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

Should you visit Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a environmentally conscious, waterfront, and active city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

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.

Helsinki and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Zadar?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Zadar than Helsinki. While Helsinki is larger than Zadar, Zadar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zadar is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Helsinki is more popular for its museums, shopping, and impressive beauty. Helsinki is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting. Also, Zadar is famous for the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Helsinki different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Helsinki 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.

Helsinki offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

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 Helsinki or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zadar is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

The notable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Helsinki and Zadar.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Helsinki. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Zadar has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Helsinki or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is not a resort destination.

Is Helsinki or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a town with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Helsinki or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a very popular place for the beache. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is not a beach destination.

Is Helsinki or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is a very popular place for its old town. However, Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Zadar is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Zadar?

Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

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 Helsinki or Zadar Better for Families?

Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is a very kid-friendly city. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

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 Helsinki or Zadar Better for Couples?

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

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

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 Helsinki or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Zadar Better for Students?

Both Helsinki and Zadar are excellent destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

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

Helsinki 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.

Helsinki has some very good public transit options. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

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

Is Helsinki or Zadar a more walkable city?

Zadar is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Zadar is a very walkable town. The old town is particularly walkable and can easily be explored on foot in a few hours.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

For even more information, also check out Is Helsinki Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Helsinki or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Helsinki than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

In Helsinki, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this environmentally conscious destination offers. 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.

The beautiful town of Zadar offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Zadar?

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

Zadar is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zadar, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Zadar?

Helsinki is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Helsinki. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Zadar is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the active destination of Helsinki. 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 great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, 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 Helsinki and Zadar, we can see that Helsinki 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 Helsinki would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Helsinki 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 Helsinki Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Zadar?

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

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

Helsinki is much colder than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Helsinki this time of the year. In the summer, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Zadar in the Autumn?

Both Zadar and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the autumn for the shopping 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, Helsinki is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Helsinki in October average around 6°C (42°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

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

In October, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Zadar. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Helsinki or Zadar in the Winter?

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

Helsinki can be very cold during winter. In January, Helsinki is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around -6°C (21°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Zadar in the Spring?

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

The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. Helsinki is much colder than Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 3°C (37°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. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Zadar. Helsinki gets 41 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 Helsinki