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

Should you visit Belfast or Zagreb?

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

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

Belfast

Belfast is a under-rated, authentic, and affordable 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 and shopping. See Belfast travel costs.

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 nightlife, food, and shopping. See Zagreb travel costs.

Belfast and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Belfast or Zagreb?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zagreb than Belfast. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Belfast is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles". Zagreb is famous for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is also well known for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Belfast different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Belfast
Zagreb

Zagreb is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Belfast
Zagreb

Zagreb is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zagreb makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Belfast
Zagreb

Zagreb is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Is Belfast or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Belfast
Zagreb

Zagreb is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Belfast does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Zagreb to see the historical old town. The upper town is filled with charm, cafes, and historical landmarks such as St. Mark Church, Kamenita Vrata (the Stone Gate), and the cathedral.

Belfast does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Zagreb?

Belfast
Zagreb

Zagreb is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Belfast. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Is Belfast or Zagreb Better for Families?

Belfast
Zagreb

Belfast and Zagreb are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Belfast is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Zagreb is a family-friendly city. 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 Belfast or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Belfast
Zagreb

Zagreb is a nice place to visit for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.


Is Belfast or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Belfast
Zagreb

Zagreb is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city 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.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.

Is Belfast or Zagreb Better for Students?

Belfast
Zagreb

Zagreb is a well-known place for students. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Belfast. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

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

Belfast
Zagreb

Zagreb is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Zagreb. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Public transit is mostly limited in Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.


Is Belfast or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Belfast
Zagreb

Zagreb is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Belfast is a somewhat walkable place.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Zagreb?

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

Families should spend more time in Zagreb than Belfast. 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 Zagreb than Belfast. 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Zagreb? Ideal Length of Stay
    Belfast 1-3 
    Zagreb 2-4

One day in Belfast or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Belfast. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Zagreb, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Belfast or Zagreb?

Belfast 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.

In Zagreb, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zagreb has to offer.


Five days in Belfast or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Belfast. 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Belfast or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the affordable destination of Belfast. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zagreb. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Zagreb. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Zagreb or Belfast?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Belfast Prices
    UK Prices
    Zagreb Prices
    Croatia Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Belfast £170
    Zagreb £74

The average daily cost (per person) in Belfast is £170, while the average daily cost in Zagreb is £74. 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 Belfast and Zagreb in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Belfast £68
    Zagreb £40
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Belfast £136
    Zagreb £80
Compare Hotels in Belfast and Zagreb

Looking for a hotel in Belfast 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 Belfast


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: Belfast Hotel Prices and Zagreb Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Belfast £14
    Zagreb £7.60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Belfast

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Belfast:

  • Belfast Accommodation to Belfast City Airport (BHD) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Belfast Airport (BFS) to Belfast City - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast Airport (BFS) to Holywood City - Arrival Private Transfer: $31
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Belfast Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $110
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Holywood Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City to Belfast International Airport (BFS) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast International Airport (BFS) to Lisburn City - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Donegal Private Transfers: $510
  • Game of Thrones Studio Tour Admission and Transfer from Belfast : $53
  • Private One-way Transfer From Belfast Int. Airport to Belfast: $48
  • Private Transfer Belfast International Airport BFS to Belfast: $92
  • Private Transfer from Belfast Airport to Belfast City: $151

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zagreb

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zagreb:

  • Bus transfer from/to Rijeka: $7.32
  • From Plitvice Lakes Round-Trip Comfort Bus Transfer: $16
  • Direct bus Transfer from/to Split: $24
  • Zagreb Airport One Way Private transfer To or From Airport: $26
  • Airport transfer to your Hotel Accommodation in Zagreb: $33
  • One-Way Private Transfer to/from Zagreb Airport: $36
  • Zagreb Airport: One-Way Private transfer To/From Airport: $40
  • Luxury Private Transfer Zagreb Airport - Zagreb: $40
  • Luxury Private Transfer Zagreb - Zagreb Airport: $40
  • Private Transfer to/from Zagreb Airport: $41
  • One-Way Private Transfer to/from Zagreb Airport: $43
  • Zagreb Airport(ZAG) to Moravske Toplice- Arrival Private Transfer: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Belfast or Zagreb?

Prices for flights to both Zagreb and Belfast 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
    Belfast £88
    Zagreb £24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Belfast

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Belfast.

  • Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $97
  • Taste & Tour: The original Belfast Food Tour™️ with drinks: $105
  • The Original Belfast Food Tour™ with Drinks: $116

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
  • Štrukli cooking class with Dolac Market Tour: $87
  • Bite Back in Time: Zagreb's Food Tour Spiced with History: $98
  • Zagreb Food Tour: Bite into Traditional Dishes and Flavors: $107
  • Croatian cuisine cooking class with Dolac market tour: $142
  • 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: $170
  • Wine & Food tour of Plešivica near Zagreb: $954

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Belfast £18
    Zagreb £9.88
Typical Entertainment Prices in Belfast

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Belfast are as follows:


  • Movie Tickets
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in Belfast

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Belfast are as follows:

  • Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.00
  • Museum Ticket: $7.18
  • Ulster Folk Museum Entry Ticket: $15
  • Crumlin Road Gaol Experience: $19
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour Belfast: $19
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Belfast Open Top Bus Tour: $19
  • 2.5-Hour Street Murals Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Belfast Murals Political Tour in Spanish: $20
  • Belfast Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $20
  • The Story of walking tour with a local guide: $21
  • Party Bike tour of Belfast: $22
  • Falls Road Political Mural Walking Tour: $22

Tours and Activities in Zagreb

Here are a few actual costs in Zagreb for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Nikola Tesla Technical Museum Ticket: $4.29
  • Skip-the-Ticket-Line Museum of Broken Relationships: $7.50
  • Museum of Illusions Entrance Ticket: $9.65
  • Chocolate Museum Entry Ticket: $10
  • VR 3D Immersive Film Experience - Voucher: $13
  • Highlights Tour with a Master of Art History: $16
  • Small-Group Walking Highlights Tour: $16
  • City Walking Tour w/ Funicular Ride and WW2 Tunnels: $19
  • Walking Tour of City Center, Funicular & WW2 Tunnels: $19
  • Explore A Guided Walking Tour of the City Centre: $21
  • Group walking tour of Zagreb (funicular included): $21
  • Guided City Tour with Funicular Ride & WWII Tunnels: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Belfast £7.86
    Zagreb £7.45

Sample the Local Flavors in Belfast

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Belfast:

  • Pub Crawl and Bar Walking Tour with Two Drinks: $21
  • McConnell's Distillery Guided Tour with Tasting: $26
  • Belfast Giant's Causeway and Titanic Distillery Whiskey Tour: $71
  • Titanic Museum and Whiskey Distillery Exploration with Tasting: $125
  • Historic Pub Tour: $194

Sample the Local Flavors in Zagreb

Also in Zagreb, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl, 1-Hour of Unlimited Drinks, & Club Entry: $27
  • Zagreb:Private Bar Crawling and Alcohol Testing with a Guide: $32
  • Private Zagreb Walking Tour and Wine Tasting From Zagreb: $103
  • Winery & Wine tasting on Zagorje hill - private tour near Zagreb: $109
  • Hrastje Plešivičko Wine Tasting Day Trip: $161
  • Taste Zagreb Heritage Wine Tasting with Traditional Lunch: $197
  • Plesivica countryside Wine Tasting: $199
  • Private Wine Tour from Two Local Wineries & Samobor : $262


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


Which is Bigger, Belfast or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Belfast. When comparing the sizes of Belfast 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Zagreb in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Belfast is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the summer temperatures in Belfast in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Zagreb averages at about 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zagreb this time of the year. Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Belfast usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Belfast 15°C (59°F) 
    Zagreb 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Belfast as well as Zagreb. Many visitors come to Belfast in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Belfast is generally cooler than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 9°C (48°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in October than Zagreb. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Belfast 9°C (48°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Belfast are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Belfast for 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. Belfast can be very cold during winter. Belfast is much warmer than Zagreb in the winter. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Belfast usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Belfast 4°C (39°F) 
    Zagreb 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Zagreb in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Belfast is much colder than Zagreb. Typically, the spring temperatures in Belfast in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

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

Belfast usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Belfast 8°C (46°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Belfast

Belfast Zagreb
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)