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

Should you visit Taupo or Zagreb?

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

Should I visit Taupo or Zagreb? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Taupo

Taupo is a stunning, otherworldly, and striking town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Taupo is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Taupo travel costs.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a local, historic, and beautiful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Zagreb travel costs.

Taupo and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Taupo or Zagreb?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zagreb than Taupo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zagreb is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Taupo is more popular for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Taupo is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its thermal hot springs, dramatic landscapes, and world class hikes. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Taupo different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Taupo or Zagreb Better for Skiing?

Taupo is a must-visit destination for winter skiing. However, Zagreb is not a skiing destination.

Taupo is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. Nearby Mount Ruapehu offers access to the longest running ski season in both Australia and New Zealand. From June until October you can enjoy the largest commercial ski areas around. There are options for everyone from young beginners to experts. The two main ski resorts in the area are Whakapapa Ski Area and Tūroa Ski Area.

Zagreb is not a skiing destination.

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

Zagreb is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Taupo is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Taupo. Stunning natural beauty and adventure-filled activities are what Taupo is all about, but you won't find much in the form of museums.

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

Both Taupo and Zagreb offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Taupo. The town is filled with local restaurants that make use of local ingredients such as fresh caught trout, local produce, and wild game. The town also has many farmers markets and a strong cafe culture.

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 Taupo or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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 Taupo has a few options to choose from. It's a small resort town that is active during the day and night. There are low key activities in the evening like soaking in the thermal hot pools or grabbing a drink at a bar.

Is Taupo or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is a great destination for its old town. However, Taupo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Zagreb. The upper town is filled with charm, cafes, and historical landmarks such as St. Mark Church, Kamenita Vrata (the Stone Gate), and the cathedral.

Taupo does not have a historic old town.

Is Taupo or Zagreb Better for Hiking?

Taupo 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 Taupo. The area is filled with beautiful hikes that take you through the natural beauty. During the fall season you can enjoy the fall foliage and during the summer months the wildlife and waterfront setting is at a peak.

Zagreb is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Taupo or Zagreb?

Zagreb is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Zagreb is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Taupo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The lakefront town has a nice, pedestrian-friendly stretch with boutique shops, fashion outlets, and souvenir vendors.

Is Taupo or Zagreb More Beautiful?

Taupo is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Zagreb is not a destination known for its beauty.

Taupo is a beautiful place to visit, too. Set against the lake, there is stunning natural beauty in the area and many breathtaking views.

Zagreb is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Taupo or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

With a huge array of activities for kids, Taupo is very family-friendly. Set on the edge of Lake Taupo, there are many family-friendly activities in the area like swimming, boating, and hiking. There are also thermal hot springs and in the winter months skiing. Families who enjoy outdoor adventures will find no shortage of options year round.

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 Taupo or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Taupo is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Honeymooners and couples who enjoy romantic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this area. You can soak in thermal hot springs and picnic next to beautiful waterfalls. There are also breathtaking hikes and great water activities.

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 Taupo or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taupo 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 Taupo. There's plenty of backpacker and hostel accommodation in the area. There are also free outdoor activities and adrenaline-filled adventures that backpackers will enjoy.

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 Taupo or Zagreb Better for Students?

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

Zagreb is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Taupo is not popular with students.

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

Zagreb is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Taupo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local bus service, the Taupo Connector, that travels around the town center. If you want to get outside of town, you'll need to have a car.

Is Taupo or Zagreb a more walkable city?

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

Zagreb is a very walkable city. It's a city that lives outdoors. It's very walkable with many outdoor cafes and parks where you can take a stroll.

Taupo is a somewhat walkable town. The town is fairly compact, but if you want to efficiently get around and experience everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Taupo?

How long in Taupo or Zagreb?

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Taupo. 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.

In Zagreb, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-rated destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Taupo or Zagreb?

Taupo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the skiing, 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zagreb. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Taupo or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taupo. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Zagreb. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Taupo or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the otherworldly destination of Taupo. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the under-rated destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, 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 Taupo and Zagreb, we can see that Taupo is more expensive. And not only is Zagreb much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Taupo is in Pacific and Zagreb is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Taupo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Taupo 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 Taupo Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Taupo or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Taupo. When comparing the sizes of Taupo 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.