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

Should you visit Florence or Zagreb?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Florence 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.

Florence

Florence is a artistic, iconic, and alluring city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Florence and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Florence or Zagreb?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Florence than Zagreb. While Zagreb is larger than Florence, Florence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Florence is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Zagreb is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities. Florence is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Florence different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Florence 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 Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Florence or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Florence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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).

Is Florence or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Florence or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Florence is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Florence can be explored in its historical center. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Florence or Zagreb?

If you're looking to go shopping, Florence and Zagreb both offer plenty of great spots.

Florence is well-known for its shopping. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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.

Is Florence or Zagreb Better for Families?

Florence and Zagreb are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Florence offers lots of family activities. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Zagreb is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Florence or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Florence is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Florence is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Florence. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence or Zagreb Better for Students?

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

Florence is a very popular place to visit for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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.

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

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

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

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Florence or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Florence 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 Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city 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 Florence Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Florence?

How long in Florence or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Florence or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Florence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Florence, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Zagreb 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 Florence.

One day in Florence or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. 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.

The city of Zagreb offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Florence or Zagreb?

Florence 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.

Zagreb is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zagreb, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Florence or Zagreb?

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

Zagreb is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Florence or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the alluring destination of Florence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Zagreb is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

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

Which is Bigger, Florence or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence or Zagreb in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Florence as well as Zagreb. Many travelers come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Zagreb in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Florence is a little warmer than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zagreb. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Florence this time of the year. In the summer, Florence often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Florence gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Florence gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Florence are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Florence is a little warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Florence in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Florence usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Florence gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Florence usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Florence gets 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Florence or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Florence during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Florence 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, Florence is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Florence average around 7°C (45°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Florence often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Florence gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets more rain in January than Zagreb. Florence gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Florence and Zagreb. The spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

Florence is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Florence usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Florence gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Florence usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Florence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Florence