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

Should you visit Dresden or Zagreb?

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

Should I visit Dresden 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.

Dresden

Dresden is a park-filled, friendly, and architectural 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 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.

Dresden and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dresden or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zagreb than Dresden, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dresden is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady). Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is also home to The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Dresden different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zagreb is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dresden 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.

Dresden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.

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

Zagreb is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden 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 Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Dresden or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Dresden or Zagreb has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Dresden know how to have a good time. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

The nightlife in Zagreb has something for everybody. 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 Dresden or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the superb old towns in both Dresden and Zagreb.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Dresden. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Dresden or Zagreb?

Zagreb is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dresden. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

Is Dresden or Zagreb Better for Families?

Zagreb is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options 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, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Dresden or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Dresden is a good city for couples to visit. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.

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 Dresden or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Dresden 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.

Dresden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

Is Dresden or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is a great destination for students. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not popular with students.

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

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

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

While Dresden offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

Is Dresden or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Dresden and Zagreb both are superb when exploring on foot.

Dresden is a very walkable destination. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

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 Dresden Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Dresden?

How long in Dresden or Zagreb?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Dresden. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Dresden or Zagreb?

Dresden 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 Dresden or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dresden. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Dresden or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the park-filled destination of Dresden. 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.

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, 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 Dresden and Zagreb, we can see that Dresden 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 Dresden would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dresden 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 Dresden Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dresden or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Dresden. When comparing the sizes of Dresden 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 Dresden 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 Dresden or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Dresden are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Dresden 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, Dresden is generally cooler than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Dresden average around 20°C (68°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In July, Dresden usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Dresden gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dresden or Zagreb in the Autumn?

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

Dresden is cooler than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dresden averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Dresden usually gets less rain in October than Zagreb. Dresden gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dresden or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dresden and Zagreb. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dresden 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 Dresden in the winter. In the winter, Dresden is much colder than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dresden in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In January, Dresden usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Dresden gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dresden or Zagreb in the Spring?

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

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

Dresden usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Dresden gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Dresden