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

Should you visit Ephesus or Zadar?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Ephesus or Zadar, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Ephesus

Ephesus is a world-renowned, fascinating, and ancient archeological site. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Ephesus 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.

Ephesus and Zadar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ephesus or Zadar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zadar. Although Ephesus and Zadar are roughly the same size, Zadar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zadar is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Ephesus is more popular for its museums and attractions. Ephesus is more touristy than Zadar and is popular for its well-preserved ruins and vast size Zadar is well known for its historical sights and waterfront setting. Also, Zadar is famous for the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation.

How is Ephesus different from Zadar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ephesus is an amazing archeological site to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Zadar is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Ephesus are among the most recognizable in the world. Of course, the iconic site is the ruins of Ephesus. There are also several fascinating museums in the area that offer deeper insights into the region's rich history and culture. The Ephesus Archaeological Museum in Selçuk is popular. It has an impressive collection of artifacts excavated from the ancient city, including statues, pottery, and inscriptions. Just outside the museum, the Temple of Artemis section displays remnants of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Selçuk Museum of Ephesus is another excellent spot to explore, with exhibits that highlight both the daily life of ancient Ephesians and their religious practices. A short drive from Ephesus is the House of the Virgin Mary museum, a revered site believed to be the final home of Mary, mother of Jesus, with a chapel and peaceful surroundings. Lastly, the İsa Bey Mosque and Museum in Selçuk adds to the area's historical depth, offering a glimpse into the Seljuk architecture and Islamic heritage of the region.

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 Ephesus or Zadar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zadar is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ephesus area. Most of the food options are found in the nearby town of Selçuk. Popular dishes include kebabs, mezes, and pide (Turkish flatbread pizza). Many restaurants are casual and cater specifically to the tourist crowds.

Is Ephesus or Zadar Better for Nightlife?

Zadar is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Ephesus is not known for its evening party scene.

If you're looking for night time activities Zadar has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Ephesus specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The there are a couple of bars and restaurants with live music in the town of Selçuk, but generally the nightlife is very low key.

Is Ephesus or Zadar Better for Resorts?

Zadar is a great town for its luxury resorts. However, Ephesus is not a resort destination.

Zadar is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. If you want a beachfront resort, there are a number of nice options outside of town.

Ephesus is not a resort destination.

Is Ephesus or Zadar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zadar is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Ephesus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Zadar has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Ephesus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ephesus or Zadar Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Zadar. 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.

Ephesus is not a beach destination.

Is Ephesus or Zadar Better for its Old Town?

Zadar is a great town for its old town. However, Ephesus does not have a historic old town.

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.

Ephesus does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ephesus or Zadar?

If you're looking to go shopping, Ephesus and Zadar both offer plenty of notable spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ephesus. Selçuk has a variety of local shops and markets. Traditional handicrafts such as carpet and kilim weaving, ceramics, and leather goods are popular souvenirs. The Selçuk Market is held on Saturdays and offers fresh produce, spices, and other local products.

Many visitors go to Zadar to go shopping. There are small, boutique shops around the old town that sell designer merchandise. There are also shopping malls on the outskirts of town.

Is Ephesus or Zadar More Beautiful?

Zadar is a great town for its scenery and beauty. However, Ephesus is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Zadar is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's a charming medieval town that is at its most beautiful during the spectacular sunsets.

Ephesus is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ephesus or Zadar Better for Families?

Ephesus and Zadar are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Ephesus offers lots of family activities. Kids who are into history or archeology will enjoy a visit to the famed ruins of Ephesus. There's also the Ephesus Archaeological Museum where everyone can learn about ancient Greek and Roman cultures in an interactive setting. The nearby House of the Virgin Mary offers a peaceful stop where kids can learn about its historical and religious significance in a tranquil environment. For an active experience, families can enjoy a short hike to Pamucak Beach, where children can swim, build sandcastles, and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

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 Ephesus or Zadar Better for Couples?

Zadar is a great town for its romantic activities. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for couples.

Zadar is a great town if you're traveling as 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.

Ephesus is a good archeological site for couples to visit. Many couples stop off at these ruins as part of a bigger tour of Turkey. The ruins are well preserved and impressive, but can get crowded if you visit during the peak times.

Is Ephesus or Zadar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zadar is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Zadar. There's no shortage of hostels in town and you'll find backpackers, students, and budget travelers everywhere.

Ephesus is a good archeological site to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers stay in the nearby town of Selçuk, which has several hostels. This is also where you'll find a number of restaurants and shopping opportunities.

Is Ephesus or Zadar Better for Students?

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

Zadar is a great town to visit as a student. 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.

Ephesus is not popular with students.

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

Ephesus 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.

Ephesus has some very good public transit options. The town of Selçuk is well-connected by dolmuşes (shared minivans) that run frequently and offer affordable rides to nearby destinations, including Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Pamucak Beach area.

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

Is Ephesus or Zadar a more walkable city?

Zadar is a great town for its high level of walkability. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site 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.

Ephesus is a somewhat walkable archeological site. The ruins are spread out over a large area, but most of the key sites, like the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater, are within walking distance of each other. From Selçuk, it's about a half hour walk to the entrance of the Ephesus ruins, but most visitors prefer to take a short taxi or dolmuş ride to the site. Within Selçuk, many of the sites can be reached on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Zadar or Ephesus?

How long in Ephesus or Zadar?

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

Families should spend more time in Zadar than Ephesus. 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 Ephesus. 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 Zadar than Ephesus 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 Ephesus or Zadar?

In Ephesus, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this world-renowned destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This archeological site offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Zadar, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Ephesus or Zadar?

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

In Zadar, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zadar has to offer.

Five days in Ephesus or Zadar?

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

Zadar is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Ephesus or Zadar?

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating destination of Ephesus. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zadar. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Zadar. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Turkey, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Turkey, The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Ephesus or Zadar?

Zadar has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Ephesus. When comparing the sizes of Ephesus 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 Ephesus 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 Ephesus or Zadar in the Summer?

Both Zadar and Ephesus during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Ephesus in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Zadar for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Ephesus is around the same temperature as Zadar in the summer. The daily temperature in Ephesus averages around 27°C (81°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 Ephesus. In the summer, Ephesus often gets more sunshine than Zadar. Ephesus gets 378 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Ephesus usually gets less rain in July than Zadar. Ephesus gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ephesus or Zadar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Ephesus and Zadar. Most visitors come to Ephesus for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Zadar because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Ephesus is around the same temperature as Zadar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ephesus in October average around 19°C (66°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. In Ephesus, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ephesus usually receives more sunshine than Zadar during autumn. Ephesus gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Ephesus usually receives less rain than Zadar. Ephesus gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Ephesus or Zadar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Ephesus as well as Zadar. The winter months attract visitors to Ephesus because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zadar this time of year.

In January, Ephesus is generally a little warmer than Zadar. Daily temperatures in Ephesus average around 10°C (50°F), and Zadar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Ephesus often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zadar. Ephesus gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zadar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Ephesus receives a lot of rain in the winter. Ephesus usually gets more rain in January than Zadar. Ephesus gets 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ephesus or Zadar in the Spring?

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

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

It's quite sunny in Zadar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ephesus. Ephesus usually receives more sunshine than Zadar during spring. Ephesus gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Zadar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ephesus usually receives less rain than Zadar. Ephesus gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Zadar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zadar and Ephesus