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

Should you visit Prague or Zagreb?

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 Prague and Zagreb. 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.

Prague

Prague is a historical, beautiful, and festive city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The famous beauty of Prague is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Prague travel costs.

Zagreb

Zagreb is a under-rated, local, 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 nightlife, food, and shopping. See Zagreb travel costs.

Prague and Zagreb: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Prague or Zagreb?

You'll generally find more things to do in Prague than Zagreb. Prague is bigger than Zagreb, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Prague is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, music, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Zagreb is more popular for its food. Prague is more touristy than Zagreb and is known for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. Also, Prague is famous for The Prague Castle. Zagreb is well known for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Prague different from Zagreb?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Prague 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 Prague are among the most recognizable in the world. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the National Museum. Throughout the Old Town you'll see the spires of the many churches which define the city's skyline. The Prague Castle is not to be missed as it's the largest castle complex in the world.

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 Prague or Zagreb? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zagreb is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zagreb. 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).

Prague may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The meals are hearty and filling. There's lots of stew and dumplings that make for a soothing meal on a cold winter day. Goulash is a favorite dish at most of the traditional restaurants around town.

Is Prague or Zagreb Better for Nightlife?

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

Prague is a world class party destination. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.

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 Prague or Zagreb Better for Music?

Prague 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 Prague The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well. Many visitors specifically come just to experience the world class music scene.

Zagreb is not a live music destination.

Is Prague or Zagreb Better for its Old Town?

Prague 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 Prague can be explored in its historical center. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world. It truly feels like something out of a fairytale. Most of the tourists spend the majority of their time exploring the old town, and after a full day of wandering, you can cozy up with a strudel and a drink in one of the many cafes.

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 Prague or Zagreb?

Both Prague and Zagreb are excellent shopping destinations.

Prague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy. You'll find tons of souvenir and trinket shops throughout the area.

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 Prague or Zagreb More Beautiful?

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

The famous beauty of Prague is one of the main draws. The city is filled with beautiful historic architecture and stunning landmarks. It's a truly historic and impressive city.

Zagreb is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Prague or Zagreb Better for Families?

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

Prague is a very kid-friendly city. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.

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 Prague or Zagreb Better for Couples?

Prague is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Prague is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

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 Prague or Zagreb Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Prague 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 Prague. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.

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 Prague or Zagreb Better for Students?

Prague is a must-visit destination for students. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Prague is a very popular place to visit for students. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.

Zagreb is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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 Prague or Zagreb Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Prague 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.

Prague has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

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

Is Prague or Zagreb a more walkable city?

Prague 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 Prague on foot is easy. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

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 Prague Worth Visiting? and Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zagreb or Prague?

How long in Prague or Zagreb?

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

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

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

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

One day in Prague or Zagreb?

Prague 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 Prague or Zagreb?

Prague 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.

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 Prague or Zagreb?

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

Prague 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 beautiful 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 Budget Tours to Czech Republic, The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic, 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 Prague and Zagreb, we can see that Prague 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 Prague would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Prague 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 Prague Expensive? and Is Zagreb Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Prague or Zagreb?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 67% larger than the population of Zagreb. When comparing the sizes of Prague 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 Prague or Zagreb?

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 Prague or Zagreb in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Prague and Zagreb. The summer months attract visitors to Prague because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year.

Prague is cooler than Zagreb in the summer. The daily temperature in Prague averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Zagreb fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zagreb this time of the year. In Prague, it's very sunny this time of the year. Prague usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during summer. Prague gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Prague usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Prague gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Prague or Zagreb in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Prague as well as Zagreb. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Prague this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Prague is cooler than Zagreb. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Prague in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Zagreb averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Prague often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Zagreb. Prague gets 124 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 133 hours of full sun.

Prague usually gets less rain in October than Zagreb. Prague gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Prague or Zagreb in the Winter?

Both Zagreb and Prague are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Prague for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Zagreb in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Zagreb can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Prague. In January, Prague is generally much colder than Zagreb. Daily temperatures in Prague average around 1°C (33°F), and Zagreb fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Prague usually receives less sunshine than Zagreb during winter. Prague gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Zagreb receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Prague usually receives less rain than Zagreb. Prague gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Prague or Zagreb in the Spring?

Both Zagreb and Prague during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Prague in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Zagreb for the activities around the city during these months.

Prague is cooler than Zagreb in the spring. The daily temperature in Prague averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Zagreb fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Prague often gets less sunshine than Zagreb. Prague gets 145 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zagreb receives 163 hours of full sun.

Prague usually gets less rain in April than Zagreb. Prague gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Zagreb receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Zagreb and Prague