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

Should you visit Genoa or Zagreb?

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

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

Genoa

Genoa is a colorful, energetic, and historic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a beautiful, authentic, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Genoa or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zagreb. Although Genoa and Zagreb are roughly the same size, Zagreb has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zagreb is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Genoa is known for its beaches and impressive beauty. Genoa is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is also home to The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Genoa different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Zagreb and Genoa.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Genoa can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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 Genoa or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Genoa and Zagreb.

Genoa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zagreb makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Genoa or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Genoa or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a port city with a few options for the beache. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Genoa. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Genoa or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

Many visitors go to Zagreb to see the historical old town. The upper town is filled with charm, cafes, and historical landmarks such as St. Mark Church, Kamenita Vrata (the Stone Gate), and the cathedral.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is the Shopping Better in Genoa or Zagreb?

Zagreb is great for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Genoa or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Genoa is a very kid-friendly port city. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

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 Genoa or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Genoa frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Zagreb is a good port 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 Genoa or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Genoa and Zagreb are great places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 Genoa or Zagreb Better for Students?

For students, both Genoa and Zagreb are great places to visit.

Genoa is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Students come from all over to stay in Zagreb. 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 Genoa or Zagreb Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Genoa and Zagreb both offer great public transit to get you around.

Genoa offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Zagreb. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Genoa or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Genoa and Zagreb are great when it comes to walkability.

Genoa is a very walkable destination. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore 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 Genoa Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Genoa?

How long in Genoa or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Genoa or Zagreb. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Genoa. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Zagreb, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Genoa or Zagreb?

Genoa 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zagreb. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Genoa or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Genoa. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Zagreb. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Genoa or Zagreb?

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

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

Which is Bigger, Genoa or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Genoa. When comparing the sizes of Genoa 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 Genoa 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 Genoa or Zagreb in the Summer?

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

In July, Genoa is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Genoa average around 25°C (76°F), 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 Genoa this time of the year. In the summer, Genoa often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Genoa gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Genoa usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Genoa gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Genoa or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Genoa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Genoa 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.

Genoa is a little warmer than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Genoa averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Genoa usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Genoa gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Genoa usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Genoa gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Genoa or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Genoa during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Genoa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, 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 the winter, Genoa is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Genoa in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Genoa often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Genoa gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Genoa usually gets more rain in January than Zagreb. Genoa gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Genoa or Zagreb in the Spring?

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

In April, Genoa is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Genoa average around 15°C (58°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Genoa usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Genoa gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Genoa usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Genoa gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Genoa