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

Should you visit Biarritz or Zagreb?

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Zagreb? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a dynamic, cultural, and relaxing seaside town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a local, historic, and beautiful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Biarritz or Zagreb?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zagreb than Biarritz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zagreb is better known for its museums, historical sights, and big city activities, while Biarritz is more popular for its resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Biarritz is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Biarritz different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Biarritz offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people pass their time relaxing on the beach or taking a walk, but you can also visit the Biarritz Aquarium or the Biarritz Lighthouse.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Biarritz and Zagreb.

Biarritz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

Dining out in Zagreb is an experience not to be missed. 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 Biarritz or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Both Biarritz and Zagreb have superb vibes after the sun sets.

Biarritz has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city center has the most bars and clubs if you're looking for a party. Head to Port Vieux or Les Halles for some of the city's best nightlife. For a more relaxed night out, there are night markets as well as beach front terraces and rooftops where you can sip wine in a mellow atmosphere.

The people in Zagreb know how to have a good time. 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 Biarritz or Zagreb Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is a great destination for its resorts. However, Zagreb is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Biarritz to choose from. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Zagreb is not a resort destination.

Is Biarritz or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is a great destination for the beache. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Biarritz for it's beautiful beaches. There are plenty of sandy beaches near the town that offer great surfing. For calmer water you can head to some of the smaller bays. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Le Grande Plage, Plage du Miramar, and Plage Port Vieux.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Biarritz or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

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.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Zagreb?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Biarritz and Zagreb.

Biarritz is well-known for its shopping. The town has many market halls, boutiques, and department stores. Head to Avenue de Verdun for some quirky local stores or Place Georges Clemenceau for more high end shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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 Biarritz or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Biarritz is a very kid-friendly seaside town. The sandy beaches are great for surfing, but you'll also find some calm water where kids can play. There are plenty of surf schools in the area that will help kids learn if they're just beginning to surf. Kids who love the ocean will find tons of entertainment in this seaside 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 Biarritz or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Biarritz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many coastal walks, sandy beaches, and surfing opportunities that couples can enjoy. Combine that with great French cuisine and a lively atmosphere, and you won't find a better couples getaway.

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

Biarritz and Zagreb are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Biarritz. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Zagreb is a very popular seaside town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Biarritz or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz is not popular with students.

Zagreb is a very popular 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.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Biarritz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

Is Biarritz or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Biarritz and Zagreb are superb when it comes to walkability.

Biarritz is a very walkable seaside town. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.

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 Biarritz Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Biarritz or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Biarritz due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Biarritz, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zagreb than Biarritz 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 Biarritz or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Biarritz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Biarritz or Zagreb?

Biarritz is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. 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 Biarritz or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. 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 Biarritz or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the dynamic destination of Biarritz. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 The Best Tours for Seniors to France, The Best Contiki Tours to France, 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 Biarritz and Zagreb, we can see that Biarritz 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 Biarritz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Biarritz 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 Biarritz Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Biarritz 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 Biarritz 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 Biarritz or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Biarritz during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Biarritz is cooler than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Zagreb, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Biarritz. In the summer, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Biarritz gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Biarritz usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Zagreb. Biarritz gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Biarritz or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Biarritz and Zagreb. The autumn months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

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

Biarritz usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Biarritz gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Biarritz or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Biarritz as well as Zagreb. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zagreb for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zagreb. In January, Biarritz is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Biarritz average around 8°C (47°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Biarritz often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Biarritz gets 85 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the winter. Biarritz usually gets more rain in January than Zagreb. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Biarritz or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Biarritz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the spring for the activities around the city.

Biarritz is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Biarritz gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. In April, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Biarritz gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Biarritz