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

Should you visit Amsterdam or Zagreb?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Zagreb, 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.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a laid-back, scenic, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a beautiful, authentic, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Zagreb?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Amsterdam. Although Amsterdam and Zagreb are about the same size, Amsterdam has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Amsterdam is better known for its nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Zagreb is more popular for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Amsterdam different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Zagreb.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Zagreb. 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 Amsterdam or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zagreb is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zagreb. 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).

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Amsterdam or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Amsterdam is a world class party destination. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

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 Amsterdam or Zagreb Better for Music?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Amsterdam The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Is Amsterdam or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam and Zagreb both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Amsterdam to see the historical old town. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Zagreb is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The upper town is filled with charm, cafes, and historical landmarks such as St. Mark Church, Kamenita Vrata (the Stone Gate), and the cathedral.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Zagreb?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zagreb and Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Is Amsterdam or Zagreb Better for Families?

Zagreb is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Zagreb. 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.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Amsterdam or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Amsterdam is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Zagreb is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Amsterdam or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Amsterdam. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Zagreb. 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.

Is Amsterdam or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is well known for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Zagreb is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

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

Amsterdam has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Zagreb. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Amsterdam or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Amsterdam on foot is easy. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Amsterdam or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Amsterdam due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

One day in Amsterdam or Zagreb?

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Zagreb. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Zagreb?

Amsterdam 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic city of Zagreb. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Zagreb?

Amsterdam is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Zagreb is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Zagreb, we can see that Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Zagreb?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 6% larger than the population of Zagreb. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Amsterdam is cooler than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, 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 Amsterdam. Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Amsterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Amsterdam in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Amsterdam is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amsterdam in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Zagreb. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Zagreb. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Zagreb can be very cold. Amsterdam can be very cold during winter. In January, Amsterdam is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 2°C (36°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Zagreb. The spring months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

Amsterdam is much colder than Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Amsterdam