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

Should you visit Barcelona or Rijeka?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Barcelona and Rijeka 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

Barcelona is a high energy, youthful, and colorful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a slow-paced, coastal, and accessible town. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Barcelona and Rijeka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Barcelona or Rijeka?

You'll generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Rijeka. Barcelona is bigger than Rijeka, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Barcelona is more touristy than Rijeka and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Rijeka is well known for being a transportation hub in Croatia with a ferry and cruise ship port.

How is Barcelona different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Barcelona is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Barcelona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

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 Barcelona or Rijeka? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona is an experience not to be missed. 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.

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 Barcelona or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

Barcelona is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Barcelona is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Rijeka has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Is Barcelona or Rijeka Better for Music?

Barcelona is renowned for its music scene. However, Rijeka is not a live music destination.

In Barcelona you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Rijeka is not a live music destination.

Is Barcelona or Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Barcelona is very good for the beach. However, Rijeka is not a good town for its beaches.

Many people head to Barcelona to enjoy the beach. 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.

Rijeka is a good spot to see the beach. 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.

Is Barcelona or Rijeka Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Barcelona or Rijeka?

Barcelona is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Barcelona is a world class destination for shoppers. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

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

Is Barcelona or Rijeka Better for Families?

Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is 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.

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.

Is Barcelona or Rijeka Better for Couples?

Both Barcelona and Rijeka are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Barcelona is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Rijeka makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Barcelona or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is renowned for backpackers. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Barcelona is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

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

Is Barcelona or Rijeka Better for Students?

Barcelona is renowned for students. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit 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.

Plenty of students visit Rijeka. 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.

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

Barcelona is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Barcelona. 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.

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

Is Barcelona or Rijeka a more walkable city?

Rijeka is a town with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

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 Rijeka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Barcelona?

How long in Barcelona or Rijeka?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Barcelona or Rijeka to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Barcelona than Rijeka because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Barcelona, and 1-2 days is enough time in Rijeka.

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

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

One day in Barcelona or Rijeka?

Barcelona is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Rijeka. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rijeka has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Barcelona or Rijeka?

Barcelona is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the coastal destination of Rijeka. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Barcelona or Rijeka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the slow-paced town of Rijeka. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Barcelona or Rijeka?

Barcelona is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Rijeka is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, The Best Adventure Tours to Croatia, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Barcelona and Rijeka, we can see that Barcelona 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 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 Rijeka.

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

Which is Bigger, Barcelona or Rijeka?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Rijeka. When comparing the sizes of Barcelona 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 Barcelona 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 Barcelona or Rijeka in the Summer?

Both Rijeka and Barcelona are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Barcelona in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rijeka for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 23°C (73°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Rijeka. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Barcelona. Barcelona usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rijeka during summer. Barcelona gets 308 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Barcelona gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Barcelona or Rijeka in the Autumn?

Both Rijeka and Barcelona during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Barcelona for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Rijeka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Barcelona is a little warmer than Rijeka in the autumn. The daily temperature in Barcelona averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Rijeka fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Barcelona often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Barcelona gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 167 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets more rain in October than Rijeka. Barcelona gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Barcelona or Rijeka in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Barcelona and Rijeka. The winter months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rijeka this time of year.

In the winter, Barcelona is much warmer than Rijeka. Typically, the winter temperatures in Barcelona in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Rijeka averages at about 5°C (41°F).

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

In January, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Barcelona gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Barcelona or Rijeka in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Barcelona as well as Rijeka. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rijeka for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 13°C (55°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In the spring, Barcelona often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Barcelona gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 177 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets less rain in April than Rijeka. Barcelona gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Barcelona