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

Should you visit Urbino 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 Urbino 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.

Urbino

Urbino is a undiscovered, authentic, and laid back town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zadar

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

Urbino and Zadar: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Urbino or Zadar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zadar. Although Urbino and Zadar are both popular with visitors, Zadar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Urbino is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting. It is also home to the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Urbino different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Urbino
Zadar

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Urbino. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.

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 Urbino or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Urbino
Zadar

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

Urbino has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zadar makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Urbino or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Urbino
Zadar

The vibe at night is good in both Urbino and Zadar.

If you're looking for night time activities Urbino has a few options to choose from. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

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 Urbino or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Urbino
Zadar

Zadar is great for its luxury resorts. However, Urbino 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.

Urbino is not a resort destination.


Is Urbino or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Urbino
Zadar

Zadar is a town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Urbino 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.

Urbino is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Urbino or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Urbino
Zadar

Zadar is great for the beach. However, Urbino is not a beach destination.

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.

Urbino is not a beach destination.

Is Urbino or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Urbino
Zadar

Zadar is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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 Urbino to see the historical old town. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.


Is the Shopping Better in Urbino or Zadar?

Urbino
Zadar

If you're looking to go shopping, Urbino and Zadar both offer plenty of good spots.

Urbino has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.

Zadar is a great destination for shopping. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Is Urbino or Zadar Better for Families?

Urbino
Zadar

Zadar is a town with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Zadar offers lots of family activities. 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.

Urbino is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Is Urbino or Zadar Better for Couples?

Urbino
Zadar

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

Urbino is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.

Zadar is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Urbino or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Urbino
Zadar

Zadar is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino is not a good destination 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.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.

Is Urbino or Zadar Better for Students?

Urbino
Zadar

For students, both Urbino and Zadar are excellent places to visit.

Students come from all over to stay in Urbino. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

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

Urbino
Zadar

Zadar is a town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Zadar offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are 11 bus lines that travel around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.


Is Urbino or Zadar a more walkable city?

Urbino
Zadar

Zadar is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Urbino is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Urbino?

How long in Urbino or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Urbino 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 Urbino. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Urbino or Zadar?

In Urbino, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. This town 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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Zadar. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Urbino or Zadar?

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

Zadar is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Urbino or Zadar?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zadar. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Urbino or Zadar?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal destination of Zadar. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Zadar or Urbino?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Urbino is €118, 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 Urbino and Zadar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Urbino 53
    Zadar 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Urbino 106
    Zadar 102
Compare Hotels in Urbino and Zadar

Looking for a hotel in Urbino 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 Urbino


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: Urbino Hotel Prices and Zadar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Urbino 44
    Zadar 9.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

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

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

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 Urbino or Zadar?

Prices for flights to both Zadar and Urbino 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
    Urbino 39
    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.
    Urbino 15
    Zadar 19

Tours and Activities in Urbino

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Urbino.

  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour with certified guide: $139
  • Private Walking Tour with Ducal Palace Ticket: $150
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184

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
    Urbino 14
    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 Urbino and Zadar, we can see that Urbino 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 Urbino would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Urbino 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 Urbino Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Urbino or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Urbino. When comparing the sizes of Urbino 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 Urbino 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 Urbino or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Urbino during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Urbino for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zadar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Urbino is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Urbino average around 23°C (73°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

Urbino usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Urbino 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
    Urbino 23°C (73°F) 
    Zadar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Urbino or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Urbino and Zadar. Many visitors come to Urbino in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Urbino is cooler than Zadar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Urbino averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Zadar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In October, Urbino usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Urbino gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Urbino 15°C (59°F) 
    Zadar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Urbino or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Urbino as well as Zadar. Most visitors come to Urbino for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Zadar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Urbino can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Urbino is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Urbino in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Zadar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Urbino usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Urbino gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Urbino 3°C (37°F) 
    Zadar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Urbino or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Urbino are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Urbino because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

In April, Urbino is generally cooler than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Urbino average around 12°C (54°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In April, Urbino usually receives less rain than Zadar. Urbino gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Urbino 12°C (54°F) 
    Zadar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Zadar and Urbino

Urbino Zadar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)