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

Should you visit Manchester 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 Manchester and Zadar can help you decide which place is right for you.

Manchester

Manchester is a dynamic, diverse, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Zadar

Zadar is a vibrant, laid back, and relaxed town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Manchester and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Manchester or Zadar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Manchester than Zadar. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Manchester is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Zadar attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Manchester is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club. It is also well known for The National Football Museum. Zadar is famous for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Manchester different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Manchester 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.

Manchester offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

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 Manchester or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Manchester and Zadar offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Manchester. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

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.

Is Manchester or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Manchester 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.

Manchester offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

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 Manchester or Zadar Better for Music?

Manchester is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Zadar is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Manchester is very popular with diverse venues. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Zadar is not a live music destination.

Is Manchester or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is great for its luxury resorts. However, Manchester 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.

Manchester is not a resort destination.

Is Manchester or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Manchester 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.

Manchester is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Manchester or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is great for its beaches. However, Manchester 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.

Manchester is not a beach destination.

Is Manchester or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is great for its historic old town. However, Manchester 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.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Manchester or Zadar?

Manchester 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.

Manchester is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

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 Manchester or Zadar Better for Families?

Manchester 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.

Manchester is a very kid-friendly city. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

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 Manchester or Zadar Better for Couples?

Both Manchester and Zadar are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Manchester is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

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 Manchester or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Zadar is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

It's common for backpackers to visit Manchester. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

Is Manchester or Zadar Better for Students?

For students, both Manchester and Zadar are great places to visit.

Manchester is very popular with students. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

Zadar is a great city to visit as a student. 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 Manchester or Zadar Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Manchester is a well-known place 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.

Manchester has some very good public transit options. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

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

Is Manchester or Zadar a more walkable city?

Zadar is great for its walkability. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Zadar is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable and can easily be explored on foot in a few hours.

Manchester is a somewhat walkable place. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Manchester?

How long in Manchester or Zadar?

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

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

Each neighborhood in Manchester has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant town of Zadar, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zadar, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Manchester or Zadar?

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

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Zadar, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Manchester or Zadar?

Manchester is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the big city destination of Manchester. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Zadar, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Manchester or Zadar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural big city of Manchester. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, 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 Manchester and Zadar, we can see that Manchester 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 Manchester would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Manchester 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 Manchester Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Manchester or Zadar?

Manchester has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Manchester during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Manchester for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Manchester is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Manchester in July average around 16°C (62°F), and Zadar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Manchester often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Manchester gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Manchester gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Manchester and Zadar. The autumn months attract visitors to Manchester because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

In October, Manchester is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 11°C (52°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Manchester gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Manchester usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Manchester gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Manchester or Zadar in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Manchester in the winter. Manchester is much colder than Zadar in the winter. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Manchester often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Manchester gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Manchester gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Zadar in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Manchester is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Manchester in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Zadar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Manchester gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Manchester usually receives less rain than Zadar. Manchester gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Manchester