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

Should you visit Lyon or Zadar?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lyon or Zadar, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lyon

Lyon is a cultural, quaint, and authentic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zadar

Zadar is a laid back, relaxed, and coastal 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.

Lyon and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Zadar?

You'll generally find more things to do in Lyon than Zadar. Lyon is bigger than Zadar, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Lyon is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Zadar is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Lyon is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Lyon different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lyon are among the most recognizable in the world. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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 Lyon or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lyon is an amazing city 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, Lyon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Lyon 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.

Lyon offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

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 Lyon or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Lyon is not a resort destination.

Zadar is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Lyon is not a resort destination.

Is Lyon or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Lyon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Zadar has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Lyon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lyon or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a well-known place for the beache. However, Lyon is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Zadar. 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.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Lyon or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is an amazing city 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.

Lyon offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

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 the Shopping Better in Lyon or Zadar?

Lyon 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.

Lyon is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

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 Lyon or Zadar Better for Families?

Lyon is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lyon is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Zadar is a family-friendly city. 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 Lyon or Zadar Better for Couples?

Lyon and Zadar are both very good to visit as a couple.

Lyon is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

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 Lyon or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Lyon and Zadar are very good destinations for backpackers.

Lyon is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and 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.

Is Lyon or Zadar Better for Students?

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Lyon. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

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.

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

Lyon is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Lyon is top-notch. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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

Is Lyon or Zadar a more walkable city?

Lyon and Zadar both are very good when exploring on foot.

Lyon is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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 Lyon Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lyon or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lyon than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Lyon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

Families should spend more time in Lyon than Zadar. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Lyon, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lyon than Zadar 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 Lyon.

One day in Lyon or Zadar?

Each neighborhood in Lyon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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 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 Lyon or Zadar?

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

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 Lyon or Zadar?

Lyon is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Lyon has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the vibrant 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 Lyon or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic big city of Lyon. 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.

The vibrant 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week 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 Lyon and Zadar, we can see that Lyon 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 Lyon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lyon 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 Lyon Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Zadar?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Lyon 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 Lyon 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 Lyon or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lyon in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Lyon is cooler than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, 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 Lyon. Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lyon usually receives more rain than Zadar. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lyon or Zadar in the Autumn?

Both Zadar and Lyon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lyon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Zadar because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lyon is cooler than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lyon in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Zadar. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and Zadar. The winter months attract visitors to Lyon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

The weather in Lyon can be very cold. In January, Lyon is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 4°C (39°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lyon usually receives less rain than Zadar. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lyon or Zadar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lyon as well as Zadar. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lyon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Lyon is cooler than Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the spring, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Zadar. Lyon 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 Lyon