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

Should you visit Lucerne or Zadar?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lucerne and Zadar. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a scenic, active, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. 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.

Lucerne and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Zadar?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lucerne than Zadar. While Zadar is larger than Lucerne, Lucerne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lucerne is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Zadar is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Lucerne is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips. It is also home to The Chapel Bridge. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

The Chapel Bridge

How is Lucerne different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lucerne 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.

Lucerne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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 Lucerne or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zadar is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Lucerne or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Lucerne 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.

Lucerne offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

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 Lucerne or Zadar Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Zadar to choose from. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Lucerne is not a resort destination.

Is Lucerne or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Lucerne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lucerne or Zadar Better for Beaches?

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

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.

Lucerne is not a beach destination.

Is Lucerne or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the superb old town areas in both Lucerne and Zadar.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Lucerne or Zadar?

Lucerne is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

Lucerne is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

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 Lucerne or Zadar Better for Families?

Both Lucerne and Zadar are good family-friendly destinations.

Lucerne offers lots of family activities. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

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 Lucerne or Zadar Better for Couples?

Lucerne and Zadar both superb destinations for a couple.

Lucerne is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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.

Is Lucerne or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

Many students visit 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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

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

While Lucerne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

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

Is Lucerne or Zadar a more walkable city?

Zadar is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Zadar?

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

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

In Lucerne, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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 Lucerne or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. 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.

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 Lucerne or Zadar?

Lucerne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lucerne. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Lucerne or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Lucerne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, 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 Lucerne and Zadar, we can see that Lucerne 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 Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne 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 Lucerne Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Lucerne during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lucerne is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 21°C (70°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lucerne. In the summer, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Zadar. Many travelers come to Lucerne for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zadar in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Lucerne is cooler than Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 13°C (56°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. Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lucerne usually receives less rain than Zadar. Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Zadar. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Zadar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lucerne can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Lucerne is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lucerne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lucerne for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Lucerne is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 12°C (53°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Zadar. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Lucerne