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

Should you visit Mykonos 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 Mykonos 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.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a picturesque, postcard perfect, and glamourous Greek island. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Mykonos and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Zadar?

You'll generally find more things to do in Mykonos than Zadar. Mykonos is bigger than Zadar, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Mykonos is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Also, Mykonos is famous for the traditional windmills near Chora. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Mykonos different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mykonos
Zadar

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Mykonos and Zadar.

Mykonos offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.

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 Mykonos or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Zadar

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island 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, Mykonos is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

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 Mykonos or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Zadar

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Mykonos has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

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 Mykonos or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Zadar

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island to visit for its resorts. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Mykonos is a great choice. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

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.


Is Mykonos or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Zadar

Mykonos is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

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.

Is Mykonos or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Zadar

Mykonos and Zadar both offer superb beaches.

Many people visit Mykonos for it's beautiful beaches. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Zadar is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Is Mykonos or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Zadar

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island 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.

Mykonos offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

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 Mykonos or Zadar Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Zadar

Mykonos is not a good place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Zadar is not a hiking destination.

A few hiking trails can be found near Mykonos. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Zadar?

Mykonos
Zadar

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Mykonos make it a world-class shopping destination. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in 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 Mykonos or Zadar Better for Families?

Mykonos
Zadar

Zadar is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.


Is Mykonos or Zadar Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Zadar

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Mykonos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

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 Mykonos or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Zadar

Zadar is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zadar is a great town to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.

Is Mykonos or Zadar Better for Students?

Mykonos
Zadar

Zadar is a well-known place for students. However, Mykonos is not popular with 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.

Mykonos is not popular with students.


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

Mykonos
Zadar

Both Mykonos and Zadar offer notable public transit options.

Mykonos has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

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

Is Mykonos or Zadar a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Zadar

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Mykonos on foot. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get 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 Mykonos Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Mykonos or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Mykonos than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mykonos 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 Mykonos.


  • How many days in Mykonos or Zadar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Zadar 1-2

One day in Mykonos or Zadar?

In Mykonos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this party-oriented destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This Greek island 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 Mykonos or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mykonos. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. 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 Mykonos or Zadar?

Mykonos is a fun place to experience. In Mykonos, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Mykonos or Zadar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the postcard perfect destination of Mykonos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Zadar or Mykonos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €149, while the average daily cost in Zadar is €90. 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 Mykonos and Zadar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Zadar 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Zadar 102
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Zadar

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos 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 Mykonos


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: Mykonos Hotel Prices and Zadar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Zadar 9.60
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mykonos

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Mykonos:


  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    5.60
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • 24 Hour Private Transfer Service All Around Mykonos Island: $28
  • Delos Island: Roundtrip Boat Transfer from Mykonos Island: $28
  • Private Transfer Service in Mykonos: $33
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer (Mykonos Airport ToFrom Mykonos): $34
  • Private Transfer from Mykonos Port to Mykonos Airport(JMK): $36
  • Private Transfer from Tagoo to Mykonos Airport (JMK): $36
  • Private Transfer from Mykonos city hotels to Mykonos Cruise Port: $36
  • Private Transfer from Mykonos Airport(JMK) to Mykonos Cruise Port: $36
  • Private Transfer around Mykonos City: $40
  • Transfer Service: $43
  • Private Mykonos Airport Transfer: $44
  • Transfer Service in Mykonos: $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zadar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zadar:

  • Private Transfer from Borik Zadar to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $37
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Borik Zadar: $37
  • Private Transfer from Zadar city to Zadar Airport: $41
  • Private Transfer to/from Zadar Airport: $47
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport to Zadar : $50
  • Transfer from Zadar Airport to Zadar City: $50
  • Split Airport (SPU) to Zadar hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $55
  • Zadar hotels to Split Airport (SPU) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Transfer from Zadar airport to Vir: $64
  • Private Transfer from Biograd Na Moru to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $68
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Zadar City: $71
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Zadar Port: $71

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Zadar?

Prices for flights to both Zadar and Mykonos 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
    Mykonos 48
    Zadar 28
Typical Food Prices in Mykonos

Some typical examples of dining costs in Mykonos are as follows:


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    4.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mykonos

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

  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at the Mykonian Spiti: $71
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $102
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $109
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $110
  • 5 Hours Sunset Tour to Delos and Rhenia Island with Dinner : $144
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $163
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $166
  • Private Authentic Greek Brunch Cooking Class in Mykonos with a Local: $254
  • Private Food Tour & Wine Tasting In Tinos Island with a Local: $287
  • Private Cooking Class At The Home Of A Mykonian Family: $619

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: $98
  • Zadar Private City Tour and Cooking Class: $99
  • Cooking class and shellfishing with a local on the island of Preko: $206

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Zadar 19

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • Mykonian Farm Entrance Ticket : $11
  • Old Town Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Paddle Boat Experience: $16
  • Stand Up Paddle Boarding Experience in Mykonos: $33
  • 1-Hour Guided Snorkeling Adventure with Go Pro Pictures : $39
  • Mykonos Walking Tour: $42
  • From Ano Mera Farm Tour: $49
  • Guided Highlights Tour: $49
  • Super Paradise Beach: Wakeboarding Experience: $49
  • Private Kneeboarding Adventure in Mykonos: $50
  • Half-Day Highlights of Mykonos Tour: $50
  • Half-Day City Walking Tour and Island Bus Tour: $52

Tours and Activities in Zadar

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

  • Zadar historical guided tour: $16
  • Zadar Historical Guided Walking Tour: $17
  • Old Town Highlights Guided Walking Tour: $18
  • Group History Walking Tour in Zadar Old Town: $20
  • Sunset Boat Tour with a Glass of Prosecco: $21
  • Guided City Walking Tour: $22
  • The Ultimate Zadar Walking Tour: $22
  • Look Around Zadar - Don't Look Up: Cinematic and Musical Sunset Walking Tour: $22
  • Early Morning Walking Tour of the Old Town: $24
  • Old Town Evening Group Guided Walking Tour: $24
  • Zadar City Tour 120min Walk: $24
  • Evening Walking Tour of the Old Town: $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Zadar 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Mykonos

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

  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $74
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land : $75
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $81
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $83
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $130
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $130
  • Luxurious All-in-One Mykonos Party Tour with Wine Tasting: $165

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: $53
  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting, Boat Ride & Zadar Old Town: $53
  • Private City and Wine Tour in Zadar with Eco Tuk Tuk: $88


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


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Zadar?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos 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.