A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Budapest vs. Dubrovnik for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

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Should you visit Budapest or Dubrovnik?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Budapest and Dubrovnik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Budapest

Budapest is a bustling, cultural, and artistic 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a famous, cultural, and coastal coastal town. Many visitors also come here because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

How is Budapest different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Is Budapest or Dubrovnik better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Budapest and Dubrovnik.

Many visitors head to Budapest specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Dubrovnik offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Budapest or Dubrovnik better for Food?

Foodies will appreciated the dining options available in Dubrovnik a bit more than Budapest.

Dubrovnik has long been recognized as a culinary destination. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Budapest or Dubrovnik better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is comparable in Budapest and Dubrovnik.

Many people head to Budapest for the nightlife scene. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

If you're looking for night time activities Dubrovnik has a few options to choose from. 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 Budapest or Dubrovnik better for Shopping?

If you're looking to go shopping, Budapest and Dubrovnik both offer plenty of spots.

Budapest is well-known for its shopping. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Dubrovnik has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Budapest or Dubrovnik better for Families?

You'll find kid-friendly activities in either Budapest or Dubrovnik.

Budapest offers lots of family activities. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dubrovnik. 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 Budapest or Dubrovnik better for Couples?

Both Budapest and Dubrovnik are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Budapest is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

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.

Is Budapest or Dubrovnik better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Budapest and Dubrovnik are fairly comparable places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Budapest. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

Dubrovnik is a very popular city to visit 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.

Is Budapest or Dubrovnik better for Public Transit?

Budapest has better public transit to get you around.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Budapest can take you anywhere. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

While Dubrovnik offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Budapest or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Budapest and Dubrovnik are similar when it comes to walkability.

Budapest is a very easy city to get around on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

Dubrovnik is a very easy city to get around on foot. The old town is completely pedestrian-only and you can also explore the city's historic walls on foot.


Budapest and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Budapest
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less popular for food
Dubrovnik
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Cons
  • Public transit not as usable


Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Dubrovnik?

In either Budapest or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Budapest is 2-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Dubrovnik is 1-5 days.


  • How many days in Budapest or Dubrovnik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Budapest 2-5 
    Dubrovnik 1-5

One day in Budapest or Dubrovnik?

People visit Budapest because there is so much to do. 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.

The beautiful coastal town of Dubrovnik offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Budapest or Dubrovnik?

People visit Budapest because there is so much to do. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dubrovnik, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered around the area.

Five days in Budapest or Dubrovnik?

People visit Budapest 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Dubrovnik is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dubrovnik, five days is sufficent for most. The entire area has lots to do.

A week in Budapest or Dubrovnik?

Budapest 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.

Dubrovnik is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

Which city is cheaper, Dubrovnik or Budapest?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Budapest is $69, while the average daily cost in Dubrovnik is $80. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Budapest and Dubrovnik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Budapest $38
    Dubrovnik $41
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Budapest $76
    Dubrovnik $82

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Budapest $8.14
    Dubrovnik $10
Typical Local Transportation prices in Budapest

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Budapest:


  • Short Taxi Ride
    $6.65
  • Metro Pass
    $3.65

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Budapest

Also for Budapest, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Luxury transfer from Budapest to Zagreb with 5+ stops along the way: $1,081
  • Private transfer from Budapest to Prague: $987
  • Private Budapest-Ljubljana(Ljubljana- Budapest)Transfer with a comfortable car: $871
  • Private Transfer to Bucharest from Budapest (Hungary): $809
  • Budapest -Belgrade(Belgrade-Budapest)private transfer with a comfortable car/van: $809
  • Budapest-Prague (Prague-Budapest) private transfer with a comfortable car / van: $759
  • From Budapest to Frankfurt Airport Private Transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $705
  • One-way Transfer from Budapest Airport to Prague City Centre: $695
  • Private transfer from Budapest to Vienna: $683
  • Budapest - Kraków(Kraków -Budapest) private transfer with a comfortable car /van: $666
  • Private transfer from airport Budapest (BUD) to Ljubljana: $664
  • Private Transfer from Budapest to Prague: $664

Typical Local Transportation prices in Dubrovnik

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Dubrovnik:


  • Bus Around Town
    $1.49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dubrovnik

Also for Dubrovnik, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private transfer Dubrovnik Hvar with boat: $2,256
  • Private transfer Dubrovnik - Zagreb and explore sights along the way: $1,680
  • Transfer from Dubrovnik to Plitvice Lakes: $1,173
  • Luxury Private Transfer from Dubrovnik/Dubrovnik airport to Sarajevo: $1,020
  • Private Transfer from Dubrovnik to Tuzla Airport (TZL): $885
  • Luxury Private Transfer from Sarajevo to Dubrovnik/Dubrovnik airport: $846
  • Private transfer Dubrovnik - Zadar and explore sights along the way: $834
  • Luxury Private Transfer from Dubrovnik/Dubrovnik airport to Hvar: $765
  • Split Private Transfer From Dubrovnik: $690
  • Dubrovnik - Hvar : Private One-Way Transfer with Mercedes Vehicles: $639
  • Transfer from Dubrovnik airport to Kolašin (Montenegro) ski resorts: $597
  • Private Transfer from Dubrovnik to Plitvice Lakes: $585

Is it cheaper to fly into Budapest or Dubrovnik?

Prices for flights to both Dubrovnik and Budapest 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
    Budapest $17
    Dubrovnik $27
Typical Food prices in Budapest

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Budapest:


  • Lunch
    $3.25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Budapest

For Budapest, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Lángos (hungarian streetfood) cooking class: $19
  • Dinner & Cruise on the Danube in Budapest: $23
  • Traveling Spoon Hungarian Goulash Private Online Cooking Class: $27
  • 3-Hour Dinner Cruise and Piano Battle Show: $31
  • Vegan Food Tour / Local delights: $36
  • Private Budapest Food Tour with a Local Foodie: $37
  • Live from Hungarian Online Cooking class: $39
  • Bitemojo Self Guided Food Tour Night & The City Budapest: $47
  • Food Tour in Budapest: $50
  • Bitemojo Self Guided Food Tour of Trendy Budapest: $51
  • BBQ dinner and a Quiz Night - welcome shots (hungaricums) and 88 craft beers: $52
  • 2-Hours Strudel Cooking Class and Wine Tasting in Central Budapest: $53

Typical Food prices in Dubrovnik

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Dubrovnik:


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2)
    $30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dubrovnik

For Dubrovnik, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $73
  • Unique Sunset and Dinner Cruise in the Magnificent Traditional Karaka boat: $96
  • Dubrovnik Traditional Food Tour: $108
  • Old Town Food Tour: $130
  • Flavours of Dubrovnik - Food Tour: $131
  • Traditional Dalmatian Cooking Class from Dubrovnik: $147
  • Croatian Traditional Cuisine: Peka Cooking Lesson: $149
  • Traditional Cooking Class in Dubrovnik Countryside: $164
  • Cooking Classes Traditional Meals of Konavle region: $166
  • Dubrovnik Food Tour with Friendly Local Guide: $167
  • E-Bike Tour + Farm To Table Cooking Class: $184
  • Dubrovnik Food Tour by Vidokrug: $192

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Budapest $17
    Dubrovnik $16
Typical Entertainment prices in Budapest

For Budapest, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Entrance to the Baths for Two
    $6.52

Tours and Activities in Budapest

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Budapest.

  • "This is the Way!" - Budapest Photo Tour by Birta Photo: $124
  • 'Best of Pest' 3.5 Hour Private Photography Tour: $112
  • 1 Hour 30 Minutes Downtown Budapest Guided Segway Tour: $93
  • 1. Downtown Pest Side Segway Tour Budapest: $54
  • 10 days private sightseeing tour from Budapest to Prague: $3,109
  • 101 things you have to see in Budapest - Full Day Private Tour: $203
  • 2 Hour Budapest Market and Tasting Tour: $54
  • 2 Hours Cultural and Food Experiences in Budapest: $60
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Budapest: $11
  • 2 days Vienna - Bratislava PRIVATE guided tour package from Budapest with lunch: $1,070
  • 2 days Vienna - Wachau Valley PRIVATE guided tour package from Budapest: $1,070
  • 2 hours long private orientation tour in Budapest: $101

Typical Entertainment prices in Dubrovnik

For Dubrovnik, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Boat to Lokrum Island (for 2)
    $14
  • Dubrovnik City Wall Tour (for 2)
    $55
  • Dubrovnik Cable Car (for 2)
    $47

Tours and Activities in Dubrovnik

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Dubrovnik.

  • 'Up with the Chickens' or "Sunset chasing" Old Town Tour: $16
  • 2 hours Elafiti Islands Private Tour by Barracuda 545: $284
  • 4 Days Montenegro-Albania-Kosovo Tour from Dubrovnik or Kotor: $918
  • 4 days hiking tour Valbona Valley National Park from Dubrovnik: $762
  • 4 hours Private Speedboat Tour to Elaphite Islands by RANIERI SUN CRUISER 23: $477
  • 4-Hours Dubrovnik Elaphiti Islands & Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour: $75
  • 4-Night Three Countries Tour from Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia-Herzegovina: $954
  • 5 Days Deluxe Cruise from Dubrovnik to Split All Inclusive: $1,534
  • 6-Night Independent Tour of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast: Dubrovnik, Hvar, Korcula and Split: $952
  • 7 Days Small-Group Tour from Dubrovnik to Athens via Albania: $1,757
  • 8 h Private Speedboat Tour to Elaphite Islands by QUICKSILVER activ 675 open: $584
  • 8 hours Dubrovnik Blue Cave Private Tour with boat: $498

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Budapest $13
    Dubrovnik $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Budapest

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

  • Bingo Bar Crawl: $15
  • Bingo Bar Crawl: $15
  • Original Budapest Pub Crawl and VIP Club Entrance: $16
  • Ultimate Ruin Pub Crawl: $18
  • Generation Pub Crawl Budapest: $19
  • Ruin Pub Crawl - Your Keys to the Nightlife of Budapest: $21
  • Budapest Pub Crawl: $24
  • Pest side Pub Crawl - Unlimited drinks for an hour, discover hidden ruin pubs: $25
  • Re-opening Pub Crawls 2020 Summer-Autumn: $25
  • Budapest Pub Crawl with Skip-the-Line Access: $26
  • Epic Local Insider Pub Crawl in Budapest - Every weekend: $30
  • Party Cruise with Pub Crawl option: $37

Sample the Local Flavors in Dubrovnik

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dubrovnik:

  • Sunset Sea Kayaking and Wine Tasting Tour Dubrovnik: $44
  • Wine tasting and visit to Ston- Group Tour: $60
  • Peljesac Peninsula Wine Tour from Dubrovnik: $61
  • Day Tour of Korcula Island from Dubrovnik with Wine Tasting: $63
  • FAMOUS LEGENDS OF PELJESAC and KORCULA with WINE TASTING: $65
  • Island of Korcula with Wine Tasting Day Trip from Dubrovnik: $69
  • Korčula tour with wine tasting from Dubrovnik: $69
  • Wine tasting and visit to Ston: $72
  • Wine Tasting Pelješac and a visit to Ston: $72
  • Konavle Valley Wine Tour from Dubrovnik with Train Ride and Wine Tasting: $75
  • Smiley wine tasting on peninsula Peljesac: $76
  • Smiley Hercegovina wine tour: $77

About these numbers

When comparing the travel costs between Budapest and Dubrovnik, we can see that Dubrovnik is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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Budapest vs. Dubrovnik Travel Comparison

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