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

Should you visit Cardiff or Zagreb?

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

Should I visit Cardiff 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.

Cardiff

Cardiff is a industrial, up-and-coming, and green city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cardiff and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cardiff or Zagreb?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zagreb than Cardiff. Zagreb is bigger than Cardiff, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zagreb is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Cardiff is more popular for its impressive beauty. Cardiff is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for having the most castles per square mile of any city in Europe. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Cardiff different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zagreb is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cardiff. The most notable landmark of the city is the famous and well-preserved Cardiff Castle. Visitors also enjoy seeing the Victorian arcades, museums, and cathedrals around town.

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

Zagreb is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options 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).

Cardiff may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Welsh cuisine is known for its stews and hearty vegetable dishes. The national dish is cawl, which is a stew made with lamb and vegetables. Other local favorites include Welsh rarebit, which is a type of cheese toast, and Glamorgan Sausage, which is actually made with vegetables.

Is Cardiff or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Cardiff has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is all about fun and most of the activities are driven by the large and diverse student population.

Is Cardiff or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is a great destination for its old town. However, Cardiff 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.

Cardiff does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cardiff or Zagreb?

Zagreb is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cardiff 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.

Cardiff has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping options include shopping malls and boutique lined streets. There is a nice mix of independent shops and major chains to choose between.

Is Cardiff or Zagreb Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cardiff or Zagreb.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cardiff. The city has a number of climbing and play areas, museums, and playgrounds that can keep the little ones entertained. There are also plenty of outdoor parks and trails to wander around.

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 Cardiff or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Zagreb is a popular place for its romantic activities. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options 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.

Cardiff is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The most romantic experiences involve a night out dining at nice restaurants, enjoying a cocktail at a classy bar, and strolling through neighborhoods and soaking up the atmosphere.

Is Cardiff or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is a great destination for backpackers. However, Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Cardiff is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Cardiff or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is a great destination for students. Also, Cardiff is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Cardiff. Most students come to study at Cardiff University, which is a leading university in Great Britain.

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

Zagreb is a great destination for its public transit. However, Cardiff is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Cardiff. There is a bus system that you can use to get around.

Is Cardiff or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Zagreb is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Cardiff 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.

Cardiff is a somewhat walkable city. There are pedestrianized areas and the waterfront is nice to walk around but there is still room for improvement when it comes to walkability.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Cardiff?

How long in Cardiff or Zagreb?

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

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

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

In Zagreb, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Cardiff or Zagreb?

Cardiff 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.

In Zagreb, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zagreb has to offer.

Five days in Cardiff or Zagreb?

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

Zagreb is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Cardiff or Zagreb?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zagreb. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Zagreb. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, 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 Cardiff and Zagreb, we can see that Cardiff 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 Cardiff would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cardiff 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 Cardiff Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cardiff or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Cardiff. When comparing the sizes of Cardiff 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 Cardiff 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 Cardiff or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Cardiff are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cardiff for the city activities 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.

Cardiff is cooler than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 17°C (63°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 Cardiff. Cardiff usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Cardiff gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cardiff usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Cardiff gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cardiff or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Cardiff during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cardiff because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and 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.

In the autumn, Cardiff is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cardiff in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Cardiff often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Cardiff gets 95 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 Cardiff. Cardiff usually gets more rain in October than Zagreb. Cardiff gets 101 mm (4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cardiff or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cardiff and Zagreb. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cardiff 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. It's quite cold in Cardiff in the winter. In January, Cardiff is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Cardiff average around 3°C (38°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Cardiff usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during winter. Cardiff gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cardiff usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Cardiff gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cardiff or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cardiff as well as Zagreb. Many travelers come to Cardiff for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the spring for the activities around the city.

Cardiff is cooler than Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Cardiff averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Cardiff often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Cardiff gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Cardiff usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Cardiff gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Cardiff