A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aegina vs. Zagreb for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Aegina or Zagreb?

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

Should I visit Aegina or Zagreb? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aegina

Aegina is a fun, active, and relaxing island. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a local, historic, and beautiful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aegina and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Aegina or Zagreb?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zagreb. Although Aegina and Zagreb are both popular with visitors, Zagreb has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zagreb is more popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Aegina is known for its beaches and small town charm. Aegina is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its local pistachio nuts, its nice seaside setting, and its easy access from Athens. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is also home to The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Aegina different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Aegina
Zagreb

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Aegina or Zagreb.

Aegina offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are several temples on the island such as the Temple of Athena Aphaia and the Temple of Apollo. There's also and Archeological Museum that is nice to visit.

Many visitors head to Zagreb specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.


Is the Food Better in Aegina or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aegina
Zagreb

Zagreb is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Zagreb is an experience not to be missed. 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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Aegina. There's a vibrant restaurant scene that includes traditional eateries serving seafood and refreshing ice cream shops where you can cool off with a scoop of your favorite flavor.

Is Aegina or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Aegina
Zagreb

It's hard to distinguish whether Aegina or Zagreb has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Aegina know how to have a good time. There's a great nightlife scene on the island. Most of the dance clubs are found in Agia Marina and you'll find more relaxing lounges around Aegina Town and other villages on the island.

The nightlife in Zagreb has something for everybody. 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.

Is Aegina or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

Aegina
Zagreb

Aegina is a good destination for the beache. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Aegina offers a nice beach destination. While most of the beaches are small and crowded, they do offer a number of tourist facilities such as nearby bars and restaurants, as well as hotels. The most popular beaches on the island are Souvala and Agia Marina.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.


Is Aegina or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Aegina
Zagreb

Zagreb is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Aegina or Zagreb?

Aegina
Zagreb

Zagreb is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Zagreb. The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Aegina. You'll find the standard souvenir shops around town where you can buy trinkets or other items you may have forgotten.

Is Aegina or Zagreb Better for Families?

Aegina
Zagreb

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Aegina or Zagreb.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Aegina. Kids will enjoy the ferry ride from Athens as well as the pirate stories they'll hear throughout their trip. There are places that the whole family can swim and great restaurants with kid-friendly food.

Zagreb offers lots of family activities. 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.


Is Aegina or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Aegina
Zagreb

With fun activities for couples, both Aegina and Zagreb make for a good place to visit.

Aegina is a good island for couples to visit. Couples will appreciate the beauty and great restaurants that this beautiful island offers. It's a charming day trip from Athens that is filled with impressive historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Zagreb is a nice destination for couples. 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 Aegina or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aegina
Zagreb

Zagreb is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zagreb is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Aegina is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most visitors, backpackers can hop on a ferry in Athens and visit the island as a day trip. It makes a nice excursion with many affordable restaurants and fun activities.

Is Aegina or Zagreb Better for Students?

Aegina
Zagreb

Zagreb is a great destination for students. However, Aegina is not popular with students.

Zagreb is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Aegina is not popular with students.


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

Aegina
Zagreb

Zagreb is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Zagreb offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

While Aegina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You'll find the central bus station in Aegina Town and there you can catch buses that travel around the island.

Is Aegina or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Aegina
Zagreb

Zagreb is a great destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Aegina is somewhat walkable. The town is walkable, but to explore elsewhere on the island, it's easiest to have your own vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Aegina Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Aegina?

How long in Aegina or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Aegina or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zagreb due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Aegina, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

Families should spend more time in Zagreb than Aegina. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Zagreb, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Zagreb than Aegina. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Zagreb that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zagreb than Aegina 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.


  • How many days in Aegina or Zagreb? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aegina 1-2 
    Zagreb 2-4

One day in Aegina or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Aegina. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Aegina or Zagreb?

Aegina 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.

Zagreb 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 Aegina or Zagreb?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zagreb. 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 Aegina or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fun destination of Aegina. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Zagreb. This city 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 Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Zagreb or Aegina?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aegina is €92, while the average daily cost in Zagreb is €77. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Aegina and Zagreb in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aegina 43
    Zagreb 48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aegina 86
    Zagreb 96
Compare Hotels in Aegina and Zagreb

Looking for a hotel in Aegina or Zagreb? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Aegina


Hotels in Zagreb


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Aegina Hotel Prices and Zagreb Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aegina 24
    Zagreb 9.08

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zagreb

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zagreb:

  • Airport Zagreb Transfer and Shuttle : $98
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Zagreb Airport ZAG to Zagreb City by Business Car: $47
  • Departure Private Transfer from Zagreb City to Zagreb Airport ZAG by Minivan: $66
  • Franjo Tudman Airport (ZAG) to Zagreb-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • From Sarajevo: One-Way Transfer to Zagreb & Plitvice Lakes: $428
  • From Split: Transfer to Zagreb with Stop at Plitvice Lakes: $149
  • From Plitvice Lakes Round-Trip Comfort Bus Transfer: $16
  • From Transfer to Split & Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $159
  • Guided transfer from Zagreb to Split with Plitvice Lakes stop: $152
  • Luxury Private Transfer Zagreb - Zagreb Airport: $40
  • Luxury Private Transfer Zagreb Airport to Hotels and Vice Versa: $87
  • One-Way Private Transfer to/from Zagreb Airport: $43

Is it cheaper to fly into Aegina or Zagreb?

Prices for flights to both Zagreb and Aegina change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Aegina 34
    Zagreb 16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zagreb

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zagreb.

  • Taste Zagreb Food Tour: $74
  • Taste Zagreb Food Tour: $75
  • Private Authentic Croatian Cooking Class in Central Zagreb: $114
  • Private Authentic Market Tour and Cooking Class in the Heart of Zagreb: $144
  • PRIVATE Half-Day Food Tour: The 10 Tastings of Zagreb With Locals: $196
  • Wine & Food tour of Plešivica near Zagreb: $952

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aegina 13
    Zagreb 12

Tours and Activities in Zagreb

Here are a few actual costs in Zagreb for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Nikola Tesla Technical Museum Ticket: $4.28
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Skip-the-Ticket-Line Museum of Broken Relationships: $7.49
  • Zagreb Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Museum of Illusions Entrance Ticket: $9.62
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Zagreb's Old Town: Walking In-App Audio Tour(ENG): $11
  • Small-Group Walking Highlights Tour: $16
  • City Walking Tour w/ Funicular Ride and WW2 Tunnels: $19
  • City Walking Tour with Funicular Ride & WW2 Tunnels: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aegina 8.57
    Zagreb 8.90

Sample the Local Flavors in Zagreb

Also in Zagreb, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Zagreb Pub Crawl: $16
  • Zagreb:Private Bar Crawling and Alcohol Testing with a Guide: $32
  • Zagreb Wine Tasting & Jarun Lake Tour: $75
  • Plesivica countryside Wine Tasting: $199
  • Fairytale castle & delicious wine tasting and lunch: $202
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour from Zagreb: $208


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aegina and Zagreb, we can see that Aegina is more expensive. And not only is Zagreb much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Zagreb would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Zagreb and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Aegina would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aegina than you might in Zagreb.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Aegina Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aegina or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Aegina. When comparing the sizes of Aegina and Zagreb, 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 Aegina or Zagreb?

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 Aegina or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Aegina are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Aegina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Aegina is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 27°C (81°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Zagreb. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aegina. Aegina usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Aegina gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aegina usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Aegina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aegina 27°C (81°F) 
    Zagreb 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Aegina during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Aegina because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

Aegina is a little warmer than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Aegina. In the autumn, Aegina often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Aegina gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in October than Zagreb. Aegina gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aegina 19°C (67°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Aegina and Zagreb. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aegina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zagreb for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zagreb. In the winter, Aegina is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aegina in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Aegina usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Aegina gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aegina usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Aegina gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aegina 10°C (51°F) 
    Zagreb 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Aegina as well as Zagreb. Many travelers come to Aegina for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Aegina is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 16°C (60°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aegina this time of the year. In the spring, Aegina often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Aegina gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Aegina gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aegina 16°C (60°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Aegina

Aegina Zagreb
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)