A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Almeria vs. Novalja for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Almeria or Novalja?

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 Almeria and Novalja. 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.

Almeria

Almeria is a historic, natural, and breathtaking region. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Novalja

Novalja is a backpacker-filled, wild, and energetic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife and beaches.

Almeria and Novalja: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Almeria or Novalja?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Almeria. Although Almeria and Novalja are both popular with visitors, Almeria has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Almeria is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Novalja is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Almeria is popular for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity. It is also home to The Alcazaba. Novalja is popular for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd.

How is Almeria different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Almeria or Novalja?

Novalja is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

Novalja offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a beach and party destination, not somewhere you go for museums or historical sights.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Almeria or Novalja? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Almeria is very popular for its restaurant scene. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Almeria is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

Novalja may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a lot of places to grab a quick bite to eat or a cheap meal around town. There are pizzerias, fast food, and some nicer bistros to choose from.

Is Almeria or Novalja Better for Nightlife?

Novalja is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Novalja is a world class party destination. This is a party island, and you'll find most of the action around Zrce Beach, which is about a 20 minute drive from town. The party scene appeals to the young, backpacker crowd and there's live music, DJs, and parties that last well into the morning. Zrce Beach has a huge number of bars and clubs including three clubs that are listed on the Top 100 DJ's Magazine Best Clubs List.

If you're looking for night time activities Almeria has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

Is Almeria or Novalja Better for Resorts?

Almeria is very popular for its resorts. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Almeria is a great choice. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

You might not think of Novalja as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Most of the accommodation is in the form of apartments or hostels. There are also some hotels on the island, but because the number is limited they can be quite expensive.

Is Almeria or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Almeria is very popular for the beache. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Almeria. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

Novalja is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find a mix of beaches near town including hidden gems that feel remote and undiscovered as well as wild party beaches like the famed Zrce Beach. Many beaches are pebbly or have coarse sand with turquoise blue waters.

Is Almeria or Novalja Better for its Old Town?

Almeria is a great destination for its old town. However, Novalja does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Almeria. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Novalja does not have a historic old town.

Is Almeria or Novalja Better for Hiking?

Almeria is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Novalja is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Novalja is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Almeria or Novalja?

Novalja is not so good for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Novalja has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. This isn't the place to go shopping for clothing or local items. You will find some beach and souvenir shops around town though.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Almeria or Novalja Better for Families?

Almeria is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Almeria is a very kid-friendly region. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

For families, Novalja is not always the best place to visit. While there are family-friendly places to visit like some beaches and waterparks, at its heart this is a party destination that is known for its wild parties and crazy crowds.

Is Almeria or Novalja Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Almeria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

Novalja is a good region for couples to visit. Stunning beaches, blue waters, and surreal landscapes make this a one-of-a-kind place to visit. But romance isn't on most people's minds, as this is first and foremost a party destination.

Is Almeria or Novalja Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Novalja is a very popular town to visit for backpackers. Famous for its wild parties that attract backpackers and young travelers, this island destination has become a hotspot for backpackers and party-goers. There are hostels around town that offer a cheap place to crash.

Almeria is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

Is Almeria or Novalja Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Almeria and Novalja.

You'll find some public transit in Almeria, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

While Novalja offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses around the island or you can rent a personal vehicle like a motorbike or scooter.

Is Almeria or Novalja a more walkable city?

Novalja is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal options for its walkability.

Novalja is a somewhat walkable town. In town, you can reach most places on foot, but if you want to explore further you'll need to find another way to get around.

Almeria is generally not a very walkable region. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Almeria Worth Visiting? and Is Novalja Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Novalja or Almeria?

How long in Almeria or Novalja?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Novalja than Almeria 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 Novalja.

One day in Almeria or Novalja?

In Almeria, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This region offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Novalja, you'll find nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Almeria or Novalja?

In Almeria, you'll find food and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Almeria has to offer.

In Novalja, you'll find nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Novalja has to offer.

Five days in Almeria or Novalja?

Almeria is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Novalja is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Almeria or Novalja?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Almeria. Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Almeria. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Novalja. Many people enjoy the nightlife when visiting Novalja. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, 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 Almeria and Novalja, we can see that Almeria is more expensive. And not only is Novalja much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Novalja would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Novalja 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 Almeria would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Almeria than you might in Novalja.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Almeria Expensive? and Is Novalja Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Almeria or Novalja?

Almeria has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Novalja. When comparing the sizes of Almeria and Novalja, 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.