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

Should you visit Saaremaa or Zadar?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Zadar, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a traditional, quiet, and calm island. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of Saaremaa is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and beaches. See Saaremaa travel costs.

Zadar

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

Saaremaa and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Zadar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zadar. Although Saaremaa and Zadar are both popular with visitors, Zadar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zadar is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Saaremaa is known for its small town charm. Saaremaa is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting. It is also home to the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Saaremaa different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zadar is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa 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.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saaremaa and Zadar can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

Saaremaa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

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.

Is Saaremaa or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Zadar is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa 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.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Zadar Better for Resorts?

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

Zadar is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Saaremaa is not a resort destination.

Is Saaremaa or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Saaremaa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Zadar has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Saaremaa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saaremaa or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is great for the beach. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Zadar. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saaremaa. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Is Saaremaa or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is great for its historic old town charm. However, Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Zadar to see the historical old town. 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.

Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Zadar?

Zadar is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Zadar More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of very good scenery and beauty in both Saaremaa and Zadar.

With stunning beauty, Saaremaa attracts visitors from all around. The island has a classic beauty that feels frozen in time.

Zadar is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's a charming medieval town that is at its most beautiful during the spectacular sunsets.

Is Saaremaa or Zadar Better for Families?

Saaremaa and Zadar are both good destinations for the whole family.

Saaremaa offers lots of family activities. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

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 Saaremaa or Zadar Better for Couples?

Saaremaa and Zadar are both very good to visit as a couple.

Saaremaa is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

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.

Is Saaremaa or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island 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.

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

Is Saaremaa or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Saaremaa is not popular with students.

Zadar is a great town to visit as a student. 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.

Saaremaa is not popular with students.

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

Zadar is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Zadar a more walkable city?

Zadar is great for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

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

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Saaremaa Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saaremaa or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Saaremaa than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

Even though Saaremaa is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This 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.

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 Saaremaa or Zadar?

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

Saaremaa is a fun place to experience. Saaremaa is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Saaremaa or Zadar?

Saaremaa is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, 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 Saaremaa and Zadar, we can see that Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Saaremaa during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 17°C (62°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 Saaremaa. In the summer, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Saaremaa gets 302 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Zadar. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Zadar because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Saaremaa is much colder than Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 8°C (47°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. Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Saaremaa gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Zadar. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Zadar. The winter months attract visitors to Saaremaa because of the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

The weather in Saaremaa can be very cold. In the winter, Saaremaa is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saaremaa in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saaremaa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Saaremaa in the spring. In April, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 4°C (38°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Saaremaa gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Zadar. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Saaremaa