A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Venice vs. Zagreb for Attractions, Old Town, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Venice or Zagreb?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Venice and Zagreb can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice

Venice is a beautiful, romantic, and cultural city. The famous beauty of Venice is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Venice travel costs.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a historic, beautiful, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Zagreb travel costs.

Venice and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Venice or Zagreb?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Venice than Zagreb. While Zagreb is larger than Venice, Venice has more sights and attractions for tourists. Venice is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Zagreb is known for its nightlife and big city activities. Venice is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also home to St. Mark's Basilica. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Venice different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Venice 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 Venice are among the most recognizable in the world. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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 Venice or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Venice and Zagreb both to be high quality destinations.

Venice has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables. Many of the restaurants are excellent, but head into the local neighborhoods for the best options.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zagreb makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Venice or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is great for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Zagreb for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Venice or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Venice is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Venice can be explored in its historical center. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Venice or Zagreb?

Venice is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Venice make it a world-class shopping destination. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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 Venice or Zagreb More Beautiful?

Venice is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Zagreb is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Venice is one of the main draws. The city's beautiful canals, architecture, and gondolas make it among the most stunning and unique places to visit in the world.

Zagreb is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Venice or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Venice is a very kid-friendly city. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Venice or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Venice is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

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 Venice or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Venice and Zagreb are high quality places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 Venice or Zagreb Better for Students?

Venice is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Venice is a very popular place to visit for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

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.

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

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

Venice has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Zagreb. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Venice or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Venice 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 Venice on foot is easy. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Venice?

How long in Venice or Zagreb?

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

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

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

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

One day in Venice or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Venice. 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.

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 Venice or Zagreb?

Venice 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 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 Venice or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Venice. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Venice or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Venice. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine 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 Venice and Zagreb, we can see that Venice 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 Venice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Venice 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 Venice Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Venice or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Venice. When comparing the sizes of Venice 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 Venice 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 Venice or Zagreb in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Venice as well as Zagreb. Many visitors come to Venice in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Venice is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 23°C (73°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zagreb. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Venice this time of the year. In the summer, Venice often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Venice gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Venice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Venice is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 14°C (57°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Venice usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during autumn. Venice gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Venice usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Venice or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Venice during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Venice because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

It's quite cold in Zagreb in the winter. The weather in Venice can be very cold. In the winter, Venice is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Venice in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Venice often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Venice gets 88 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets more rain in January than Zagreb. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and Zagreb. The natural beauty are the main draw to Venice this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zagreb for the activities around the city.

In April, Venice is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 13°C (55°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Venice usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during spring. Venice gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Venice usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Venice