A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Varenna vs. Zadar for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Varenna or Zadar?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Varenna and Zadar. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Zadar

Zadar is a relaxed, coastal, and vibrant town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Varenna and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Varenna or Zadar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zadar than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zadar is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Varenna is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting. Also, Zadar is famous for the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Varenna different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Varenna and Zadar.

Varenna offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

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 Varenna or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Varenna is an amazing village 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, Varenna is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

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 Varenna or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Zadar is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

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.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Is Varenna or Zadar Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Varenna is not a resort destination.

Is Varenna or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Varenna or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Zadar for it's beautiful 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.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Varenna or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

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

There are many historical things to see 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.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Varenna or Zadar Better for Hiking?

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

Varenna is a popular spot for hiking. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Varenna or Zadar?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Varenna and Zadar.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Varenna. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Many visitors go to Zadar to go 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 Varenna or Zadar Better for Families?

Both Varenna and Zadar are notable family-friendly destinations.

Varenna is a family-friendly village. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

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 Varenna or Zadar Better for Couples?

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

Varenna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

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 Varenna or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Is Varenna or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna is not popular with students.

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.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Varenna and Zadar.

Varenna has some public transit options. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

You'll find some public transit in Zadar, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 11 bus lines that travel around town.

Is Varenna or Zadar a more walkable city?

Varenna is an amazing village to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Varenna on foot. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

Zadar is a very walkable destination. 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 Varenna Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Varenna?

How long in Varenna or Zadar?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zadar than Varenna 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 Varenna or Zadar?

In Varenna, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the food. This village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Varenna or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Varenna or Zadar?

Varenna is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Varenna. Lots of people come for the food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Varenna or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to 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 Varenna and Zadar, we can see that Varenna 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 Varenna would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Varenna 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 Varenna Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Varenna or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Varenna 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 Varenna 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 Varenna or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Varenna as well as Zadar. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Varenna this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Varenna is cooler than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, 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 Varenna this time of the year. In the summer, Varenna often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Varenna gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the summer. Varenna usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Varenna gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Varenna or Zadar in the Autumn?

Both Zadar and Varenna are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Varenna is cooler than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Varenna in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Varenna gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. In October, Varenna usually receives more rain than Zadar. Varenna gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Varenna or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Varenna during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Varenna in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zadar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Varenna can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Varenna is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 5°C (41°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Varenna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Varenna gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Varenna usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Varenna gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Varenna or Zadar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Varenna and Zadar. Most visitors come to Varenna for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Varenna is cooler than Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Varenna gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Varenna usually receives more rain than Zadar. Varenna gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Varenna