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

Should you visit Sorrento 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 Sorrento 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.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a colorful, historic, and relaxing small city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a authentic, under-rated, and local city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Sorrento and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sorrento or Zagreb?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sorrento. Although Sorrento and Zagreb are popular destinations, Sorrento has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sorrento is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Zagreb attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Sorrento is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its lemon groves and limoncello, charming cafes, and access to the Amalfi coast. It is also well known for Marina Grande and Marina Piccola. Zagreb is famous for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Sorrento different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zagreb is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Sorrento does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Sorrento 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 Sorrento, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The food is world class and you'll find most Italian classics here including pizza, fine cheeses, and fresh seafood. Many visitors enjoy taking a pasta or pizza making class while they're in town. You'll also find Limoncello everywhere, made from the locally grown lemons, which are impressive in both their size and flavor. Also make sure you allow for plenty of stops at gelato shops.

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 Sorrento or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Sorrento 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 Sorrento has a few options to choose from. The city is known for its laid back atmosphere, but there are still a number of clubs where you can dance the night away. While the main city center has its share of bars and activities, some of the best known clubs are actually a bit outside of the city center. Many visitors dress to impress and don't show up until after midnight, which is when the party really starts.

Is Sorrento or Zagreb Better for Resorts?

Sorrento is a great destination for its resorts. However, Zagreb is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Sorrento to choose from. The city offers a wide selection of luxury and budget hotels, particularly in the Piazza Tasso area. Because of its accessibility, many people use it as a base for exploring the area, or stop off for a day or two in route to other towns.

Zagreb is not a resort destination.

Is Sorrento or Zagreb Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sorrento is a small city with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zagreb is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Sorrento has a few snorkeling spots. There are snorkeling excursions that you can book in the area, but this is often an overlooked activity for many visitors.

Zagreb is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sorrento or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

Sorrento is a good destination for the beache. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Sorrento offers a nice beach destination. The rugged coastline is filled with dramatic hills and rocky inlets that offer hidden beaches. Many of the most unique beaches can be challenging to access and the beaches closer to town get very crowded. Some of the best beaches in the area include Marina Piccola Beach, Regina Giovanna, and Puolo. Some beaches are public while others are private and come at a price.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Sorrento or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Sorrento 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.

Sorrento does not have a historic old town.

Is Sorrento or Zagreb Better for Hiking?

Sorrento is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Zagreb is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Sorrento. The area has a number of walking trails that you can explore. Many follow historic donkey trails that once connected the villages and today offer a well-established route with stunning views and pristine landscapes. The trails navigate the region's steep hills and offer a breathtaking look at the rugged coastline.

Zagreb is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sorrento or Zagreb?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zagreb and Sorrento.

Sorrento is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the heart of the city around Piazza Tasso for the best shopping opportunities. You can simply enjoy window shopping or pop in one of the many local boutiques or larger European brand stores. Popular items to purchase include leather goods, Limoncello, and inlaid wood items.

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 Sorrento or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Sorrento is a very kid-friendly small city. It makes a good base or first stop for families who want to enjoy the area. It's well connected with transportation and has all the kid approved foods you could need. The whole family will also enjoy taking a pasta making class or going for a swim in the Mediterranean. And make sure you allow plenty of time for everyone to eat their fill of gelato.

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 Sorrento or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Sorrento is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful romantic destination is one of the world's top honeymoon areas. It's a small city that offers access to the many nearby destinations, so it makes a good base or gateway city for visiting places like Capri and the Blue Grotto as well as the Amalfi Coast. You can enjoy romantic hikes full of stunning views, explore by kayak, dine at romantic restaurants, or experience a one-of-a-kind farm tour. If you base yourself in Sorrento, you'll likely be doing a lot of day trips.

Zagreb is a good small 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 Sorrento or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sorrento 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 Sorrento. Because its a small city with accessible transportation, you'll find a decent number of hostels that make it an affordable base for exploring the area. You can hit many nearby sights as day trips or use this as a first stop off point as you make your way along the coast.

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 Sorrento or Zagreb Better for Students?

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

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.

Sorrento is not popular with students.

Is Sorrento 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 Sorrento and Zagreb.

Public transit in Sorrento is fairly effecient and thorough. Buses travel around town and you can also visit nearby areas using the Circumvesuviana train line, EAV and Sita buses, Cooperativa Tasso minibuses, or one of the many ferry companies.

Zagreb has some very good public transit options. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Sorrento or Zagreb a more walkable city?

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

Sorrento is very walkable. The old town is fun to walk around and window shop, but bring good walking shoes as the area has a lot of hills.

Zagreb is a very walkable small city. 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 Sorrento Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Sorrento?

How long in Sorrento or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Sorrento or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Sorrento due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Sorrento, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

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

One day in Sorrento or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Sorrento. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Zagreb offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Sorrento or Zagreb?

Sorrento is a great place to explore. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zagreb, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sorrento or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sorrento. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Zagreb is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Sorrento or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the colorful destination of Sorrento. This small city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Zagreb is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

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

Which is Bigger, Sorrento or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Sorrento. When comparing the sizes of Sorrento 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 Sorrento 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 Sorrento or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Sorrento are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sorrento this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Sorrento is around the same temperature as Zagreb. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sorrento in July average around 23°C (74°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 Sorrento. Sorrento usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Sorrento gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Sorrento usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Sorrento 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 Sorrento or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Sorrento during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Sorrento for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Sorrento is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Sorrento average around 17°C (63°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Sorrento often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Sorrento 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 Sorrento. Sorrento usually gets more rain in October than Zagreb. Sorrento 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 Sorrento or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sorrento and Zagreb. Many visitors come to Sorrento in the winter for 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. Sorrento is much warmer than Zagreb in the winter. The daily temperature in Sorrento averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

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

Sorrento gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Sorrento usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Sorrento 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 Sorrento or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sorrento as well as Zagreb. Most visitors come to Sorrento 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 the spring, Sorrento is around the same temperature as Zagreb. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sorrento in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

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

Sorrento usually gets more rain in April than Zagreb. Sorrento 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 Sorrento