Which place is cheaper, Dubrovnik or Barcelona?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Barcelona and Dubrovnik can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.
Barcelona is a cultural, friendly, and high energy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Barcelona attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Barcelona travel costs.
Dubrovnik is a coastal, historic, and charming coastal town. You'll find world class beauty in Dubrovnik as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Dubrovnik travel costs.
Visitors will usually find more to do in Barcelona than Dubrovnik, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Barcelona is better known for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Dubrovnik is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Barcelona is well known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Dubrovnik is well known for its well-preserved medieval old town that is surrounded by stone walls and has been the production sight for many major movies and television shows.
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dubrovnik and Barcelona. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Both Barcelona and Dubrovnik have excellent landmarks and museums for visitors.
You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.
Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Dubrovnik. The old town is a living museum that is filled with historic landmarks like the old town walls, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, and Loggia Square.
Dubrovnik is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.
Many restaurants in Dubrovnik have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.
Barcelona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.
Barcelona is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for nightlife.
Barcelona is a world class party destination. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.
There's a variety of activities in the evening in Dubrovnik. There are many bars around town that take advantage of the unique architecture of the city. There are far less clubs, but for a drink in a laid back setting, you'll find plenty of options.
Barcelona is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Dubrovnik is not a live music destination.
Barcelona has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.
Dubrovnik is not a live music destination.
Dubrovnik is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Barcelona is not a resort destination.
In Dubrovnik, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The old town is the most famous and charming part of the city, but you'll find most of the resorts spanning the coastline outside of town. Inside the old town there are a few boutique hotels and a number of rooms available for rent, but make sure you book early during peak seasons. For a resort, look outside of the old town with popular options including Hotel Dubrovnik Palace, the Hilton Imperial, and Rixos Premium.
Barcelona is not a resort destination.
Dubrovnik is a moderate coastal town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Snorkeling is an option in Dubrovnik. On clear days, snorkeling can be a fun activity, but the weather and visibility can vary so conditions are unpredictable. Buža is a popular snorkeling spot in town, but you can also organize tours to other areas.
Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Both Barcelona and Dubrovnik are considered to be notable beach destinations.
Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Barcelona. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.
Dubrovnik offers a nice beach destination. The old town is the main appeal of the area, but there are several beaches that are nice for taking a swim or sunbathing. They are often pebbly, but the water is blue and the views are beautiful.
Dubrovnik is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.
The old town of Dubrovnik is one of the most recognized in the world. This walled old town is among the most famous in Europe. It's sits beautifully along the coast and it is pedestrian only. You can spend plenty of time exploring the historic lanes, popping in shops and restaurants, and soaking up the charming atmosphere.
There are many historical things to see in the old town of Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.
Dubrovnik is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Barcelona is not a hiking destination.
Dubrovnik is a popular spot for hiking. There are a number of hikes outside of town that take you along the dramatic coastal. The paths offer spectacular views back towards town or along the water.
Barcelona is not a hiking destination.
Barcelona is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for shopping.
Many people travel to Barcelona specifically to go shopping. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.
Dubrovnik is a great destination for shopping. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.
Dubrovnik is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.
You'll find world class beauty in Dubrovnik as well. This historic city has a famous walled old town. It sits beautifully along the coast and offers stunning views of the area.
The beauty of Barcelona is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city offers many nice viewpoints that look down on the skyline from the surrounding hills. There are also nice parks and interesting architecture.
Dubrovnik is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.
Dubrovnik is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has nice beaches, beautiful hikes, and historic city walls that are fun to explore with kids. The food is also kid-friendly and the locals love meeting children.
Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.
Dubrovnik is renowned for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.
Dubrovnik is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.
Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.
Both Barcelona and Dubrovnik are terrific destinations for backpackers.
Barcelona is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.
With so many budget-friendly offerings, Dubrovnik is extremely popular for backpackers. It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.
Barcelona is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Dubrovnik is not popular with students.
Many students frequent Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.
Dubrovnik is not popular with students.
Barcelona is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its public transit.
The public transit in Barcelona can get you to most places easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.
Dubrovnik has a few public transit options. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.
Dubrovnik is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.
It is easy to get around Dubrovnik on foot. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls on foot.
Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.
For even more information, also check out Is Barcelona Worth Visiting? and Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?.
In either Barcelona or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than Dubrovnik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Barcelona, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.
Families should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Barcelona. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Dubrovnik, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Barcelona. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Dubrovnik that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint coastal town of Dubrovnik. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubrovnik has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.
You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Dubrovnik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from.
People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.
You'll find nightlife and food around the charming coastal town of Dubrovnik. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal town has to offer.
Barcelona is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Barcelona, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
Dubrovnik is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
The average daily cost (per person) in Barcelona is €183, while the average daily cost in Dubrovnik is €121. 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 Barcelona and Dubrovnik in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Barcelona or Dubrovnik? 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.
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.
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Barcelona are as follows:
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Barcelona:
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Dubrovnik:
Also for Dubrovnik, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Dubrovnik and Barcelona 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.
Some typical examples of dining costs in Barcelona are as follows:
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Barcelona.
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Dubrovnik:
For Dubrovnik, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Barcelona are as follows:
Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Barcelona are as follows:
For Dubrovnik, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Dubrovnik.
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Barcelona:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dubrovnik:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Barcelona and Dubrovnik, we can see that Barcelona is more expensive. And not only is Dubrovnik much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dubrovnik would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dubrovnik 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona than you might in Dubrovnik.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Barcelona Expensive? and Is Dubrovnik Expensive?.
Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Barcelona and Dubrovnik, 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.
Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.
The summer brings many poeple to Barcelona as well as Dubrovnik. Many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.
In July, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 23°C (73°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).
Barcelona usually gets less rain in July than Dubrovnik. Barcelona gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.
Both Dubrovnik and Barcelona are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Barcelona in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.
Barcelona is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Barcelona averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).
It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In October, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Barcelona gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
Both Dubrovnik and Barcelona during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.
In the winter, Barcelona is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Barcelona in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 9°C (48°F).
Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Barcelona usually gets less rain in January than Dubrovnik. Barcelona gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Barcelona and Dubrovnik. The spring months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.
In April, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 13°C (55°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).
Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Barcelona gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.
Barcelona | Dubrovnik | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 9°C (48°F) | 44 mm (1.7 in) | 9°C (48°F) | 139 mm (5.5 in) |
Feb | 10°C (50°F) | 36 mm (1.4 in) | 10°C (50°F) | 125 mm (4.9 in) |
Mar | 11°C (52°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 104 mm (4.1 in) |
Apr | 13°C (55°F) | 51 mm (2 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 104 mm (4.1 in) |
May | 16°C (61°F) | 57 mm (2.2 in) | 18°C (64°F) | 75 mm (3 in) |
Jun | 20°C (67°F) | 38 mm (1.5 in) | 22°C (72°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
Jul | 23°C (73°F) | 22 mm (0.9 in) | 25°C (77°F) | 26 mm (1 in) |
Aug | 23°C (74°F) | 66 mm (2.6 in) | 25°C (77°F) | 38 mm (1.5 in) |
Sep | 21°C (70°F) | 79 mm (3.1 in) | 22°C (72°F) | 101 mm (4 in) |
Oct | 17°C (63°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) | 18°C (64°F) | 162 mm (6.4 in) |
Nov | 13°C (55°F) | 74 mm (2.9 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 198 mm (7.8 in) |
Dec | 10°C (49°F) | 50 mm (2 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 178 mm (7 in) |