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

Should you visit Hamburg or Zadar?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Hamburg and Zadar can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a energetic, cultural, and vibrant port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

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.

Hamburg and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hamburg or Zadar?

Both Zadar and Hamburg have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Hamburg is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Zadar is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Hamburg is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Hamburg different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hamburg 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.

Hamburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's most famous district is the port area, which has a number of cultural sights and a pedestrian trail. There are also many museums and architectural landmarks around town.

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 Hamburg or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zadar is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Hamburg 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 Hamburg. The city has a mix of cosmopolitan restaurants and traditional places where you can enjoy a classic German dish like currywurst or labskaus (a type of stew).

Is Hamburg or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg 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.

Hamburg offers plenty to do in the evening. The city is often overlooked, but it's nightlife scene is actually among the best. There are techno concerts, music festivals, and nightclubs that appeal to all personalities.

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 Hamburg or Zadar Better for Music?

Hamburg is an amazing port 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 Hamburg The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Zadar is not a live music destination.

Is Hamburg or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is well known for its resorts. However, Hamburg is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Zadar. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Hamburg is not a resort destination.

Is Hamburg or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hamburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Hamburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hamburg or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is well known for the beach. However, Hamburg is not a beach destination.

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.

Hamburg is not a beach destination.

Is Hamburg or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

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.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Zadar?

Hamburg 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.

Hamburg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

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 Hamburg or Zadar Better for Families?

Hamburg 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.

Hamburg is a very kid-friendly port city. The city has a surprising number of opportunities to see wildlife nearby including a zoo and a wildlife park just outside of town. The city also has great playgrounds that are fun for kids who need a break from sightseeing.

Zadar is a family-friendly port 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 Hamburg or Zadar Better for Couples?

Zadar is well known for couples. Also, Hamburg 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.

Hamburg is a nice destination for couples. Romantic activities in town include taking a boat ride or harbor cruise or grabbing a cocktail at one of the city's many bars.

Is Hamburg or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is well known for backpackers. Also, Hamburg 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Hamburg. Many backpackers overlook the city, but there are a number of good hostels and a relaxing vibe that makes for a nice visit.

Is Hamburg or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is well known for students. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Hamburg. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.

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

Hamburg is a well-known place 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.

Hamburg has some very good public transit options. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

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

Is Hamburg or Zadar a more walkable city?

Hamburg and Zadar both are great when exploring on foot.

Hamburg is a very walkable destination. Most tourist areas can easily be explored 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 Hamburg Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Zadar?

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

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

In Hamburg, many people enjoy the live music and food that this energetic destination offers. Lots of people come for the live music. This port 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 Hamburg or Zadar?

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

Hamburg is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Hamburg. Lots of people come for the live music. 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 Hamburg or Zadar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Hamburg. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. 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 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week 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 Hamburg and Zadar, we can see that Hamburg 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 Hamburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hamburg 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 Hamburg Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Zadar?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg 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 Hamburg 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 Hamburg or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Zadar. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hamburg is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 17°C (62°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 Hamburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Zadar. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hamburg or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Zadar. The autumn months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

Hamburg is much colder than Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 10°C (50°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, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets less rain in October than Zadar. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hamburg or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Hamburg in the winter. In the winter, Hamburg is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hamburg in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Zadar. Hamburg 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 Hamburg or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Hamburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Hamburg is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 8°C (46°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets less rain in April than Zadar. Hamburg 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 Hamburg