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

Should you visit Basel or Zagreb?

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

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

Basel

Basel is a museum-filled, easily accessible, and beautiful city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Basel and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Basel or Zagreb?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zagreb than Basel. Zagreb is bigger than Basel, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zagreb is better known for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Basel is more popular for its impressive beauty. Basel is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its many museums and its nice old town. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Basel different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Basel can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

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 Basel or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zagreb is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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).

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Basel or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Zagreb has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Is Basel or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Basel to see the historical old town. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

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 Basel or Zagreb?

Both Basel and Zagreb are great shopping destinations.

Basel is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

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 Basel or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Basel is a very kid-friendly city. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

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 Basel or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Basel and Zagreb are both notable to visit as a couple.

Basel makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

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 Basel or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is notable for backpackers. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zagreb is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Basel is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Basel or Zagreb Better for Students?

Basel and Zagreb are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

Basel is a great city to visit as a student. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Students come from all over to stay in Zagreb. 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 Basel or Zagreb Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Basel and Zagreb offer great public transit options.

Basel has some very good public transit options. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

The public transit in Zagreb can get you to most places easily. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Basel or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Basel 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 Basel on foot is easy. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible 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 Basel Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Basel?

How long in Basel or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Basel 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 Basel, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

Couples should spend more time in Zagreb than Basel. 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 Basel 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 Basel or Zagreb?

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

In Zagreb, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this local destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Basel or Zagreb?

Basel 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zagreb. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Basel or Zagreb?

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

Zagreb is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Zagreb. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Basel or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Basel. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, 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 Basel and Zagreb, we can see that Basel 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 Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel 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 Basel Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Basel or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Basel 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 Basel 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 Basel or Zagreb in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Zagreb. Many travelers come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Basel is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zagreb this time of the year. In Basel, it's very sunny this time of the year. Basel usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Basel usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Basel or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Basel as well as Zagreb. Many visitors come to Basel in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

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

In the autumn, Basel often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Basel or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Basel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. Basel can be very cold during winter. In January, Basel is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 3°C (37°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Basel usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during winter. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Basel usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Basel or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Basel during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Basel because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

Basel is cooler than Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Basel often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in April than Zagreb. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Basel