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

Should you visit Zadar or Sarajevo?

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

Should I visit Zadar or Sarajevo? 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 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.

Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a beautiful, overlooked, and quaint city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Zadar and Sarajevo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zadar or Sarajevo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sarajevo than Zadar. Sarajevo is bigger than Zadar, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sarajevo is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Zadar is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Sarajevo is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its worn torn past, but today it is a city that is filled with culture, natural beauty, and incredible food. Also, Sarajevo is famous for The Old Town. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Zadar different from Sarajevo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The sights in the city reflect its history and culture. Famous places to visit include Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge, Kovači Memorial Cemetery, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

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 Sarajevo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sarajevo is an amazing city 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, Sarajevo is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.

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 Sarajevo Better for Nightlife?

Both Zadar and Sarajevo are notable 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 Sarajevo. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.

Is Zadar or Sarajevo Better for Resorts?

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

Sarajevo is not a resort destination.

Is Zadar or Sarajevo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Zadar or Sarajevo Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a very popular place for the beache. However, Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo is not a beach destination.

Is Zadar or Sarajevo Better for its Old Town?

Sarajevo is an amazing city 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.

Sarajevo offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city's old town, which is known as Baščaršija, is filled with a history charm that is unlike any other European city. The wooden shops, wandering lanes, and striking minarets highlight the area's beautiful culture and long-running history.

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 Sarajevo Better for Hiking?

Sarajevo is an amazing city to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Zadar is not a hiking destination.

People visit Sarajevo specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. If you have a way to get out of town, you'll be rewarded with a natural beauty that is untouched and pristine - a rare find in Europe. There are a number of popular trails that are popular with locals and tourists alike. While landmines remain a concern in off-the-beaten-path areas, if you stay on marked trails, they pose no real threat.

Zadar is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zadar or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

Sarajevo is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. This city offers a unique opportunity to shop for traditional hand-crafted good in the old town. The goods are handmade and reflect the city's long running history as a center for trade. Popular items for purchase include coffee sets, jewelry, and handmade carpets.

Zadar has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Is Zadar or Sarajevo Better for Families?

Zadar is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Sarajevo doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Older kids will really benefit from the history and cultural lessons that coincide with a visit to this beautiful city. There are also some fun activities that they can enjoy including a zoo, an indoor play area, and an amusement park not far outside of town.

Is Zadar or Sarajevo Better for Couples?

Zadar is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Sarajevo is lacking in good options 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.

Sarajevo is not always the best place to visit for a couple. Romance isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Sarajevo, but the city has amazing food and world class cultural sights that will make for a truly rewarding trip.

Is Zadar or Sarajevo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zadar and Sarajevo are superb destinations for backpackers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Sarajevo. This city is among the most culturally captivating places in Europe. Although it's often overlooked by tourists and backpackers, the affordability, stunning beauty, and unique personality make it a truly amazing place to visit.

Is Zadar or Sarajevo Better for Students?

Zadar is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Sarajevo 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.

Sarajevo is not popular with students.

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

Sarajevo is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Sarajevo has some very good public transit options. It includes a tram, trolleybus, bus and minibus network.

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

Is Zadar or Sarajevo a more walkable city?

Zadar is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Sarajevo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Sarajevo is a somewhat walkable town. Most of the touristy areas in the central part of the city are walkable, but there are also some sights outside of town that you will need a taxi to visit.

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

Should I spend more time in Sarajevo or Zadar?

How long in Zadar or Sarajevo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zadar and Sarajevo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sarajevo than in Zadar. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Zadar, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sarajevo.

Families should spend more time in Zadar than Sarajevo. 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 Sarajevo. 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 Sarajevo 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 Sarajevo.

One day in Zadar or Sarajevo?

The beautiful town of Zadar offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Sarajevo, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this overlooked 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.

A weekend in Zadar or Sarajevo?

Zadar is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zadar, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Zadar is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Zadar or Sarajevo?

Zadar is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Sarajevo. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia, The Best Cultural Tours in Bosnia and Herzegowina, and The Best Budget Tours to Bosnia and Herzegowina.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zadar and Sarajevo, we can see that Zadar is more expensive. And not only is Sarajevo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sarajevo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sarajevo 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 Zadar would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zadar than you might in Sarajevo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zadar Expensive? and Is Sarajevo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zadar or Sarajevo?

Sarajevo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Zadar and Sarajevo, 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 Sarajevo?

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 Sarajevo in the Summer?

Both Sarajevo and Zadar during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Sarajevo because of the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Zadar is around the same temperature as Sarajevo in the summer. The daily temperature in Zadar averages around 26°C (80°F) in July, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

In Sarajevo, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Zadar. In the summer, Zadar often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Sarajevo. Zadar gets 345 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 323 hours of full sun.

Zadar usually gets less rain in July than Sarajevo. Zadar gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zadar or Sarajevo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zadar and Sarajevo. The autumn months attract visitors to Zadar because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Sarajevo this time of year.

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

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zadar usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during autumn. Zadar gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Sarajevo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Zadar usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Zadar gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 153 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Zadar or Sarajevo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Zadar as well as Sarajevo. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zadar this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sarajevo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Zadar is generally a little warmer than Sarajevo. Daily temperatures in Zadar average around 8°C (47°F), and Sarajevo fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Zadar often gets more sunshine than Sarajevo. Zadar gets 128 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Sarajevo receives 113 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Sarajevo. Zadar usually gets less rain in January than Sarajevo. Zadar gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zadar or Sarajevo in the Spring?

Both Sarajevo and Zadar are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sarajevo in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Zadar is around the same temperature as Sarajevo in the spring. The daily temperature in Zadar averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Sarajevo fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. Zadar usually receives more sunshine than Sarajevo during spring. Zadar gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Sarajevo receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sarajevo. In April, Zadar usually receives less rain than Sarajevo. Zadar gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sarajevo receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Sarajevo and Zadar