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

Should you visit Nantes or Zagreb?

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

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

Nantes

Nantes is a beautiful, vibrant, and welcoming city. 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 nightlife.

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. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Nantes and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantes or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zagreb than Nantes, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Zagreb is more popular for its historical sights and big city activities, while Nantes is known for its food and impressive beauty. Nantes is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is also home to The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Nantes different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Zagreb and Nantes.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Nantes can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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 Nantes or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nantes 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 Nantes, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Nantes and Zagreb.

Nantes has a large number of nightlife venues. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

Zagreb is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Nantes or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Many visitors go to Nantes to see the historical old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantes or Zagreb?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Nantes and Zagreb.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nantes. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Zagreb is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Nantes or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Nantes is a very kid-friendly city. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

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 Nantes or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Nantes frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

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 Nantes or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Nantes or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

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

Visitors will find great public transit in both Nantes and Zagreb.

The public transit in Nantes can get you to most places easily. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

Visitors to Zagreb can move around easily with public transportation. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Nantes or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Nantes and Zagreb are great when it comes to walkability.

Nantes is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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 Nantes Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Nantes?

How long in Nantes or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Nantes or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zagreb due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nantes, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Nantes. 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 Nantes or Zagreb?

Nantes is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 Nantes or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantes. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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.

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 Nantes or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the welcoming destination of Nantes. 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 beautiful 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 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, 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 Nantes and Zagreb, we can see that Nantes 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 Nantes would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nantes 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 Nantes Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nantes or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Nantes. When comparing the sizes of Nantes 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 Nantes 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 Nantes or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Nantes during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Nantes for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zagreb in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nantes is generally cooler than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 19°C (67°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Zagreb, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nantes. In the summer, Nantes often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Nantes gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Nantes gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantes or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantes and Zagreb. Many visitors come to Nantes in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Nantes is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nantes averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Nantes usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during autumn. Nantes gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nantes usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Nantes gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nantes or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nantes as well as Zagreb. Most visitors come to Nantes for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, 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. In the winter, Nantes is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nantes in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Nantes often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Nantes gets 72 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets more rain in January than Zagreb. Nantes gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantes or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Nantes are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Nantes because of the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

In April, Nantes is generally cooler than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 11°C (51°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Nantes usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Nantes gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Nantes