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

Should you visit Bergamo or Rijeka?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Bergamo 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.

Bergamo

Bergamo is a under-rated, historical, and fascinating city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

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.

Bergamo and Rijeka: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Bergamo or Rijeka?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rijeka than Bergamo, 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 Bergamo is known for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Bergamo is popular for its historical buildings and beautiful squares. 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 Bergamo different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bergamo
Rijeka

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

Bergamo offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are historical buildings as well as fascinating museums that are worth checking out. Highlights include the Basilica of St. Mary Major, Colleoni Chapel, the Accademia Carrara, and the Cathedral of Sant'Alessandro.

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 Bergamo or Rijeka? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bergamo
Rijeka

Bergamo 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 Bergamo is an experience not to be missed. You'll find traditional restaurants around town that serve the local specialties, many of which have their roots in peasant dishes. The flavors are humble but high quality and the food is fresh and masterfully prepared.

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 Bergamo or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

Bergamo
Rijeka

Rijeka is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Bergamo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Rijeka has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Bergamo. Despite not being high on the itinerary of many travelers, the city has a great nightlife scene that includes many local bars and clubs. You can enjoy a local brew or sip some Italian wine while you enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.

Is Bergamo or Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Bergamo
Rijeka

Rijeka is a moderate town for the beache. However, Bergamo 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.

Bergamo is not a beach destination.


Is Bergamo or Rijeka Better for its Old Town?

Bergamo
Rijeka

Bergamo is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

Bergamo offers a nice historic old town area. Since the old town was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town has become more popular with visitors. Still, you can enjoy the authentic and less touristy vibe of this beautiful city.

Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bergamo or Rijeka?

Bergamo
Rijeka

Both Bergamo and Rijeka are good shopping destinations.

Bergamo offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of shopping areas around town including shopping malls and shopping streets. You'll find most of the major brands as well as some interesting boutique shops.

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

Is Bergamo or Rijeka Better for Families?

Bergamo
Rijeka

Rijeka is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Bergamo is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Rijeka is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Bergamo is not always a place people visit with their families. It's a beautiful city that is filled with history, and for kids there are pedestrian streets to explore and great Italian food. There's also the Museo di Scienze Naturali, which is worth checking out.


Is Bergamo or Rijeka Better for Couples?

Bergamo
Rijeka

Bergamo and Rijeka are both good to visit as a couple.

Bergamo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the beautiful architecture and impressive squares. There are also great restaurants and pedestrian streets that are fun to wander through.

Rijeka is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Bergamo or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bergamo
Rijeka

Both Bergamo and Rijeka are good destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bergamo. While it's not the most popular backpacker city in Italy, it does have a couple of hostels and guesthouses that offer affordable rates and a young vibe.

Rijeka is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of affordable hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Bergamo or Rijeka Better for Students?

Bergamo
Rijeka

Bergamo and Rijeka are both good destinations for students and younger travelers.

Bergamo is a good city to visit for students. The university attracts international students and the city makes a great base for learning and exploring.

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

Bergamo
Rijeka

Both Bergamo and Rijeka offer good public transit options.

Bergamo has a few public transit options. There are buses around town as well as two funiculars, one connecting Città Bassa with the Città Alta and the other connecting Città Alta to San Vigilio.

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

Is Bergamo or Rijeka a more walkable city?

Bergamo
Rijeka

Bergamo 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.

Bergamo is a very walkable destination. There are many pedestrian streets and the best way to explore the city is on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Bergamo?

How long in Bergamo or Rijeka?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bergamo 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 Bergamo.


  • How many days in Bergamo or Rijeka? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bergamo 2-3 
    Rijeka 1-2

One day in Bergamo or Rijeka?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bergamo. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Rijeka, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Bergamo or Rijeka?

Bergamo is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Rijeka, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rijeka has to offer.

Five days in Bergamo or Rijeka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bergamo. 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 great place to explore. 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 Bergamo or Rijeka?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fascinating destination of Bergamo. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rijeka. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rijeka. 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 2-Week Tours from Rome, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, The Best Adventure Tours to Croatia, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Rijeka or Bergamo?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bergamo is €155, 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 Bergamo and Rijeka in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bergamo 83
    Rijeka 50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bergamo 166
    Rijeka 100
Compare Hotels in Bergamo and Rijeka

Looking for a hotel in Bergamo 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 Bergamo


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: Bergamo Hotel Prices and Rijeka Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bergamo 32
    Rijeka 16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bergamo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bergamo:

  • AC Bus transfer to Milan - No Hassle & Free luggage: $11
  • Private Transfer to/from Crespi d'Adda UNESCO Site: $43
  • Private Transfer from Milan Bergamo Airport to Bergamo hotels : $46
  • Bergamo to Bergamo Airport (BGY) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Bergamo Airport (BGY) to Milan - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $92
  • Orio al Serio Airport to Madonna di Campiglio Arrival Transfer: $117
  • Milan: Orio al Serio BGY Airport Transfer SEDAN CAR E CLASS: $181
  • Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY) to St. Moritz - Round-Trip Transfer: $205
  • Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Venice + Water Taxi - Private Transfer: $218
  • Milan: ORIO AL SERIO BGY Airport Transfer in Luxury MINIVAN: $222
  • Private Departure Transfer from central Bergamo to Milan Malpensa airport: $262
  • Small-Group Transfer from Bergamo Airport to Trieste: $268

Is it cheaper to fly into Bergamo or Rijeka?

Prices for flights to both Rijeka and Bergamo 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
    Bergamo 42
    Rijeka 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bergamo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bergamo.

  • Authentic Taste at the Table Family Recipes Cooking Class: $82
  • Tricolor Pasta Cooking Class with a Chef in Como countryside: $86
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lomello with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Casorezzo with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Carugo with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Ranica with cooking demo: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Endine Gaiano with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Cantù with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Busto Arsizio with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Passirano with cooking demo: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Guardamiglio with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Cernusco sul Naviglio with Show Cooking: $93

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bergamo 33
    Rijeka 8.89

Tours and Activities in Bergamo

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

  • Bergamo Old Town Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt Tour: $5.35
  • Bergamo Old Town Scavenger Hunt and Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $7.49
  • Digital guide made by a local for your walking tour: $8.74
  • Bergamo Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Bergamo Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $8.94
  • Palazzo Moroni Entry Ticket: $12
  • Ticket for Parco Ittico Paradiso at Zelo Buon Persico: $13
  • Walking tour in an ancient private tower house in the historic center of Bergamo: $22
  • One Hour Shared Boat Tour on Lake Como from Varenna: $33
  • Children Daily Ticket for Adventure Park in Gravedona: $33
  • Tour and tasting of 4 wines on Morainic Hills near Pozzolengo: $35

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
    Bergamo 23
    Rijeka 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Bergamo

Also in Bergamo, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Food and Wine tasting of Valtenesi and Lugana: $46
  • Lake Como: Wellness Spa experience with wine tasting : $163


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


Which is Bigger, Bergamo or Rijeka?

Rijeka has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Bergamo. When comparing the sizes of Bergamo 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 Bergamo 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 Bergamo or Rijeka in the Summer?

Both Rijeka and Bergamo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bergamo for 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, Bergamo is around the same temperature as Rijeka. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bergamo in July average around 24°C (75°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 Bergamo. Bergamo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rijeka during summer. Bergamo gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bergamo usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Bergamo gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Bergamo or Rijeka in the Autumn?

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

In October, Bergamo is generally cooler than Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Bergamo average around 14°C (57°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Bergamo often gets less sunshine than Rijeka. Bergamo gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 167 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergamo. Bergamo usually gets more rain in October than Rijeka. Bergamo gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bergamo 14°C (57°F) 
    Rijeka 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Bergamo or Rijeka in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Bergamo in the winter. Bergamo is much colder than Rijeka in the winter. The daily temperature in Bergamo averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Rijeka fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Bergamo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rijeka during winter. Bergamo gets 98 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bergamo usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rijeka. Bergamo gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bergamo 2°C (36°F) 
    Rijeka 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Bergamo or Rijeka in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Bergamo is around the same temperature as Rijeka. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bergamo in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Rijeka averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Bergamo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rijeka. Bergamo gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 177 hours of full sun.

Bergamo usually gets less rain in April than Rijeka. Bergamo gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bergamo 13°C (55°F) 
    Rijeka 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Bergamo

Bergamo Rijeka
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 9°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in) 13°C (56°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 102 mm (4 in) 18°C (64°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 24°C (74°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Oct 14°C (57°F) 103 mm (4 in) 16°C (60°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 102 mm (4 in) 10°C (51°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)