Zadar or Dubrovnik for your summer trip to Croatia?
The views from the top of the Bell Tower of Zadar were awesome… The Sea Organ was pretty special also…
However, the Adriatic sunset from a secret cliff bar in Dubrovnik captured my heart!
If you are visiting Croatia this summer and can’t decide between Zadar or Dubrovnik, then keep reading, as I visited both beautiful summer destinations, so can compare both for you.
Croatia is a special country and an awesome Balkans destination, so whichever city you choose, you will have a great trip.
A littler spoiler, Dubrovnik narrowly beats Zadar.
Find out why below!
The colourful architecture is on of the highlights of Croatia.
The general vibe of both cities.
My favourite thing about Croatia is the unique character of each city.
They all have their own little quirks, to go alongside the rich history throughout the region. I found Zadar and Dubrovnik to offer a completely different vibe during my trips.
Zadar - Modernity and relaxation.
The first thing I noticed on my first wander around the old Town of Zadar, other than the Bell Tower taking centre stage, was the abundance of modern restaurants, coffee shops and art galleries.
My first thought was that it would be a great location for a remote worker!
It is a great spot for relaxation also, and I was spoilt for choice during my backpacking trip to Zadar.
I had my pick of hundreds of Islands, many beaches, and some cool hostels.
It could take months to fully uncover the beauty of Zadar.
Palm trees and clear blue skies in Zadar.
Medieval Dubrovnik.
Zadar may feel modern, but Dubrovnik definitely doesn’t!
The Pearl of the Adriatic has an ancient charm running through its narrow Old Town streets, along with an abundance of medieval charm through its architecture.
Its terracotta roofs blend in well with the fortress walls, and churches, which are a mixture of Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.
The Old Town is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, as its primitive features are protected for future generations to enjoy it.
I could feel the historic feeling throughout the Old Town area!
I found both Zadar and Dubrovnik to have something for everyone, including families and couples.
A picturesque Old Town in Dubrovnik.
Which Old Town is better?
In terms of historical Old Towns, there aren’t many destinations which beat Dubrovnik.
It is famed for its pedestrianised Old Town, and it is definitely the biggest draw for the millions of International tourists that visit annually.
My favourite part of it was the fact that it sits right on the Adriatic coastline and is fortified.
I went on an imaginative journey back in time to when the area needed protecting, and what the daily lives of the locals might have looked like.
Although it doesn’t quite have the allure and historical charm of Dubrovnik, the Old Town in Zadar is still filled with character.
The modern influence means the vibes are more relaxing in a coffee shop, rather than exploring every inch of the Old Town in Dubrovnik.
If you do enjoy learning the history of a city, then you should head to the Roman Forum, which sits alongside the modern architecture, but it dates back as far as 1st century BC.
View from the top of Zadar Bell Tower.
Dubrovnik Old Town at night.
Zadar or Dubrovnik for beaches?
Dubrovnik might be a clear winner on the Old Town comparison, however, Zadar gives it more competition for beaches.
You won’t find many sandy beaches anywhere in Croatia, so it is pebbles, or tiny stones that make up the beaches, however, they are still comfortable to relax on and enjoy the Balkan sunshine.
Sakarun Beach was my favourite in Zadar.
It is based in the Zadar island archipelago on Dugi Otok island, so there is a ferry journey required to reach it, meaning you should make a full day of enjoying its square shaped bay and white pebbled beach.
There are closer options on the mainland and other islands if you are short on time.
The beaches in Dubrovnik are also pebbly, but the water is clear blue and there are many opportunities to enjoy some cliff jumping around the beaches.
I enjoyed Bellevue Beach, as it was a secluded spot and not too busy.
It can get very packed on the beaches in the summer months, so plan accordingly!
You can’t go wrong anywhere in Croatia in terms of beaches.
It is a Balkan paradise!
Bellevue beach in Dubrovnik.
One of the many beaches in Zadar.
Which city has the best nature spots/day trips nearby?
Croatia is abundant with natural beauty spots, and you are never too far away while enjoying the city life.
There are popular day trips from Zadar and Dubrovnik to these different places, which is also something to consider for a longer trip.
Day trips from Zadar.
My favourite day trip from Zadar was the one to Krka National Park.
The natural beauty spot is home to 17 different waterfalls, with ‘Skradinski Buk’ being the most famous one.
It takes around an hour to drive from Zadar to the nearby town of Skradin, which is where you will park up and decide on how you will reach the waterfalls.
They are around 5km each way and can be reached by hiking the walking trails, renting a bike, or taking the ferry down Krka river.
Whichever option you choose, you will be rewarded with magnificent views!
Plitvice Lakes.
Skradinski Buk Waterfall.
Plitvice National Park is another popular spot which is awesome in the summer!
It is around 90 minutes from Zadar in the opposite direction than Krka, so depending on your length of stay in Zadar, you may only get to visit one of them.
My favourite was Krka National Park.
Day trips from Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik’s location in Southern Croatia is close to the Bosnian and Montenegrin borders, therefore, many of the popular day trips are to these countries.
Kravica Waterfalls & Mostar Day Trip.
The charming town of Mostar and the beautiful Kravica waterfalls are only a two hour drive away from Dubrovnik, so if you want to tick off another country, and experience beautiful Bosnia, then this is a good activity for a day.
The street art in Mostar was my favourite part!
Montenegro is also only two hours away, so also a very good option.
Budva and Kotor both have quirky Old Towns, beautiful beaches, and picturesque scenery.
Kravica waterfalls in Bosnia & Herzegovina.
The famous Stari Most in Mostar.
Some fun activities in Dubrovnik.
Secret cliff bar.
One of my favourite moments during my backpacking trip to Dubrovnik was enjoying some drinks in Buza Bar.
The quirky spot can be found right at the edge of the Old Town facing the Adriatic Sea.
You can also cliff jump below the bar, so it is a great place to chill day or night. It sells tea and coffee if you visit in the morning.
The Secret cliff bar in Dubrovnik.
The city walls of Dubrovnik.
Jesuit Stairs from Game of Thrones.
Made famous by featuring in Game of Thrones, the Jesuit Stairs in the Old Town of Dubrovnik are on most visitors’ itineraries.
The stairs lead up towards the Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola, however, most tourists only want the famous selfie on the stairs.
It gets packed through the day and night, so if you want the perfect shot, you need to visit first thing in the morning!
Walls of Dubrovnik.
The walls which fortify Dubrovnik’s Old Town date back to the 12th century, when it took 500 years to fully complete them. They contribute towards the historical vibe throughout the city.
Visitors can walk along the top of the walls, and enjoy awesome views of the Old Town and Adriatic Sea.
You shouldn’t miss this activity if you visit Dubrovnik!
Ride the cable car Mount SRD.
If you want to experience the full awesomeness of the Old Town of Dubrovnik, you should take a ride up Mount SRD on the Dubrovnik cable car.
I loved every second of the ascent up at sunset looking over the lit up walled Old Town - it was definitely a unique experience, and the type which you can’t get in most destinations.
It is fairly pricey, however, Dubrovnik is for everything these days, so don’t let that put you off.
Some fun activities in Zadar
Climb the Bell Tower.
The Bell Tower of the Cathedral of Anastasia is iconic in Zadar’s Old Town, and it offers the best panoramic views of the whole Old Town area, the harbour, and the Adriatic Sea.
It is a cheap activity that can be enjoyed day or night if you visit in shoulder seasons when it gets darker by 8pm.
I enjoyed two trips to the top, in the day and night, to experience both.
The Bell Tower is right in the centre of the Old town.
Watch the sunset at the Sea Organ.
I found a nice relaxing thing to do in Zadar in the evening before I went out for dinner was to sit by the Sea Organ, which is at the edge of the Old Town.
Architect Nikola Bašić designed the unique sea instrument to play music as the waves crash against the underwater openings.
It isn’t the best thing to do in Zadar, but it’s free and relaxing, and ideal for sunset!
Up close to the tower.
The Adriatic Sea in Dubrovnik.
Take a boat trip to the islands.
Island hopping is a cool thing to do in Zadar, and the tours usually include a speedboat ride, free time exploring multiple islands, and to swim or snorkel.
My favourite tour when I was in Zadar included visiting the islands of Preko and Ošljak, along with some drinks onboard the boat.
This was one of my summer highlights in Croatia!
A sunset cable car ride in Dubrovnik.
On top of Mount SRD.
Is Zadar or Dubrovnik more expensive?
If you are on a budget for your summer Croatia trip then Zadar should be your choice!
Dubrovnik’s prices have soared in recent years due to its feature in Game of Thrones, and greater exposure for a European summer getaway.
You can grab a bargain if you visit in the spring or autumn, however, a summer visit will cost you, in terms of accommodation prices and dining out.
The surrounding setting for dinner in Dubrovnik is exceptional though, so you are paying a premium for this.
You can find happy hour prices for drinks in the bars most nights if you head out slightly earlier.
Zadar has not quite caught Dubrovnik up for popularity or prices yet, so you can still find some bargains in the quirky coastal city.
I stayed in a very lively hostel for less than €15 a night.
Picturesque Zadar.
Where to stay in Dubrovnik?
In Dubrovnik the two popular places with a range of highly rated accommodation are the Old Town area and Gruž port area.
Here are the pick of the options for you to consider:
Located right in the heart of Dubrovnik Old Town, offering picturesque views of the area.
A very popular choice located close to Buza Beach and the Old Town. This hotel fills up quickly in the summertime, so plan ahead.
Located near Gruz port, this relaxing choice offers sea views and spa facilities. It is only 2km from the Old Town area.
The Gruž port area is lovely.
Where to stay in Zadar?
I found the Old Town in Zadar to be the best choice of location, as it is close to everything, but it doesn’t get too loud or busy compared to Dubrovnik Old Town.
My favourite options for you to consider:
Boutique vibes, and located right in the centre of the Old Town, which offers quiet street views, and an inner courtyard.
Close to some great nightlife, and only a short walk to the Sea Organ and Bell Tower.
Located on the edge of the Old Town with harbour views.
Sunset in Zadar.
So, Dubrovnik takes the win from my experiences of both cities, however, Zadar is a fantastic runner up and a great Croatian destination!
Love the Balkans, maybe Montenegro?
There is no doubt that the Balkan region is growing in popularity, as it is full of stunning cities and breathtaking scenery.
Montenegro is significantly behind Croatia for the number of International visitors, although it offers just as much, for a cheaper cost.
Montenegro shares the climate of Croatia, and is abundant with beautiful nature and a whole coastline of pretty beaches.
Kotor Bay is home to a world famous bay which attracts the biggest cruise ships in the world!
Then there is Budva, a city which is undergoing serious development as annual visitors increase each year.
You will find the nicest beaches in Montenegro here, along with the picturesque Sveti Stefan Island.
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