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

Should you visit Dublin or Zagreb?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Dublin or Zagreb, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Dublin

Dublin is a fun, laid-back, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a beautiful, authentic, and under-rated 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.

Dublin and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dublin or Zagreb?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dublin than Zagreb. Dublin is bigger than Zagreb, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dublin is better known for its nightlife and music, while Zagreb is more popular for its food. Dublin is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. Also, Dublin is famous for The Guinness Storehouse. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Dublin different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Dublin and Zagreb.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dublin can be an interesting and educational experience. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

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

Zagreb is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin 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).

Dublin is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Dublin or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Dublin is a world class party destination. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

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 Dublin or Zagreb Better for Music?

Dublin is a great destination for its live music scene. However, Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Dublin has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Is Dublin or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Dublin and Zagreb both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Dublin to see the historical old town. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Zagreb is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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 Dublin or Zagreb?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zagreb and Dublin.

Dublin is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

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.

Is Dublin or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Dublin is a very kid-friendly city. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

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 Dublin or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Dublin is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

Zagreb is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Dublin or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin and Zagreb are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dublin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

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.

Is Dublin or Zagreb Better for Students?

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

Zagreb is a great city to visit as a student. 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 Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Is Dublin 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, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Dublin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Dublin or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Dublin is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Dublin on foot is easy. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Dublin?

How long in Dublin or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Dublin or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dublin due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Dublin, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

One day in Dublin or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Dublin. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Dublin or Zagreb?

Dublin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, 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 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.

Five days in Dublin or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dublin. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Dublin or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the laid-back destination of Dublin. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Zagreb. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland, 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 Dublin and Zagreb, we can see that Dublin 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 Dublin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dublin 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 Dublin Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dublin or Zagreb?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 47% larger than the population of Zagreb. When comparing the sizes of Dublin 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 Dublin 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 Dublin or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Dublin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Dublin for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Dublin is cooler than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 16°C (60°F) in July, and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Zagreb. Dublin usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Dublin gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dublin usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Dublin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dublin or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Dublin during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Dublin in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

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

In the autumn, Dublin often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Dublin gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Zagreb. Dublin gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dublin or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dublin and Zagreb. Most visitors come to Dublin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Zagreb can be very cold. In January, Dublin is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Dublin average around 6°C (42°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Dublin usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during winter. Dublin gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dublin usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Dublin gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dublin or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dublin as well as Zagreb. The spring months attract visitors to Dublin because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

Dublin is much colder than Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Dublin averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Dublin often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Dublin gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Dublin usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Dublin gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Dublin