A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Interlaken vs. Zagreb for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Interlaken or Zagreb?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Interlaken and Zagreb can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a adventurous, adrenaline-filled, and breathtaking town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a historic, beautiful, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Interlaken and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Interlaken or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zagreb. Although Interlaken and Zagreb are popular destinations, Zagreb has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zagreb is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Zagreb is famous for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is also well known for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Interlaken different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Zagreb Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is a good destination for winter skiing. However, Zagreb is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Zagreb is not a skiing destination.

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

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Zagreb specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Interlaken and Zagreb both to be high quality destinations.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

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).

Is Interlaken or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Zagreb has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Interlaken or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

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.

Interlaken does not have a historic old town.

Is Interlaken or Zagreb Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Zagreb is not a hiking destination.

Interlaken is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

Zagreb is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Zagreb?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

With a huge array of activities for kids, Interlaken is very family-friendly. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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 Interlaken or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Interlaken is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

Zagreb is a good town 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 Interlaken or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Zagreb is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

Is Interlaken or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Interlaken is not popular with students.

Zagreb is very popular with students. 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.

Interlaken is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find high quality public transit in both Interlaken and Zagreb.

Public transit in Interlaken is fairly effecient and thorough. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

Zagreb has some very good public transit options. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Interlaken or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, Interlaken is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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.

Interlaken is a somewhat walkable place. The old town is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Zagreb?

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

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the destination of Interlaken. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and nightlife around the authentic city of Zagreb, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Interlaken or Zagreb?

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

With nightlife and food around the destination of Zagreb, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Interlaken or Zagreb?

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

Zagreb, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Interlaken or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the stunning destination of Interlaken. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Zagreb is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich, 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 Interlaken and Zagreb, we can see that Interlaken 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 Interlaken would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Interlaken 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 Interlaken Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Interlaken. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken 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 Interlaken 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 Interlaken or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Interlaken during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Interlaken is around the same temperature as Zagreb. Typically, the summer temperatures in Interlaken in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Zagreb averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In Zagreb, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Interlaken. In the summer, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Zagreb. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Zagreb. Most visitors come to Interlaken for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Interlaken is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 13°C (56°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

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

Should I visit Interlaken or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Zagreb. The winter months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the skiing and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

It's quite cold in Zagreb in the winter. The weather in Interlaken can be very cold. Interlaken is much warmer than Zagreb in the winter. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in January than Zagreb. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Interlaken this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zagreb for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Interlaken is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the spring temperatures in Interlaken in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Interlaken gets 79 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 Interlaken