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Choosing to go on vacation between two incredible cities, Split and Zadar can be difficult. These cities have a bunch of similarities and offer more or less the same attractions to explore. First-time travelers to Croatia are mostly attracted by the beautiful sea, the calming rivers, stunning national parks, and magnificent lakes, which are available in both cities. When choosing which of the two cities to visit, one must consider each of their finest sightings, budget, activities offered, and the number of travel days, among others. To make the decision easier for travelers, here are the things to consider.

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Split Vs. Zadar

Split is more popular among regular tourists and even among those who have just read about it. It has a more efficient transportation system and arguably finer attractions than Zadar. After Zagreb, Split is Croatia’s second-largest city, and many visitors would definitely include it in their itinerary.

On the other hand, Zadar, not so well known, is keeping plenty of unspoiled attractions waiting to be explored. While many visitors pay too much attention to Split, a vacation in Zadar is absolutely worth it! When one chooses to visit Zadar, there are many chances to fall in love with this city. With incredible history, amazing art and culture, great beaches, and wonderful nature, there is more to explore in Zadar than visitors may realize.

Split Vs. Zadar: Location

Split is located in the Adriatic Sea on a peninsula. The city is mounted at the center of the Dalmatian coast, almost equidistant from Zadar and Dubrovnik. On its south side, there is a deep sheltered harbor. It is known for being a major transportation and commercial center and is best recognized for the Palace of Diocletian's ruins.

Zadar, on the other hand, is situated on Dalmatia's northern side, amidst Zadar County on the Adriatic Sea. It is not just the historic center of the region, but also the place where the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Zadar is situated.

Split Vs. Zadar: Top Attractions

Both Split and Zadar are full of stunning places to spend some days exploring. Whether one is a history lover, party-goer, beach bum, or food buff, one won't miss something interesting in each of Croatia's cities.

Split

Split is Dalmatia's largest city and the second-largest in the country, and over 200,000 people call it home. It is more famous than Zadar and has many beautiful attractions that tourists can spend many days exploring. Very few of the cities in Croatia have as many historical sites as Split, and they are the city’s major draw. Some of the top attractions in Split include:

  • Diocletian’s Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the number one tourist attraction in the city, and it has many touristy spots that travelers will find interesting to explore. Some of the places to check are its four massive gates, a network of cellars, ancient churches, and ruins of the Roman pillars.
  • The Medieval Old Town: Mounted near the Diocletian Palace, the Old Town is an expansion of the Roman complex. The town is full of cozy squares, colorful shops, incredible restaurants and bars, alleyways, and beautiful architecture.
  • The Film Locations of Game of Thrones. While Dubrovnik is the most famous location for GoT, Split might follow immediately, as numerous scenes of the show were filed at the Diocletian Palace, and there are many tours for travelers to get through.
  • Ivan Mestrovic Gallery: This gallery is named after the most famous sculptor in Croatia, Ivan Mestrovic. The gallery is filled with most of his work and displays telling his life story. It is a must-see attraction for travelers who love art.

Other top attractions to explore are the Riva, which are the tall palm trees lining the city's waterfront, and the Archaeological Museum of Split, suitable for history lovers.

Zadar

Some of Zadar’s top attractions to consider include:

  • The Sea Organ: Launched in 2005, this is an experimental musical instrument that captures the sounds of the moving waves and transforms them into music. It is an iconic architectural sound object designed by architect Nikola Basic, and measures 70 meters long, made of 35 organ pipes.
  • Greeting To The Sun: Also known as Monument to the Sun, Greeting to the Sun is a monument dedicated to the sun. It is situated a few walkable miles from the Sea Organ and was designed by the same artist. This monument magically displays colored lights that change patterns.
  • Anastasia’s Cathedral: Dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, Anastasia’s Cathedral is Zadar’s most iconic architectural gem.
  • St. Donat’s Church: Dating to the 9th century, this church is one of the most significant tourist attractions in Zadar.

Other attractions to explore in Zadar include Narodni Trg, a beautiful square, usually used by the locals as a meeting point, the Museum of Ancient Glass, and the Museum of Illusions.

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Split Vs. Zadar: Cost Of Travel

Travelers will spend an average of $75 and $92 in Zadar and Split, respectively. Accommodation in both cities is easy to access and can include a hotel, hostel, and double-occupancy rooms. It will cost a tourist about $43 to acquire a hotel or hostel in Zadar and $62 to acquire the same form of accommodation in Split. To get around Zadar via the local buses, taxis, and subways, tourists will spend an average of $8, and $12 in Split. Food is more expensive in Zadar than in Split, costing an average of $24 for a day and $20 in Split. To get access to entertainment, travelers heading to Zadar will spend an average of $16 a day to acquire entrance tickets, shows, and concerts. On the other hand, just about $3.13 is enough to acquire the same form of entertainment in Split.

When it comes to flights to both cities, the prices change regularly, depending on the season and demand. It is advisable to check online and compare rates before booking flights to either of the cities.

Which city is better between Zadar and Split? Well, that will depend on the aim of traveling to either of the cities. However, travelers looking to stay on a tight budget should head to Zadar, as Splits travel costs are a bit higher.