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

Should you visit Leipzig or Zagreb?

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

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

Leipzig

Leipzig is a dynamic, cultural, and historic city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zagreb

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

Leipzig and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Leipzig or Zagreb?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zagreb than Leipzig. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Zagreb is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Leipzig attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Leipzig is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner. Zagreb is famous for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is also well known for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Leipzig different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Leipzig
Zagreb

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either Leipzig or Zagreb.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Leipzig can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

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 Leipzig or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Leipzig
Zagreb

Zagreb is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Leipzig or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Leipzig
Zagreb

Zagreb is great for nightlife. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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 Leipzig. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Leipzig or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Leipzig
Zagreb

Zagreb is great for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a 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.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Leipzig or Zagreb?

Leipzig
Zagreb

If you're looking to go shopping, Leipzig and Zagreb both offer plenty of great spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Leipzig. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

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.

Is Leipzig or Zagreb Better for Families?

Leipzig
Zagreb

Leipzig and Zagreb are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Leipzig offers lots of family activities. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Zagreb is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Leipzig or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Leipzig
Zagreb

Leipzig and Zagreb are both nice to visit as a couple.

Leipzig is a nice destination for couples. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

Zagreb makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Leipzig or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Leipzig
Zagreb

Zagreb is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Leipzig is a good city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Is Leipzig or Zagreb Better for Students?

Leipzig
Zagreb

Zagreb is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Leipzig is not popular with students.

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.

Leipzig is not popular with students.

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

Leipzig
Zagreb

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Leipzig. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

Public transit in Zagreb can get you to some places easily. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.


Is Leipzig or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Leipzig
Zagreb

Zagreb is great for its walkability. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Leipzig?

How long in Leipzig or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Leipzig 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 Leipzig, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

Families should spend more time in Zagreb than Leipzig. 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 Leipzig. 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 Leipzig 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.


  • How many days in Leipzig or Zagreb? Ideal Length of Stay
    Leipzig 1-3 
    Zagreb 2-4

One day in Leipzig or Zagreb?

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

In Zagreb, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Leipzig or Zagreb?

Leipzig 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.

In Zagreb, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zagreb has to offer.


Five days in Leipzig or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Leipzig. 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Leipzig or Zagreb?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zagreb. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Zagreb. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Zagreb or Leipzig?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Leipzig is €166, while the average daily cost in Zagreb is €77. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Leipzig and Zagreb in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Leipzig 91
    Zagreb 48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Leipzig 182
    Zagreb 96
Compare Hotels in Leipzig and Zagreb

Looking for a hotel in Leipzig or Zagreb? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Leipzig


Hotels in Zagreb


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Leipzig Hotel Prices and Zagreb Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Leipzig 27
    Zagreb 9.08

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Leipzig

Also for Leipzig, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zagreb

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zagreb:

  • private transfer from Trogir/Split to Zagreb via Plitvice: $1,754
  • Private transfer from Zagreb to Vienna: $930
  • Private transfer from Zagreb to Budapest: $930
  • Transfer Zagreb - Split or Split - Zagreb: $760
  • Private Transfer Zagreb-Split: $741
  • Private Transfer from Split to Zagreb via Plitvice & Rastoke: $642
  • Private Transfer Tour from Zagreb - Split via Plitvice Lakes: $603
  • Private transfer from Zagreb to Split or Split to Zagreb: $567
  • Private Transfer from Split to Zagreb with stop at Plitvice: $556
  • Zagreb to Budapest Private Transfer by Minivan: $534
  • Private Transfer Zagreb-Zadar: $528
  • Transfer Ljubljana - Zagreb: $452

Is it cheaper to fly into Leipzig or Zagreb?

Prices for flights to both Zagreb and Leipzig change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Leipzig 53
    Zagreb 16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

For Leipzig, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zagreb

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zagreb.

  • Taste Zagreb Food Tour: $74
  • Taste Zagreb Food Tour: $75
  • Private Authentic Croatian Cooking Class in Central Zagreb: $114
  • Private Authentic Market Tour and Cooking Class in the Heart of Zagreb: $144
  • PRIVATE Half-Day Food Tour: The 10 Tastings of Zagreb With Locals: $196
  • Wine & Food tour of Plešivica near Zagreb: $952

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Leipzig 36
    Zagreb 12

Tours and Activities in Leipzig

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Leipzig.

  • Secrets of Old The Lost Treasure Adventure: $4.27
  • Leipzig's Communist Past: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of the City's Communist Past: $6.99
  • Historic Center Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.45
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sighteeing Tour: $12
  • Guided Crime-Themed Walking Tour: $13
  • Old Town Guided Tour: $13
  • 1.5-Hour Historical Walking Tour in German: $14
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour - Explore Your Way: $14
  • Guided Tour of the Southern Cemetery: $15

Tours and Activities in Zagreb

Here are a few actual costs in Zagreb for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Grand Zagreb Tour : $99
  • Zagreb History Walking Tour: $32
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in Zagreb City with Guide (up to 10): $153
  • 2-Hour Unveiling A Captivating History Tour: $107
  • 4 Day Touristic Adventure from Zagreb: $2,449
  • 4-hour Private Zagreb & the Mountain Tour in a Yugo car: $115
  • All-Inclusive Day Tour Zagreb-Rastoke-Plitvice Lakes-Split: $1,068
  • Back to Yugoslavia Private City Tour in Old-Timer Yugo Car: $93
  • Baroque Varaždin and Trakošćan Castle Private Tour: $176
  • Beautiful Christmas in Zagreb - Walking Tour: $432
  • Best of ISTRIA: Amphitheater PULA + ROVINJ + HUM or POREČ - fully Private Tour: $262
  • Best of SLOVENIA - Bled + Postojna + Ljubljana - Day Tour from Zagreb: $224

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Leipzig 26
    Zagreb 8.90

Sample the Local Flavors in Zagreb

Also in Zagreb, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Zagreb Pub Crawl: $16
  • Zagreb:Private Bar Crawling and Alcohol Testing with a Guide: $32
  • Zagreb Wine Tasting & Jarun Lake Tour: $75
  • Plesivica countryside Wine Tasting: $199
  • Fairytale castle & delicious wine tasting and lunch: $202
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour from Zagreb: $208


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Leipzig and Zagreb, we can see that Leipzig 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 Leipzig would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Leipzig 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 Leipzig Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Leipzig or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 38% larger than the population of Leipzig. When comparing the sizes of Leipzig 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 Leipzig 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 Leipzig or Zagreb in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Leipzig is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the summer temperatures in Leipzig in July average around 19°C (67°F), and Zagreb averages at about 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 Leipzig this time of the year. In the summer, Leipzig often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Leipzig gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Leipzig usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Leipzig gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F) 
    Zagreb 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Leipzig or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Leipzig are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Leipzig in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Leipzig is generally cooler than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Leipzig average around 11°C (52°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Leipzig usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Leipzig gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Leipzig usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Leipzig gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Leipzig 11°C (52°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Leipzig or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Leipzig during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Leipzig 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. Leipzig can be very cold during winter. Leipzig is much colder than Zagreb in the winter. The daily temperature in Leipzig averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Leipzig often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Leipzig gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Leipzig 1°C (33°F) 
    Zagreb 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Leipzig or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Leipzig and Zagreb. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

In the spring, Leipzig is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the spring temperatures in Leipzig in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Leipzig usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Leipzig gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Leipzig usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Leipzig gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Leipzig

Leipzig Zagreb
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)