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

Should you visit Positano 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 Positano 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.

Positano

Positano is a stunning, luxurious, and charming Mediterranean village. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. 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 food, beaches, and hiking.

Zadar

Zadar is a vibrant, laid back, and relaxed town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Positano and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Positano or Zadar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Positano. Although Positano and Zadar are both popular with visitors, Positano has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Positano is more popular for its food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Zadar is known for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Positano is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. It is also home to The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Positano different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zadar is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Positano 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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village 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, Positano is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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 Positano or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Zadar is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Zadar has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Positano or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village 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, Positano is a great choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

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 Positano or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Positano is not a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Snorkeling is an option in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Is Positano or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is great for the beach. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its beaches.

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.

Positano is a good option for a beach vacation. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Is Positano or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village 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.

Positano offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

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 Positano or Zadar Better for Hiking?

Positano is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Positano is a popular spot for hiking. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Positano or Zadar?

Positano 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.

Positano is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

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 Positano or Zadar Better for Families?

Both Positano and Zadar are good family-friendly destinations.

Positano offers lots of family activities. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

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 Positano or Zadar Better for Couples?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Positano makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

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 Positano or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Zadar. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Is Positano or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Positano 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.

Positano is not popular with students.

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

Positano and Zadar both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Positano offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

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

Is Positano or Zadar a more walkable city?

Positano is an amazing Mediterranean village 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 Positano on foot. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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 Positano Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Positano?

How long in Positano or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Positano or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Positano than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Positano, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

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

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

Even though Positano is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This Mediterranean village 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.

The beautiful town of Zadar offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Positano or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Positano. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zadar, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Positano or Zadar?

Positano is a fun place to experience. Positano is a small town with plenty to do. Lots of people come for the food. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Positano or Zadar?

Positano might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Zadar is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, The Best Coach Bus 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 Positano and Zadar, we can see that Positano 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 Positano would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Positano 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 Positano Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Positano or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Positano 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 Positano 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 Positano or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Positano during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Positano this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Positano is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Positano average around 23°C (74°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Positano. In the summer, Positano often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Positano gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Positano usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Zadar. Positano gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Positano or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Positano and Zadar. Many travelers come to Positano for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zadar in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Positano is around the same temperature as Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Positano averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. Positano usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar during autumn. Positano gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Positano gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Positano usually receives more rain than Zadar. Positano gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Positano or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Positano as well as Zadar. Many visitors come to Positano in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Zadar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Positano is around the same temperature as Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Positano in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Positano often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Positano gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Positano receives a lot of rain in the winter. Positano usually gets more rain in January than Zadar. Positano gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Positano or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Positano are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Positano for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Positano is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Positano average around 13°C (55°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Positano usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Positano gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Positano usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Positano gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Positano