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

Should you visit Verona or Zadar?

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

Should I visit Verona or Zadar? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Verona

Verona is a romantic, cultural, and beautiful city. 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. 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.

Verona and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Verona or Zadar?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Zadar than Verona. While Verona is larger than Zadar, Zadar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zadar is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Verona is more popular for its museums. Verona is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its role as the setting of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays. 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 Verona different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Verona is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Verona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While most people know Verona as the setting of Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet", there are also many unrelated but still impressive sights around town. Of course you must check out the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet's House and Balcony), but also make sure you visit the fortress of Castelvecchio, Arena di Verona, and Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.

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 Verona or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Verona and Zadar can be an enjoyable experience.

Verona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Food is a source of pride for the locals in Verona, and you'll find excellent dishes in most eateries, even those catering specifically to tourists. There are many local recipes that are worth sampling while you're in the area including risotto with tastasal, potato gnocchi, and polenta.

Dining out in Zadar is an experience not to be missed. 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 Verona or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find notable options in both Verona and Zadar.

If you're looking for night time activities Verona has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene caters to a mature crowd and there is a heavy focus on regional wine. There are many local bars and traditional osterie (inns) where you can sip local wine or hear live music.

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 Verona or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Verona is not a resort destination.

Zadar is known as a popular and fun resort destination. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Verona is not a resort destination.

Is Verona or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Verona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Zadar has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Verona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Verona or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a great town for the beache. However, Verona is not a beach destination.

Zadar is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Verona is not a beach destination.

Is Verona or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the high quality old towns in both Verona and Zadar.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Verona. At the heart of the city is the old town, which is filled with medieval and Renaissance style architecture. It's easy to explore this beautiful area on foot.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Verona or Zadar?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Verona. The most well known shopping street is Corso Santa Anastasia, which has many antique shops as well as jewelry stores and high end boutiques.

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 Verona or Zadar Better for Families?

Zadar is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Verona is not known 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.

Verona is not the most family-friendly destination. You can head to the top of the the Lamberti Tower and, of course, check out the Romeo and Juliet balcony. Wandering the streets and grabbing gelato is also fun for the whole family.

Is Verona or Zadar Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Verona and Zadar make for a high quality place to visit.

Verona is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. As the setting for Shakespeare's famed "Romeo and Juliet", this town is seeped in romantic history. In addition to checking out the classic balcony, couples can enjoy seeing an opera at Verona Arena or seeking out views of the beautiful city. Crossing the romantic Ponte Pietra is another must-do romantic activity in the area.

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 Verona or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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

Verona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers rarely spend more than a day or two in town, but there are hostels in the area that offer cheap accommodation.

Is Verona or Zadar Better for Students?

Zadar is a great town for its student-friendly activities. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Zadar is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. 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.

Verona is a good city to visit for students. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience than some of the more popular tourist and study abroad destinations in Italy.

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

Verona and Zadar both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Verona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. ATV operates buses through the city.

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

Is Verona or Zadar a more walkable city?

Verona and Zadar are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Verona is a very walkable city. It's a compact city that's easy to explore on foot. Many locals get around by walking or biking.

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 Verona Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Verona?

How long in Verona or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Verona or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Verona 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 Verona, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

Families should spend more time in Zadar than Verona. 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 Verona. 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 Verona 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 Verona or Zadar?

In Verona, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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 Verona or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Verona. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

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 Verona or Zadar?

Verona is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Verona. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Verona or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Verona. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 vibrant 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 10-Day Tours in Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) 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 Verona and Zadar, we can see that Verona 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 Verona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Verona 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 Verona Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Verona or Zadar?

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

Both Zadar and Verona during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Verona because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

Verona is cooler than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Verona averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Verona. In the summer, Verona often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Verona gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Verona usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Verona gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Verona or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Verona and Zadar. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Verona this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Verona is cooler than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Verona in October average around 14°C (57°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. Verona usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Verona gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Verona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Verona gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Verona or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Verona as well as Zadar. Many travelers come to Verona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Verona. In January, Verona is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Verona average around 2°C (36°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Verona often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Verona gets 98 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Verona usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Verona gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Verona or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Verona are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Verona in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Verona usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Verona gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Verona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zadar. Verona gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Verona