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

Should you visit Trieste 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 Trieste 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.

Trieste

Trieste is a historic, dynamic, and energetic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Zadar

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

Trieste and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Trieste or Zadar?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Zadar than Trieste. While Trieste is larger than Zadar, Zadar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Trieste is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its Adriatic harbor and its Austrian heritage. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting. It is also home to the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Trieste different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Zadar and Trieste.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Trieste. Because Trieste was part of Austria for such a long stretch of time, you'll find that it looks different from many Italian cities. This is also evident in the different architectural and historic monuments around town. Major landmarks and sights include Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia, which is the largest square in the old part of the city, Miramare Castle, San Giusto Castle, Museum Riseria di San Sabba, and the Cathedral of San Giusto.

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.

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

Zadar is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Trieste offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. It's hard to pinpoint exactly how to categorize the local cuisine. It's been influenced by the city's Austro-Hungarian past and you'll find Austrian, Slovenian, and even Croatian flavors. The food scene is often overlooked for more famous Italian cities, but that doesn't mean there's not a lot to enjoy. Make sure you try jota (a bean, potato, and sauerkraut stew), calandraca (a salted meat stew), and gulasch alla triestina (a local twist on goulash. The city is also a coffee capital in Italy.

Is Trieste or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

The good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Trieste and Zadar.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Trieste. While it's not known as a party destination, there is a laid-back nightlife scene that usually involves a late night enjoying drinks at a local bar with friends. Many establishments blur the café and bar concepts, but you'll find a number of lively bars west of Piazza Unità in the trendy Cavana neighborhood. There always seems to be something new in the area worth checking out.

Zadar has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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 Trieste or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Trieste is not a resort destination.

In Zadar, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Trieste is not a resort destination.

Is Trieste or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Trieste or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Trieste offers a nice beach destination. The beaches tend to be pebbly, but they are a nice way to experience the sea. Locals still refer to it as "bathing" in the sea, a throwback to years past. The most common beach to visit is Ausonia, which is at the bottom of the Rive past the port of Sacchetta. Nearby are La Lanterna, also called Pedocin. This area still separates men and women in the bathing areas.

Is Trieste or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Many visitors go to Trieste to see the historical old town. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Is the Shopping Better in Trieste or Zadar?

Zadar is a town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Zadar has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Trieste or Zadar Better for Families?

Trieste 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.

Trieste is a very kid-friendly city. The caves, adventure parks, and interactive museums all make for a fun family vacation. Make sure you check out Grotta Gigante, which will impress kids and adults alike. The Museum of Natural History has a collection of fossils that any dinosaur lover will appreciate, and Trieste Adventure Park is filled with ropes courses and ziplines. Finally, a visit to Miramare Castle will spark every child's imagination.

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 Trieste or Zadar Better for Couples?

Both Trieste and Zadar are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Trieste makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Visit the castles, cathedrals, and historic monuments, experience the atmosphere of the city's historic center, people watch in one of the grand piazzas, and watch the city light up at night. There are so many romantic sides to this cultural Italian city.

Couples visit Zadar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Trieste or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Trieste. It's often overlooked for more popular Italian city's but there is still a lot that this under-rated city has to offer. You'll also find hostels for every budget and a youthful energy that will bring the city to life.

Is Trieste or Zadar Better for Students?

Both Trieste and Zadar are excellent destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Trieste. Italy attracts students from around the globe and this city is no exception. The city's diverse population and unique cultural opportunities make it a great place to study abroad or immerse yourself in university life.

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.

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

Trieste 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.

Trieste has some very good public transit options. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

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

Is Trieste or Zadar a more walkable city?

Trieste and Zadar are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Trieste is a very walkable destination. It's a hilly city, but it's also very walkable.

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 Trieste Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Trieste?

How long in Trieste or Zadar?

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

Families should spend more time in Zadar than Trieste. 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 Trieste. 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 Trieste if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Zadar.

One day in Trieste or Zadar?

In Trieste, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this cultural destination offers. 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.

In Zadar, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Trieste or Zadar?

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

In Zadar, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zadar has to offer.

Five days in Trieste or Zadar?

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

Zadar is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Trieste or Zadar?

You'll find nightlife and food around the diverse destination of Trieste. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zadar. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Zadar. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, The Best Contiki Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Trieste and Zadar, we can see that Trieste is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Trieste Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Trieste or Zadar?

Trieste has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Trieste 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 Trieste 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 Trieste or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Trieste as well as Zadar. Many travelers come to Trieste for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Zadar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Trieste is generally around the same temperature as Zadar. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 24°C (75°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 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 Trieste this time of the year. In the summer, Trieste often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Trieste gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Zadar in the Autumn?

Both Zadar and Trieste are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Trieste in the autumn for 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.

Trieste is cooler than Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Trieste averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Trieste gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Trieste usually receives more rain than Zadar. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Trieste or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Trieste during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Trieste for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Zadar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Trieste is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Trieste in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Trieste often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Trieste gets 96 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Zadar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Trieste and Zadar. The spring months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

In April, Trieste is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 13°C (56°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Trieste gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Trieste usually receives more rain than Zadar. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Trieste