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

Should you visit Limerick or Zadar?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Limerick and Zadar can help you decide which place is right for you.

Limerick

Limerick is a outdoorsy, fun-filled, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zadar

Zadar is a vibrant, laid back, and relaxed town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Limerick and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Limerick or Zadar?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Zadar than Limerick. While Limerick is larger than Zadar, Zadar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Limerick is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its castle, old town, and outdoor activities. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting. It is also home to the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Limerick different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Limerick
Zadar

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Zadar and Limerick.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Limerick. The town is famous for King John's Castle as well as St. Mary's Cathedral, and St. John's Square and Cathedral.

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 Limerick or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Limerick
Zadar

Zadar is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Limerick offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a mix of traditional Irish restaurants and more modern international cuisine. Local specialties to try include Limerick Ham, Cahill's Whiskey Cheese, and Walnut Cheddar.

Is Limerick or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Limerick
Zadar

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find good options in both Limerick and Zadar.

If you're looking for night time activities Limerick has a few options to choose from. It's a student town so much of the nightlife scene centers around the student population. There are lively pubs and clubs around town so it's not hard to have a fun night out.

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 Limerick or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Limerick
Zadar

Zadar is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Limerick is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Zadar. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Limerick is not a resort destination.


Is Limerick or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Limerick
Zadar

Zadar is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Limerick is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Limerick is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Limerick or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Limerick
Zadar

Zadar is a great town for the beach. However, Limerick is not a beach destination.

Zadar is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Limerick is not a beach destination.

Is Limerick or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Limerick
Zadar

Zadar is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Limerick does not have a historic old town.

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.

Limerick does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Limerick or Zadar?

Limerick
Zadar

If you're looking to go shopping, Limerick and Zadar both offer plenty of good spots.

Limerick has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find a mix of brand name chains and independent boutiques in the city center. There are several major shopping streets in town including O'Connell Street, and the pedestrian streets of Bedford Row and Cruises Street.

Zadar is a great destination for 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 Limerick or Zadar Better for Families?

Limerick
Zadar

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Limerick or Zadar.

Limerick offers lots of family activities. Families will enjoy visiting King John's Castle but for kids who need a break from the sightseeing, there are kid-friendly activities around town like Curraghchase Forest Park and the Peoples Park. Families should also check out the Dreamland Fun Center. Museums like Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum are also fun for the whole family.

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 Limerick or Zadar Better for Couples?

Limerick
Zadar

Zadar is a great town for couples. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Zadar is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Limerick is a nice destination for couples. There are river cruises, kayaking, and nature to explore. Head to the Curraghchase Forest Park or any of the many beautiful parks around town. Couples can combine history with nature and enjoy a nice, romantic trip through Limerick.


Is Limerick or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Limerick
Zadar

Zadar is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Limerick is not known for backpackers.

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

Limerick is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in the area so it can be hard to find other likeminded travelers.

Is Limerick or Zadar Better for Students?

Limerick
Zadar

Zadar is a great town for its student-friendly activities. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Zadar is very popular with students. 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.

Limerick is a good city to visit for students. The city has a nice student scene with plenty of areas to explore.

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

Limerick
Zadar

Limerick and Zadar both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Limerick offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a city bus service that travels around town.

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


Is Limerick or Zadar a more walkable city?

Limerick
Zadar

Zadar is a great town for its ease of walking around. Also, Limerick is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Limerick is somewhat walkable. There are compact and walkable parts to the city that can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Limerick?

How long in Limerick or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Limerick 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 Limerick. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Zadar than Limerick. 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 Limerick. 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 Limerick 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.


  • How many days in Limerick or Zadar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Limerick 1-2 
    Zadar 1-2

One day in Limerick or Zadar?

In Limerick, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fun-filled 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.

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 Limerick or Zadar?

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

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

You'll find food and shopping around the outdoorsy destination of Limerick. 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 2-Week Tours from Dublin, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Zadar or Limerick?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Limerick is €108, while the average daily cost in Zadar is €89. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Limerick and Zadar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Limerick 49
    Zadar 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Limerick 98
    Zadar 102
Compare Hotels in Limerick and Zadar

Looking for a hotel in Limerick or Zadar? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Limerick


Hotels in Zadar


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Limerick Hotel Prices and Zadar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Limerick 40
    Zadar 9.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Limerick

Also for Limerick, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer between SHANNON & LIMERICK | Premium Vehicles: $136
  • Transfer - Shannon Airport to Limerick City (or reverse) - Premium Sedan: $158
  • Limerick Private Transfer from central Limerick to Shannon: $203
  • Private Transfer between SHANNON & ADARE | Premium Vehicles: $213
  • Private Transfer between CORK & LIMERICK | Premium Vehicles: $300
  • Transfer - Shannon Airport to Galway City (or reverse) - Premium Sedan: $300

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zadar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zadar:

  • Transfer Zadar - Zagreb: $741
  • Transfer Zagreb - Zadar: $664
  • From Private Transfer to Dubrovnik Airport: $609
  • Zadar Airport Private Transfer: Makarska/Tucepi/Baska Voda: $459
  • From Zagreb & Franjo Tudman Airport Private Transfer: $459
  • Plitvice Lakes: Transfer Tour with pro photographer: $428
  • From Plitvice Lakes Private Round-Trip Transfer: $398
  • private transfer from Trogir to Zadar airport/Zadar: $312
  • Private transfer (Taxi) - Zadar to Split: $284
  • Krka National Park Private Tour from Zadar with transfer to Split: $283
  • Private one way transfer from Zadar to Split: $276
  • Private One Way Transfer from Split to Zadar: $276

Is it cheaper to fly into Limerick or Zadar?

Prices for flights to both Zadar and Limerick change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Limerick 35
    Zadar 28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zadar

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zadar.

  • Small Group Cooking Class: $39
  • Private City Tour and Cooking Class: $96
  • Gourmet Sunset dinner on board: $218

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Limerick 17
    Zadar 19

Tours and Activities in Limerick

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Limerick.

  • Skip the Line: Hunt Museum Ticket: $14
  • Self Guided Bike Tour on the Limerick Greenway: $16
  • Limericks Lost Whiskey Walking Tour: $19
  • Skip the Line: Bunratty Castle and Folk Park Admission Ticket: $21
  • Cliffs of Moher Day Tour from Including The Wild Altanic Way: $43
  • Dingle Peninsula Day Tour from Including The Wild Altanic Way: $53
  • Ring of Kerry Day Tour from Including Killarney National Park: $53
  • Cliffs of Moher explorer day tour from Limerick. Guided.: $54
  • Guided eBike Tours on the Lough Derg Shore: $82
  • Angela's Ashes 1.5hrs Walking Tour: $142
  • Private Walking Tour of Limerick City: $142
  • Private Walking Tour of Adare: $272

Tours and Activities in Zadar

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zadar are as follows:

  • Panorama guided Zadar Eco Tuk Tuk tour: $53
  • Private boat tour to the islands of Zadar with snorkeling equipment: $240
  • Sunset boat Tour in Zadar: $44
  • Šibenik and Zadar private tour from Split or Trogir: $166
  • 2 Hour Quad ATV Mountain Adventure in Starigrad: $130
  • 2 Hour Sunset Boat Tour in Zadar Coast: $32
  • 3 Islands Boat and Snorkeling tour with Fruits and Prosecco: $43
  • 3-Hour Zadar Food Tasting Tour: $97
  • Adriatic Breeze - Kornati Speedboat and Sailing Tour: $338
  • Be a Local: Private Tour from Olive Harvest to Culinary Delight: $218
  • Boat Tour around Zadar Islands with snorkeling during half day excursion: $55
  • Daysailing & SUP experience: $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Limerick 12
    Zadar 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Zadar

Also in Zadar, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting, & Old Town Tour: $52
  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting, Boat Ride & Zadar Old Town: $53
  • Craft Gin and exclusive brandies in unique distillery: $60
  • Wine Tasting with Finger Food: $64
  • Private City and Wine Tour in Zadar with Eco Tuk Tuk: $98


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Limerick and Zadar, we can see that Limerick 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 Limerick would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Limerick 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 Limerick Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Limerick or Zadar?

Limerick has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Limerick 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 Limerick 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 Limerick or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Limerick during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Limerick for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Limerick is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Limerick average around 16°C (60°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Limerick often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Limerick gets 142 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Limerick usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Limerick gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Limerick 16°C (60°F) 
    Zadar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Limerick and Zadar. The autumn months attract visitors to Limerick because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

Limerick is much colder than Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Limerick averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. Limerick usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Limerick gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Limerick usually receives more rain than Zadar. Limerick gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Limerick 11°C (52°F) 
    Zadar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Limerick as well as Zadar. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Limerick this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Limerick is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Limerick in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Limerick often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Limerick gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Limerick usually gets more rain in January than Zadar. Limerick gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Limerick 6°C (42°F) 
    Zadar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Limerick or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Limerick are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Limerick for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Limerick is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Limerick average around 9°C (48°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Limerick usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Limerick gets 148 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Limerick usually receives less rain than Zadar. Limerick gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Limerick 9°C (48°F) 
    Zadar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Zadar and Limerick

Limerick Zadar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 7°C (45°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.5 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 16°C (60°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)