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

Should you visit Munich or Zagreb?

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

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

Munich

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a beautiful, authentic, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Munich and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Munich or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Munich than Zagreb, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Munich is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Zagreb is known for its historical sights. Munich is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles. It is also home to The Nymphenburg Palace. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Munich different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Munich or Zagreb.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Munich can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

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 Munich or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Munich and Zagreb offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Munich is an experience not to be missed. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

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).

Is Munich or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

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

Munich is a world class party destination. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

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 Munich or Zagreb Better for Music?

Munich 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 Munich The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Is Munich or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Munich 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.

Munich does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Munich or Zagreb?

Munich 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 Munich make it a world-class shopping destination. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

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 Munich or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Munich is a very kid-friendly city. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

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 Munich or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Munich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

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 Munich or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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.

Is Munich or Zagreb Better for Students?

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

Munich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

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

Munich 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.

Munich has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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

Is Munich or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Munich and Zagreb both are great when exploring on foot.

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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 Munich Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Munich?

How long in Munich or Zagreb?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Munich 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 Munich.

One day in Munich or Zagreb?

Munich is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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 Munich or Zagreb?

Munich 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 Munich or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. 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 Munich or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the multicultural big city of Munich. 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 authentic 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 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Munich or Zagreb?

Munich has a larger population, and is about 80% larger than the population of Zagreb. When comparing the sizes of Munich 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 Munich 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 Munich or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Munich are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Munich for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Munich is generally cooler than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 20°C (68°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Zagreb. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Munich. Munich usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Munich gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Munich usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Munich gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Munich or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Munich during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Munich in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Munich is cooler than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Munich averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Munich often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Munich gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets less rain in October than Zagreb. Munich gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Munich or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Munich and Zagreb. Most visitors come to Munich 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. Munich can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Munich is much colder than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Munich in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Munich usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Munich gets 30 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Munich usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Munich gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Munich or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Munich as well as Zagreb. The spring months attract visitors to Munich because of the activities around the city. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

In April, Munich is generally cooler than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Munich average around 11°C (53°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Munich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Munich gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Munich usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Munich gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Munich