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

Should you visit Zagreb or Austin?

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 Zagreb and Austin. 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.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a beautiful, authentic, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Austin

Austin is a lively, entrepreneurial, and eccentric city. It's a big city with many activities to entertain visitors, too. This is a very beautiful destination, too. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Zagreb and Austin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zagreb or Austin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Austin. Although Zagreb and Austin are popular destinations, Austin has more sights and attractions for tourists. Austin is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Zagreb attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. Austin is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. It is also well known for The Texas Capital. Zagreb is famous for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Zagreb different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Zagreb and Austin.

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.

Austin offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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

Austin 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 Austin, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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 Zagreb or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Austin is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Austin is a world class party destination. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

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.

Is Zagreb or Austin Better for Music?

Austin is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Austin Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Is Zagreb or Austin Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Austin does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Zagreb to see the historical old town. The upper town is filled with charm, cafes, and historical landmarks such as St. Mark Church, Kamenita Vrata (the Stone Gate), and the cathedral.

Austin does not have a historic old town.

Is Zagreb or Austin Better for Hiking?

Austin is a city with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Zagreb is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Zagreb is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zagreb or Austin?

Zagreb is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Zagreb or Austin Better for Families?

Both Zagreb and Austin are nice family-friendly destinations.

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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Zagreb or Austin Better for Couples?

Zagreb and Austin both nice destinations for a couple.

Zagreb makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Austin is a good city for couples to visit. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Zagreb or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb and Austin are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zagreb is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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 and backpackers visit Austin. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

Is Zagreb or Austin Better for Students?

Zagreb and Austin are great places to visit for 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.

Austin is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

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

Zagreb is a great destination for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Zagreb or Austin a more walkable city?

Zagreb is a great destination for its walkability. However, Austin is a city with minimal options 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.

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Zagreb?

How long in Zagreb or Austin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zagreb and Austin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zagreb than in Austin. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Zagreb, and 2-3 days is enough time in Austin.

Families should spend more time in Zagreb than Austin. 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.

One day in Zagreb or Austin?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Austin. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zagreb or Austin?

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.

Austin 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 Zagreb or Austin?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Austin. 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 Zagreb or Austin?

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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the lively destination of Austin. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zagreb and Austin, we can see that Austin is more expensive. And not only is Zagreb much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Zagreb is in Europe and Austin is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Austin would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Austin 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 Zagreb Expensive? and Is Austin Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zagreb or Austin?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 3% larger than the population of Austin. When comparing the sizes of Zagreb and Austin, 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 Zagreb or Austin?

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 Zagreb or Austin in the Summer?

Both Austin and Zagreb are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Zagreb in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Austin for the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Zagreb is generally cooler than Austin. Daily temperatures in Zagreb average around 22°C (72°F), and Austin fluctuates around 87°F (30°C).

It's quite sunny in Austin. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zagreb. Zagreb usually receives less sunshine than Austin during summer. Zagreb gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 318 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zagreb usually receives more rain than Austin. Zagreb gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zagreb or Austin in the Autumn?

Both Austin and Zagreb during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Austin because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Zagreb is much colder than Austin in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zagreb averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Austin fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Austin, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Zagreb often gets less sunshine than Austin. Zagreb gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 214 hours of full sun.

Zagreb usually gets less rain in October than Austin. Zagreb gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zagreb or Austin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zagreb and Austin. The winter months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Austin this time of year.

The weather in Zagreb can be very cold. In the winter, Zagreb is much colder than Austin. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zagreb in January average around 1°C (35°F), and Austin averages at about 51°F (11°C).

Zagreb usually receives less sunshine than Austin during winter. Zagreb gets 54 hours of sunny skies, while Austin receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zagreb usually receives more rain than Austin. Zagreb gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Austin receives 1.9 inches (48 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zagreb or Austin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zagreb as well as Austin. The activities around the city are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Austin for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Zagreb is generally much colder than Austin. Daily temperatures in Zagreb average around 13°C (55°F), and Austin fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Austin. In the spring, Zagreb often gets less sunshine than Austin. Zagreb gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Austin receives 209 hours of full sun.

Zagreb usually gets less rain in April than Austin. Zagreb gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Austin receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Austin and Zagreb