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

Should you visit Palermo 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 Palermo 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.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Zagreb?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palermo. Although Palermo and Zagreb are both popular with visitors, Palermo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palermo is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Zagreb is known for its museums and historical sights. Palermo is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. It is also home to The Cathedral. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Palermo different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zagreb is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

Is the Food Better in Palermo or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Palermo and Zagreb offer very good local cuisine and restaurants.

Dining out in Palermo is an experience not to be missed. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

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 Palermo or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Both Palermo and Zagreb are very good when it comes to partying.

Palermo offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

Zagreb has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Palermo or Zagreb Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zagreb is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Zagreb is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

Palermo is a great destination for the beache. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Palermo for it's beautiful beaches. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

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.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Zagreb?

Both Palermo and Zagreb are very good shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

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 Palermo or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Palermo is a very kid-friendly city. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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 Palermo or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Both Palermo and Zagreb are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Palermo is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Zagreb is a nice destination for couples. 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 Palermo or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zagreb is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Palermo or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

Is Palermo 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. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or Zagreb a more walkable city?

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

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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 Palermo Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Zagreb?

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

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Palermo. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Zagreb, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Palermo or Zagreb?

Palermo 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.

In Zagreb, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zagreb has to offer.

Five days in Palermo or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Zagreb is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Palermo or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse destination of Palermo. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zagreb. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Zagreb. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to 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 Palermo and Zagreb, we can see that Palermo 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 Palermo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Palermo 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 Palermo Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Zagreb?

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

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

In July, Palermo is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 25°C (76°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zagreb this time of the year. In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Zagreb. Many travelers come to Palermo for the city's sights and attractions, 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.

Palermo is much warmer than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the autumn, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Zagreb. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Palermo 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. In the winter, Palermo is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palermo in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Palermo usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Zagreb in the Spring?

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

In April, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 15°C (58°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the spring, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Palermo