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

Should you visit Helsinki or Zagreb?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Zagreb can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a coastal, environmentally conscious, and waterfront 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 authentic, under-rated, and local city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Helsinki and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Zagreb?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zagreb than Helsinki. Zagreb is bigger than Helsinki, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zagreb is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Helsinki is more popular for its impressive beauty. Helsinki is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Helsinki different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Helsinki and Zagreb.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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 Helsinki or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zagreb is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Zagreb has a huge number of terrific 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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Zagreb has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is a very popular place for its old town. However, Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

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.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Zagreb?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Helsinki and Zagreb.

Helsinki is well-known for its shopping. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

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 Helsinki or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Helsinki is a very kid-friendly city. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

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 Helsinki or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Helsinki frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

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 Helsinki or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Zagreb Better for Students?

Both Helsinki and Zagreb are very good destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Many students visit 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 Helsinki or Zagreb Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find very good public transit in both Helsinki and Zagreb.

The public transit in Helsinki can get you around easily. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Zagreb offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Helsinki or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Zagreb is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Zagreb is a very walkable city. It's a city that lives outdoors. It's very walkable with many outdoor cafes and parks where you can take a stroll.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Helsinki or Zagreb. In our opinion, Zagreb has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Zagreb than Helsinki. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Helsinki. 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 Helsinki or Zagreb?

Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Zagreb?

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

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

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 Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, 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 Helsinki and Zagreb, we can see that Helsinki 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 Helsinki would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Helsinki 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 Helsinki Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Helsinki. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Helsinki during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Helsinki is cooler than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Zagreb, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Helsinki. In the summer, Helsinki often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Zagreb. Many travelers come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zagreb in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Helsinki is much colder than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Helsinki in October average around 6°C (42°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Helsinki or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Zagreb. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Zagreb for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zagreb can be very cold during winter. Helsinki can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Helsinki is generally much colder than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around -6°C (21°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Zagreb. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the activities around the city.

Helsinki can be very cold during spring. Helsinki is much colder than Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 3°C (37°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Helsinki usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Helsinki