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

Should you visit Paphos or Zagreb?

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

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

Paphos

Paphos is a cultural, coastal, and overlooked town. 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Paphos and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Zagreb are popular destinations, Paphos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paphos is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Zagreb attracts visitors for its nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities. Paphos is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park. Zagreb is famous for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Paphos different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Paphos are among the most recognizable in the world. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

Zagreb offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Paphos or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paphos 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 Paphos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

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 Paphos or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Zagreb know how to have a good time. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Paphos has a few options to choose from. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

Is Paphos or Zagreb Better for Resorts?

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Zagreb is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Paphos for its luxury resorts. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

Zagreb is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Zagreb Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos 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 Paphos. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

Zagreb is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

Paphos is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Paphos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Paphos. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Zagreb?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zagreb and Paphos.

Paphos is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

Zagreb is well-known for its shopping. 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 Paphos or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Paphos is a very kid-friendly town. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

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 Paphos or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Paphos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable trip.

Zagreb is a good town 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 Paphos or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Paphos. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

Many 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 Paphos or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is a great destination for students. However, Paphos is not popular with 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.

Paphos is not popular with students.

Is Paphos 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 Paphos and Zagreb.

Visitors to Paphos can move around easily with public transportation. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

The public transit in Zagreb can get you around easily. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Paphos or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Zagreb is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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.

Paphos is a somewhat walkable place. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Paphos Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Paphos or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Paphos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

One day in Paphos or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Paphos. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Paphos or Zagreb?

Paphos is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. 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 Paphos or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Paphos or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal destination of Paphos. This town 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated 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 Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, 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 Paphos and Zagreb, we can see that Paphos 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 Paphos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paphos 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 Paphos Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos 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 Paphos 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 Paphos or Zagreb in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Paphos is a little warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Zagreb averages at about 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Zagreb. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Paphos during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Paphos in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Paphos is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Zagreb. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Zagreb. Most visitors come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. Paphos is much warmer than Zagreb in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Zagreb. The spring months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

In the spring, Paphos is a little warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Paphos