A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers The Hague vs. Zadar for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit The Hague or Zadar?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between The Hague and Zadar can help you decide which place is right for you.

The Hague

The Hague is a global, international, and bustling city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Zadar

Zadar is a relaxed, coastal, and vibrant town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

The Hague and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in The Hague or Zadar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in The Hague than Zadar. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. The Hague is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Zadar attracts visitors for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. The Hague is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy. It is also well known for The Peace Palace. Zadar is famous for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is The Hague different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in The Hague or Zadar?

The Hague
Zadar

Zadar is very good for its museums and history. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


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

The Hague
Zadar

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between The Hague and Zadar can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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 The Hague or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

The Hague
Zadar

The Hague is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

The Hague offers plenty to do in the evening. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

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 The Hague or Zadar Better for Music?

The Hague
Zadar

The Hague is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Zadar is not a live music destination.

The music scene in The Hague is very popular with diverse venues. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Zadar is not a live music destination.


Is The Hague or Zadar Better for Resorts?

The Hague
Zadar

Zadar is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, The Hague is not a resort destination.

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.

The Hague is not a resort destination.

Is The Hague or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

The Hague
Zadar

Zadar is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, The Hague is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

The Hague is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is The Hague or Zadar Better for Beaches?

The Hague
Zadar

Zadar is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, The Hague is not a beach destination.

Zadar is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

The Hague is not a beach destination.


Is The Hague or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

The Hague
Zadar

Zadar is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, The Hague does not have a historic old town.

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.

The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in The Hague or Zadar?

The Hague
Zadar

The Hague 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.

The Hague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic 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 The Hague or Zadar Better for Families?

The Hague
Zadar

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either The Hague or Zadar.

The Hague is a family-friendly city. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Zadar. 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 The Hague or Zadar Better for Couples?

The Hague
Zadar

Zadar is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Is The Hague or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

The Hague
Zadar

Zadar is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

Is The Hague or Zadar Better for Students?

The Hague
Zadar

The Hague 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 The Hague. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

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

The Hague
Zadar

The Hague 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.

The Hague has some very good public transit options. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

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

Is The Hague or Zadar a more walkable city?

The Hague
Zadar

Zadar is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or The Hague?

How long in The Hague or Zadar?

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

Families should spend more time in Zadar than The Hague. 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 The Hague. 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 The Hague 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 The Hague or Zadar? Ideal Length of Stay
    The Hague 1-3 
    Zadar 1-2

One day in The Hague or Zadar?

Each neighborhood in The Hague has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Zadar. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zadar has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in The Hague or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hague. 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the relaxed destination of Zadar. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in The Hague or Zadar?

The Hague is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the big city destination of The Hague. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the coastal town of Zadar. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in The Hague or Zadar?

You'll find live music and food around the global big city of The Hague. 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 popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Netherlands, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Zadar or The Hague?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in The Hague is €178, 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 The Hague and Zadar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hague 104
    Zadar 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hague 208
    Zadar 102
Compare Hotels in The Hague and Zadar

Looking for a hotel in The Hague 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 The Hague


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: The Hague Hotel Prices and Zadar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hague 19
    Zadar 9.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

Also for The Hague, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.23
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $126
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $137
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $137
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $257
  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $278

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zadar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zadar:

  • private transfer from Trogir to Zadar airport/Zadar: $312
  • Private Transfer to/from Zadar Airport (ZAD): $71
  • Private Transfer to/from Zadar Airport: $46
  • Plitvice Lakes: Transfer Tour with pro photographer: $428
  • Zadar hotels to Split Airport (SPU) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Zadar Airport: Private Transfer to/from Zaton Holiday Resort: $77
  • Zadar Airport: Private Transfer to/from The Garden, Tisno: $152
  • Zadar Airport: Private Transfer to/from Petrcane: $70
  • Zadar Airport: Private Transfer to or from Vir Island: $106
  • Zadar Airport to Novalja Private Transfer: $240
  • Zadar Airport Private Transfer: Makarska/Tucepi/Baska Voda: $459
  • Transfer from Zadar airport to Vir: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hague or Zadar?

Prices for flights to both Zadar and The Hague 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
    The Hague 55
    Zadar 28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

For The Hague, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

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.
    The Hague 34
    Zadar 19

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.27
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • The Historical Heart of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $8.02
  • Gilde Den Haag: City Walking Tour NL-DEU-ENG: $8.56
  • The Hague Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Escher in The Palace Museum Ticket: $12

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
    The Hague 30
    Zadar 12

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $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 The Hague and Zadar, we can see that The Hague 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 The Hague would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in The Hague 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 The Hague Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, The Hague or Zadar?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of The Hague 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 The Hague 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 The Hague or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to The Hague as well as Zadar. Most visitors come to The Hague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, The Hague is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the summer temperatures in The Hague in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Zadar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in The Hague this time of the year. In the summer, The Hague often gets less sunshine than Zadar. The Hague gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. The Hague gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hague 17°C (62°F) 
    Zadar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Zadar in the Autumn?

Both Zadar and The Hague are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to The Hague because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

In October, The Hague is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in The Hague average around 11°C (51°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. The Hague usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. The Hague gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, The Hague usually receives less rain than Zadar. The Hague gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    The Hague 11°C (51°F) 
    Zadar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and The Hague during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to The Hague this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zadar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in The Hague in the winter. The Hague is much colder than Zadar in the winter. The daily temperature in The Hague averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, The Hague often gets less sunshine than Zadar. The Hague gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. The Hague gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hague 2°C (36°F) 
    Zadar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Zadar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both The Hague and Zadar. Many travelers come to The Hague for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zadar in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, The Hague is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the spring temperatures in The Hague in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Zadar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. The Hague usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. The Hague gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, The Hague usually receives less rain than Zadar. The Hague gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    The Hague 8°C (46°F) 
    Zadar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Zadar and The Hague

The Hague Zadar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)