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

Should you visit Bari or Zagreb?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bari and Zagreb. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bari

Bari is a local, cultural, and authentic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a under-rated, local, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bari and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bari or Zagreb?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bari than Zagreb. While Zagreb is larger than Bari, Bari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bari is more popular for its food and beaches, while Zagreb is known for its shopping. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also home to San Nicola. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Bari different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Zagreb and Bari.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bari. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

Zagreb offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Bari or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bari 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 Bari, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

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 Bari or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find excellent options in both Bari and Zagreb.

The nightlife in Bari has something for everybody. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

Zagreb offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Bari or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

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

Bari offers a nice beach destination. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Bari or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the excellent old town areas in both Bari and Zagreb.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

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 the Shopping Better in Bari or Zagreb?

Zagreb is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

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.

Bari is a great destination for shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Bari or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Bari is a very kid-friendly port city. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

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 Bari or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Bari and Zagreb both good destinations for a couple.

Bari is a good port city for couples to visit. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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 Bari or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Bari and Zagreb are excellent places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

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.

Is Bari or Zagreb Better for Students?

For students, both Bari and Zagreb are excellent places to visit.

Many students visit Bari. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Zagreb is a very popular port 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.

Is Bari 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, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

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

Bari has a few public transit options. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

Is Bari or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Bari and Zagreb are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Bari is a very walkable destination. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Bari?

How long in Bari or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Bari or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zagreb due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bari, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

One day in Bari or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zagreb. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bari or Zagreb?

Bari 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 fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bari or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Zagreb. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Bari or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Bari. This port 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.

The under-rated city of Zagreb offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Italy, The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy, 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 Bari and Zagreb, we can see that Bari 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 Bari would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bari 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 Bari Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bari or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bari. When comparing the sizes of Bari 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 Bari 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 Bari or Zagreb in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bari as well as Zagreb. The summer months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

In July, Bari is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Bari average around 25°C (76°F), 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 Bari this time of the year. In the summer, Bari often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Bari gets 336 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Bari usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Bari gets 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bari or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Bari are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bari this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Bari is a little warmer than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bari averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Bari usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Bari gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bari usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Bari gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bari or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Bari during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zagreb can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bari is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bari in January average around 10°C (49°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Bari often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Bari gets 110 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Bari usually gets more rain in January than Zagreb. Bari gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bari or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bari and Zagreb. Many visitors come to Bari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Bari is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Bari average around 14°C (58°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bari usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Bari gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bari usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Bari gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Bari