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

Should you visit Cologne or Zagreb?

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

Should I visit Cologne 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.

Cologne

Cologne is a fun, accessible, and vibrant city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cologne and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cologne or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cologne than Zagreb, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Cologne is more popular for its christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Zagreb is known for its food and historical sights. Cologne is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. It is also home to The Cologne Cathedral. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Cologne different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Cologne or Zagreb.

Cologne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. At the heart of the city is Cologne Cathedral, which is stunningly intricate and highlights High Gothic architecture. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Other famous sights around town include Cologne City Hall, the Wallraf-Richartz & Ludwig Museums, and Hohenzollern Bridge.

Many visitors head to Zagreb specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Cologne or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Dining out in Zagreb is an experience not to be missed. 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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Cologne. The food scene consists mostly of brewhouses and pubs, where you'll find local cuisine. There are also a number of international restaurants around town if you want something a little different. In particular, you'll find many Turkish kebab shops near the train station. Local dishes from Cologne include Halve Hahn (an open face sandwich), Hämmche (pork with sauerkraut or potatoes), and Mettbrütche (minced pork bread roll). For a sweet treat, there is no shortage of donut shops with decadently decorated toppings.

Is Cologne or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

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

Cologne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Head to one of the many beerhalls to check out the local nightlife scene. Make sure you try the local beer, Kölsch. Some of the most popular places for night include Ona Mor, Pepe, and Engel & Weiss.

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 Cologne or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

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

Cologne is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old Town is large, but its mostly been rebuilt with modern buildings. There are plenty of shopping areas where you can buy name brand clothing or sample sweets.

Is the Shopping Better in Cologne or Zagreb?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zagreb and Cologne.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Cologne. There is no shortage of clothing shops around Cologne. You'll find all of the major European chains with many souvenir shops mixed in. Schildergasse is a major shopping street in town, but there are also many shopping malls to choose from. For local markets, head to Wilhemplatz.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Cologne or Zagreb Better for Christmas?

Cologne is a must-visit destination for its Christmas activities. However, Zagreb does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne is a world class destination for shoppers. Cologne is one of the top Christmas destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Zagreb does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Cologne or Zagreb Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is a must-visit destination for its Christmas markets. However, Zagreb does not offer Christmas markets.

The active Christmas markets during the holiday season make Cologne very popular during this season. Cologne is one of the top Christmas market destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Zagreb does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Cologne or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Cologne is a very kid-friendly city. In addition to the stunning cathedral and impressive bridge, this city has many great playgrounds including Rheinpark, right across the river from old town. Kids who like high places will enjoy the view from the top of KölnTriangle. Popular kid-friendly museums in town include Odysseum and the Chocolate Museum. And if you have a day to spare, head to the indoor waterpark at Aqualand.

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 Cologne or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Cologne is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a number of activities that couples will enjoy such as walks along the river, dining at nice restaurants, and Rhein River cruises. Also make sure you put a lock on the Hohenzollern Bridge to declare your commitment to each other.

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 Cologne or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is well known for backpackers. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zagreb is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Cologne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.

Is Cologne or Zagreb Better for Students?

Cologne and Zagreb are superb places to visit for students.

Cologne is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city is large enough to attract international students for all types of studies. It's also well connected to the German train system so it's easy to get out and explore the area.

Zagreb is very popular with students. 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 Cologne or Zagreb Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cologne 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.

Cologne has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. KVB operates the system that includes trains, trams, and buses. The city is also easily connected to other nearby towns so it makes a great base for exploring the entire area.

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

Is Cologne or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Cologne and Zagreb both are superb when exploring on foot.

Cologne is a very walkable destination. If you stick to the Old Town and nearby neighborhoods, you'll be able to explore easily on foot.

Zagreb is very walkable. 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 Cologne Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Cologne?

How long in Cologne or Zagreb?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zagreb than Cologne 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 Cologne or Zagreb?

Cologne is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Cologne or Zagreb?

Cologne 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 Cologne or Zagreb?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant big city of Cologne. 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 The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, The Best Budget Tours to Germany, 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 Cologne and Zagreb, we can see that Cologne 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 Cologne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cologne 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 Cologne Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cologne or Zagreb?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Zagreb. When comparing the sizes of Cologne 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 Cologne 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 Cologne or Zagreb in the Summer?

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

In July, Cologne is generally cooler than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 19°C (66°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Zagreb. Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Cologne gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cologne usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Cologne gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cologne or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Cologne during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

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

In the autumn, Cologne often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Cologne gets 104 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in October than Zagreb. Cologne gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cologne or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cologne and Zagreb. The museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cologne this time of year. Furthermore, 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 Cologne in the winter. In the winter, Cologne is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cologne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Cologne usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Cologne gets 43 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cologne usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Cologne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cologne or Zagreb in the Spring?

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

In April, Cologne is generally cooler than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Cologne average around 10°C (50°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Cologne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Cologne gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Cologne usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Cologne gets 55 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 Cologne