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

Should you visit Milan 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 Milan 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.

Milan

Milan is a trendy, chic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a authentic, under-rated, and local city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Milan and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Milan or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Milan than Zagreb, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Milan is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also home to Piazza del Duomo. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Milan different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Zagreb and Milan.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

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 Milan or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Milan 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 Milan, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

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 Milan or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Milan is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Milan is a world class party destination. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

The nightlife in Zagreb has something for everybody. 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 Milan or Zagreb Better for Music?

Milan is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Milan The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Is Milan or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Milan is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Milan can be explored in its historical center. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Milan or Zagreb?

Milan 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 Milan make it a world-class shopping destination. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

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 Milan or Zagreb Better for Families?

Both Milan and Zagreb are good to visit with kids.

Milan offers lots of family activities. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

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 Milan or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Milan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

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 Milan or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Milan and Zagreb are very good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Is Milan or Zagreb Better for Students?

Milan is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

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.

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

Milan is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Milan has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

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

Is Milan or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Milan 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 Milan on foot is easy. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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 Milan Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Milan?

How long in Milan or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Milan or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Milan due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Milan, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Milan than Zagreb 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 Milan.

One day in Milan or Zagreb?

Milan is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 authentic 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 Milan or Zagreb?

Milan 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 Milan or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Milan. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. 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 Milan or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the chic big city of Milan. 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 under-rated 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, 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 Milan and Zagreb, we can see that Milan 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 Milan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Milan 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 Milan Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Milan or Zagreb?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 87% larger than the population of Zagreb. When comparing the sizes of Milan 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 Milan 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 Milan or Zagreb in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Milan as well as Zagreb. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Milan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Milan is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Milan average around 23°C (73°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 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 Milan this time of the year. In the summer, Milan often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Milan gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Milan usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Milan gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milan or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Milan are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Milan for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Milan is a little warmer than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Milan averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Milan usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Milan gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Milan. In October, Milan usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Milan gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Milan or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Milan during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Milan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zagreb for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zagreb can be very cold during winter. Milan can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Milan is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Milan in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Milan often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Milan gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Milan usually gets more rain in January than Zagreb. Milan gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milan or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Milan and Zagreb. Most visitors come to Milan for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the activities around the city.

In April, Milan is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Milan average around 13°C (55°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Milan usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Milan gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Milan usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Milan gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Milan