A Travel Price Comparison for Croatia Zagreb vs. Zadar for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Zagreb or Zadar?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zagreb and Zadar. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a local, historic, and beautiful city. 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

Zadar is a coastal, vibrant, and laid back town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zagreb and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zagreb or Zadar?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zagreb than Zadar. Zagreb is bigger than Zadar, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zagreb is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Zadar is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Zagreb is more touristy than Zadar and is known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Zagreb different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zagreb 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.

Zagreb offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historical sights around town, particularly in the historic Upper Town. Make sure you visit the Zagreb Cathedral, the Museum of Broken Relationships, Lotrscak Tower, and the historic Stone Gate.

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 Zagreb or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Zagreb and Zadar offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zagreb. The food is heartier than you might expect with many recipes that involve stew or dumplings. Cheese and meat are common ingredients as well, with far less seafood than you'll find in the coastal cities. Popular dishes include Zagrebački odrezak (a rolled up ham, cheese, and veal sandwich), Štrukli (dough filled with cheese), and Ajngemahtec (vegetarian stew).

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 Zagreb or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb 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.

Zagreb offers plenty to do in the evening. There are a huge number of live music venues, clubs, and bars around town where locals hang out late into the evening. The city's nightlife has a more local vibe than other Croatian cities, so you can party with the students and residents and get a true feel for the Croatian culture.

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 Zagreb or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a great destination for its resorts. However, Zagreb 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.

Zagreb is not a resort destination.

Is Zagreb or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Zagreb is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Zagreb or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is a great destination for the beache. However, Zagreb 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.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Zagreb or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the superb old town areas in both Zagreb and Zadar.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Zagreb. The upper town is filled with charm, cafes, and historical landmarks such as St. Mark Church, Kamenita Vrata (the Stone Gate), and the cathedral.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Zadar. The small old town is filled with charm and character. It's a walled medieval town that can easily be explored in a few hours.

Is the Shopping Better in Zagreb or Zadar?

Zagreb 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.

Zagreb is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

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 Zagreb or Zadar Better for Families?

Both Zagreb and Zadar are notable family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Zagreb. The city is filled with parks where kids can run around. There are also kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Illusions and markets that are fun for the whole family. While it doesn't have the coastal activities that many Croatian towns offer, this is a unique city in its own way.

Zadar offers lots of family activities. It's fun to explore the small medieval old town, but the kids will also appreciate getting out of town and enjoying the nearby activities. It's definitely worth visiting Pag Island or any of the other natural settings that are nearby. There are also several beaches near town. In town, make sure you hear the Sea Organ and dance at the Sun Salutation.

Is Zagreb or Zadar Better for Couples?

Zadar is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Zadar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Zagreb is a good city for couples to visit. Filled with history and beautiful parks, this often overlooked Croatian city actually has a lot that couples can enjoy. The historical monuments offer a glimpse into the country's past and the markets let you experience a more authentic side to what has become a very touristy country.

Is Zagreb or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb and Zadar are superb places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zagreb is a great city to visit for backpackers. Because it's not the most touristy city, prices are reasonable. There are also a wide range of hostels in town where you can meet other backpackers and enjoy the fun environment.

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 Zagreb or Zadar Better for Students?

Zagreb and Zadar are superb places to visit for students.

Many students visit Zagreb. There's an endless supply of bars and cafes where students hang out. This is a great student city that offers access to many beautiful parts of Croatia and Europe in general.

Zadar is a very popular city 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.

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

Zagreb 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.

Zagreb has some very good public transit options. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

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

Is Zagreb or Zadar a more walkable city?

Zagreb and Zadar both are superb when exploring on foot.

Zagreb is a very walkable city. It's a city that lives outdoors. It's very walkable with many outdoor cafes and parks where you can take a stroll.

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 Zagreb Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Zagreb?

How long in Zagreb or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zagreb or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zagreb than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Zagreb, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

One day in Zagreb or Zadar?

In Zagreb, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Zadar. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zagreb or Zadar?

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

Zadar is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zagreb or Zadar?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zadar. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zagreb or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxed destination of Zadar. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Zagreb or Zadar?

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

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 Zagreb or Zadar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zagreb and Zadar. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Zagreb is cooler than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Zagreb averages around 22°C (72°F) in July, and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. In Zagreb, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zagreb usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during summer. Zagreb gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zagreb usually receives more rain than Zadar. Zagreb gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zagreb or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zagreb as well as Zadar. Many travelers come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Zadar in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Zagreb is cooler than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Zagreb in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zadar. In the autumn, Zagreb often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Zagreb gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Zagreb usually gets less rain in October than Zadar. Zagreb gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zagreb or Zadar in the Winter?

Both Zadar and Zagreb are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zagreb in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zagreb can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Zagreb is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Zagreb average around 1°C (35°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Zagreb usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during winter. Zagreb gets 54 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zagreb usually receives less rain than Zadar. Zagreb gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zagreb or Zadar in the Spring?

Both Zadar and Zagreb during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zagreb for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Zadar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Zagreb often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Zagreb gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Zagreb usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Zadar. Zagreb gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Zagreb