A Travel Price Comparison for Croatia Zadar vs. Dubrovnik for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Zadar or Dubrovnik?

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

Should I visit Zadar or Dubrovnik? 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.

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.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a charming, famous, and cultural coastal town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zadar and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling


Is there more to do in Zadar or Dubrovnik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Zadar and Dubrovnik are both popular with visitors, Dubrovnik has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dubrovnik is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Zadar is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows. It is also home to The Old Town Walls. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Zadar different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik 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.

Dubrovnik offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.

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 Zadar or Dubrovnik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town 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, Dubrovnik is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.

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 Zadar or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Both Zadar and Dubrovnik are good when it comes to partying.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Dubrovnik. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.

Is Zadar or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Zadar and Dubrovnik offer a relatively similar set of high quality luxury resort options.

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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Dubrovnik. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.


Is Zadar or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Zadar is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Dubrovnik is not known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Snorkeling is an option in Dubrovnik. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.

Is Zadar or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Zadar is a great town for the beach. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its beaches.

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.

Many people head to Dubrovnik to enjoy the beach. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.

Is Zadar or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for its old town. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

Dubrovnik offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.

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 Zadar or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

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

Dubrovnik is a popular spot for hiking. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zadar or Dubrovnik?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Both Zadar and Dubrovnik are good shopping destinations.

Zadar offers some nice shopping areas. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Dubrovnik has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Zadar or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik 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.

Dubrovnik is a very kid-friendly coastal town. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.

Zadar is a family-friendly town. 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 Zadar or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

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

Dubrovnik makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

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 Zadar or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for backpackers. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Dubrovnik. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.

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.

Is Zadar or Dubrovnik Better for Students?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Zadar is a great town for its student-friendly activities. However, Dubrovnik is not popular with 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.

Dubrovnik is not popular with students.


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

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Both Zadar and Dubrovnik offer good public transit options.

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

Dubrovnik has some public transit options. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Zadar or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Zadar
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town 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 Dubrovnik on foot. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls 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 Zadar Worth Visiting? and Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Zadar?

How long in Zadar or Dubrovnik?

In either Zadar or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Zadar because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Zadar, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

Families should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Zadar. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Dubrovnik, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Zadar 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 Dubrovnik.


  • How many days in Zadar or Dubrovnik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zadar 1-2 
    Dubrovnik 1-5

One day in Zadar or Dubrovnik?

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Zadar. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zadar has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this famous destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This coastal 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 Zadar or Dubrovnik?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant destination of Zadar. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Five days in Zadar or Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the coastal town of Zadar. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Dubrovnik is a fun place to experience. In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quaint destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Zadar or Dubrovnik?

Zadar is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal destination of Dubrovnik. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia, The Best 3-Day Tours from Split, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Dubrovnik.


Which place is cheaper, Dubrovnik or Zadar?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Zadar is $98, while the average daily cost in Dubrovnik is $106. 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 Zadar and Dubrovnik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zadar $56
    Dubrovnik $55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zadar $112
    Dubrovnik $110
Compare Hotels in Zadar and Dubrovnik

Looking for a hotel in Zadar or Dubrovnik? 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 Zadar


Hotels in Dubrovnik


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: Zadar Hotel Prices and Dubrovnik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zadar $10
    Dubrovnik $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zadar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zadar:

  • From Private Transfer to Dubrovnik Airport: $618
  • Zadar Airport Private Transfer: Makarska/Tucepi/Baska Voda: $466
  • From Zagreb & Franjo Tudman Airport Private Transfer: $466
  • From Plitvice Lakes Private Round-Trip Transfer: $404
  • Krka National Park Private Tour from Zadar with transfer to Split: $286
  • Private transfer (Taxi) - Zadar to Split: $286
  • Private one way transfer from Zadar to Split: $280
  • Private One Way Transfer from Split to Zadar: $280
  • Private Transfer from Zadar Airport (ZAD) to Plitvička Jezera: $274
  • Private one way transfer from Zadar to Split: $273
  • Zadar Airport to Novalja Private Transfer: $242
  • Private Transfer from Zadar to Split with 2 hours for sightseeing: $226

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Dubrovnik

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Dubrovnik:


  • Bus Around Town
    $1.56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dubrovnik

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

  • Shared Airport Transfer to/from City Center: $11
  • Porter Service, Baggage Transfer, Baggage pick up & delivery.: $17
  • Private transfer from Dubrovnik airport to Dubrovnik city: $22
  • Night Transfer from Dubrovnik Old Port to New Port by Karaka Boat: $22
  • Transfer from Dubrovnik airport to Dubrovnik: $22
  • Bus transfer between Dubrovnik and Herceg Novi: $23
  • Private transfer from Dubrovnik to Dubrovnik airport: $24
  • Return transfer to Dubrovnik airport: $25
  • Dubrovnik Luxury Airport Transfers: $27
  • Airport Private Transfer Dubrovnik: $28
  • From Dubrovnik Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Dubrovnik: $28
  • Dubrovnik hotels to Dubrovnik Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $29

Is it cheaper to fly into Zadar or Dubrovnik?

Prices for flights to both Dubrovnik and Zadar 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
    Zadar $31
    Dubrovnik $36

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: $98
  • Zadar Private City Tour and Cooking Class: $99
  • Cooking class and shellfishing with a local on the island of Preko: $206

Typical Food Prices in Dubrovnik

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Dubrovnik:


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2)
    $32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dubrovnik

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

  • Sunset Dinner Cruise around the Old Town: $81
  • Food Tour: Taste Dubrovnik: $98
  • Secrets of traditional Dalmatian cuisine with a cooking class: $129
  • Old Town Food Tour: $146
  • Dubrovnik Old Town Food Tour: Small-Group Experience: $149
  • Cooking Classes Traditional Meals of Konavle region: $180
  • 3 Hour Sites and Bites Food Tour in Dubrovnik: $194
  • Traditional Dalmatian Cooking Class from Dubrovnik: $201
  • Traditional Cooking Class in Dubrovnik Countryside: $204
  • Pelješac Full-Day Wine and Food Tour from Dubrovnik: $212
  • Private Dinner with Wine and Homemade Tapas: $217
  • Dubrovnik Food Tour with Friendly Local Guide: $229

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zadar $21
    Dubrovnik $21

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: $50
  • Zadar Boat Tour Half Day: $55
  • 1-Hour Night transparent kayak Tour in Privlaka: $55
  • 3 Islands Boat and Snorkeling tour with Fruits and Prosecco: $43
  • Be a Local: Private Tour from Olive Harvest to Culinary Delight: $220
  • Boat Tour around Zadar Islands with snorkeling during half day excursion: $45
  • Day Tour from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes: $50
  • Daysailing & SUP experience: $99
  • Dream Experience: Luxury Tour through the NP Kornati: $814
  • Dugi Otok - full day kayak adventure: $119
  • Dugi Otok - half day kayak adventure: $83
  • Early Bird Group Walking Tour in Zadar Old Town: $26

Typical Entertainment Prices in Dubrovnik

For Dubrovnik, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Boat to Lokrum Island (for 2)
    $15
  • Dubrovnik City Wall Tour (for 2)
    $58
  • Dubrovnik Cable Car (for 2)
    $49

Tours and Activities in Dubrovnik

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Selfguided tour of the old town of Dubrovnik: $5.43
  • Self-guided tour of the old town of Dubrovnik: $5.51
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.52
  • Dubrovnik Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Medieval Adventure City Game: $7.05
  • Time Travel Adventure Outdoor Escape Game in Dubrovnik: $7.15
  • Historic Center Self-Guided Audio Tour (ENG): $7.70
  • Shell Museum Private Guided Tour: $7.71
  • Old Town Highlights Tour with Audio Guide: $8.69
  • Dubrovnik Old Town Audio Guide Tour: $8.81

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zadar $13
    Dubrovnik $15

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: $53
  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting, Boat Ride & Zadar Old Town: $53
  • Private City and Wine Tour in Zadar with Eco Tuk Tuk: $88

Sample the Local Flavors in Dubrovnik

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dubrovnik:

  • Columbo Pub Crawl Dubrovnik: $55
  • Day Tour of Korcula Island from Dubrovnik with Wine Tasting: $71
  • Day trip to Korčula and Pelješac with Wine Tasting: $76
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting with Snacks and Ston Place Visit: $76
  • Ston and Korcula Island Day Trip from Dubrovnik with Wine Tasting: $76
  • Interactive Wine Tour: $81
  • Luxury Sunset Tour with Wine Tasting: $83
  • Korcula & Peljesac Wine Tasting Group Tour from Dubrovnik: $85
  • Full Day Korcula and Peljesac Wine Tasting Tour in Dubrovnik: $86
  • Day trip to Korčula and Pelješac with Wine Tasting from Koločep: $87
  • 2-Hour Kayaking at Sunset with Wine Tasting and Appetizers: $94
  • Dubrovnik Kayak Tour + Gourmet Snack + Wine Tasting (Small-Group): $97


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


Which is Bigger, Zadar or Dubrovnik?

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

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 Zadar or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Zadar as well as Dubrovnik. The summer months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

In the summer, Zadar is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zadar in July average around 26°C (80°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Zadar usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Dubrovnik. Zadar gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zadar 26°C (80°F) 
    Dubrovnik 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Zadar or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

Both Dubrovnik and Zadar are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zadar this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Zadar is generally around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Zadar average around 18°C (64°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In October, Zadar usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Zadar gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zadar 18°C (64°F) 
    Dubrovnik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Zadar or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

Both Dubrovnik and Zadar during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zadar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zadar is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the winter. The daily temperature in Zadar averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Zadar usually gets less rain in January than Dubrovnik. Zadar gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Zadar 8°C (47°F) 
    Dubrovnik 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Zadar or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zadar and Dubrovnik. Many visitors come to Zadar in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Zadar is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zadar in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Zadar usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Zadar gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zadar 15°C (59°F) 
    Dubrovnik 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Zadar

Zadar Dubrovnik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Feb 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Mar 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Apr 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in) 25°C (77°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Oct 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 162 mm (6.4 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 198 mm (7.8 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 178 mm (7 in)