A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Annecy vs. Zagreb for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Annecy or Zagreb?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Annecy and Zagreb can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a breathtaking, quaint, and storybook alpine town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a historic, beautiful, and authentic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Annecy and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Annecy or Zagreb?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zagreb than Annecy, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zagreb is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Annecy is more popular for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Annecy is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Annecy different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zagreb is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its sights and museums.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Annecy. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

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

Annecy is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Annecy, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

Zagreb has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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).

Is Annecy or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Annecy. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

Is Annecy or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Annecy is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Annecy can be explored in its historical center. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

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.

Is Annecy or Zagreb Better for Hiking?

Annecy is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Zagreb is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Annecy. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Zagreb is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Annecy or Zagreb?

Zagreb is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its shopping areas.

Zagreb is well-known for its shopping. The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Many visitors go to Annecy to go shopping. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Is Annecy or Zagreb Better for Families?

Annecy is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Annecy is a very kid-friendly alpine town. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

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 Annecy or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Annecy is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Annecy is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Zagreb is a good alpine town 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 Annecy or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

Many 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

Is Annecy or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Annecy is not popular with students.

Zagreb is very popular with students. 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.

Annecy is not popular with students.

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

Zagreb is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its public transit.

Zagreb has some very good public transit options. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Annecy has a few public transit options. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

Is Annecy or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Annecy and Zagreb are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Annecy is a very walkable alpine town. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore 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 Annecy Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Annecy?

How long in Annecy or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Annecy or Zagreb. In our opinion, Zagreb has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Zagreb than Annecy. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Annecy or Zagreb?

Annecy might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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 Annecy or Zagreb?

Annecy is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Annecy or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Annecy. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Annecy or Zagreb?

Annecy is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This alpine town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, 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 Annecy and Zagreb, we can see that Annecy 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 Annecy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Annecy 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 Annecy Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Annecy or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Annecy. When comparing the sizes of Annecy 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 Annecy or Zagreb?

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 Annecy or Zagreb in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Zagreb. Many visitors come to Annecy in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Annecy is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zagreb. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Annecy this time of the year. In the summer, Annecy often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Annecy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Annecy is around the same temperature as Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Annecy in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Annecy usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during autumn. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Annecy usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Annecy or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Annecy during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Annecy because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

It's quite cold in Zagreb in the winter. The weather in Annecy can be very cold. In January, Annecy is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 4°C (39°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Annecy often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Zagreb. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Annecy or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Zagreb. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zagreb for the activities around the city.

Annecy is cooler than Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Annecy usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during spring. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Annecy usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Annecy