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

Should you visit Dresden or Zadar?

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

Should I visit Dresden 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.

Dresden

Dresden is a architectural, cultural, and park-filled city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. 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.

Dresden and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dresden or Zadar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dresden than Zadar, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dresden is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Zadar is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Dresden is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady). It is also home to Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Dresden different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dresden. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.

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 Dresden or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zadar is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden 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 Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Dresden or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Dresden 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.

Dresden offers plenty to do in the evening. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

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 Dresden or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a great destination for its resorts. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not a resort destination.

Is Dresden or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Dresden is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dresden or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a great destination for the beach. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not a beach destination.

Is Dresden or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the high quality old towns in both Dresden and Zadar.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Dresden. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

There is a nice variety of sights 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 the Shopping Better in Dresden or Zadar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zadar and Dresden.

Many visitors go to Dresden to go shopping. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

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 Dresden or Zadar Better for Families?

Zadar is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city 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, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Dresden or Zadar Better for Couples?

Zadar is a great destination for couples. Also, Dresden 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.

Dresden is a nice destination for couples. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.

Is Dresden or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Dresden 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.

Dresden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

Is Dresden or Zadar Better for Students?

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

Zadar is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. 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.

Dresden is not popular with students.

Is Dresden 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 Dresden and Zadar.

You'll find some public transit in Dresden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

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

Is Dresden or Zadar a more walkable city?

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

Dresden is a very walkable destination. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

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 Dresden Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Dresden?

How long in Dresden or Zadar?

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

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

In Dresden, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this friendly destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Dresden or Zadar?

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

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 Dresden or Zadar?

Dresden is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Dresden. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Dresden or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the architectural destination of Dresden. 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.

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, 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 Dresden and Zadar, we can see that Dresden 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 Dresden would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dresden 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 Dresden Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dresden or Zadar?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Dresden 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 Dresden 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 Dresden or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dresden and Zadar. The summer months attract visitors to Dresden 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.

In July, Dresden is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Dresden average around 20°C (68°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In July, Dresden usually receives more rain than Zadar. Dresden gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dresden or Zadar in the Autumn?

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

Dresden is much colder than Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dresden averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Dresden usually gets less rain in October than Zadar. Dresden gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dresden or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Dresden are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Dresden 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.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Dresden. In the winter, Dresden is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dresden in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In January, Dresden usually receives less rain than Zadar. Dresden gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dresden or Zadar in the Spring?

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

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

Dresden usually gets less rain in April than Zadar. Dresden gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Dresden