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

Should you visit Kiel or Zagreb?

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

Should I visit Kiel or Zagreb? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Kiel

Kiel is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and waterfront city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a local, historic, and beautiful 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.

Kiel and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kiel or Zagreb?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zagreb than Kiel. Zagreb is bigger than Kiel, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zagreb is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Kiel is more popular for its beaches. Kiel is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its maritime history and its role as the host of the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Kiel different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zagreb is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kiel. You'll find museums and landmarks that focus on the city's maritime past. These include Submarine U-995, the Naval Memorial, Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel, and Leuchtturm Bülk.

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

Zagreb is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Kiel 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).

Kiel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The local cuisine, Schleswig-Holstein cuisine, is similar to much of Germany in that the dishes are hearty and filling. There are many British and Scandenavian influences. Local dishes that you should try include Kieler Sprotte (herring-like fish), Schnüüsch (veggie stew), and Mehlbüdel (bread dumpling with pork belly)

Is Kiel or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Zagreb is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kiel has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is low key and relaxing. You can sip a cocktail at a trendy bar or enjoy a beer on a floating beach bar.

Is Kiel or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

Kiel is a good destination for the beache. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Kiel offers a nice beach destination. The city has several sandy beaches with coastal dunes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Kiel or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is well known for its old town. However, Kiel does not have a historic old town.

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.

Kiel does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kiel or Zagreb?

Zagreb is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Zagreb is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Kiel has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of retail shopping centers and pedestrian shopping streets like Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Kiel or Zagreb Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Kiel or Zagreb.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kiel. The U-Boot U 995 is a museum on an actual submarine. Kids will love exploring this unique setting. The Kiel Botanical Gardens is another beautiful and fun place to explore. Also make sure you check out the city's aquarium, the Zoologisches Museum, and Computermuseum der Fachhochschule Kiel.

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 Kiel or Zagreb Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Kiel and Zagreb make for a notable place to visit.

Kiel makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The old port city sits along Germany’s Baltic Sea and couples can enjoy learning about the city's maritime past and shopping along the shopping streets of Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

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 Kiel or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is well known for backpackers. However, Kiel is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zagreb is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Kiel is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not on the main backpacker circuit, there is a hostel or two in town.

Is Kiel or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is well known for students. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Kiel. Students can enjoy the city's beaches and lively nightlife scene.

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

Zagreb is well known for its public transit. However, Kiel is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Kiel. There is a bus system around town.

Is Kiel or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Zagreb is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Kiel is a somewhat walkable city. Some parts of Kiel are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Kiel?

How long in Kiel or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Kiel or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zagreb due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Kiel, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kiel. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zagreb. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Kiel or Zagreb?

Kiel 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 fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Kiel or Zagreb?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the local destination of Zagreb. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kiel or Zagreb?

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

The beautiful city of Zagreb offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Kiel or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Kiel. When comparing the sizes of Kiel 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 Kiel 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 Kiel or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Kiel are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kiel for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Kiel is cooler than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Kiel averages around 16°C (61°F) in July, and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Zagreb. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kiel. Kiel usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Kiel gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kiel usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Kiel gets 88 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kiel or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Kiel during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Kiel because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

In the autumn, Kiel is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kiel in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Kiel often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Kiel gets 102 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Kiel usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Zagreb. Kiel gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kiel or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Kiel and Zagreb. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kiel this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zagreb for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zagreb. It's quite cold in Kiel in the winter. In January, Kiel is generally much colder than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Kiel average around 0°C (33°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Kiel usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Kiel gets 39 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kiel usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Kiel gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kiel or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Kiel as well as Zagreb. Many travelers come to Kiel for the beaches and the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Zagreb in the spring for the activities around the city.

Kiel is much colder than Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Kiel averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Kiel often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Kiel gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Kiel usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Kiel gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Kiel