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

Should you visit Heraklion or Zagreb?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Heraklion and Zagreb can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a accessible, bustling, and historic 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, beaches, and shopping. See Heraklion travel costs.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a authentic, under-rated, and local 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. See Zagreb travel costs.

Heraklion and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heraklion or Zagreb?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Heraklion than Zagreb. While Zagreb is larger than Heraklion, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is better known for its beaches, while Zagreb is more popular for its historical sights and shopping. Heraklion is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. Also, Heraklion is famous for The Palace of Knossos. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Heraklion different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Heraklion and Zagreb.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Heraklion. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

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.

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

Foodies will find both Heraklion and Zagreb both to be very good destinations.

Heraklion has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

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 Heraklion or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in Heraklion and Zagreb.

Heraklion has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

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 Heraklion or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Heraklion for it's beautiful beaches. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Heraklion or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

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

Zagreb is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The upper town is filled with charm, cafes, and historical landmarks such as St. Mark Church, Kamenita Vrata (the Stone Gate), and the cathedral.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Zagreb?

Zagreb is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Heraklion 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 Heraklion to go shopping. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Is Heraklion or Zagreb Better for Families?

Both Heraklion and Zagreb are notable to visit with kids.

Heraklion is a family-friendly city. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water 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 Heraklion or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Heraklion frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

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 Heraklion or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion and Zagreb are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

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.

Is Heraklion or Zagreb Better for Students?

Zagreb is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Heraklion is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Heraklion is not popular with students.

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

Zagreb is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Zagreb has some very good public transit options. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

You'll find some public transit in Heraklion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

Is Heraklion or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Heraklion and Zagreb are very good when it comes to walkability.

Heraklion is a very walkable city. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

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 Heraklion Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Heraklion or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zagreb due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heraklion, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Zagreb. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Zagreb?

Heraklion 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Zagreb. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Heraklion or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heraklion. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated city of Zagreb. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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 Heraklion or Zagreb?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Heraklion. 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.

Zagreb is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, 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 Heraklion and Zagreb, we can see that Heraklion 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 Heraklion would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Heraklion 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 Heraklion Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Zagreb?

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

Both Zagreb and Heraklion during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zagreb for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 25°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 Heraklion. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Zagreb. Many travelers come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Zagreb in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Heraklion is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heraklion in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heraklion or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Zagreb. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Zagreb for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zagreb can be very cold during winter. In January, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 12°C (54°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Zagreb. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heraklion or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the activities around the city.

Heraklion is a little warmer than Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heraklion. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Heraklion