A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Budapest vs. Zadar for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

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

Budapest

Budapest is a bustling, cultural, and artistic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of Budapest is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Budapest travel costs.

Zadar

Zadar is a vibrant, laid back, and relaxed town. The beauty of Zadar is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Zadar travel costs.

Budapest and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Budapest or Zadar?

You'll generally find more things to do in Budapest than Zadar. Budapest is bigger than Zadar, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Budapest is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Zadar is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Budapest is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. Also, Budapest is famous for The Hungarian Parliament Building. Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting.

How is Budapest different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Budapest 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.

Budapest offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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 Budapest or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zadar is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Zadar has a huge number of terrific 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Budapest or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Budapest 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.

Budapest offers plenty to do in the evening. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals 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 Budapest or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is great for its luxury resorts. However, Budapest 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.

Budapest is not a resort destination.

Is Budapest or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Budapest 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.

Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Budapest or Zadar Better for Beaches?

Zadar is great for the beach. However, Budapest is not a beach destination.

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.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Budapest or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Budapest and Zadar are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Many visitors go to Zadar to see the historical old town. 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 Budapest or Zadar?

Budapest 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.

Budapest is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

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 Budapest or Zadar More Beautiful?

Budapest and Zadar are somewhat similar when it comes to the great scenery.

The beauty of Budapest is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Set against the river, the city has beautiful buildings and nice parks.

With stunning beauty, Zadar attracts visitors from all around. It's a charming medieval town that is at its most beautiful during the spectacular sunsets.

Is Budapest or Zadar Better for Families?

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

Budapest offers lots of family activities. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Zadar is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Budapest or Zadar Better for Couples?

Both Budapest and Zadar are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Budapest is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

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.

Is Budapest or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is an amazing city 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 Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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 Budapest or Zadar Better for Students?

Budapest is an amazing city to visit for students. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

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.

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

Budapest is an amazing city to visit 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.

Public transit in Budapest is top-notch. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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

Is Budapest or Zadar a more walkable city?

Budapest is an amazing city 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 Budapest on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting? and Is Zadar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Zadar?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Budapest or Zadar to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Budapest than Zadar because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Budapest, and 1-2 days is enough time in Zadar.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Budapest 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 Budapest.

One day in Budapest or Zadar?

Each neighborhood in Budapest has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

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.

A weekend in Budapest or Zadar?

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

Five days in Budapest or Zadar?

Budapest is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Budapest has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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.

A week in Budapest or Zadar?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the authentic big city of Budapest. 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.

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.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Budapest 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 Budapest Expensive? and Is Zadar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Budapest or Zadar?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Zadar. When comparing the sizes of Budapest 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 Budapest 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 Budapest or Zadar in the Summer?

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

Budapest is cooler than Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Zadar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Zadar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Budapest. In the summer, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Budapest gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets more rain in July than Zadar. Budapest gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Zadar in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Budapest is much colder than Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Budapest in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Zadar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zadar this time of the year. Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Budapest gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Budapest usually receives less rain than Zadar. Budapest gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Budapest or Zadar in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Budapest in the winter. In January, Budapest is generally much colder than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around -1°C (31°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Zadar. Budapest gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets less rain in January than Zadar. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Zadar in the Spring?

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

Budapest is cooler than Zadar in the spring. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Zadar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Zadar. Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Zadar during spring. Budapest gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Budapest usually receives less rain than Zadar. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Budapest