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

Should you visit Verona or Zagreb?

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

Should I visit Verona 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.

Verona

Verona is a beautiful, stunning, and romantic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Verona and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Verona or Zagreb?

You'll generally find more things to do in Zagreb than Verona. Zagreb is bigger than Verona, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Zagreb is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Verona is more popular for its impressive beauty. Verona is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its role as the setting of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. Also, Zagreb is famous for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Verona different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Verona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While most people know Verona as the setting of Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet", there are also many unrelated but still impressive sights around town. Of course you must check out the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet's House and Balcony), but also make sure you visit the fortress of Castelvecchio, Arena di Verona, and Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.

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 Verona or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Verona and Zagreb can be an enjoyable experience.

Verona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Food is a source of pride for the locals in Verona, and you'll find excellent dishes in most eateries, even those catering specifically to tourists. There are many local recipes that are worth sampling while you're in the area including risotto with tastasal, potato gnocchi, and polenta.

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 Verona or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Zagreb is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Zagreb has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Verona. The nightlife scene caters to a mature crowd and there is a heavy focus on regional wine. There are many local bars and traditional osterie (inns) where you can sip local wine or hear live music.

Is Verona or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the superb old towns in both Verona and Zagreb.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Verona. At the heart of the city is the old town, which is filled with medieval and Renaissance style architecture. It's easy to explore this beautiful area on foot.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Verona or Zagreb?

Zagreb is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Verona to go shopping. The most well known shopping street is Corso Santa Anastasia, which has many antique shops as well as jewelry stores and high end boutiques.

Is Verona or Zagreb Better for Families?

Zagreb is a popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Verona is not known for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Verona is not the most family-friendly destination. You can head to the top of the the Lamberti Tower and, of course, check out the Romeo and Juliet balcony. Wandering the streets and grabbing gelato is also fun for the whole family.

Is Verona or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Verona is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Verona frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. As the setting for Shakespeare's famed "Romeo and Juliet", this town is seeped in romantic history. In addition to checking out the classic balcony, couples can enjoy seeing an opera at Verona Arena or seeking out views of the beautiful city. Crossing the romantic Ponte Pietra is another must-do romantic activity in the area.

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 Verona or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Verona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers rarely spend more than a day or two in town, but there are hostels in the area that offer cheap accommodation.

Is Verona or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Verona is a good city to visit for students. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience than some of the more popular tourist and study abroad destinations in Italy.

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

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

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

Verona has a few public transit options. ATV operates buses through the city.

Is Verona or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Verona and Zagreb are superb when it comes to walkability.

Verona is a very walkable city. It's a compact city that's easy to explore on foot. Many locals get around by walking or biking.

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 Verona Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Verona?

How long in Verona or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Verona or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zagreb due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Verona, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Verona. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Verona or Zagreb?

Verona 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 Verona or Zagreb?

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

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 Verona or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the romantic destination of Verona. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic 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 10-Day Tours in Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) 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 Verona and Zagreb, we can see that Verona 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 Verona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Verona 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 Verona Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Verona or Zagreb?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Verona as well as Zagreb. Most visitors come to Verona for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Verona is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Verona averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, 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 Verona this time of the year. In the summer, Verona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Verona gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Verona usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Verona gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Verona or Zagreb in the Autumn?

Both Zagreb and Verona are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Verona because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

In the autumn, Verona is around the same temperature as Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Verona in October average around 14°C (57°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Verona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during autumn. Verona gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Verona usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Verona gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Verona or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Verona during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Verona 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. It's quite cold in Verona in the winter. In January, Verona is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Verona average around 2°C (36°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Verona often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Verona gets 98 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Verona usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Zagreb. Verona gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Verona or Zagreb in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Verona and Zagreb. Many travelers come to Verona for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the spring for the activities around the city.

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

Verona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb during spring. Verona gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Verona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Verona gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Verona