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

Should you visit Bilbao 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 Bilbao 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.

Bilbao

Bilbao is a colorful, friendly, and industrial city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a under-rated, local, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bilbao and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bilbao or Zagreb?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zagreb than Bilbao. Zagreb is bigger than Bilbao, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Bilbao is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for it's world-class culinary scene, its modern museums, and its lovely parks. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Bilbao different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Bilbao and Zagreb.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bilbao. A favorite museum in town is the popular Guggenheim Museum. From its iconic building to the unique exhibits, this is a must-see stop during your visit. Other highlights around town include the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao, the Museo Vasco, as well as the city's unique bridges.

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 Bilbao or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zagreb is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Bilbao is not a culinary destination.

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).

Bilbao is not a culinary destination. The food scene is among the best in Spain. The city has several world renowned restaurants, including a few Michelin-starred restaurants, but there are also smaller eateries that cater to the locals and tourists alike. Make sure you try the pintxos, which are small dishes that are the Basque region's answer to tapas. Many include seafood and are cooked with olive oil and garlic.

Is Bilbao or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Bilbao and Zagreb.

Bilbao is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a great late night scene that centers around eating and drinking. There are lively nightclubs, a good live music scene, and no shortage of people heading out on the town.

Many people head to Zagreb for the nightlife scene. 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 Bilbao or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is well known for its old town. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Bilbao has an old town worth visiting. The old town, often called Casco Viejo, is filled with historic architecture, great local bars, and some interesting shopping.

Is the Shopping Better in Bilbao or Zagreb?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zagreb and Bilbao.

Bilbao is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Gran Vía is the most popular shopping street in town. There are also historic boutique shops around the old town.

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 Bilbao or Zagreb Better for Families?

Both Bilbao and Zagreb are notable family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bilbao. The city offers some great museums such as the Guggenheim Museum. Families will also enjoy taking a ride of the Artxander Funicular, and exploring Mercado de la Ribera. You can also enjoy walking around Park Abandoibarra and exploring the creative sculptures.

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 Bilbao or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Bilbao and Zagreb both notable destinations for a couple.

Bilbao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is filled with a vibrant enjoy with parks and outdoor strolls that couples will enjoy. There are also many great museums and romantic restaurants as well as some great shopping streets.

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 Bilbao or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is well known for backpackers. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bilbao. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and a good social scene that makes it easy to meet other backpackers.

Is Bilbao or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is well known for students. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students visit 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.

It's common for students to visit Bilbao. This is a popular study abroad destination with many great museums and educational opportunities for international students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bilbao and Zagreb.

Public transit in Bilbao can get you to some places easily. The metro system has three lines. There is also a tram and bus system.

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

Is Bilbao or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Zagreb is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bilbao is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Zagreb is a very walkable city. It's a city that lives outdoors. It's very walkable with many outdoor cafes and parks where you can take a stroll.

Bilbao is a somewhat walkable city. It's a fairly walkable city with several pedestrian-friendly areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Bilbao?

How long in Bilbao or Zagreb?

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bilbao or Zagreb?

Bilbao 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.

Zagreb 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.

Five days in Bilbao or Zagreb?

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

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

A week in Bilbao or Zagreb?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the local destination of Zagreb. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from Madrid, 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 Bilbao and Zagreb, we can see that Bilbao 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 Bilbao would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bilbao 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 Bilbao Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bilbao or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 99% larger than the population of Bilbao. When comparing the sizes of Bilbao 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 Bilbao 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 Bilbao or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Bilbao are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Bilbao because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Zagreb. Bilbao usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Bilbao gets 188 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bilbao usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Bilbao gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bilbao or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Bilbao during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bilbao this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Bilbao is a little warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bilbao in October average around 16°C (62°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Bilbao often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Bilbao gets 125 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bilbao. Bilbao usually gets more rain in October than Zagreb. Bilbao gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bilbao or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bilbao and Zagreb. Many travelers come to Bilbao for the museums and the shopping scene. Furthermore, 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 January, Bilbao is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Bilbao average around 9°C (48°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Bilbao usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Bilbao gets 77 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

Bilbao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Bilbao usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Bilbao gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bilbao or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bilbao as well as Zagreb. Many visitors come to Bilbao in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Zagreb for the activities around the city during these months.

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

In the spring, Bilbao often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Bilbao gets 117 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Bilbao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Bilbao usually gets more rain in April than Zagreb. Bilbao gets 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Bilbao