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

Should you visit Linz or Zagreb?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Linz and Zagreb can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Linz

Linz is a beautiful, cultural, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a authentic, under-rated, and local 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.

Linz and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Linz or Zagreb?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zagreb than Linz. Zagreb is bigger than Linz, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zagreb is better known for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Linz is more popular for its impressive beauty. Linz is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its Baroque architecture, modern art museums, and great pastries. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Linz different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Linz and Zagreb.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Linz. The city has a lot of history which can be experienced with visits to The Castle of Linz, St. Martin's Church, and the New Cathedral. There are also several modern museums such as Ars Electronica Center, the OK Center, and the Lentos Art Museum.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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 Linz or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zagreb is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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).

Linz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find an endless supply of bakeries around town that serve cakes, tarts, and biscuits. A trip to Linz isn't complete without a sampling of the local pastries.

Is Linz or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Linz is not a good town for its evening party scene.

Zagreb offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Linz. The town isn't exactly a party place, but you'll find a good theater and some live music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Linz or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is a well-known place for its old town. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its historic old town charm.

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.

Linz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is filled with Baroque architecture and a market square. There are a number of interesting buildings and great cafes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Linz or Zagreb?

Both Linz and Zagreb are very good shopping destinations.

Linz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of shopping streets around town, but the most popular is Landstraße. You'll find all kinds of retail stores with everything from clothing to furniture available.

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 Linz or Zagreb Better for Families?

Both Linz and Zagreb are notable to visit with kids.

Linz is a family-friendly place to visit. Pöstlingberg Adventure World is a highlight for kids. You can take the tram up the mountain and see the views, visit the Grottenbahn, or explore the zoo. Kids will also appreciate the Ars Electronica Center, which is a futuristic museum in town as well as the The Linz Castle Museum.

Zagreb is a family-friendly town. 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 Linz or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Linz is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Linz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city is filled with beautiful baroque architecture. There's a lively main square and many great restaurants that couples will appreciate. There are also shopping areas and museums to explore.

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 Linz or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Linz. Backpackers will find more budget hotels than hostels in town, so it can be a bit challenging to meet other travelers. Even so, this is a beautiful city that is well worth a visit.

Is Linz or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is a well-known place for students. However, Linz is not popular with students.

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.

Linz is not popular with students.

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

Zagreb is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Linz is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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

Linz has some public transit options. There are buses and streetcars that travel throughout the town.

Is Linz or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Linz and Zagreb both are very good when exploring on foot.

Linz is a very walkable town. The tourist areas are easy to explore 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 Linz Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Linz?

How long in Linz or Zagreb?

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

Families should spend more time in Zagreb than Linz. 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.

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Linz. 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 Linz or Zagreb?

Linz 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 Linz or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Linz. 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 authentic 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 Linz or Zagreb?

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

The under-rated 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 in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, 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 Linz and Zagreb, we can see that Linz 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 Linz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Linz 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 Linz Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Linz or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Linz. When comparing the sizes of Linz 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 Linz 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 Linz or Zagreb in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Linz and Zagreb. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Linz this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Linz is cooler than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Linz averages around 20°C (68°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 Linz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Linz usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Linz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Linz usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Linz gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Linz or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Linz as well as Zagreb. Many travelers come to Linz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Zagreb in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Linz is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Linz in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Linz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Linz gets 129 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Linz usually gets less rain in October than Zagreb. Linz gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Linz or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Linz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Linz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zagreb can be very cold during winter. Linz can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Linz is generally much colder than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Linz average around -0°C (31°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Linz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during winter. Linz gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Linz usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Linz gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Linz or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Linz during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Linz for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the activities around the city.

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

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

Linz usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Linz gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Linz