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

Should you visit Heraklion 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 Heraklion 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.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a historic, vibrant, and accessible city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

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.

Heraklion and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Zadar?

You'll generally find more things to do in Heraklion than Zadar. Heraklion is bigger than Zadar, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Heraklion is better known for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Zadar is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Heraklion is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Heraklion is famous for The Palace of Knossos. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Heraklion different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Heraklion 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.

Heraklion offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

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 Heraklion or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Zadar both to be excellent destinations.

Heraklion has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

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.

Is Heraklion or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion 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.

Heraklion offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

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 Heraklion or Zadar Better for Resorts?

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

Heraklion is not a resort destination.

Is Heraklion or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Heraklion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heraklion or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Both Heraklion and Zadar are considered to be excellent beach destinations.

The beaches at Heraklion attract visitors from all over. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

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.

Is Heraklion or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is a very popular place for its old town. However, Heraklion 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.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Zadar?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Heraklion and Zadar.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Heraklion. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Many visitors go to Zadar to go shopping. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Is Heraklion or Zadar Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Zadar are notable to visit with kids.

Heraklion is a family-friendly city. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.

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.

Is Heraklion or Zadar Better for Couples?

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

Heraklion makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

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 Heraklion or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Zadar are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

Zadar is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

Is Heraklion or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

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

Heraklion has some public transit options. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

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 Heraklion or Zadar a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Zadar are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Heraklion is a very walkable city. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

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 Heraklion Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Zadar?

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

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

In Heraklion, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Heraklion or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 coastal 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 Heraklion or Zadar?

Heraklion is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Heraklion. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back 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 Heraklion or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Heraklion. Most people come for the beaches. 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 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, 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 Heraklion and Zadar, we can see that Heraklion 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 Heraklion would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Heraklion 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 Heraklion Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Zadar?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 92% larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion 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 Heraklion 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 Heraklion or Zadar in the Summer?

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

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°C (78°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 Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Zadar. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Zadar in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Heraklion is a little warmer than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Zadar. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Heraklion 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.

In January, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Zadar. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Zadar in the Spring?

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

Heraklion is around the same temperature as Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°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. In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Zadar. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Heraklion