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

Should you visit Bergamo or Zagreb?

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

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

Bergamo

Bergamo is a fascinating, beautiful, and under-rated city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. 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.

Bergamo and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bergamo or Zagreb?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zagreb than Bergamo. Zagreb is bigger than Bergamo, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zagreb is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Bergamo is more popular for its impressive beauty. Bergamo is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its historical buildings and beautiful squares. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Bergamo different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zagreb is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bergamo. There are historical buildings as well as fascinating museums that are worth checking out. Highlights include the Basilica of St. Mary Major, Colleoni Chapel, the Accademia Carrara, and the Cathedral of Sant'Alessandro.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Bergamo and Zagreb can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Bergamo. You'll find traditional restaurants around town that serve the local specialties, many of which have their roots in peasant dishes. The flavors are humble but high quality and the food is fresh and masterfully prepared.

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 Bergamo or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Bergamo 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 Bergamo. Despite not being high on the itinerary of many travelers, the city has a great nightlife scene that includes many local bars and clubs. You can enjoy a local brew or sip some Italian wine while you enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.

Is Bergamo or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is notable for its old town. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Bergamo has an old town worth visiting. Since the old town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town has become more popular with visitors. Still, you can enjoy the authentic and less touristy vibe of this beautiful city.

Is the Shopping Better in Bergamo or Zagreb?

Zagreb is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Zagreb is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Bergamo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shopping areas around town including shopping malls and shopping streets. You'll find most of the major brands as well as some interesting boutique shops.

Is Bergamo or Zagreb Better for Families?

Zagreb is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Bergamo is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Zagreb is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Bergamo is not always a place people visit with their families. It's a beautiful city that is filled with history, and for kids there are pedestrian streets to explore and great Italian food. There's also the Museo di Scienze Naturali, which is worth checking out.

Is Bergamo or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Bergamo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the beautiful architecture and impressive squares. There are also great restaurants and pedestrian streets that are fun to wander through.

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 Bergamo or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is notable for backpackers. Also, Bergamo 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.

Bergamo is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's not the most popular backpacker city in Italy, it does have a couple of hostels and guesthouses that offer affordable rates and a young vibe.

Is Bergamo or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is notable for students. Also, Bergamo 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 Bergamo. The university attracts international students and the city makes a great base for learning and exploring.

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

Zagreb is notable for its public transit. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Bergamo has some public transit options. There are buses around town as well as two funiculars, one connecting Città Bassa with the Città Alta and the other connecting Città Alta to San Vigilio.

Is Bergamo or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Bergamo and Zagreb both are great when exploring on foot.

Bergamo is a very walkable city. There are many pedestrian streets and the best way to explore the city is 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 Bergamo Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Bergamo?

How long in Bergamo or Zagreb?

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

Families should spend more time in Zagreb than Bergamo. 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 Bergamo. 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 Bergamo 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 Bergamo or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bergamo. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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 Bergamo or Zagreb?

Bergamo 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 Bergamo or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bergamo. 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 Bergamo or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Bergamo. 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 2-Week Tours from Rome, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to 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 Bergamo and Zagreb, we can see that Bergamo 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 Bergamo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bergamo 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 Bergamo Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bergamo or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Bergamo. When comparing the sizes of Bergamo 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 Bergamo 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 Bergamo or Zagreb in the Summer?

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

Bergamo is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Bergamo averages around 24°C (75°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 Bergamo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bergamo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during summer. Bergamo gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bergamo usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Bergamo gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bergamo or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bergamo as well as Zagreb. Many visitors come to Bergamo 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, Bergamo is around the same temperature as Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bergamo in October average around 14°C (57°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Bergamo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Bergamo gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Bergamo receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Bergamo usually gets more rain in October than Zagreb. Bergamo gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bergamo or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Bergamo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bergamo 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. Bergamo can be very cold during winter. In January, Bergamo is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Bergamo average around 2°C (36°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Bergamo usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Bergamo gets 98 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bergamo usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Bergamo gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bergamo or Zagreb in the Spring?

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

Bergamo is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Bergamo averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Bergamo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Bergamo gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Bergamo usually gets more rain in April than Zagreb. Bergamo gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Bergamo