A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint-Etienne vs. Zadar for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a historic, park-filled, and industrial city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Saint-Etienne and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Saint-Etienne or Zadar?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Zadar than Saint-Etienne. While Saint-Etienne is larger than Zadar, Zadar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zadar is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Saint-Etienne is more popular for its hiking. Saint-Etienne is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its industrial and manufacturing past. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting. Also, Zadar is famous for the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Saint-Etienne different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint-Etienne or Zadar?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Saint-Etienne and Zadar.

Saint-Etienne offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several great museums in town including the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie, Musée de la Mine, Musée des Verts, and the planetarium.

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 Saint-Etienne or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Zadar is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Zadar has a huge number of terrific 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.

Saint-Etienne may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Try the many local cheeses which are a defining part of the cuisine in the area. You'll find some local restaurants around town where you can sample local flavors.

Is Saint-Etienne or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

The vibe at night is notable in both Saint-Etienne and Zadar.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint-Etienne has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in town.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Saint-Etienne or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Zadar is great for its luxury resorts. However, Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne is not a resort destination.


Is Saint-Etienne or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Zadar is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint-Etienne or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Zadar is great for the beache. However, Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Is Saint-Etienne or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Zadar is great for its old town. However, Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.


Is Saint-Etienne or Zadar Better for Hiking?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Saint-Etienne is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for hiking. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Etienne or Zadar?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Zadar is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Zadar. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Saint-Etienne has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. Shopping malls and several boutique shopping areas make up the city's shopping scene.

Is Saint-Etienne or Zadar Better for Families?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Both Saint-Etienne and Zadar are notable family-friendly destinations.

Saint-Etienne offers lots of family activities. There are several kid-friendly museums as well as plenty of natural settings just outside of town. Your kids can run around and stretch their legs nearby at Crest of the Partridge or on a rainy day, the planetarium is a fun place to visit.

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 Saint-Etienne or Zadar Better for Couples?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Zadar is great for its romantic activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination 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.

Saint-Etienne is not always the best place to visit for a couple. There are museums, parks, gardens, and beautiful architecture that make this a wonderful place for couples.

Is Saint-Etienne or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Zadar is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Saint-Etienne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the backpacker trail, but there are hostels and plenty of activities to enjoy.

Is Saint-Etienne or Zadar Better for Students?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

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

Saint-Etienne is not popular with students.


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

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Saint-Etienne and Zadar both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Saint-Etienne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are tram and bus options available in town.

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

Is Saint-Etienne or Zadar a more walkable city?

Saint-Etienne
Zadar

Zadar is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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

Saint-Etienne is a somewhat walkable city. There are several walkable areas in the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint-Etienne Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Saint-Etienne?

How long in Saint-Etienne or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saint-Etienne or Zadar to fill your time. In our opinion, Zadar has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Zadar than Saint-Etienne. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Zadar than Saint-Etienne. 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 Saint-Etienne. 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 Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne or Zadar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint-Etienne 1-2 
    Zadar 1-2

One day in Saint-Etienne or Zadar?

In Saint-Etienne, many people enjoy the nightlife and museums that this park-filled destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the vibrant destination of Zadar. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Saint-Etienne or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Etienne. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zadar. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Saint-Etienne or Zadar?

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

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the relaxed destination of Zadar. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Saint-Etienne or Zadar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the park-filled destination of Saint-Etienne. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the beautiful town of Zadar. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Zadar or Saint-Etienne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint-Etienne is €108, while the average daily cost in Zadar is €89. 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 Saint-Etienne and Zadar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint-Etienne 46
    Zadar 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint-Etienne 92
    Zadar 102
Compare Hotels in Saint-Etienne and Zadar

Looking for a hotel in Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne


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: Zadar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint-Etienne 44
    Zadar 9.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zadar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zadar:

  • Transfer Zadar - Zagreb: $741
  • Transfer Zagreb - Zadar: $664
  • From Private Transfer to Dubrovnik Airport: $609
  • Zadar Airport Private Transfer: Makarska/Tucepi/Baska Voda: $459
  • From Zagreb & Franjo Tudman Airport Private Transfer: $459
  • Plitvice Lakes: Transfer Tour with pro photographer: $428
  • From Plitvice Lakes Private Round-Trip Transfer: $398
  • private transfer from Trogir to Zadar airport/Zadar: $312
  • Private transfer (Taxi) - Zadar to Split: $284
  • Krka National Park Private Tour from Zadar with transfer to Split: $283
  • Private one way transfer from Zadar to Split: $276
  • Private One Way Transfer from Split to Zadar: $276

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint-Etienne or Zadar?

Prices for flights to both Zadar and Saint-Etienne 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
    Saint-Etienne 34
    Zadar 28

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: $96
  • Gourmet Sunset dinner on board: $218

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint-Etienne 25
    Zadar 19

Tours and Activities in Zadar

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

  • Panorama guided Zadar Eco Tuk Tuk tour: $53
  • Private boat tour to the islands of Zadar with snorkeling equipment: $240
  • Sunset boat Tour in Zadar: $44
  • Šibenik and Zadar private tour from Split or Trogir: $166
  • 2 Hour Quad ATV Mountain Adventure in Starigrad: $130
  • 2 Hour Sunset Boat Tour in Zadar Coast: $32
  • 3 Islands Boat and Snorkeling tour with Fruits and Prosecco: $43
  • 3-Hour Zadar Food Tasting Tour: $97
  • Adriatic Breeze - Kornati Speedboat and Sailing Tour: $338
  • Be a Local: Private Tour from Olive Harvest to Culinary Delight: $218
  • Boat Tour around Zadar Islands with snorkeling during half day excursion: $55
  • Daysailing & SUP experience: $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint-Etienne 10
    Zadar 12

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: $52
  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting, Boat Ride & Zadar Old Town: $53
  • Craft Gin and exclusive brandies in unique distillery: $60
  • Wine Tasting with Finger Food: $64
  • Private City and Wine Tour in Zadar with Eco Tuk Tuk: $98


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


Which is Bigger, Saint-Etienne or Zadar?

Saint-Etienne has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne or Zadar in the Summer?

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

Saint-Etienne is cooler than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint-Etienne averages around 22°C (71°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 Saint-Etienne. In the summer, Saint-Etienne often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Saint-Etienne gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Saint-Etienne usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Saint-Etienne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F) 
    Zadar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Saint-Etienne or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Etienne and Zadar. Many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, 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.

In the autumn, Saint-Etienne is cooler than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint-Etienne in October average around 14°C (56°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. Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Saint-Etienne gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saint-Etienne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Saint-Etienne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F) 
    Zadar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Saint-Etienne or Zadar in the Winter?

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

Saint-Etienne can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Saint-Etienne is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Saint-Etienne average around 4°C (39°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Saint-Etienne often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Saint-Etienne gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Saint-Etienne usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Saint-Etienne gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F) 
    Zadar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Saint-Etienne or Zadar in the Spring?

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

Saint-Etienne is cooler than Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint-Etienne averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Saint-Etienne gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint-Etienne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Saint-Etienne gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F) 
    Zadar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Zadar and Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne Zadar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)