A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Rochelle vs. Zadar for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit La Rochelle or Zadar?

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

Should I visit La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a laid-back, quaint, and charming coastal town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zadar

Zadar is a vibrant, laid back, and relaxed 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.

La Rochelle and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Rochelle or Zadar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Rochelle. Although La Rochelle and Zadar are roughly the same size, La Rochelle has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Rochelle is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm, while Zadar is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. La Rochelle is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting. Also, La Rochelle is famous for The Old Port. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is La Rochelle different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Rochelle or Zadar?

La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

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 La Rochelle or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Rochelle is an amazing coastal town to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, La Rochelle is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

Zadar has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Is La Rochelle or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is notable in both La Rochelle and Zadar.

If you're looking for night time activities La Rochelle has a few options to choose from. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 La Rochelle or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is great for its luxury resorts. However, La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle is not a resort destination.

Is La Rochelle or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

La Rochelle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Rochelle or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is great for the beache. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town 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 La Rochelle to enjoy the beach. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Is La Rochelle or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

La Rochelle is an amazing coastal town to visit for its old town. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

La Rochelle offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

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.

Is La Rochelle or Zadar Better for Hiking?

La Rochelle is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zadar is not a hiking destination.

La Rochelle is a good destination for hiking. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Rochelle or Zadar?

If you're looking to go shopping, La Rochelle and Zadar both offer plenty of notable spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting La Rochelle. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

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 La Rochelle or Zadar Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either La Rochelle or Zadar.

La Rochelle offers lots of family activities. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Zadar is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 La Rochelle or Zadar Better for Couples?

La Rochelle is an amazing coastal town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

La Rochelle makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

Zadar makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 La Rochelle or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

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

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Is La Rochelle or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for 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.

La Rochelle is a good coastal town to visit for students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

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

La Rochelle and Zadar both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While La Rochelle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

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

Is La Rochelle or Zadar a more walkable city?

La Rochelle and Zadar are high quality when it comes to walkability.

La Rochelle is a very walkable coastal town. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be explored on foot.

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 La Rochelle Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or La Rochelle?

How long in La Rochelle or Zadar?

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

Couples should spend more time in La Rochelle than Zadar. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in La Rochelle that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zadar than La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle or Zadar?

Even though La Rochelle is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This coastal town 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the relaxed town of Zadar. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in La Rochelle or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Rochelle. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal destination of Zadar. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in La Rochelle or Zadar?

La Rochelle is a fun place to experience. La Rochelle is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The relaxed town of Zadar offers museums and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in La Rochelle or Zadar?

La Rochelle is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Zadar. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

Which is Bigger, La Rochelle or Zadar?

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

Both Zadar and La Rochelle during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to La Rochelle because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

La Rochelle is cooler than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in La Rochelle averages around 20°C (67°F) in July, and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in La Rochelle. In the summer, La Rochelle often gets less sunshine than Zadar. La Rochelle gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

La Rochelle usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. La Rochelle gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both La Rochelle and Zadar. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, La Rochelle is cooler than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in La Rochelle in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. La Rochelle usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. La Rochelle gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Rochelle usually receives less rain than Zadar. La Rochelle gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to La Rochelle as well as Zadar. Many travelers come to La Rochelle for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Zadar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, La Rochelle is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in La Rochelle average around 7°C (44°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, La Rochelle often gets less sunshine than Zadar. La Rochelle gets 72 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

La Rochelle usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Zadar. La Rochelle gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and La Rochelle are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to La Rochelle in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

La Rochelle is cooler than Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in La Rochelle averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. La Rochelle usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. La Rochelle gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Rochelle usually receives less rain than Zadar. La Rochelle gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and La Rochelle