A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sorrento vs. Zadar for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Resorts

Should you visit Sorrento or Zadar?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sorrento and Zadar can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a historic, relaxing, and accessible small city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Zadar

Zadar is a coastal, vibrant, and laid back town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Sorrento and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sorrento or Zadar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sorrento. Although Sorrento and Zadar are popular destinations, Sorrento has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sorrento is very popular for its food, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Zadar attracts visitors for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Sorrento is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. It is also well known for Marina Grande and Marina Piccola. Zadar is famous for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Sorrento different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zadar is a town with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

Zadar is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento is an amazing small city 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, Sorrento is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The food is world class and you'll find most Italian classics here including pizza, fine cheeses, and fresh seafood. Many visitors enjoy taking a pasta or pizza making class while they're in town. You'll also find Limoncello everywhere, made from the locally grown lemons, which are impressive in both their size and flavor. Also make sure you allow for plenty of stops at gelato shops.

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 Sorrento or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Sorrento or Zadar has a better nightlife scene.

Sorrento has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city is known for its laid back atmosphere, but there are still a number of clubs where you can dance the night away. While the main city center has its share of bars and activities, some of the best known clubs are actually a bit outside of the city center. Many visitors dress to impress and don't show up until after midnight, which is when the party really starts.

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.

Is Sorrento or Zadar Better for Resorts?

If luxury resorts are your style, both Sorrento and Zadar have excellent options.

In Sorrento, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The city offers a wide selection of luxury and budget hotels, particularly in the Piazza Tasso area. Because of its accessibility, many people use it as a base for exploring the area, or stop off for a day or two in route to other towns.

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.

Is Sorrento or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a town with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sorrento is a small city with minimal options for its diving and snorkeling.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Sorrento. There are snorkeling excursions that you can book in the area, but this is often an overlooked activity for many visitors.

Is Sorrento or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a great destination for its beaches. Also, Sorrento is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

The beaches at Zadar attract visitors from all over. 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.

Sorrento offers a nice beach destination. The rugged coastline is filled with dramatic hills and rocky inlets that offer hidden beaches. Many of the most unique beaches can be challenging to access and the beaches closer to town get very crowded. Some of the best beaches in the area include Marina Piccola Beach, Regina Giovanna, and Puolo. Some beaches are public while others are private and come at a price.

Is Sorrento or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Zadar is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Sorrento or Zadar Better for Hiking?

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

Sorrento is a popular spot for hiking. The area has a number of walking trails that you can explore. Many follow historic donkey trails that once connected the villages and today offer a well-established route with stunning views and pristine landscapes. The trails navigate the region's steep hills and offer a breathtaking look at the rugged coastline.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sorrento or Zadar?

Sorrento 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.

Sorrento is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to the heart of the city around Piazza Tasso for the best shopping opportunities. You can simply enjoy window shopping or pop in one of the many local boutiques or larger European brand stores. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, Limoncello, and inlaid wood items.

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 Sorrento or Zadar Better for Families?

Sorrento 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.

Sorrento is a very kid-friendly small city. It makes a good base or first stop for families who want to enjoy the area. It's well connected with transportation and has all the kid approved foods you could need. The whole family will also enjoy taking a pasta making class or going for a swim in the Mediterranean. And make sure you allow plenty of time for everyone to eat their fill of gelato.

Zadar is a family-friendly small 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 Sorrento or Zadar Better for Couples?

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

Sorrento makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful romantic destination is one of the world's top honeymoon areas. It's a small city that offers access to the many nearby destinations, so it makes a good base or gateway city for visiting places like Capri and the Blue Grotto as well as the Amalfi Coast. You can enjoy romantic hikes full of stunning views, explore by kayak, dine at romantic restaurants, or experience a one-of-a-kind farm tour. If you base yourself in Sorrento, you'll likely be doing a lot of day trips.

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 Sorrento or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento is an amazing small city to visit for backpackers. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Sorrento. Because its a small city with accessible transportation, you'll find a decent number of hostels that make it an affordable base for exploring the area. You can hit many nearby sights as day trips or use this as a first stop off point as you make your way along the coast.

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.

Is Sorrento or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is a great destination for students. However, Sorrento is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

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

Sorrento 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.

Sorrento has some very good public transit options. Buses travel around town and you can also visit nearby areas using the Circumvesuviana train line, EAV and Sita buses, Cooperativa Tasso minibuses, or one of the many ferry companies.

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

Is Sorrento or Zadar a more walkable city?

Sorrento and Zadar both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Sorrento is very walkable. The old town is fun to walk around and window shop, but bring good walking shoes as the area has a lot of hills.

Zadar is a very walkable small city. 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 Sorrento Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Sorrento?

How long in Sorrento or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Sorrento or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Sorrento than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Sorrento, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

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

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

One day in Sorrento or Zadar?

In Sorrento, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this laid back destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This small 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 Sorrento or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sorrento. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Sorrento or Zadar?

Sorrento is a fun place to experience. In Sorrento, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this destination offers. 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 Sorrento or Zadar?

In Sorrento, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this laid back destination offers. 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 The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, The Best Sightseeing 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 Sorrento and Zadar, we can see that Sorrento 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 Sorrento would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sorrento 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 Sorrento Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sorrento or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Sorrento 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 Sorrento 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 Sorrento or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sorrento and Zadar. Many travelers come to Sorrento for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Sorrento is cooler than Zadar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sorrento in July average around 23°C (74°F), and Zadar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In Sorrento, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sorrento usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Sorrento gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Sorrento usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Sorrento gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Sorrento or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sorrento as well as Zadar. Many visitors come to Sorrento in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Sorrento is generally around the same temperature as Zadar. Daily temperatures in Sorrento average around 17°C (63°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the autumn, Sorrento often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Sorrento gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Sorrento receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sorrento usually gets more rain in October than Zadar. Sorrento gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Sorrento or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Sorrento are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Sorrento for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Zadar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Sorrento is around the same temperature as Zadar in the winter. The daily temperature in Sorrento averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Sorrento usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Sorrento gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Sorrento. In January, Sorrento usually receives more rain than Zadar. Sorrento gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Sorrento or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Sorrento during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Sorrento because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

In the spring, Sorrento is cooler than Zadar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sorrento in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Zadar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Sorrento often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Sorrento gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Sorrento usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Zadar. Sorrento gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Sorrento