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

Should you visit Salzburg or Zadar?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg 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.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a musical, cultural, and recognizable city. 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, shopping, and museums.

Zadar

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

Salzburg and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Zadar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Salzburg than Zadar, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Salzburg is more popular for its museums, music, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Zadar is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Salzburg is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also home to The Salzburg Old Town. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Salzburg 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.

Salzburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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 Salzburg or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Dining out in Salzburg is an experience not to be missed. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Zadar. 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 Salzburg or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Both Salzburg and Zadar are good when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

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 Salzburg or Zadar Better for Music?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Zadar is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Salzburg Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Zadar is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a resort destination.

Is Salzburg or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Salzburg or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a well-known place for the beach. However, Salzburg is not a beach destination.

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.

Salzburg is not a beach destination.

Is Salzburg or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg is an amazing city 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.

Salzburg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

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 Salzburg or Zadar?

Salzburg is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Salzburg make it a world-class shopping destination. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg or Zadar Better for Families?

Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is a very kid-friendly city. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg or Zadar Better for Couples?

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

Salzburg makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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 Salzburg or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Salzburg and Zadar are very good destinations for backpackers.

Salzburg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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

Is Salzburg or Zadar Better for Students?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

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

Salzburg is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Salzburg has some very good public transit options. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

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

Is Salzburg or Zadar a more walkable city?

Salzburg and Zadar both are very good when exploring on foot.

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

Zadar is very walkable. 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 Salzburg Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Salzburg or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Salzburg than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salzburg 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 Salzburg.

One day in Salzburg or Zadar?

In Salzburg, many people enjoy the live music and food that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

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 Salzburg or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. 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 Salzburg or Zadar?

Salzburg is a fun place to experience. In Salzburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Salzburg or Zadar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Salzburg. 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.

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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, 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 Salzburg and Zadar, we can see that Salzburg 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 Salzburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Salzburg 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 Salzburg Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Zadar?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Salzburg or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Salzburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Salzburg is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 20°C (68°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Zadar. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Zadar in the Autumn?

Both Zadar and Salzburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Zadar because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Salzburg is much colder than Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in October than Zadar. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Zadar. The winter months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

The weather in Salzburg can be very cold. In the winter, Salzburg is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Salzburg in January average around -0°C (31°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Zadar. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Salzburg or Zadar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Zadar. The natural beauty are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Salzburg is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (51°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the spring, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in April than Zadar. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Salzburg