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

Should you visit Edinburgh or Zadar?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Edinburgh and Zadar can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a character-filled, vibrant, and gothic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and theater.

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.

Edinburgh and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Zadar?

You'll generally find more things to do in Edinburgh than Zadar. Edinburgh is bigger than Zadar, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Edinburgh is better known for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Zadar is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Edinburgh is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Edinburgh different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Edinburgh are among the most recognizable in the world. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Edinburgh or Zadar Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is a well-known place for its theatre productions. However, Zadar is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Zadar is not a theatre destination.

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

Zadar is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh offers plenty to do in the evening. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

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 Edinburgh or Zadar Better for Music?

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Zadar is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Edinburgh In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Zadar is not a live music destination.

Is Edinburgh or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Edinburgh is not a resort destination.

In Zadar, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Edinburgh is not a resort destination.

Is Edinburgh or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a town with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Edinburgh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Edinburgh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Edinburgh or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a very popular place for the beache. However, Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Zadar attract visitors from all over. 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.

Edinburgh is not a beach destination.

Is Edinburgh or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its old town. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

Edinburgh offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

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 Edinburgh or Zadar?

Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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 Edinburgh or Zadar Better for Families?

Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh or Zadar Better for Couples?

Both Edinburgh and Zadar are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Edinburgh makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Edinburgh. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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

Is Edinburgh or Zadar Better for Students?

Both Edinburgh and Zadar are excellent destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Edinburgh and Zadar.

Edinburgh has some public transit options. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Zadar, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 11 bus lines that travel around town.

Is Edinburgh or Zadar a more walkable city?

Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Edinburgh on foot. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Edinburgh or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Edinburgh than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Edinburgh, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

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

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

One day in Edinburgh or Zadar?

In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this character-filled 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Zadar. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zadar has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Zadar?

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

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant destination of Zadar. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Zadar?

Edinburgh is a fun place to experience. In Edinburgh, many people enjoy the museums and theater that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxed town of Zadar. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Zadar?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Edinburgh. 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 choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Zadar?

Edinburgh has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Zadar. Many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Zadar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Edinburgh is much colder than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the summer, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Zadar in the Autumn?

Both Zadar and Edinburgh are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Edinburgh is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Edinburgh in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Zadar. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Edinburgh during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Zadar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Edinburgh can be very cold during winter. In January, Edinburgh is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 3°C (38°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Zadar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Zadar. The spring months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

Edinburgh is much colder than Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 7°C (45°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. Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Edinburgh usually receives less rain than Zadar. Edinburgh gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Edinburgh