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

Should you visit Volos 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 Volos and Zagreb can help you decide which place is right for you.

Volos

Volos is a vibrant, youthful, and authentic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a historic, beautiful, and authentic 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.

Volos and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Volos or Zagreb?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Volos than Zagreb. While Zagreb is larger than Volos, Volos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Volos is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches, while Zagreb is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Volos is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its vibrant seaside setting and its access to nearby natural beauty. Also, Volos is famous for The Archaeological Museum of Volos. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Volos different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Volos
Zagreb

Zagreb is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Volos is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Volos offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in town including the Archaeological Museum of Volos.


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

Volos
Zagreb

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

Volos has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Greece cuisine is very regional specific, and this area has its own dishes that are very different from elsewhere in the country. Deep fried kolitsianoi (sea anemone), boubari (local sausage), and spetzofai (sausage, tomato, and peppers) are just some of the unique dishes in the area.

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 Volos or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Volos
Zagreb

The high quality nightlife scene is relatively similar in Volos and Zagreb.

Volos has a large number of nightlife venues. The universities around town keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are a number of bars and clubs that are fun throughout the year.

Zagreb is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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 Volos or Zagreb Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Volos
Zagreb

Volos is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zagreb is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Volos. There are some snorkeling and dive shops in town that offer day trips.

Zagreb is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Volos or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

Volos
Zagreb

Volos is a great destination for the beache. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Volos for it's beautiful beaches. If you're willing to travel out of town, this region has some of the best beaches in Greece. The summers are cooler than other parts of the country and the winters are milder, so this is both a beautiful and a comfortable place to explore.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Volos or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Volos
Zagreb

Zagreb is a very popular place for its old town. However, Volos does not have a historic old town.

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.

Volos does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Volos or Zagreb?

Volos
Zagreb

Zagreb is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Volos 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 Volos to go shopping. There are shopping malls and shopping centers around town that have a variety of retail options including clothing, jewelry, and home goods.


Is Volos or Zagreb Better for Families?

Volos
Zagreb

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Volos or Zagreb.

Volos is a family-friendly city. If your kids are adventurous, they'll enjoy horseback riding or exploring the area's beaches. There's also the Archaeological Museum of Volos and Agios Konstantinos Park.

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 Volos or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Volos
Zagreb

Both Volos and Zagreb are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Volos makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are gardens and outdoor activities that couples can enjoy. There are also museums and beaches.

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 Volos or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Volos
Zagreb

Zagreb is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Volos is lacking in good options 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.

Volos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination and you won't find that many hostels in the area.


Is Volos or Zagreb Better for Students?

Volos
Zagreb

Zagreb is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

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.

Volos is popular with students. You'll find several universities in town. The port city also offers access to different parts of the country.

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

Volos
Zagreb

Zagreb is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Volos 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 Volos, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that travels around town.

Is Volos or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Volos
Zagreb

Volos and Zagreb are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Volos is a very walkable city. The city is flat and there's a historic district that you can explore 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 Volos Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Volos?

How long in Volos or Zagreb?

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

Couples should spend more time in Zagreb than Volos. 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 Volos 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.


  • How many days in Volos or Zagreb? Ideal Length of Stay
    Volos 1-2 
    Zagreb 2-4

One day in Volos or Zagreb?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Volos. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Volos or Zagreb?

Volos 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.

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 Volos or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Volos. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Volos or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the youthful destination of Volos. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Zagreb or Volos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Volos is €95, while the average daily cost in Zagreb is €77. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Volos and Zagreb in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Volos 43
    Zagreb 48
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Volos 86
    Zagreb 96
Compare Hotels in Volos and Zagreb

Looking for a hotel in Volos or Zagreb? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Volos


Hotels in Zagreb


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Volos Hotel Prices and Zagreb Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Volos 37
    Zagreb 9.08

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Volos

Also for Volos, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Volos to Athens Airport / Athens / Piraeus Private Transfer: $280
  • Volos to Athens Easy & Economy Transfer: $524
  • Volos to Athens, Athens Airport and Piraeus Port Private Transfer: $257

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zagreb

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zagreb:

  • private transfer from Trogir/Split to Zagreb via Plitvice: $1,754
  • Private Walking Tour with Funicular Ride & Transfers: $53
  • Private Transfer to/from Zagreb Airport: $20
  • Bus transfer from/to Rijeka: $6.95
  • Zagreb- Ljubljana. Private transfer: $196
  • Zagreb to Trieste private and direct transfer with a local driver: $175
  • Zagreb to Split Group Transfer with Plitvice Lakes guided Tour: $152
  • Zagreb to Rovinj private transfer or vice versa: $273
  • Zagreb to Pula private one way transfer (or vice versa): $240
  • Zagreb to Franjo Tudman Airport(ZAG) - Departure Private Transfer: $16
  • Zagreb to Budapest Private Transfer by Minivan: $534
  • Zagreb city to Zagreb Airport private transfer: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Volos or Zagreb?

Prices for flights to both Zagreb and Volos change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Volos 30
    Zagreb 16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Volos

For Volos, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Session "Pelion Flavours": $71
  • Cook like a local Greek Cooking lesson in Mt Pelion Greece: $109

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zagreb

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zagreb.

  • Taste Zagreb Food Tour: $74
  • Taste Zagreb Food Tour: $75
  • Private Authentic Croatian Cooking Class in Central Zagreb: $114
  • Private Authentic Market Tour and Cooking Class in the Heart of Zagreb: $144
  • PRIVATE Half-Day Food Tour: The 10 Tastings of Zagreb With Locals: $196
  • Wine & Food tour of Plešivica near Zagreb: $952

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Volos 17
    Zagreb 12

Tours and Activities in Volos

For Volos, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kayaking Adventure around Pelion Coastline : $33
  • East Pelion - Sea Kayak Tour "Short Paddle": $38
  • Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour "The Secret Cave": $49
  • HIKING PELION - Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $197
  • BIKING PELION Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $211
  • From Hidden Sights of Meteora Private Tour: $214
  • Volos Pelion Full Day Tour : $240
  • Pagasetic Gulf Full-Day Sailboat Experience: $735

Tours and Activities in Zagreb

Here are a few actual costs in Zagreb for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Grand Zagreb Tour : $99
  • Zagreb History Walking Tour: $32
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in Zagreb City with Guide (up to 10): $153
  • 2-Hour Unveiling A Captivating History Tour: $107
  • 4 Day Touristic Adventure from Zagreb: $2,449
  • 4-hour Private Zagreb & the Mountain Tour in a Yugo car: $115
  • All-Inclusive Day Tour Zagreb-Rastoke-Plitvice Lakes-Split: $1,068
  • Back to Yugoslavia Private City Tour in Old-Timer Yugo Car: $93
  • Baroque Varaždin and Trakošćan Castle Private Tour: $176
  • Beautiful Christmas in Zagreb - Walking Tour: $432
  • Best of ISTRIA: Amphitheater PULA + ROVINJ + HUM or POREČ - fully Private Tour: $262
  • Best of SLOVENIA - Bled + Postojna + Ljubljana - Day Tour from Zagreb: $224

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Volos 7.86
    Zagreb 8.90

Sample the Local Flavors in Zagreb

Also in Zagreb, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Zagreb Pub Crawl: $16
  • Zagreb:Private Bar Crawling and Alcohol Testing with a Guide: $32
  • Zagreb Wine Tasting & Jarun Lake Tour: $75
  • Plesivica countryside Wine Tasting: $199
  • Fairytale castle & delicious wine tasting and lunch: $202
  • Private Wine Tasting Tour from Zagreb: $208


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Volos and Zagreb, we can see that Volos 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 Volos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Volos 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 Volos Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Volos or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Volos. When comparing the sizes of Volos 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 Volos 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 Volos or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Volos during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Volos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Volos is a little warmer than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Volos averages around 26°C (78°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 Volos. In the summer, Volos often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Volos gets 330 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Volos usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Volos gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Volos 26°C (78°F) 
    Zagreb 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Volos or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Volos and Zagreb. Most visitors come to Volos for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Volos is a little warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Volos in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Volos usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Volos gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Volos usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Volos gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Volos 17°C (62°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Volos or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Volos as well as Zagreb. The winter months attract visitors to Volos because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, 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. In January, Volos is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Volos average around 6°C (42°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Volos often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Volos gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Volos usually gets less rain in January than Zagreb. Volos gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Volos 6°C (42°F) 
    Zagreb 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Volos or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Volos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Volos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Zagreb for the activities around the city.

Volos is around the same temperature as Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Volos averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Volos. Volos usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Volos gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Volos usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Volos gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Volos 14°C (56°F) 
    Zagreb 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Volos

Volos Zagreb
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)