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

Should you visit Imperia or Zadar?

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

Should I visit Imperia or Zadar? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Imperia

Imperia is a charming, undiscovered, and authentic town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zadar

Zadar is a laid back, relaxed, and coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Imperia and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Imperia or Zadar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zadar. Although Imperia and Zadar are both popular with visitors, Zadar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Imperia is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its access to the Ligurian coastline. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting. It is also home to the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Imperia different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Imperia or Zadar.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Imperia. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.

Zadar is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Imperia or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zadar is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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 Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Imperia or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Imperia and Zadar.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

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 Imperia or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is notable for its resorts. However, Imperia is not a resort destination.

Zadar is known as a popular and fun resort destination. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Imperia is not a resort destination.

Is Imperia or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Zadar has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Imperia or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is notable for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

Zadar is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Imperia or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

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.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Imperia or Zadar?

Both Imperia and Zadar are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Imperia to go shopping. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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 Imperia or Zadar Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Imperia or Zadar.

Imperia is a family-friendly place to visit. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Zadar is a family-friendly town. 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 Imperia or Zadar Better for Couples?

Zadar is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Zadar is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Imperia or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is notable for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Imperia or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is notable for students. However, Imperia is not popular with students.

Zadar is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. 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.

Imperia is not popular with students.

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

Both Imperia and Zadar offer good public transit options.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

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

Is Imperia or Zadar a more walkable city?

Zadar is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Imperia?

How long in Imperia or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Imperia or Zadar to fill your time. In our opinion, Zadar has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Zadar than Imperia. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

In Imperia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. This town 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 Imperia or Zadar?

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

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

You'll find food and shopping around the undiscovered destination of Imperia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, 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 Imperia and Zadar, we can see that Imperia 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 Imperia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Imperia 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 Imperia Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Imperia or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 81% larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Imperia 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 Imperia 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 Imperia or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Imperia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Imperia because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

In July, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Zadar. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 25°C (76°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Imperia. Imperia usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Imperia gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Imperia usually receives less rain than Zadar. Imperia gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Imperia or Zadar in the Autumn?

Both Zadar and Imperia during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Imperia this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Imperia is around the same temperature as Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Imperia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Imperia often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Imperia gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets more rain in October than Zadar. Imperia gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Imperia or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Imperia and Zadar. Many travelers come to Imperia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zadar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Imperia is a little warmer than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Imperia in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Imperia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar during winter. Imperia gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Imperia usually receives less rain than Zadar. Imperia gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Imperia or Zadar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Imperia as well as Zadar. Many visitors come to Imperia in the spring for the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Zadar. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 15°C (58°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the spring, Imperia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Imperia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Zadar. Imperia gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Imperia