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

Should you visit Pisa or Zadar?

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

Should I visit Pisa or Zadar? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Pisa

Pisa is a classic, charming, and iconic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Zadar

Zadar is a vibrant, laid back, and relaxed town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Pisa and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pisa or Zadar?

You'll generally find more things to do in Pisa than Zadar. Pisa is bigger than Zadar, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Pisa is better known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Zadar is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Pisa is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its iconic Leaning Tower, its beautiful squares, and its lively atmosphere. Also, Pisa is famous for The Leaning Tower of Pisa. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa

How is Pisa different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pisa 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.

Pisa offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is more than a one hit wonder. In addition to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, you'll find many beautiful buildings and museums. Popular places to visit include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Campo Santo (Sacred Field), and Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.

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 Pisa or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Pisa and Zadar.

Pisa has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the city's maritime roots. You'll find many seafood dishes as well as local classic recipes that have been passed down through the generations. A quintessential local dish is Bordatino alla Pisana, which is made with beans, cabbage, and cornflour. Also popular are Pasta e Ceci (chickpea pasta), Palette (a local polenta), and Trippa alla Pisana.

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.

Is Pisa or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Pisa 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.

Pisa offers plenty to do in the evening. Head out to an aperitivo bar for an early drink, then head to one of the area's best nightlife neighborhoods. For the biggest party scene, go about 10 kilometers out of town to the Versilian coast. This area has the most popular clubs. If you decide to stay in town, there are still plenty of places to catch live music and dance.

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 Pisa or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Pisa is not a resort destination.

Zadar is known as a popular and fun resort destination. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Pisa is not a resort destination.

Is Pisa or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pisa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Zadar has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Pisa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pisa or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a great town for the beache. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

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.

Many people head to Pisa to enjoy the beach. Many people forget that there are beaches near Pisa, but the city is close to the sea. Some of the closest beaches include Marina di Vecchiano and Marina di Pisa.

Is Pisa or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the high quality old towns in both Pisa and Zadar.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Pisa. The old town is where you'll find the city's classic charm and many of the best sights.

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 Pisa or Zadar?

Pisa 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.

Pisa is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a great mix of traditional markets, high end stores, and indoor shopping malls where you can find anything that you might need. Corso Italia is one of the most popular shopping areas, but also worth checking out are Centro Commerciale Pisanova, Borgo Stretto and Borgo Largo.

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 Pisa or Zadar Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Pisa or Zadar.

Pisa offers lots of family activities. It's a lively city with beautiful squares and the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Kids will enjoy hanging out in the city center, visiting Parco Don Bosco, Giardino Scotto Park, or Marina di Pisa. If you have a car and are willing to venture a bit further away, there's the Piccolo Mondo Amusement Park and Parco Preistorico Peccioli.

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.

Is Pisa or Zadar Better for Couples?

Zadar is a great town for its romantic activities. Also, Pisa is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

Zadar is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Pisa is a good city for couples to visit. It's an iconic Italian destination that offers so much more than its most famous landmark. The city is filled with charming squares, beautiful architecture, and plenty of fun activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Pisa or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Pisa and Zadar are high quality places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Pisa. Most backpackers pass through on their way to other towns, but for those that linger, there are plenty of hostels and a lively social scene.

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

Is Pisa or Zadar Better for Students?

Pisa 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 Pisa. Many study abroad students flock to Italy for its beautiful culture, art, and architecture. Pisa makes a nice base for international students, and it offers easy access to other parts of Italy. It's also home to an internationally acclaimed university, Scuola Normale Superiore, which was founded in 1810.

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

Pisa and Zadar both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Pisa offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses through town with the most popular lines being the Red and Green Lines.

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

Is Pisa or Zadar a more walkable city?

Pisa and Zadar are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Pisa is a very walkable city. The city is a great place to explore on foot.

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 Pisa Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Pisa?

How long in Pisa or Zadar?

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

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

One day in Pisa or Zadar?

In Pisa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Pisa or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pisa. 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 Pisa or Zadar?

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

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the coastal 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 Pisa or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the classic destination of Pisa. 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 relaxed 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 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Bicycle Tours 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 Pisa and Zadar, we can see that Pisa 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 Pisa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pisa 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 Pisa Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Pisa or Zadar?

Pisa has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Pisa 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 Pisa 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 Pisa or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Pisa during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Pisa because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

Pisa is cooler than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Pisa averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Pisa. In the summer, Pisa often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Pisa gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Pisa usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Zadar. Pisa gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pisa or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pisa and Zadar. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Pisa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Pisa is around the same temperature as Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pisa in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. Pisa usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Pisa gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Pisa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Pisa usually receives more rain than Zadar. Pisa gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Pisa or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pisa as well as Zadar. Many travelers come to Pisa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Pisa is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Pisa average around 7°C (45°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Pisa often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Pisa gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Pisa usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Pisa gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pisa or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Pisa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Pisa in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Pisa is cooler than Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Pisa averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Pisa usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Pisa gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Pisa. In April, Pisa usually receives more rain than Zadar. Pisa gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Pisa