A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Volos vs. Zadar for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Volos 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 Volos and Zadar can help you decide which place is right for you.

Volos

Volos is a vibrant, youthful, and authentic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, 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.

Volos and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Volos or Zadar?

You'll generally find more things to do in Volos than Zadar. Volos is bigger than Zadar, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Volos is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Zadar is more popular for its museums, resorts, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Volos is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its vibrant seaside setting and its access to nearby natural beauty. Also, Volos is famous for The Archaeological Museum of Volos. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Volos different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Volos
Zadar

Zadar is very good for its museums and history. However, Volos is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Zadar offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Volos offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in town including the Archaeological Museum of Volos.


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

Volos
Zadar

Foodies will find both Volos and Zadar both to be great destinations.

Volos has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Greece cuisine is very regional specific, and this area has its own dishes that are very different from elsewhere in the country. Deep fried kolitsianoi (sea anemone), boubari (local sausage), and spetzofai (sausage, tomato, and peppers) are just some of the unique dishes in the area.

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 Volos or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Volos
Zadar

Volos 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.

Volos offers plenty to do in the evening. The universities around town keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are a number of bars and clubs that are fun throughout the year.

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 Volos or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Volos
Zadar

Zadar is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Volos 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.

Volos is not a resort destination.


Is Volos or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Volos
Zadar

Volos and Zadar both offer notable scuba diving or snorkeling spots.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Volos. There are some snorkeling and dive shops in town that offer day trips.

Zadar has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Is Volos or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Volos
Zadar

Volos and Zadar are great choices for a beach vacation.

Volos is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. If you're willing to travel out of town, this region has some of the best beaches in Greece. The summers are cooler than other parts of the country and the winters are milder, so this is both a beautiful and a comfortable place to explore.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Zadar. 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.

Is Volos or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Volos
Zadar

Zadar is a very popular place for its old town. However, Volos 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.

Volos does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Volos or Zadar?

Volos
Zadar

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Volos. There are shopping malls and shopping centers around town that have a variety of retail options including clothing, jewelry, and home goods.

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 Volos or Zadar Better for Families?

Volos
Zadar

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Volos or Zadar.

Volos is a family-friendly city. If your kids are adventurous, they'll enjoy horseback riding or exploring the area's beaches. There's also the Archaeological Museum of Volos and Agios Konstantinos Park.

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 Volos or Zadar Better for Couples?

Volos
Zadar

Zadar is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Volos is a good city for couples to visit. There are gardens and outdoor activities that couples can enjoy. There are also museums and beaches.


Is Volos or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volos
Zadar

Zadar is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Volos is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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

Volos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination and you won't find that many hostels in the area.

Is Volos or Zadar Better for Students?

Volos
Zadar

Zadar is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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.

Volos is popular with students. You'll find several universities in town. The port city also offers access to different parts of the country.

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

Volos
Zadar

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

Volos has some public transit options. There is a bus system that travels around town.

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 Volos or Zadar a more walkable city?

Volos
Zadar

Volos and Zadar are great when it comes to walkability.

Volos is a very walkable city. The city is flat and there's a historic district that you can explore 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 Volos Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Volos?

How long in Volos or Zadar?

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

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

One day in Volos or Zadar?

In Volos, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this youthful destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Zadar, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this relaxed destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Volos or Zadar?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volos. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

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


Five days in Volos or Zadar?

Volos is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Volos. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Zadar is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Zadar. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Volos or Zadar?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant destination of Volos. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid back destination of Zadar. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Zadar or Volos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Volos is €95, 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 Volos and Zadar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Volos 43
    Zadar 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Volos 86
    Zadar 102
Compare Hotels in Volos and Zadar

Looking for a hotel in Volos 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 Volos


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: Volos Hotel Prices and Zadar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Volos 37
    Zadar 9.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Volos

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

  • Volos to Athens, Athens Airport and Piraeus Port Private Transfer: $257
  • From Volos to Athens Airport / Athens / Piraeus Private Transfer: $280
  • Volos to Athens Easy & Economy Transfer: $524

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 Volos or Zadar?

Prices for flights to both Zadar and Volos 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
    Volos 30
    Zadar 28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Volos

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

  • Cooking Session "Pelion Flavours": $71
  • Cook like a local Greek Cooking lesson in Mt Pelion Greece: $109

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.
    Volos 17
    Zadar 19

Tours and Activities in Volos

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

  • Kayaking Adventure around Pelion Coastline : $33
  • East Pelion - Sea Kayak Tour "Short Paddle": $38
  • Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour "The Secret Cave": $49
  • HIKING PELION - Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $197
  • BIKING PELION Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $211
  • From Hidden Sights of Meteora Private Tour: $214
  • Volos Pelion Full Day Tour : $240
  • Pagasetic Gulf Full-Day Sailboat Experience: $735

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
    Volos 7.86
    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 comparing the travel costs between Volos and Zadar, we can see that Volos 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 Volos Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Volos or Zadar?

Volos has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Volos 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 Volos 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 Volos or Zadar in the Summer?

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

Volos is around the same temperature as Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Volos averages around 26°C (78°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 Volos this time of the year. In the summer, Volos often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Volos gets 330 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Volos usually gets less rain in July than Zadar. Volos gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Volos 26°C (78°F) 
    Zadar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Volos or Zadar in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Volos is around the same temperature as Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Volos in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Volos usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Volos gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Volos usually receives less rain than Zadar. Volos gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Volos 17°C (62°F) 
    Zadar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Volos or Zadar in the Winter?

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

In January, Volos is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Volos average around 6°C (42°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Volos often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Volos gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Volos usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Volos gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Volos 6°C (42°F) 
    Zadar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Volos or Zadar in the Spring?

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

Volos is around the same temperature as Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Volos averages around 14°C (56°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. In Volos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Volos usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar during spring. Volos gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Volos usually receives less rain than Zadar. Volos gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Volos 14°C (56°F) 
    Zadar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Zadar and Volos

Volos Zadar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)