In a recent research conducted by VisaGuide.World, Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, has been recognized as Europe’s third-best capital city destination for tourists, closely trailing behind Amsterdam and Rome. The study evaluated various factors that tourists prioritize when selecting a travel destination, and Zagreb’s performance in key aspects propelled it to a prominent position on the list.
The factors that contributed to Zagreb’s high ranking include the warm and friendly nature of the Croatians, the affordability of a one-week stay in the city, the city’s safety, and the commendable English language skills of the locals. Croatia, situated in the Western Balkans, is considered one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe. Notably, Croatia recently joined the Eurozone, making the Euro the official currency, further facilitating foreign visitors.
According to the research findings, a foreign traveler can comfortably spend a week in Zagreb with a budget ranging between €250 and €320, highlighting its attractiveness for travelers seeking economical options. On average, visitors can enjoy a week in the city with a budget of only €285, positioning Zagreb as the second-cheapest capital on the list, trailing just behind Prague in the Czech Republic, where the average budget for a week’s stay is €275.
Moreover, Zagreb excels in language proficiency, making it convenient for tourists to communicate with the locals. The research highlights that Croatia ranks 11th in the world for English proficiency, placing it ahead of many other European capitals in this regard. Only the Dutch outperform the Croatians in English language skills among the top ten capitals on the list.
Zagreb’s dedication to safety is another aspect that elevates its appeal to tourists. With very low crime rates and minimal risks of terrorist activities, internal conflicts, political instability, and natural disasters, the city provides a secure environment for visitors.
The Croatian capital’s rich history, art, and architecture further enhance its charm, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking cultural experiences. Home to around a million people, Zagreb welcomed an impressive 634 million tourists in 2021, attesting to its popularity as a tourist hotspot.
VisaGuide’s research findings were based on a survey that included 1,200 respondents from 32 different countries. The majority of participants expressed that feeling welcomed at their destination was their primary concern during their European trip. The ability to communicate with locals, ensuring safety while traveling, and enjoying their visit without excessive expenses were also crucial factors for tourists.
The ranking of European capitals based on these factors is as follows:
- Amsterdam, Netherlands – 30.2
- Rome, Italy – 24.3
- Zagreb, Croatia – 23.7
- London, United Kingdom – 23.5
- Lisbon, Portugal – 23.3
- Madrid, Spain – 22.9
- Prague, Czech Republic – 22.0
- Paris, France – 20.2
- Berlin, Germany – 17.2
- Vienna, Austria – 16.7
Zagreb’s exceptional performance in various aspects highlights its appeal as a prime destination for tourists, making it a city worth exploring for travelers seeking an enriching and budget-friendly experience in Europe.