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

Should you visit Brussels 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 Brussels 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.

Brussels

Brussels is a historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Brussels travel costs.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a under-rated, local, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Zagreb travel costs.

Brussels and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Zagreb?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels than Zagreb. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Brussels is very popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Zagreb attracts visitors for its nightlife. Brussels is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt). Zagreb is famous for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Brussels and Zagreb have excellent landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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 Brussels or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Brussels and Zagreb.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Zagreb has a huge number of terrific 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 Brussels or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Zagreb is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Brussels or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the excellent old town areas in both Brussels and Zagreb.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Zagreb?

Brussels is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Brussels make it a world-class shopping destination. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

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 Brussels or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Brussels is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around 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 Brussels or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

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 Brussels or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels and Zagreb are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Many backpackers 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.

Is Brussels or Zagreb Better for Students?

Brussels and Zagreb are excellent places to visit for students.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

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.

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

Brussels is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Brussels has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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

Is Brussels or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Brussels and Zagreb both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Brussels or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Brussels due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brussels than Zagreb 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 Brussels.

One day in Brussels or Zagreb?

Brussels is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Brussels or Zagreb?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. 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 Brussels or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Brussels or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic big city of Brussels. 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.

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Zagreb?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 46% larger than the population of Zagreb. When comparing the sizes of Brussels 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 Brussels 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 Brussels or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Brussels 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.

In the summer, Brussels is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the summer temperatures in Brussels in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Zagreb averages at about 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Zagreb. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brussels or Zagreb in the Autumn?

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

In October, Brussels is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 12°C (54°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Zagreb. Brussels 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 Brussels or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Zagreb. Many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. 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. Be prepared for some very cold days in Brussels. Brussels is much warmer than Zagreb in the winter. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Zagreb in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Brussels is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the spring temperatures in Brussels in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Brussels