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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Zagreb?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a bustling, historic, and vibrant 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.

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. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Thessaloniki and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Zagreb?

Both Zagreb and Thessaloniki have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Thessaloniki is better known for its beaches, while Zagreb is more popular for its historical sights. Thessaloniki is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Thessaloniki different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Thessaloniki and Zagreb.

Thessaloniki offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

Many visitors head to Zagreb specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Thessaloniki or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Thessaloniki and Zagreb both to be superb destinations.

Thessaloniki has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

Dining out in Zagreb is an experience not to be missed. 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 Thessaloniki or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Both Thessaloniki and Zagreb have superb vibes after the sun sets.

Thessaloniki has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

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.

Is Thessaloniki or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki is a city with a few options for the beache. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Thessaloniki. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Zagreb?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Thessaloniki and Zagreb.

Thessaloniki is well-known for its shopping. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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 Thessaloniki or Zagreb Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Thessaloniki or Zagreb.

Thessaloniki is a family-friendly city. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Zagreb. 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 Thessaloniki or Zagreb Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Thessaloniki and Zagreb make for a notable place to visit.

Thessaloniki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

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 Thessaloniki or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki and Zagreb are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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.

Is Thessaloniki or Zagreb Better for Students?

Both Thessaloniki and Zagreb are superb destinations for students.

Thessaloniki is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

Zagreb is very popular with students. 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.

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

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Thessaloniki, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

Is Thessaloniki or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Thessaloniki or Zagreb. In our opinion, Zagreb has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Zagreb than Thessaloniki. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Zagreb than Thessaloniki. 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 Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Thessaloniki. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Zagreb, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Thessaloniki or Zagreb?

Thessaloniki 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.

Zagreb is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thessaloniki. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Thessaloniki or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the bustling destination of Thessaloniki. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Zagreb is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 97% larger than the population of Thessaloniki. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Zagreb?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Thessaloniki during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Zagreb, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thessaloniki. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Zagreb. The autumn months attract visitors to Thessaloniki because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

In the autumn, Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thessaloniki in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Zagreb. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zagreb for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zagreb. In January, Thessaloniki is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 5°C (41°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Zagreb. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the spring for the activities around the city.

Thessaloniki is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Thessaloniki