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

Should you visit Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a undiscovered, cultural, and charming 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.

Bucharest and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Zagreb?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Zagreb than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Zagreb, Zagreb has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Bucharest different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zagreb is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zagreb. 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 Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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

Zagreb is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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 Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is well known for its old town. Also, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Zagreb?

Zagreb is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Zagreb Better for Families?

Zagreb is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Zagreb. 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Zagreb is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Zagreb makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is well known for backpackers. Also, Bucharest 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 Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Bucharest or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is well known for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

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.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

Is Bucharest 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 Bucharest and Zagreb.

The public transit in Bucharest can get you around easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Zagreb offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Bucharest or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Zagreb is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Zagreb?

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

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

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Zagreb. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Zagreb?

Bucharest 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the local destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Zagreb?

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the local city of Zagreb. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Zagreb?

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

Zagreb is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Croatia, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Zagreb?

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

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

Bucharest is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Zagreb. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bucharest. Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bucharest or Zagreb in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Bucharest is around the same temperature as Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in October than Zagreb. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Zagreb. Many travelers come to Bucharest 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 Bucharest. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bucharest or Zagreb in the Spring?

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

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

In the spring, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Bucharest