A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Baden-Baden vs. Rijeka for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Baden-Baden or Rijeka?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Baden-Baden or Rijeka, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a nature-oriented, peaceful, and historic spa town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a slow-paced, coastal, and accessible town. 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.

Baden-Baden and Rijeka: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Baden-Baden or Rijeka?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rijeka than Baden-Baden, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rijeka is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Baden-Baden is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Baden-Baden is popular for its many thermal baths, spas and wellness centers, as well as its cultural venues and festivals. Rijeka is popular for being a transportation hub in Croatia with a ferry and cruise ship port. It is also home to Trsat Castle.

How is Baden-Baden different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Baden-Baden or Rijeka?

Baden-Baden
Rijeka

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Baden-Baden and Rijeka.

Baden-Baden offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The spa town has many places worth visiting including the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Baths, the Museum Frieder Burda, and Altes Schloss Hohenbaden.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Rijeka. 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 Baden-Baden or Rijeka? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baden-Baden
Rijeka

Baden-Baden is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Baden-Baden has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are Michelin starred restaurants and many opportunities to sip wine and sample local cuisine. Many consider the Baden cuisine to be among the best in Germany. You'll find wine, sausages, game meat, poultry, and more. Make sure you try the Rehrücken Baden-Baden (Roe Deer), Käsespätzle (cheese spatzle), and Schäufele (pig's shoulder).

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 Baden-Baden or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

Baden-Baden
Rijeka

Rijeka is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its evening party scene.

Rijeka offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Baden-Baden. There are trendy, upscale bars and many fine dining opportunities. There's also a casino and a club in town.

Is Baden-Baden or Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Baden-Baden
Rijeka

Rijeka is a moderate town for the beache. However, Baden-Baden is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Rijeka. 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.

Baden-Baden is not a beach destination.


Is Baden-Baden or Rijeka Better for Hiking?

Baden-Baden
Rijeka

Baden-Baden is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Rijeka is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Baden-Baden. Located near the Black Forest, you'll find a number of great hikes and walking trails just outside of town.

Rijeka is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Baden-Baden or Rijeka?

Baden-Baden
Rijeka

Both Baden-Baden and Rijeka are good shopping destinations.

Baden-Baden offers some nice shopping areas. The city is filled with boutiques that sell jewelry, chocolate, designer fashion, and fine wine. There are several pedestrian shopping streets including the popular Lange-Strasse.

Rijeka has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are many shopping centers, retail stores, and souvenir shops around town.

Is Baden-Baden or Rijeka Better for Families?

Baden-Baden
Rijeka

Baden-Baden and Rijeka are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Baden-Baden is a very kid-friendly spa town. There are plenty of opportunities to get into nature with hikes and wildlife reserves. There's also a funicular and castles to explore as well as several kid-friendly museums.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Rijeka. 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.


Is Baden-Baden or Rijeka Better for Couples?

Baden-Baden
Rijeka

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

Baden-Baden is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a spa town, so there are thermal baths that couples can enjoy. There are also many gardens and walks through the countryside. The old town is picturesque and the castles are fun to explore.

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 Baden-Baden or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baden-Baden
Rijeka

Rijeka is a nice place to visit for backpackers. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for backpackers and budget travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Rijeka. There's no shortage of affordable hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Baden-Baden is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find a hostel or two in town, but most of the tourists aren't backpackers so you may have trouble meeting other like-minded travelers.

Is Baden-Baden or Rijeka Better for Students?

Baden-Baden
Rijeka

Rijeka is a nice place to visit for students. However, Baden-Baden is not popular with students.

Rijeka is a good town to visit for 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.

Baden-Baden is not popular with students.


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

Baden-Baden
Rijeka

Rijeka is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for times when you don't have a car.

Rijeka has a few public transit options. KD Autrolej buses provide transit throughout the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Baden-Baden. There are a number of bus lines that run around town.

Is Baden-Baden or Rijeka a more walkable city?

Baden-Baden
Rijeka

Baden-Baden and Rijeka both are good when exploring on foot.

Baden-Baden is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible to walk around parts of town, but it's easier to explore with a car.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Baden-Baden?

How long in Baden-Baden or Rijeka?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Baden-Baden or Rijeka to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Baden-Baden than Rijeka because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Baden-Baden, and 1-2 days is enough time in Rijeka.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rijeka than Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden or Rijeka? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baden-Baden 1-3 
    Rijeka 1-2

One day in Baden-Baden or Rijeka?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Baden-Baden. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the diverse town of Rijeka. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Baden-Baden or Rijeka?

Baden-Baden is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the accessible destination of Rijeka. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Baden-Baden or Rijeka?

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

The diverse town of Rijeka offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Baden-Baden or Rijeka?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the nature-oriented destination of Baden-Baden. This spa town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rijeka. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany, The Best Bicycle Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Croatia, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Rijeka or Baden-Baden?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Baden-Baden is €154, 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 Baden-Baden and Rijeka in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baden-Baden 87
    Rijeka 50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baden-Baden 174
    Rijeka 100
Compare Hotels in Baden-Baden and Rijeka

Looking for a hotel in Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden


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: Baden-Baden Hotel Prices and Rijeka Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baden-Baden 33
    Rijeka 16

Is it cheaper to fly into Baden-Baden or Rijeka?

Prices for flights to both Rijeka and Baden-Baden 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
    Baden-Baden 41
    Rijeka 34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baden-Baden 34
    Rijeka 8.89

Tours and Activities in Baden-Baden

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

  • Powerful Women Themed Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Private Guided KNUMO e-Scooter Tour VIP: $138
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $232
  • Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $248
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $252
  • Romance in Baden-Baden – Private Walking Tour: $252
  • Christmas Market Walking Tour: $254
  • Baden-Baden Yuletide Stroll: Experience the Festive Charm: $359
  • Scenic Baden-Baden Walking Tour: Discovering Historic Charm: $373
  • Baden-Baden Private walking tour: $374
  • Private Walking Tour in Baden Neuweirs Vineyard: $653

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
    Baden-Baden 12
    Rijeka 16


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Baden-Baden and Rijeka, we can see that Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden Expensive? and Is Rijeka Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Baden-Baden or Rijeka?

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

Both Rijeka and Baden-Baden are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Baden-Baden for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Rijeka because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Baden-Baden is cooler than Rijeka. Typically, the summer temperatures in Baden-Baden in July average around 20°C (67°F), and Rijeka averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Rijeka. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baden-Baden. Baden-Baden usually receives less sunshine than Rijeka during summer. Baden-Baden gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Baden-Baden usually receives more rain than Rijeka. Baden-Baden gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baden-Baden 20°C (67°F) 
    Rijeka 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Baden-Baden or Rijeka in the Autumn?

Both Rijeka and Baden-Baden during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Baden-Baden because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Rijeka this time of year.

In October, Baden-Baden is generally cooler than Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Baden-Baden average around 11°C (52°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Baden-Baden often gets less sunshine than Rijeka. Baden-Baden gets 91 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 167 hours of full sun.

Baden-Baden usually gets less rain in October than Rijeka. Baden-Baden gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baden-Baden 11°C (52°F) 
    Rijeka 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Baden-Baden or Rijeka in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Baden-Baden and Rijeka. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Baden-Baden this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rijeka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Baden-Baden in the winter. Baden-Baden is much colder than Rijeka in the winter. The daily temperature in Baden-Baden averages around 2°C (35°F) in January, and Rijeka fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Baden-Baden usually receives less sunshine than Rijeka during winter. Baden-Baden gets 35 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Baden-Baden usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Baden-Baden gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baden-Baden 2°C (35°F) 
    Rijeka 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Baden-Baden or Rijeka in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Baden-Baden as well as Rijeka. Many travelers come to Baden-Baden for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Rijeka in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Baden-Baden is cooler than Rijeka. Typically, the spring temperatures in Baden-Baden in April average around 10°C (50°F), and Rijeka averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Baden-Baden often gets less sunshine than Rijeka. Baden-Baden gets 154 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 177 hours of full sun.

Baden-Baden usually gets less rain in April than Rijeka. Baden-Baden gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baden-Baden 10°C (50°F) 
    Rijeka 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden Rijeka
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 102 mm (4 in) 18°C (64°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 109 mm (4.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jul 20°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 24°C (74°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 75 mm (3 in) 10°C (51°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (44°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)