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

Should you visit Odense 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 Odense 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.

Odense

Odense is a beautiful, historic, and European city. And you can't forget about the nightlife and food. See Odense travel costs.

Zadar

Zadar is a laid back, relaxed, and coastal town. With stunning beauty, Zadar attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Zadar travel costs.

Odense and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Odense or Zadar?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Zadar than Odense. While Odense is larger than Zadar, Zadar has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Zadar is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Odense is known for its nightlife. Odense is popular for Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting. It is also home to the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Odense different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Odense does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Odense does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Odense or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Odense is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Zadar is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Odense. You'll find local restaurants serving local favorites such as smoked salmon. You'll also find burger joints and international options such as sushi.

Is Odense or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Odense
Zadar

Odense 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.

Odense offers plenty to do in the evening. You'll find a number of bars and clubs around town. Many are conveniently close together so you can hit up several places in one night. Start your night at a pub before heading out dancing in the club a few hours later.

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 Odense or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is notable for its resorts. However, Odense 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.

Odense is not a resort destination.


Is Odense or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Odense 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.

Odense is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Odense or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is notable for the beach. However, Odense 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.

Odense is not a beach destination.

Is Odense or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Odense does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Odense does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Odense or Zadar?

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Odense is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Zadar to go shopping. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Odense is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Odense or Zadar More Beautiful?

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Odense is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Zadar attracts visitors from all around. It's a charming medieval town that is at its most beautiful during the spectacular sunsets.

Odense is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Odense or Zadar Better for Families?

Odense
Zadar

Odense 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.

Odense is a very kid-friendly city. As the home of Hans Christian Andersen, this town is a child's playhouse. You can visit the H.C. Andersen House, which will bring his fairytale mind to life. The city also has more than 200 playgrounds, an amazing zoo, and the Funen Village, which is an open air museum. There's also a castle to explore and paddle boating on the water.

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 Odense or Zadar Better for Couples?

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is notable for couples. However, Odense is a mediocre city for romance.

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.

Odense is not the best destination for a couple to visit. It's a charming city with a lot of green space and paddle boating on the water, but it lacks some of the romance that you find in many European cities.

Is Odense or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is notable for backpackers. However, Odense is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Odense is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a hostel or two in town, but most backpackers don't make the time to visit this off-the-beaten-path destination.

Is Odense or Zadar Better for Students?

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is notable for students. Also, Odense is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Odense. It's a charming and friendly city that makes a fun place to learn and live. There's a fascinating culture and a number of things to do.


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

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is a good destination for its public transit. However, Odense does not have public transit.

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

Odense does not have public transit.

Is Odense or Zadar a more walkable city?

Odense
Zadar

Zadar is notable for its ease of walking around. However, Odense is not a walkable destination.

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

Odense is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Odense?

How long in Odense or Zadar?

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

Families should spend more time in Zadar than Odense. 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 Odense. 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 Odense 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.


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

One day in Odense or Zadar?

In Odense, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this historic destination offers. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Zadar. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Odense or Zadar?

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

Zadar is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Odense or Zadar?

Odense is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Odense. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zadar. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Odense or Zadar?

You'll find food and nightlife around the progressive destination of Odense. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Zadar. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Copenhagen, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Zadar or Odense?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Odense is $214, while the average daily cost in Zadar is $125. 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 Odense and Zadar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Odense $86
    Zadar $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Odense $172
    Zadar $116
Compare Hotels in Odense and Zadar

Looking for a hotel in Odense 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 Odense


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: Odense Hotel Prices and Zadar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Odense $47
    Zadar $11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zadar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zadar:

  • Modern bus transfer between Dubrovnik and Zadar: $52
  • Plitvice Lakes from Round-Trip Transfer: $53
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Hotels to Zadar Airport: $54
  • Zadar Airport to Zadar City Private Transfer: $56
  • Zrmanja River Kayaking, with optional transfer from Zadar: $65
  • Private Transfer from Zadar City to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $66
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Port to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $66
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Borik Zadar: $66
  • Transfer From Zadar Airport to Town Zadar: $66
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Biograd Na Moru: $73
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Zadar Port: $84
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Zadar City: $94

Is it cheaper to fly into Odense or Zadar?

Prices for flights to both Zadar and Odense 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
    Odense $95
    Zadar $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zadar

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

  • Golden Hour Cruise RIB Tour Island Dinner Stop & Swim: $41
  • Sunset Cruise Tour with Island Dinner & Swiming Stop: $47
  • Zadar City Market Food Tour: $51
  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with 3-Course Meal: $88
  • Private Cooking Class: $140

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Odense $32
    Zadar $22

Tours and Activities in Odense

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

  • Craft Beer Walking Tour: $62
  • Odense Private Guided Walking Tour: $381

Tours and Activities in Zadar

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

  • Zadar city tour: Be Local by Šušur: $5.83
  • TOP Zadar : Private Guided Tour with your mobile: $12
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Zadar's Medieval Heart: $12
  • Zadar Walking Tour sponsored by Gligora Cheese and deli.: $16
  • Zadar Walking Tour sponsored by Gligora Cheese and deli: $18
  • From Plitvice Lakes Day Tour: $18
  • Old Town Walking Tour: $18
  • Zadar highlights - Zadar discovery Short tour: $18
  • Guided Beer Tasting Experience in Bibinje: $18
  • Zadar Old Town Walking Tour: $18
  • Zadar Old Town Guided Walking Tour by Šušur: $18
  • Sunset boat tour with champagne: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Odense $24
    Zadar $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Zadar

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

  • Brewtal Craft Brewery Meet the Brewer and Taste Beers: $35
  • Guided Speedboat Tour with Food, Oil & Wine Tasting: $41
  • Guided Speedboat Tour with Organic Food, Oil & Wine Tasting: $41
  • Guided Pub Crawl with Welcome Shots and VIP Entry: $61
  • Craft Gin and exclusive brandies in unique distillery: $77
  • City Tour with Brewery Visit and Beer Tasting: $92
  • City and Wine Tour in Zadar with Eco Tuk Tuk: $106
  • Private Island Hopping & Wine Tasting with Canapés: $350


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


Which is Bigger, Odense or Zadar?

Odense has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Odense 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.