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

Should you visit Lisbon or Zagreb?

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

Should I visit Lisbon 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a stunning, picturesque, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of Lisbon is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Lisbon travel costs.

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. See Zagreb travel costs.

Lisbon and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Zagreb?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Lisbon than Zagreb. While Zagreb is larger than Lisbon, Lisbon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lisbon is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Lisbon different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lisbon 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 Lisbon are among the most recognizable in the world. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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 Lisbon or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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 Lisbon or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

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

Lisbon is a world class party destination. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

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 Lisbon or Zagreb Better for Music?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Zagreb Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is a good destination for the beach. However, Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Lisbon offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Zagreb is not a beach destination.

Is Lisbon or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon can be explored in its historical center. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Zagreb?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon or Zagreb More Beautiful?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Zagreb is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Lisbon is one of the main draws. With its bright colors and dramatic hills, many people consider it to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many spectacular viewpoints that look out over the city.

Zagreb is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lisbon or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Lisbon is a very kid-friendly city. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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 Lisbon or Zagreb Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Lisbon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

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 Lisbon or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lisbon. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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 Lisbon or Zagreb Better for Students?

Both Lisbon and Zagreb are superb destinations for students.

Lisbon is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

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.

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

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Lisbon has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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

Is Lisbon or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Lisbon is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Lisbon on foot is easy. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Zagreb?

It's fun to spend time in either Lisbon or Zagreb. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lisbon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Zagreb.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Zagreb?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 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.

A weekend in Lisbon or Zagreb?

Lisbon 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.

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.

Five days in Lisbon or Zagreb?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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.

A week in Lisbon or Zagreb?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the local 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, 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 Lisbon and Zagreb, we can see that Lisbon 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 Lisbon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisbon 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 Lisbon Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Zagreb?

Zagreb has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Lisbon. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Zagreb in the Summer?

Both Zagreb and Lisbon during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and 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 July, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Zagreb, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Lisbon. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Zagreb. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Zagreb. The autumn months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Zagreb in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives more rain than Zagreb. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Zagreb in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Zagreb. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Zagreb for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Zagreb. In the winter, Lisbon is much warmer than Zagreb. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Zagreb averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Zagreb. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun.

Lisbon receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Zagreb. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Lisbon is generally a little warmer than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Zagreb during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Zagreb. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Lisbon