A Travel Price Comparison for Croatia Zadar vs. Rijeka for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Zadar or Rijeka?

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

Should I visit Zadar or Rijeka? 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 laid back, relaxed, and coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a slow-paced, coastal, and accessible town. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zadar and Rijeka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zadar or Rijeka?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rijeka than Zadar, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rijeka is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Zadar is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Rijeka is more touristy than Zadar and is known for being a transportation hub in Croatia with a ferry and cruise ship port. It is also home to Trsat Castle. Zadar is popular for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Zadar different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rijeka 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 Rijeka?

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Zadar and Rijeka.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Rijeka. Historical sights around town include Trsat Castle, the Petar Druzic Stairway, and Our Lady of Trsat. There are also museums such as PEEK&POKE Computer Museum and the Governor's Palace and Maritime and Historical Museum.

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

Zadar is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Rijeka. It's known for its Mediterranean cuisine which includes more than seafood. There are local vegetable specialties in the area as well including asparagus and white truffles. Codfish stew and cuttlefish risotto are also popular.

Is Zadar or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

Rijeka 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.

Rijeka offers plenty to do in the evening. The city center has plenty of bars and clubs. Restaurants also stay open late and are popular places to hang out for locals and tourists alike.

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 Zadar or Rijeka Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is not a resort destination.

Is Zadar or Rijeka Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rijeka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Rijeka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Zadar or Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a well-known place for the beach. However, Rijeka is not a good town for its beaches.

Zadar is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Rijeka is a good spot to see the beach. There are pebbly and gravelly beaches in the area, with the best beaches to the west of the city. You'll need to take a public bus to reach most of them.

Is Zadar or Rijeka Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Rijeka 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.

Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zadar or Rijeka?

Both Zadar and Rijeka 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.

Rijeka has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are many shopping centers, retail stores, and souvenir shops around town.

Is Zadar or Rijeka Better for Families?

Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is a very kid-friendly town. The city has a number of outdoor activities for kids like nature parks and nearby beaches. There's also a puppet theater as well as the Astronomical Center of Rijeka.

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 Rijeka Better for Couples?

Zadar is a well-known place for couples. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Rijeka is a nice destination for couples. It's a gateway to the Croatian islands. Many couples enjoy walking down the waterfront promenade or dining at a nice local restaurant. There are also beaches, parks, and historical sights to explore.

Is Zadar or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zadar is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

It's common for backpackers to visit Rijeka. There's no shortage of affordable hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Zadar or Rijeka Better for Students?

Zadar is a well-known place for students. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Rijeka. It's a laid back seaside city that makes a nice semester abroad destination. As a gateway to the Croatian islands, it also offers transportation connections to other points of interest.

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

Both Zadar and Rijeka offer good public transit options.

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

Rijeka has some public transit options. KD Autrolej buses provide transit throughout the city.

Is Zadar or Rijeka a more walkable city?

Zadar is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Rijeka is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Zadar?

How long in Zadar or Rijeka?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zadar or Rijeka to fill your time. In our opinion, Zadar has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Zadar than Rijeka. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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.

In Rijeka, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this diverse destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Zadar or Rijeka?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rijeka. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Zadar or Rijeka?

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.

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

A week in Zadar or Rijeka?

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.

You'll find food and shopping around the accessible destination of Rijeka. 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 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Zadar or Rijeka?

Rijeka has a larger population, and is about 98% larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Zadar and Rijeka, 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 Rijeka?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Zadar or Rijeka in the Summer?

Both Rijeka and Zadar are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zadar this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rijeka for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zadar is around the same temperature as Rijeka. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zadar in July average around 26°C (80°F), and Rijeka averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Rijeka. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. Zadar usually receives more sunshine than Rijeka during summer. Zadar gets 345 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zadar usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Zadar gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zadar or Rijeka in the Autumn?

Both Rijeka and Zadar during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zadar for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rijeka in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Zadar is generally a little warmer than Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Zadar average around 18°C (64°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. In the autumn, Zadar often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Zadar gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 167 hours of full sun.

Zadar usually gets less rain in October than Rijeka. Zadar gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zadar or Rijeka in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zadar and Rijeka. Many visitors come to Zadar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rijeka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zadar is much warmer than Rijeka in the winter. The daily temperature in Zadar averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Rijeka fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Zadar usually receives more sunshine than Rijeka during winter. Zadar gets 128 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zadar usually receives more rain than Rijeka. Zadar gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zadar or Rijeka in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zadar as well as Rijeka. Most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Rijeka because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Zadar is a little warmer than Rijeka. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zadar in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Rijeka averages at about 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In the spring, Zadar often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Zadar gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 177 hours of full sun.

Zadar usually gets less rain in April than Rijeka. Zadar gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Zadar