A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bern vs. Dubrovnik for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bern or Dubrovnik?

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

Should I visit Bern or Dubrovnik? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bern

Bern is a cultural, historic, and charming city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a charming, famous, and cultural coastal town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Bern and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bern or Dubrovnik?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Dubrovnik than Bern, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Dubrovnik is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bern is more popular for its shopping. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Bern and is popular 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. Also, Dubrovnik is famous for The Old Town Walls. Bern is well known for its well-preserved old town and its reputation as the home of the Lindt chocolate factory.

How is Bern different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bern or Dubrovnik?

Both Bern and Dubrovnik have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Bern offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with architecture and charming character. While you're in town make sure you visit the Einstein Museum, the Clock Tower, and the Bern Cathedral.

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

Is the Food Better in Bern or Dubrovnik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dubrovnik is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Dubrovnik is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Bern has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has cozy cafes, high end fine dining, traditional eateries, and modern venues.

Is Bern or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Both Bern and Dubrovnik are notable when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bern. There are bars, Irish pubs, and clubs around town.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Is Bern or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubrovnik is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Bern is not a resort destination.

Dubrovnik is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Bern is not a resort destination.

Is Bern or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is a moderate coastal town for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bern 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.

Bern is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bern or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Dubrovnik is a popular place for its beaches. However, Bern is not a beach destination.

Dubrovnik is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Bern is not a beach destination.

Is Bern or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Bern 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 is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bern. The charming old town is filled with quaint alleys and sandstone buildings. It's a compact area that flows down a hill to the River Aare.

Is Bern or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bern 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.

Bern is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bern or Dubrovnik?

Bern is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bern. The old town is filled with boutique shops and unique markets. The main shopping streets are Spitalgasse and Marktgasse and popular items to buy include jewelry, art, and watches.

Dubrovnik is a great destination for shopping. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Bern or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bern or Dubrovnik.

Bern is a very family-friendly place to visit. This charming town has riverside parks and pools, a zoo, a waterpark, and kid-friendly museums that the whole family can enjoy. You can also visit nearby Gurten, a mountain with tobogganing, concerts, and a mini ski resort.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Dubrovnik is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Bern or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Dubrovnik is renowned for romance. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Dubrovnik makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Bern makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With charming restaurants, a beautiful rose garden, and nice hotels and spas, this town makes a beautiful romantic getaway.

Is Bern or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is renowned for backpackers. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dubrovnik is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Many backpackers visit Bern. Like most of Switzerland, prices are a bit high, but there are some hostels and free activities that backpackers and budget travelers can enjoy.

Is Bern or Dubrovnik Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bern 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 Bern can get you to most places easily. There are trams and buses that run around town.

Dubrovnik has a few public transit options. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Bern or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Dubrovnik is renowned for its walkability. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Bern is a very walkable city. It's fun to explore the old town on foot. It is compact enough to that you can see all of the highlights in a few hours.

For even more information, also check out Is Bern Worth Visiting? and Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Bern?

How long in Bern or Dubrovnik?

In either Bern or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Bern because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bern, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

Families should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Bern. 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 Bern. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Bern 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 Dubrovnik.

One day in Bern or Dubrovnik?

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Dubrovnik. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Bern or Dubrovnik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Bern. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Dubrovnik is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bern or Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the charming city of Bern. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the cultural destination of Dubrovnik. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Bern or Dubrovnik?

Bern is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

The famous coastal town of Dubrovnik offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Switzerland, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Bern or Dubrovnik?

Bern has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Bern 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.

When is the best time to visit Bern or Dubrovnik?

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.

Should I visit Bern or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bern as well as Dubrovnik. The summer months attract visitors to Bern because of the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

In July, Bern is generally cooler than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Bern average around 21°C (70°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Bern usually gets more rain in July than Dubrovnik. Bern gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bern or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

Both Dubrovnik and Bern are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bern this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bern is cooler than Dubrovnik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bern averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In October, Bern usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Bern gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bern or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

Both Dubrovnik and Bern during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bern for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bern. In the winter, Bern is much colder than Dubrovnik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bern in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bern usually gets less rain in January than Dubrovnik. Bern gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bern or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bern and Dubrovnik. Many visitors come to Bern in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Bern is generally cooler than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Bern average around 11°C (52°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Bern usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Bern gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Bern