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

Should you visit Naples or Zagreb?

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

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

Naples

Naples is a authentic, gritty, and colorful city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Naples and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Naples or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Naples than Zagreb, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Naples is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza. It is also home to Piazza del Plebiscito. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Naples different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Naples can be an interesting and educational experience. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

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 Naples or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Naples 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 Naples, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

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 Naples or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Naples and Zagreb.

Naples is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

Many people head to Zagreb for the nightlife scene. 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 Naples or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Naples to see the historical old town. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

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 Naples or Zagreb?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zagreb and Naples.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Naples. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Naples or Zagreb Better for Families?

Naples and Zagreb are both good destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Naples. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

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 Naples or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Naples frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

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 Naples or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Naples and Zagreb are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Naples is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

Zagreb is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Naples or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is well known for students. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Naples. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Naples and Zagreb.

Naples offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Zagreb. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Naples or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Naples and Zagreb both are great when exploring on foot.

Naples is a very walkable destination. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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 Naples Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Naples?

How long in Naples or Zagreb?

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

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

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

One day in Naples or Zagreb?

Naples 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.

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 Naples or Zagreb?

Naples 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 Naples or Zagreb?

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

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 Naples or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic big city of Naples. 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.

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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week 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 Naples and Zagreb, we can see that Naples 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 Naples would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Naples 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 Naples Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Naples or Zagreb?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 41% larger than the population of Zagreb. When comparing the sizes of Naples 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 Naples 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 Naples or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Naples are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Naples for the city activities 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, Naples is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Naples average around 23°C (74°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 Naples. Naples usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Naples gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Naples usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Naples gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Naples or Zagreb in the Autumn?

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

Naples is a little warmer than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Naples averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Naples often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Naples. Naples usually gets more rain in October than Zagreb. Naples gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Naples and Zagreb. Most visitors come to Naples 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. In the winter, Naples is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Naples in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Naples usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Naples gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

Naples gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Naples usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Naples gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Naples or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Naples as well as Zagreb. The spring months attract visitors to Naples 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, Naples is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Naples average around 13°C (55°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Naples often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Naples usually gets more rain in April than Zagreb. Naples gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Naples