A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arles vs. Rijeka for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Arles or Rijeka?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Arles and Rijeka can help you decide which place is right for you.

Arles

Arles is a historic, charming, and compact town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a accessible, diverse, and slow-paced town. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arles and Rijeka: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Arles or Rijeka?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rijeka than Arles. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rijeka is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Arles attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Arles is famous for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. Rijeka is famous for being a transportation hub in Croatia with a ferry and cruise ship port. It is also well known for Trsat Castle.

How is Arles different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arles or Rijeka?

Arles
Rijeka

Arles is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Arles on the map. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Rijeka is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Historical sights around town include Trsat Castle, the Petar Druzic Stairway, and Our Lady of Trsat. There are also museums such as PEEK&POKE Computer Museum and the Governor's Palace and Maritime and Historical Museum.


Is the Food Better in Arles or Rijeka? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arles
Rijeka

Arles is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Arles is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Rijeka. It's known for its Mediterranean cuisine which includes more than seafood. There are local vegetable specialties in the area as well including asparagus and white truffles. Codfish stew and cuttlefish risotto are also popular.

Is Arles or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

Arles
Rijeka

Rijeka is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Rijeka is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city center has plenty of bars and clubs. Restaurants also stay open late and are popular places to hang out for locals and tourists alike.

If you're looking for night time activities Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Arles or Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Arles
Rijeka

Rijeka is a town with a few options for the beach. However, Arles is not a beach destination.

The beach in Rijeka is worth checking out. There are pebbly and gravelly beaches in the area, with the best beaches to the west of the city. You'll need to take a public bus to reach most of them.

Arles is not a beach destination.


Is Arles or Rijeka Better for its Old Town?

Arles
Rijeka

Arles is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Arles is one of the most recognized in the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Arles or Rijeka?

Arles
Rijeka

Shopping is a popular activity in both Rijeka and Arles.

Many visitors go to Arles to go shopping. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Rijeka. There are many shopping centers, retail stores, and souvenir shops around town.

Is Arles or Rijeka Better for Families?

Arles
Rijeka

Rijeka is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Rijeka is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of outdoor activities for kids like nature parks and nearby beaches. There's also a puppet theater as well as the Astronomical Center of Rijeka.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.


Is Arles or Rijeka Better for Couples?

Arles
Rijeka

Arles is a well-known place for couples. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Arles is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Rijeka is a nice destination for couples. It's a gateway to the Croatian islands. Many couples enjoy walking down the waterfront promenade or dining at a nice local restaurant. There are also beaches, parks, and historical sights to explore.

Is Arles or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arles
Rijeka

Rijeka is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rijeka is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of affordable hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Arles or Rijeka Better for Students?

Arles
Rijeka

Rijeka is very good for students. However, Arles is not popular with students.

Rijeka is popular with students. It's a laid back seaside city that makes a nice semester abroad destination. As a gateway to the Croatian islands, it also offers transportation connections to other points of interest.

Arles is not popular with students.


Is Arles or Rijeka Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arles
Rijeka

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arles and Rijeka.

You'll find some public transit in Arles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

While Rijeka offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. KD Autrolej buses provide transit throughout the city.

Is Arles or Rijeka a more walkable city?

Arles
Rijeka

Arles is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Arles is a very walkable destination. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

Rijeka is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Arles Worth Visiting? and Is Rijeka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Arles?

How long in Arles or Rijeka?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Arles or Rijeka to fill your time. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rijeka than Arles 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 Rijeka.


  • How many days in Arles or Rijeka? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arles 1-2 
    Rijeka 1-2

One day in Arles or Rijeka?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Arles. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Rijeka, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this diverse destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Arles or Rijeka?

Arles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rijeka. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Arles or Rijeka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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.

Rijeka is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Rijeka. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Arles or Rijeka?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the compact destination of Arles. This town 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the diverse destination of Rijeka. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, The Best Adventure Tours to Croatia, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Rijeka or Arles?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arles is €142, while the average daily cost in Rijeka is €95. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arles and Rijeka in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arles 71
    Rijeka 50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arles 142
    Rijeka 100
Compare Hotels in Arles and Rijeka

Looking for a hotel in Arles or Rijeka? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arles


Hotels in Rijeka


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Arles Hotel Prices and Rijeka Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arles 23
    Rijeka 16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Arles or Rijeka?

Prices for flights to both Rijeka and Arles change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arles 52
    Rijeka 34
Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    4.50
  • Ice Cream
    1.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arles 31
    Rijeka 8.89
Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    5.50

Tours and Activities in Arles

Here are a few actual costs in Arles for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176

Tours and Activities in Rijeka

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Rijeka are as follows:

  • Drava Sup Exploring Adventure: $44
  • History of Military Forts Guided Tour: $64
  • Tour the underground with no experience required: $64
  • From Golden Island of Krk Tour: $93
  • Pula, Rovinj, and Panoramic Istrian Coast Tour: $121
  • Istria Highlights Tour from Rijeka or Pula: $122
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $127
  • Private Walking Cultural Tour of Rijeka: $235
  • Ucka Mountain: Guided Hiking Tour: $449
  • Private Sunset Boat Tour: $631

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arles 24
    Rijeka 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Arles:

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Arles and Rijeka, we can see that Arles is more expensive. And not only is Rijeka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rijeka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rijeka 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 Arles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arles than you might in Rijeka.

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


Which is Bigger, Arles or Rijeka?

Rijeka has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Arles and Rijeka, 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 Arles or Rijeka?

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 Arles or Rijeka in the Summer?

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

Arles is around the same temperature as Rijeka in the summer. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Rijeka fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rijeka this time of the year. In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arles usually receives more sunshine than Rijeka during summer. Arles gets 354 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arles usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Arles gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arles 24°C (75°F) 
    Rijeka 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Arles or Rijeka in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Arles is around the same temperature as Rijeka. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arles in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Rijeka averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Arles often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rijeka. Arles gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 167 hours of full sun.

Arles receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Arles usually gets more rain in October than Rijeka. Arles gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arles 16°C (61°F) 
    Rijeka 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Arles or Rijeka in the Winter?

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

In January, Arles is generally a little warmer than Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Arles average around 7°C (44°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Arles usually receives more sunshine than Rijeka during winter. Arles gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arles usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rijeka. Arles gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arles 7°C (44°F) 
    Rijeka 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Arles or Rijeka in the Spring?

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

Arles is around the same temperature as Rijeka in the spring. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Rijeka fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. In the spring, Arles often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Arles gets 218 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 177 hours of full sun.

Arles usually gets less rain in April than Rijeka. Arles gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arles 13°C (56°F) 
    Rijeka 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Arles

Arles Rijeka
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (56°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 24°C (74°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 10°C (51°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)