Zadar?

Cologne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Cologne. 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 Cologne or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the fun big city of Cologne. 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 Luxury Tours to Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Germany, 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 Cologne and Zadar, we can see that Cologne 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 Cologne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cologne 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 Cologne Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Zadar?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Cologne 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 Cologne 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 Cologne or Zadar in the Summer?

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

In July, Cologne is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 19°C (66°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives more rain than Zadar. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Cologne 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 Cologne this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Cologne is cooler than Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cologne averages around 12°C (54°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, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in October than Zadar. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Cologne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cologne. In the winter, Cologne is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cologne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cologne usually receives less rain than Zadar. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Zadar in the Spring?

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

In April, Cologne is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 10°C (50°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in April than Zadar. Cologne gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Cologne