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

Should you visit Leiden 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 Leiden and Zagreb can help you decide which place is right for you.

Leiden

Leiden is a cultural, scholarly, and historic city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Leiden travel costs.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a historic, beautiful, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Zagreb travel costs.

Leiden and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Leiden or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zagreb than Leiden, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Leiden is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its many museums and renowned university. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is also home to The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Leiden different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Zagreb and Leiden.

Many visitors head to Leiden specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a huge number of museums around town. Some are affiliated with the museum, while others are not. Some of the favorites include the National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden), Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Boerhaave Museum, the Corpus Museum, and the National Ethnological Museum.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Zagreb can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Leiden or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Leiden and Zagreb offer a number of high quality restaurants to choose from.

Leiden has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a diverse food scene with many international flavors such as Japanese, Chinese, and French. The cafe culture influences the culinary scene and you'll find many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat.

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 Leiden or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Leiden has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The large student population means that there is a good nightlife scene. There are a variety of bars, pubs, and cafes where you can enjoy a drink, with options ranging from cozy, intimate spots to larger, more vibrant venues. The Oude Markt area, with its charming historic setting, is a hotspot for nightlife, offering a mix of traditional Dutch bars and international-themed pubs.

Is Leiden or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Leiden 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.

Leiden does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Leiden or Zagreb?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Leiden is a great destination for shopping. There are a mix of unique boutiques, international brands, and charming local stores. The Breestraat and Nieuwe Rijn are popular shopping streets, and they're lined with a variety of shops selling everything from fashion and accessories to books, art, and antiques. The city also has several markets, including a weekly Saturday market near the Pieterskerk, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and vintage items.

Is Leiden or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Leiden is a very kid-friendly city. The town has a mix of educational, cultural, and fun activities for all ages. There are many family-friendly museums like Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where kids can explore dinosaurs and wildlife, and the National Museum of Antiquities, which brings history to life. There's also the Corpus Museum, which takes visitors on a unique, interactive journey through the human body.

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 Leiden or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Both Leiden and Zagreb are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Leiden is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy charming towns and world class museums will enjoy their time here. The town also has picturesque canals, historic bridges, and cozy street cafes. Couples can explore places like the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands, or enjoy a quiet moment in the scenic Leidse Hout Park.

Zagreb is a nice destination for couples. 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 Leiden or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Leiden. The city offers affordable accommodations, including hostels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as reasonably priced eateries serving Dutch classics and international cuisine. Many of Leiden’s attractions, like its historic canals, charming streets, and open-air markets, can be enjoyed for free.

Is Leiden or Zagreb Better for Students?

Both Leiden and Zagreb are high quality destinations for students.

Leiden is very popular with students. It feels like a university town and it's home to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands. The university is known for its academic excellence and vibrant student community. The town also has a young atmosphere with plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and cultural events that influence the student life. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike, and the abundance of libraries, study spaces, and museums provides ample resources for learning and inspiration. Housing can be difficult to find though.

Zagreb is a great city to visit as a student. 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 Leiden or Zagreb Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Zagreb. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

You'll find some public transit in Leiden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Leiden Central Station is the main hub for trains, which connect the city to other towns throughout the country. Around town there are buses that are reliable and convenient.

Is Leiden or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Leiden and Zagreb are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Leiden is a very walkable destination. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with many of its attractions, cafes, shops, and historical sites located within walking distance of each other.

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 Leiden Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Leiden?

How long in Leiden or Zagreb?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Zagreb than Leiden. 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 Leiden 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 Leiden or Zagreb?

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

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

A weekend in Leiden or Zagreb?

Leiden 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 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.

Five days in Leiden or Zagreb?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zagreb. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

A week in Leiden or Zagreb?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Zagreb. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, 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 Leiden and Zagreb, we can see that Leiden 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 Leiden would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Leiden 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 Leiden Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Leiden or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Leiden. When comparing the sizes of Leiden 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 Leiden 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 Leiden or Zagreb in the Summer?

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

In July, Leiden is generally cooler than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Leiden average around 17°C (62°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Zagreb, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Leiden. In the summer, Leiden often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Leiden gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Leiden usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Leiden gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Leiden or Zagreb in the Autumn?

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

Leiden is cooler than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Leiden averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Leiden usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Leiden gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Leiden usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Leiden gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Leiden or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Leiden as well as Zagreb. The winter months attract visitors to Leiden because of the museums, the shopping scene, 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 Leiden can be very cold. In the winter, Leiden is a little warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Leiden in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Leiden often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Leiden gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Leiden usually gets more rain in January than Zagreb. Leiden gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Leiden or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Leiden are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Also, many travelers come to Zagreb for the activities around the city.

In April, Leiden is generally much colder than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Leiden average around 8°C (46°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Leiden usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during spring. Leiden gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Leiden usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Leiden gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Leiden