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

Should you visit Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a historic, fun-filled, and cultural 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Dusseldorf and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dusseldorf or Zadar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dusseldorf than Zadar. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Dusseldorf is very popular for its big city activities, while Zadar attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Dusseldorf is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. It is also well known for Altstadt (the Old Town). Zadar is famous for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Dusseldorf different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Dusseldorf and Zadar have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Dusseldorf is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

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.

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

Both Dusseldorf and Zadar offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Dusseldorf makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Zadar has a huge number of terrific 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 Dusseldorf or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Dusseldorf or Zadar has a better nightlife scene.

Dusseldorf has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

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 Dusseldorf or Zadar Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Zadar to choose from. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Dusseldorf is not a resort destination.

Is Dusseldorf or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dusseldorf or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a great destination for its beaches. However, Dusseldorf is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Zadar for it's beautiful 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.

Dusseldorf is not a beach destination.

Is Dusseldorf or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Dusseldorf. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

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 the Shopping Better in Dusseldorf or Zadar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zadar and Dusseldorf.

Dusseldorf is a great destination for shopping. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

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.

Is Dusseldorf or Zadar Better for Families?

Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is a very kid-friendly city. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

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 Dusseldorf or Zadar Better for Couples?

Dusseldorf and Zadar both superb destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Dusseldorf frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

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 Dusseldorf or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Zadar. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Dusseldorf. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Is Dusseldorf or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is a great destination for students. However, Dusseldorf 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.

Dusseldorf is not popular with students.

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

Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf is top-notch. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

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

Is Dusseldorf or Zadar a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf and Zadar both are superb when exploring on foot.

Dusseldorf is very walkable. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

Zadar is a very walkable city. 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 Dusseldorf Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Dusseldorf?

How long in Dusseldorf or Zadar?

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

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

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

In Dusseldorf, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the coastal 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 Dusseldorf or Zadar?

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

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 Dusseldorf or Zadar?

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

You'll find food and shopping around the fun-filled destination of Dusseldorf. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, The Best One-Week (7-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 Dusseldorf and Zadar, we can see that Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dusseldorf or Zadar?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf 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 Dusseldorf or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dusseldorf and Zadar. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Dusseldorf is cooler than Zadar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dusseldorf in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Zadar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. Dusseldorf usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Dusseldorf gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dusseldorf usually receives more rain than Zadar. Dusseldorf gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dusseldorf as well as Zadar. Many travelers come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Dusseldorf is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Dusseldorf average around 12°C (53°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the autumn, Dusseldorf often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Dusseldorf gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets less rain in October than Zadar. Dusseldorf gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Zadar in the Winter?

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

Dusseldorf can get quite cold in the winter. Dusseldorf is much colder than Zadar in the winter. The daily temperature in Dusseldorf averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Dusseldorf usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Dusseldorf gets 45 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dusseldorf usually receives less rain than Zadar. Dusseldorf gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dusseldorf or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Dusseldorf during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Dusseldorf is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dusseldorf in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Zadar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Dusseldorf often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Dusseldorf gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Dusseldorf usually gets less rain in April than Zadar. Dusseldorf gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Dusseldorf