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

Should you visit Arachova or Zagreb?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova 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.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a beautiful, authentic, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arachova and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Arachova or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zagreb. Although Arachova and Zagreb are popular destinations, Zagreb has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zagreb is very popular for its museums, shopping, and big city activities, while Arachova attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Arachova is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. Zagreb is famous for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is also well known for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Arachova different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Zagreb Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Zagreb

Arachova is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Zagreb is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Zagreb is not a skiing destination.


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

Arachova
Zagreb

Zagreb is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Zagreb can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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

Arachova
Zagreb

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Zagreb can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Zagreb has a huge number of terrific 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 Arachova or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Zagreb

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Arachova and Zagreb.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Many people head to Zagreb for the nightlife scene. 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 Arachova or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Zagreb

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

Many visitors go to Arachova to see the historical old town. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

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 Arachova or Zagreb Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Zagreb

Arachova 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 Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Zagreb is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Zagreb?

Arachova
Zagreb

Zagreb is well known for shopping. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Zagreb is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.


Is Arachova or Zagreb Better for Families?

Arachova
Zagreb

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

Arachova is a very kid-friendly town. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

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 Arachova or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Arachova
Zagreb

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

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Zagreb is a good 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 Arachova or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Zagreb

Zagreb is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


Is Arachova or Zagreb Better for Students?

Arachova
Zagreb

Zagreb is well known for students. However, Arachova 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.

Arachova is not popular with students.

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

Arachova
Zagreb

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

Public transit in Zagreb is fairly effecient and thorough. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

While Arachova offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are some public buses in the area.

Is Arachova or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Arachova
Zagreb

Zagreb is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Arachova or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zagreb due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zagreb than Arachova 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 Arachova or Zagreb? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Zagreb 2-4

One day in Arachova or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Arachova. 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.

The city of Zagreb offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Arachova or Zagreb?

Arachova 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zagreb, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Zagreb?

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

Zagreb is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Arachova or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Arachova. This 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.

Zagreb is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Zagreb or Arachova?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, 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 Arachova and Zagreb in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Zagreb 48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Zagreb 96
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Zagreb

Looking for a hotel in Arachova 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 Arachova


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: Zagreb Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    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 Arachova or Zagreb?

Prices for flights to both Zagreb and Arachova 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
    Arachova 29
    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.
    Arachova 28
    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
    Arachova 6.43
    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 Arachova and Zagreb, we can see that Arachova 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 Arachova would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arachova 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 Arachova Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova 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 Arachova 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 Arachova or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Arachova is a little warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the summer temperatures in Arachova in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Zagreb averages at about 22°C (72°F).

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

In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Arachova 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
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Zagreb 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Arachova during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Arachova in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Arachova is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 19°C (67°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

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

Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Zagreb. Arachova 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
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Zagreb. Most visitors come to Arachova for the skiing, 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. Arachova is much warmer than Zagreb in the winter. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

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

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Arachova 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
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Zagreb 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Zagreb. The spring months attract visitors to Arachova because of the small town charm. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

In the spring, Arachova is a little warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the spring temperatures in Arachova in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

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

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Arachova 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
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Arachova

Arachova 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)