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

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Zagreb?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a iconic, impressive, and spectacular destination. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the beaches, museums, and food.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a local, historic, and beautiful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cape Sounion and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Cape Sounion or Zagreb?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zagreb. Although Cape Sounion and Zagreb are both popular with visitors, Zagreb has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zagreb is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cape Sounion is known for its museums, beaches, and impressive beauty. Cape Sounion is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is also home to The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Cape Sounion different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Sounion or Zagreb?

Cape Sounion
Zagreb

Cape Sounion is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Cape Sounion are among the most recognizable in the world. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

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 Cape Sounion or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Sounion
Zagreb

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

Cape Sounion offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

Is Cape Sounion or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Zagreb

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Cape Sounion is lacking in options for nightlife.

Zagreb has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Cape Sounion is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

Is Cape Sounion or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Zagreb

Cape Sounion is a good destination for the beache. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Cape Sounion offers a nice beach destination. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Cape Sounion
Zagreb

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Sounion or Zagreb?

Cape Sounion
Zagreb

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Zagreb Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Zagreb

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cape Sounion or Zagreb.

Cape Sounion is a family-friendly destination. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

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.


Is Cape Sounion or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Zagreb

With fun activities for couples, both Cape Sounion and Zagreb make for a good place to visit.

Cape Sounion is a good destination for couples to visit. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.

Zagreb is a nice destination for couples. 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 Cape Sounion or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion
Zagreb

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Cape Sounion is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Cape Sounion or Zagreb Better for Students?

Cape Sounion
Zagreb

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion is not popular with students.


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

Cape Sounion
Zagreb

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Cape Sounion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

Is Cape Sounion or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Zagreb

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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.

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Zagreb?

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

Families should spend more time in Zagreb than Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion 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.


  • How many days in Cape Sounion or Zagreb? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Sounion 1-2 
    Zagreb 2-4

One day in Cape Sounion or Zagreb?

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

In Zagreb, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this authentic city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Cape Sounion or Zagreb?

Cape Sounion is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, 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 fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cape Sounion or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Sounion. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Cape Sounion or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the iconic destination of Cape Sounion. This destination 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 place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Zagreb or Cape Sounion?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Sounion is €158, while the average daily cost in Zagreb is €77. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cape Sounion and Zagreb in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Zagreb 48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Zagreb 96
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Zagreb

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion or Zagreb? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cape Sounion


Hotels in Zagreb


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Zagreb Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Sounion 26
    Zagreb 9.08

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zagreb

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zagreb:

  • private transfer from Trogir/Split to Zagreb via Plitvice: $1,754
  • Private Walking Tour with Funicular Ride & Transfers: $53
  • Private Transfer to/from Zagreb Airport: $20
  • Bus transfer from/to Rijeka: $6.95
  • Zagreb- Ljubljana. Private transfer: $196
  • Zagreb to Trieste private and direct transfer with a local driver: $175
  • Zagreb to Split Group Transfer with Plitvice Lakes guided Tour: $152
  • Zagreb to Rovinj private transfer or vice versa: $273
  • Zagreb to Pula private one way transfer (or vice versa): $240
  • Zagreb to Franjo Tudman Airport(ZAG) - Departure Private Transfer: $16
  • Zagreb to Budapest Private Transfer by Minivan: $534
  • Zagreb city to Zagreb Airport private transfer: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Sounion or Zagreb?

Prices for flights to both Zagreb and Cape Sounion change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cape Sounion 41
    Zagreb 16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zagreb

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zagreb.

  • Taste Zagreb Food Tour: $74
  • Taste Zagreb Food Tour: $75
  • Private Authentic Croatian Cooking Class in Central Zagreb: $114
  • Private Authentic Market Tour and Cooking Class in the Heart of Zagreb: $144
  • PRIVATE Half-Day Food Tour: The 10 Tastings of Zagreb With Locals: $196
  • Wine & Food tour of Plešivica near Zagreb: $952

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Sounion 19
    Zagreb 12

Tours and Activities in Zagreb

Here are a few actual costs in Zagreb for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Grand Zagreb Tour : $99
  • Zagreb History Walking Tour: $32
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in Zagreb City with Guide (up to 10): $153
  • 2-Hour Unveiling A Captivating History Tour: $107
  • 4 Day Touristic Adventure from Zagreb: $2,449
  • 4-hour Private Zagreb & the Mountain Tour in a Yugo car: $115
  • All-Inclusive Day Tour Zagreb-Rastoke-Plitvice Lakes-Split: $1,068
  • Back to Yugoslavia Private City Tour in Old-Timer Yugo Car: $93
  • Baroque Varaždin and Trakošćan Castle Private Tour: $176
  • Beautiful Christmas in Zagreb - Walking Tour: $432
  • Best of ISTRIA: Amphitheater PULA + ROVINJ + HUM or POREČ - fully Private Tour: $262
  • Best of SLOVENIA - Bled + Postojna + Ljubljana - Day Tour from Zagreb: $224

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Sounion 23
    Zagreb 8.90

Sample the Local Flavors in Zagreb

Also in Zagreb, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Zagreb Pub Crawl: $16
  • Zagreb:Private Bar Crawling and Alcohol Testing with a Guide: $32
  • Zagreb Wine Tasting & Jarun Lake Tour: $75
  • Plesivica countryside Wine Tasting: $199
  • Fairytale castle & delicious wine tasting and lunch: $202
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour from Zagreb: $208


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


Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 700 times larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Cape Sounion during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cape Sounion for the beaches 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.

In July, Cape Sounion is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 27°C (81°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Zagreb, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the summer, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Cape Sounion gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Sounion 27°C (81°F) 
    Zagreb 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Zagreb. The autumn months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Cape Sounion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Sounion 19°C (67°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Zagreb. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Sounion 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 the winter, Cape Sounion is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cape Sounion in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Cape Sounion gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in January than Zagreb. Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Sounion 10°C (51°F) 
    Zagreb 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Cape Sounion is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 16°C (60°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Sounion. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Sounion 16°C (60°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion Zagreb
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)