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

Should you visit Lille or Zagreb?

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

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

Lille

Lille is a culinary, friendly, and historic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a beautiful, authentic, and under-rated city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Lille and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lille or Zagreb?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zagreb than Lille. Zagreb is bigger than Lille, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zagreb is better known for its museums and big city activities, while Lille is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Lille is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Lille different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zagreb is notable for its sights and museums. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

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.

While most people don't head to Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

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

Lille is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Lille, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

Zagreb has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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).

Is Lille or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are great in both Lille and Zagreb.

Lille has plenty to do after the sun goes down. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

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.

Is Lille or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Lille and Zagreb both have great historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Lille to see the historical old town. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Lille or Zagreb?

Lille is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Lille make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

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.

Is Lille or Zagreb Better for Families?

Zagreb is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Lille or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Lille and Zagreb are both notable to visit as a couple.

Lille makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

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 Lille or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is notable for backpackers. Also, Lille is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Lille is a good city to visit for backpackers. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Is Lille or Zagreb Better for Students?

Lille and Zagreb are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

Lille is a great city to visit as a student. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

Students come from all over to stay in 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 Lille or Zagreb Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Lille and Zagreb offer great public transit options.

The public transit in Lille can get you around easily. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

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

Is Lille or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Lille is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Lille on foot is easy. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored on foot.

Zagreb is a very walkable destination. 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 Lille Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Lille?

How long in Lille or Zagreb?

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Lille. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Zagreb, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this local destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Lille or Zagreb?

Lille 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zagreb. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Lille or Zagreb?

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

Zagreb is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Zagreb. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lille or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the under-rated destination of Lille. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

Which is Bigger, Lille or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Lille. When comparing the sizes of Lille 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 Lille 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 Lille or Zagreb in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lille and Zagreb. Many travelers come to Lille for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Lille is cooler than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zagreb this time of the year. In Lille, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lille usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Lille gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lille usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Lille gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lille or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lille as well as Zagreb. Many visitors come to Lille in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Lille is around the same temperature as Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lille in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Lille often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Lille gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Lille usually gets more rain in October than Zagreb. Lille gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lille or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Lille are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lille for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. Lille can be very cold during winter. In January, Lille is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Lille average around 3°C (38°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Lille usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Lille gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lille usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Lille gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lille or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Lille during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Lille because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

Lille is much colder than Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Lille averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Lille often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Lille gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Lille usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Lille gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Lille