A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Messina vs. Zadar for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Messina or Zadar?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Messina and Zadar can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Messina

Messina is a bustling, local, and historic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zadar

Zadar is a coastal, vibrant, and laid back town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Messina and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Zadar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Messina than Zadar. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Messina is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Zadar attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Messina is more touristy than Zadar and is known for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry. It is also well known for Piazza del Duomo. Zadar is famous for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Messina different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Messina and Zadar have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Messina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

Zadar offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Messina or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zadar is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zadar makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Messina or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Messina 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.

Messina offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

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 Messina or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is well known for its resorts. However, Messina is not a resort destination.

In Zadar, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Messina is not a resort destination.

Is Messina or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a town with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Messina or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is well known for its beaches. However, Messina is not particularly known for the beache.

The beaches at Zadar attract visitors from all over. 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.

You can check out the beach in Messina. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Is Messina or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is well known for its historic old town. However, Messina does not have a historic old town.

Zadar is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Zadar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zadar and Messina.

Messina is a great destination for shopping. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Zadar. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Is Messina or Zadar Better for Families?

Messina 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.

Messina is a very kid-friendly port city. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

Zadar is a family-friendly port 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 Messina or Zadar Better for Couples?

Zadar is well known for romance. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Zadar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Messina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Messina or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is well known for backpackers. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Zadar. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

Plenty of backpackers visit Messina. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Is Messina or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is well known for students. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

It's common for students to visit Messina. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Messina and Zadar.

You'll find some public transit in Messina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

While Zadar offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are 11 bus lines that travel around town.

Is Messina or Zadar a more walkable city?

Messina and Zadar both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Messina is very walkable. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

Zadar is a very walkable port city. 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 Messina Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Messina?

How long in Messina or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Messina or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Messina than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Messina, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

In Messina, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this bustling destination offers. This port 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.

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 Messina or Zadar?

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

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 Messina or Zadar?

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

You'll find food and shopping around the bustling destination of Messina. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, 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 Messina and Zadar, we can see that Messina 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 Messina would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Messina 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 Messina Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Messina or Zadar?

Messina has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Messina 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 Messina 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 Messina or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Messina and Zadar. Many travelers come to Messina for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zadar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Messina is around the same temperature as Zadar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Messina in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Zadar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In Messina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Messina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar during summer. Messina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Messina usually receives less rain than Zadar. Messina gets 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Messina or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Messina as well as Zadar. Many visitors come to Messina in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Messina is generally a little warmer than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 21°C (69°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the autumn, Messina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Messina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Messina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Messina usually gets more rain in October than Zadar. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Messina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Zadar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Messina is a little warmer than Zadar in the winter. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Messina usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Messina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Messina. In January, Messina usually receives more rain than Zadar. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Messina or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Messina during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Messina because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

In the spring, Messina is around the same temperature as Zadar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Messina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Zadar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Messina. In the spring, Messina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Messina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Messina usually gets less rain in April than Zadar. Messina gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Messina