A Travel Price Comparison for Croatia Zagreb vs. Rijeka for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Zagreb or Rijeka?

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 Rijeka. 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 historic, beautiful, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Zagreb travel costs.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a accessible, diverse, and slow-paced town. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Rijeka travel costs.

Zagreb and Rijeka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zagreb or Rijeka?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zagreb than Rijeka, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Zagreb is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Rijeka is known for its beaches. Rijeka is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for being a transportation hub in Croatia with a ferry and cruise ship port. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options. It is also home to The Zagreb Cathedral.

How is Zagreb different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Zagreb is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Rijeka is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Historical sights around town include Trsat Castle, the Petar Druzic Stairway, and Our Lady of Trsat. There are also museums such as PEEK&POKE Computer Museum and the Governor's Palace and Maritime and Historical Museum.

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

Zagreb is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Rijeka. It's known for its Mediterranean cuisine which includes more than seafood. There are local vegetable specialties in the area as well including asparagus and white truffles. Codfish stew and cuttlefish risotto are also popular.

Is Zagreb or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Zagreb or Rijeka has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Zagreb know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife in Rijeka has something for everybody. The city center has plenty of bars and clubs. Restaurants also stay open late and are popular places to hang out for locals and tourists alike.

Is Zagreb or Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Rijeka is a town with a few options for the beach. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Rijeka. There are pebbly and gravelly beaches in the area, with the best beaches to the west of the city. You'll need to take a public bus to reach most of them.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Zagreb or Rijeka Better for its Old Town?

Zagreb is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Rijeka 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.

Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zagreb or Rijeka?

Zagreb is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Rijeka. There are many shopping centers, retail stores, and souvenir shops around town.

Is Zagreb or Rijeka Better for Families?

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

Rijeka is a very kid-friendly town. The city has a number of outdoor activities for kids like nature parks and nearby beaches. There's also a puppet theater as well as the Astronomical Center of Rijeka.

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 Rijeka Better for Couples?

Zagreb and Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is a good city for couples to visit. It's a gateway to the Croatian islands. Many couples enjoy walking down the waterfront promenade or dining at a nice local restaurant. There are also beaches, parks, and historical sights to explore.

Is Zagreb or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zagreb is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zagreb is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Rijeka. There's no shortage of affordable hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Zagreb or Rijeka Better for Students?

Zagreb is a well-known place for students. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Rijeka. It's a laid back seaside city that makes a nice semester abroad destination. As a gateway to the Croatian islands, it also offers transportation connections to other points of interest.

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

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Zagreb. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Rijeka has some public transit options. KD Autrolej buses provide transit throughout the city.

Is Zagreb or Rijeka a more walkable city?

Zagreb is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Rijeka is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Zagreb?

How long in Zagreb or Rijeka?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zagreb or Rijeka to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zagreb than Rijeka because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Zagreb, and 1-2 days is enough time in Rijeka.

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

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

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

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 museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Rijeka. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zagreb or Rijeka?

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.

Rijeka 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 Rijeka?

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 Rijeka. 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 Rijeka?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated 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 shopping and museums when visiting the coastal destination of Rijeka. This town 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Zagreb or Rijeka?

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

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 Rijeka in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zagreb and Rijeka. Many travelers come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Rijeka in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zagreb is around the same temperature as Rijeka. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zagreb in July average around 22°C (72°F), and Rijeka averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rijeka this time of the year. In Zagreb, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zagreb usually receives less sunshine than Rijeka during summer. Zagreb gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zagreb usually receives more rain than Rijeka. Zagreb gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zagreb or Rijeka in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zagreb as well as Rijeka. Many visitors come to Zagreb in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Rijeka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Zagreb is generally cooler than Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Zagreb average around 13°C (55°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Zagreb often gets less sunshine than Rijeka. Zagreb gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 167 hours of full sun.

Zagreb usually gets less rain in October than Rijeka. Zagreb gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zagreb or Rijeka in the Winter?

Both Rijeka and Zagreb are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zagreb for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Rijeka because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zagreb can be very cold during winter. Zagreb is much colder than Rijeka in the winter. The daily temperature in Zagreb averages around 1°C (35°F) in January, and Rijeka fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Zagreb usually receives less sunshine than Rijeka during winter. Zagreb gets 54 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zagreb usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Zagreb gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zagreb or Rijeka in the Spring?

Both Rijeka and Zagreb during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Rijeka this time of year.

In the spring, Zagreb is around the same temperature as Rijeka. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zagreb in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Rijeka averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Zagreb often gets less sunshine than Rijeka. Zagreb gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 177 hours of full sun.

Zagreb usually gets less rain in April than Rijeka. Zagreb gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Zagreb