Is Zagreb cheap to visit? Here's exactly how much you can expect to spend on a trip to the Croatian capital and how to make those precious Euros go as far as possible...
The average budget traveller in Zagreb can expect to spend €50-70 per day, depending on where you choose to sleep, eat, and play. In this guide our local experts share the typical costs of accommodation, transportation, restaurants, and attractions in Zagreb, and how to get the best prices for your trip - including how to feast on a luxurious 3-course lunch with wine at a 5-star hotel for just €34!
Overview: Is Zagreb Cheap to Visit?
Zagreb can be an affordable destination for budget travellers especially if you stay at hostels like Chillout Hostel Zagreb.
1. How much can you expect to spend in Zagreb?
Calculating how much you can expect to spend per day in Zagreb can be tricky, so here's our estimates based on local prices:
A budget traveler staying in hostel dorms or inexpensive guest houses spend around €50-€70 per day in Zagreb.
A mid-range traveler could spend between €100-150 per day staying in 3-star hotels and private apartment rentals.
Those opting for a more luxurious experience staying in 4-star and 5-star hotels in Zagreb typically spend €200+ per day.
2. Is Zagreb cheaper than other European capitals?
Compared to Western European capitals such as Paris, London, or Amsterdam, Zagreb tends to offer lower prices for accommodation, dining, and entertainment. Hostels, budget hotels, and local restaurants in Zagreb tend to be 20-30% cheaper than major European capitals, making it an attractive destination for travelers on a budget.
3. How much is accommodation in Zagreb?
The average price of a hotel in Zagreb is US$62 according to the website Budget Your Trip, making the Croatian capital far cheaper than most Western European capitals yet more expensive than some of its Balkan neighbours:
The average price of a hotel in Paris is US$126, in Rome it's US$99, and in Madrid hotels average US$89 per night.
The average price of a hotel in Budapest is US$63, an average of US$53 in Belgrade, Serbia, and US$82 in Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Accommodation costs obviously vary by hotel rating and the facilities on offer. Here's what you can expect to spend for each budget category:
Budget travelers staying in hostels or simple guesthouses and hotels in Zagreb typically spend around €30-€70 per night.
Mid-range hotels or guesthouses range from €70-€150 per night.
Luxury hotels usually cost upwards of €150 per night.
How to save money on accommodation in Zagreb:
Accommodation options in Zagreb offer something for every type of traveller. For the budget-conscious, hostels such as Swanky Mint and Chillout Hostel Zagreb provide comfortable stays without burning a hole in your pocket. If you prefer a more personal, home-from-home experience, numerous guesthouses and apartments listed on platforms like Airbnb offer a local touch at various price points. While the city does have luxury hotel options, they are generally more affordable than comparable establishments in Western European cities. So if you do decide to upgrade, you'll get a lot more for your money than in other European capitals.
Another local tip to save money on hotels in Zagreb is to visit during low season. The city is very busy during December thanks to its famous Zagreb Christmas Market, but if you visit in spring or autumn you can find some real bargains and also have the quaint city streets all to yourself.
Follow our tips below to enjoy on a 3-course lunch at the 5-star Esplanade Hotel Zagreb for just €34.
4. How much are restaurants in Zagreb?
Zagreb is dotted with charming local restaurants where you can indulge in hearty meals without breaking the bank. Traditional dishes like pasticada, a slow-cooked beef stew, and sarma, cabbage rolls filled with minced meat, rice, and spices, showcase the rich culinary heritage of the region using simple, good quality local ingredients.
Here's what you can expect to spend per meal when dining out in Zagreb:
Dining in local, budget-friendly restaurants could cost around €10-€20 per meal.
Mid-range restaurants might have meals ranging from €20-€40 per person.
Fine dining or upscale restaurants could cost €40 and above per person.
How to save money on dining out in Zagreb:
For a truly budget-friendly experience, explore Zagreb's street food options like ćevapi, grilled minced meat sausages served in a flatbread, and burek, a flaky pastry usually filled either with meat (meso) or cheese (sir).
Those looking for a taste of luxury on a modest budget should check out "dnevni meni" or daily menus which usually offer daily specials or a combination of courses at a reduced price. We especially recommend the daily lunch menu at Le Bistro at the 5-star Esplanade Hotel Zagreb where you can enjoy 3 luxurious courses and a glass of wine for €34! Note that this offer is only valid from Monday to Friday from 12:00 to 18:00.
Save money on a night out in Zagreb by sticking to affordable local bars.
5. How much is a night out in Zagreb?
In total, a moderate night out in Zagreb might cost between €25 - €70 per person depending on where you choose to dine out and if you're paying for concert tickets or club entry fees:
Dinner at a mid-range restaurant: Budget €20-35 per person for a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant.
Drinks at a bar: Drinks prices in Zagreb are typically €2.70 - €4.00 for a beer, €2.00 - €4.00 for a glass of house wine, and €4 - €8 for a cocktail.
Entrance to clubs or other entertainment venues: Club entry in Zagreb typically costs €5-10, while concert tickets can range from €5-€40 depending on the band and venue.
How to save money on a night out in Zagreb:
The easiest way to stick to your budget is to choose affordable bars to begin your night. Here are some of our favourite local options for reasonably-priced drinks in Zagreb:
KSET: Located near the University of Zagreb, KSET is a student club that offers cheap drinks and fun themed nights and live music. It's a hugely popular spot among students.
Medvedgrad Brewery: Medvedgrad is a local brewery with several locations in Zagreb. They offer a variety of craft beers, and their prices are reasonable.
Rakija Bar: If you're interested in trying local spirits, Rakija Bar offers a variety of traditional Croatian brandies (rakija) at relatively reasonable prices.
Žiraffa: Another spot popular with students is Žiraffa bar on Gundulićeva street thanks to the cheap drinks prices.
The Zagreb tram system is a cheap and popular way to get around the city.
6. How much is transportation in Zagreb?
Navigating Zagreb is a breeze thanks to its efficient and reasonably priced public transportation system. Trams and buses crisscross the city, offering a convenient way to explore the city's various neighborhoods and get out to attractions like Jarun Lake. Here's what you can expect to pay to get around the city:
Public transportation costs in Zagreb are relatively low, with tram or bus tickets priced around €0.53-€1.99 depending on how long the ride is and whether you buy them from the driver or at the ZET store or a kiosk.
Taxis may charge around €5-€15 for short rides within the city.
How to save money on transport in Zagreb:
For the buses and trams in Zagreb day passes provide unlimited travel for just €3,98, making it an economical choice for visitors. You can also buy an unlimited 72-hour pass for 9,29 euros. If you're not making many trips, buy your tickets from small kiosks or the ZET store as it's cheaper than buying them from the tram or bus driver directly.
Taxis are more affordable compared to some Western European cities, but it is usually cheaper to use ridesharing services like Uber. Save even more cash by using Cammeo, the local alternative to Uber, which is usually even cheaper.
Zagreb offers many free and inexpensive activities, including free walking tours of the historic Upper Town.
7. How much are attractions and activities in Zagreb?
Most of Zagreb's attractions are affordable, with museums typically having entrance fees ranging from €5-€10. For example, tickets to the Museum of Broken Relationships cost €7 per adult and the Zagreb 80's Museum costs €5.50. Students are often entitled to museums and other tourist attractions.
How to save money on attractions and activities in Zagreb:
Zagreb's vibrant cultural scene means there is always something happening, and it's easy to find free or inexpensive activities:
Free Cultural Events: Zagreb has a diverse calendar of events and festivals, many of which are free to attend. Wander the streets and enjoy the lights of the Zagreb Christmas Market, perhaps enjoying a glass or two of homemade mulled wine from the market stalls. Or come in summer when there are events like Zagreb Classic which offers a series of free classical concerts in King Tomislav Square.
Free Walking Tours: Join a free walking tour to explore the city's landmarks and learn about its history from local guides. Many tour companies operate on a tip-based system, allowing you to contribute what you can afford.
Go for a Walk: Stroll through the historic Upper Town, where St. Mark's Church and its iconic colorful roof catch the eye or go people-watching in the central Ban Jelačić Square.
Explore Parks and Gardens: Enjoy Zagreb's many green spaces, such as Maksimir Park or Zrinjevac. Take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax in nature.
Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of Zagreb's outdoor activities, such as hiking on Medvednica Mountain or swimming or kayaking at Lake Jarun.
Croatians buy seasonal produce at outdoor markets and from informal street sellers.
8. How much are groceries in Zagreb?
Costs do vary depending on where you shop, but generally grocery prices in Zagreb tend to be similar to neighbouring countries like Italy. Here are some possible prices of staple items in Zagreb:
Bread (500g): Around €0.90 - 1.50
Milk (1 liter): Approximately €1.00 - 1.40
Eggs (dozen): Around €2.00 - 3.50
Rice (1 kg): Approximately €1.20 - 2.75
Pasta (500g): Around €1.00 - 1.60
Chicken Breast (1 kg): Approximately €4.00 - 6.50
Apples (1 kg): Around €1.25 - 2.50 EUR
Bananas (1 kg): Approximately €1.00 - 2.50 EUR
Tomatoes (1 kg): Around €1.00 - 2.50 EUR
Potatoes (1 kg): Approximately €0.67 - 1.25 EUR
Cheese (1 kg): Around €6.50 - 13.00 EUR
For basic groceries for a week in Zagreb, including bread, milk, eggs, fruits and vegetables, pasta and some meat, you should budget around €30-40 per person.
How to save money on groceries in Zagreb:
The main way that locals save money on groceries is by shopping at local markets and street vendors. Here you're buying fresh, quality produce that's been grown on the farms near to the capital. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are especially affordable - look out for huge whole watermelons during late summer, ripe cherries in early summer, and a glut of apples and pears at the start of autumn.