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

Should you visit Zagreb or Mexico City?

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 Mexico City. 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 local, historic, and beautiful city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Mexico City

Mexico City is a cultural, diverse, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Zagreb and Mexico City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zagreb or Mexico City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mexico City than Zagreb, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Mexico City is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Zagreb is known for its historical sights. Mexico City is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its vibrant street food scene, colorful markets, and historic architecture. It is also home to Zócalo. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Zagreb different from Mexico City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mexico City 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 Mexico City?

Mexico City 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 Mexico City are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is filled with historic buildings, fascinating museums, and interesting landmarks. At the heart of the city is Zócalo, where the country's constitution was signed. Nearby you'll find the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor. Other interesting museums in the city include the National Museum of Anthropology, the Palace of Fine Arts, and the National History Museum.

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 Zagreb or Mexico City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mexico City 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 Mexico City, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city food scene is as diverse as the population itself. There are countless ways to experience the amazing street food, but there are also world class chefs working in award winning restaurants. Make sure you try the chilaquiles, tacos al pastor, and chiles en nogada.

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 Mexico City Better for Nightlife?

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

Mexico City is a world class party destination. It's a huge city, so of course there's no shortage of diverse nightlife activities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods for nightlife include the downtown, La Condesa, and Colonia Juárez. For upscale clubs head to Polanco and for trendy and eclectic venues check out Roma.

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 Mexico City Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Mexico City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

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.

Many visitors go to Mexico City to see the historical old town. Centro Historico spreads out from Zócalo Plaza, and has many buildings that date back as far as the Aztec period. Many tourists gather here to explore the history and wander down the pedestrian-only Calle Madero.

Is the Shopping Better in Zagreb or Mexico City?

Mexico City 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 Mexico City make it a world-class shopping destination. The city has everything from open-air bazaars (tianguis) to modern shopping malls. There are international brands as well as local art galleries, handicrafts, and retail outlets.

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 Zagreb or Mexico City Better for Families?

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

Mexico City is a very kid-friendly city. It's a huge city, so there are enough diverse activities to keep everyone entertained. There's even a Six Flags. Popular museums for kids include Papalote Museo del Niño and Museo de Geología. There's also the Acuario Inbursa, and make sure you check out a Lucha Libre show.

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 Zagreb or Mexico City Better for Couples?

Zagreb and Mexico City both good 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.

Mexico City is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with parks where you can enjoy a picnic, museums that are fascinating to walk through, and cultural activities that are one-of-a-kind. You can ride on a gondola in Xochimilco or spend the day exploring the amazing food scene.

Is Zagreb or Mexico City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb and Mexico City are superb 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 Mexico City. It's a big city with a wonderful atmosphere and many hostels. Backpackers who want to experience the culture, food, and personality of Mexico will love a visit here.

Is Zagreb or Mexico City Better for Students?

Zagreb and Mexico City are superb 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.

Mexico City is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students love the art, architecture, food, and culture that this colorful city has to offer.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Zagreb and Mexico City.

Public transit in Zagreb can get you to some places easily. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Mexico City. The city has a complex and comprehensive public transit system that includes a metro, metrobus, and local buses.

Is Zagreb or Mexico City a more walkable city?

Zagreb is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Mexico City is lacking in options for its walkability.

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.

Mexico City is generally not very walkable. While you can walk within many neighborhoods, such as the historic city center, it's impossible to walk between neighborhoods and in many parts of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Mexico City or Zagreb?

How long in Zagreb or Mexico City?

In either Zagreb or Mexico City, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mexico City than Zagreb because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Zagreb, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mexico City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mexico City 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 Mexico City.

One day in Zagreb or Mexico City?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Mexico City is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zagreb or Mexico City?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Zagreb. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Mexico City is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zagreb or Mexico City?

The under-rated city of Zagreb offers shopping and museums. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mexico City. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zagreb or Mexico City?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Zagreb. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 diverse big city of Mexico City. 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 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

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

Which is Bigger, Zagreb or Mexico City?

Mexico City has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Zagreb. When comparing the sizes of Zagreb and Mexico City, 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.