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

Should you visit Varenna or Zagreb?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Varenna and Zagreb. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a under-rated, local, and historic 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.

Varenna and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Varenna or Zagreb?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zagreb than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zagreb is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Varenna is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Varenna is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Varenna different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Varenna. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

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

Varenna 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 Varenna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

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 Varenna or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Varenna is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Zagreb has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Varenna is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Is Varenna or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of 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.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Varenna or Zagreb Better for Hiking?

Varenna 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 Varenna. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

Zagreb is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Varenna or Zagreb?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Varenna to go shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Is Varenna or Zagreb Better for Families?

Both Varenna and Zagreb are notable family-friendly destinations.

Varenna is a family-friendly village. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

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 Varenna or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Varenna is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

Zagreb is a good village 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 Varenna or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Is Varenna or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Varenna is not popular with students.

Is Varenna 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, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Zagreb can get you to some places easily. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

You'll find some public transit in Varenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

Is Varenna or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Varenna is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Varenna on foot is easy. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

Zagreb is a very walkable destination. 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 Varenna Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Varenna?

How long in Varenna or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Varenna or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zagreb due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Varenna, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Varenna or Zagreb?

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

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 Varenna or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. Don't miss the food, 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 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 Varenna or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Varenna. This village 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.

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 Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors 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 Varenna and Zagreb, we can see that Varenna 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 Varenna would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Varenna 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 Varenna Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Varenna or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 830 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Varenna 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 Varenna 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 Varenna or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Varenna during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

Varenna is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 23°C (73°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 Varenna. In the summer, Varenna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Varenna gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. Varenna usually gets more rain in July than Zagreb. Varenna gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Varenna or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Varenna and Zagreb. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Varenna this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Varenna is a little warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Varenna in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Varenna usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Varenna gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Varenna usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Varenna gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Varenna or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Varenna as well as Zagreb. Many travelers come to Varenna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Varenna often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Varenna gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Varenna usually gets more rain in January than Zagreb. Varenna gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Varenna or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Varenna are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Varenna in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the activities around the city during these months.

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

Varenna usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Varenna gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. In April, Varenna usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Varenna gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Varenna