A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kiel vs. Zadar for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Kiel or Zadar?

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

Should I visit Kiel 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.

Kiel

Kiel is a waterfront, maritime, and authentic 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 coastal, vibrant, and laid back town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kiel and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kiel or Zadar?

You'll generally find more things to do in Kiel than Zadar. Kiel is bigger than Zadar, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Kiel is better known for its big city activities, while Zadar is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Kiel is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its maritime history and its role as the host of the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival. Also, Kiel is famous for The Kiel Castle. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Kiel different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Kiel and Zadar.

Kiel offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find museums and landmarks that focus on the city's maritime past. These include Submarine U-995, the Naval Memorial, Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel, and Leuchtturm Bülk.

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 Kiel or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zadar is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zadar. 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.

Kiel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The local cuisine, Schleswig-Holstein cuisine, is similar to much of Germany in that the dishes are hearty and filling. There are many British and Scandenavian influences. Local dishes that you should try include Kieler Sprotte (herring-like fish), Schnüüsch (veggie stew), and Mehlbüdel (bread dumpling with pork belly)

Is Kiel or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Kiel and Zadar.

Kiel has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is low key and relaxing. You can sip a cocktail at a trendy bar or enjoy a beer on a floating beach bar.

If you're looking for night time activities Zadar has a few options to choose from. 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 Kiel or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is well known for its resorts. However, Kiel 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.

Kiel is not a resort destination.

Is Kiel or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kiel 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.

Kiel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kiel or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is well known for the beache. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Many people head to Kiel to enjoy the beach. The city has several sandy beaches with coastal dunes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Kiel or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is well known for its old town. However, Kiel 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.

Kiel does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kiel or Zadar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zadar and Kiel.

Kiel offers some nice shopping areas. There's a mix of retail shopping centers and pedestrian shopping streets like Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

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 Kiel or Zadar Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kiel or Zadar.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kiel. The U-Boot U 995 is a museum on an actual submarine. Kids will love exploring this unique setting. The Kiel Botanical Gardens is another beautiful and fun place to explore. Also make sure you check out the city's aquarium, the Zoologisches Museum, and Computermuseum der Fachhochschule Kiel.

Zadar offers lots of family activities. 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 Kiel or Zadar Better for Couples?

Zadar is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Kiel is a good city for couples to visit. The old port city sits along Germany’s Baltic Sea and couples can enjoy learning about the city's maritime past and shopping along the shopping streets of Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Kiel or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is well known for backpackers. However, Kiel is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Kiel is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not on the main backpacker circuit, there is a hostel or two in town.

Is Kiel or Zadar Better for Students?

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

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.

It's common for students to visit Kiel. Students can enjoy the city's beaches and lively nightlife scene.

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

Zadar is a popular place for its public transit. However, Kiel is not particularly known for times when 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kiel. There is a bus system around town.

Is Kiel or Zadar a more walkable city?

Zadar is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Kiel is a somewhat walkable city. Some parts of Kiel are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Kiel?

How long in Kiel or Zadar?

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

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

In Kiel, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this off-the-beaten-path destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Zadar. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Kiel or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kiel. 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 fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Kiel or Zadar?

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

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the laid back destination of Zadar. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kiel or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the maritime destination of Kiel. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The coastal town of Zadar offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Kiel or Zadar?

Kiel has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Kiel 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 Kiel 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 Kiel or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kiel and Zadar. The summer months attract visitors to Kiel because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

Kiel is much colder than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Kiel averages around 16°C (61°F) in July, and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In Kiel, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kiel usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Kiel gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kiel usually receives more rain than Zadar. Kiel gets 88 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kiel or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kiel as well as Zadar. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kiel this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Kiel is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kiel in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the autumn, Kiel often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Kiel gets 102 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Kiel usually gets less rain in October than Zadar. Kiel gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kiel or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Kiel are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Kiel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Kiel. In January, Kiel is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Kiel average around 0°C (33°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Kiel usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Kiel gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Both Zadar and Kiel during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Kiel in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Kiel is much colder than Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Kiel averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Kiel often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Kiel gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Kiel usually gets less rain in April than Zadar. Kiel gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Kiel