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

Should you visit York or Zagreb?

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

Should I visit York 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.

York

York is a medieval, fanciful, and historic city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a local, historic, and beautiful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

York and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in York or Zagreb?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zagreb than York. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Zagreb is very popular for its shopping and big city activities, while York attracts visitors for its food and historical sights. York is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. Zagreb is famous for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is also well known for The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is York different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both York and Zagreb have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

York offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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 York or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York 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 York, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

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 York or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

Both York and Zagreb are superb when it comes to partying.

York offers plenty to do in the evening. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

Zagreb has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 York or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

York 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 York can be explored in its historical center. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

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 York or Zagreb?

Zagreb is a well-known place for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Zagreb is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is York or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

With a huge array of activities for kids, York is very family-friendly. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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 York or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit York frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

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 York or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both York and Zagreb are superb destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

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.

Is York or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is a well-known place for students. However, York is not popular with 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.

York is not popular with students.

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

Zagreb is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Zagreb is fairly effecient and thorough. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

York has some public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Is York or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Zagreb is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Zagreb is very walkable. It's a city that lives outdoors. It's very walkable with many outdoor cafes and parks where you can take a stroll.

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or York?

How long in York or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either York or Zagreb. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of York. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zagreb. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in York or Zagreb?

York 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.

Zagreb is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in York or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in York. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the under-rated destination of Zagreb. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in York or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fanciful destination of York. 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.

The under-rated city of Zagreb offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, 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 York and Zagreb, we can see that York 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 York would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in York 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 York Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, York or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of York 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 York or Zagreb?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit York or Zagreb in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Zagreb. Most visitors come to York for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, York is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the summer temperatures in York in July average around 16°C (62°F), and Zagreb averages at about 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zagreb this time of the year. York usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, York usually receives less rain than Zagreb. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit York or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to York as well as Zagreb. The autumn months attract visitors to York because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

In October, York is generally cooler than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in York average around 11°C (52°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, York often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in October than Zagreb. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit York or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and York are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to York 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 York in the winter. York is much warmer than Zagreb in the winter. The daily temperature in York averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

York usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during winter. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, York usually receives less rain than Zagreb. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit York or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and York during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, York is much colder than Zagreb. Typically, the spring temperatures in York in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, York often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and York