A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Delphi vs. Novalja for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Delphi or Novalja?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Delphi or Novalja, 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.

Delphi

Delphi is a fascinating, world-renowned, and historic archeological site. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Novalja

Novalja is a backpacker-filled, wild, and energetic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the nightlife and beaches.

Delphi and Novalja: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Temple of Apollo
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Delphi or Novalja?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Delphi. Although Delphi and Novalja are both popular with visitors, Delphi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Delphi is more popular for its museums and food, while Novalja is known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Delphi is more touristy than Novalja and is popular for its world renowned archeological ruins and its connection to Greek mythology. It is also home to The Temple of Apollo. Novalja is popular for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd.

How is Delphi different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Delphi or Novalja?

Delphi
Novalja

Delphi is very popular for its museums and landmarks. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Delphi are among the most recognizable in the world. This is one of the most popular archeological sites in Greece. You will find the Temple of Apollo and most of the monuments are dedicated to this God. There is an Ancient Theatre, an Ancient Stadium, as well as an Archaeological Museum. There's also the Sanctuary of Athena Pronea and the Treasury of the Athenians.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Novalja. It's a beach and party destination, not somewhere you go for museums or historical sights.


Is the Food Better in Delphi or Novalja? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Delphi
Novalja

Delphi is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Delphi. There are a number of restaurant options in the area, some of them offering spectacular views. There are traditional Greek restaurants as well as modern cafes with international cuisine. You'll find all of the standard Greek staples such as gyros, lamb chops, and seafood.

Novalja may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a lot of places to grab a quick bite to eat or a cheap meal around town. There are pizzerias, fast food, and some nicer bistros to choose from.

Is Delphi or Novalja Better for Nightlife?

Delphi
Novalja

Novalja is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Delphi is not a good destination for nightlife.

Novalja is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. This is a party island, and you'll find most of the action around Zrce Beach, which is about a 20 minute drive from town. The party scene appeals to the young, backpacker crowd and there's live music, DJs, and parties that last well into the morning. Zrce Beach has a huge number of bars and clubs including three clubs that are listed on the Top 100 DJ's Magazine Best Clubs List.

People don't go to Delphi for the nightlife. This is a quiet town that shuts down in the evening. If you're looking for more of a nightlife scene, head to nearby Arachova, which is just a 10 minute drive away.

Is Delphi or Novalja Better for Resorts?

Delphi
Novalja

Novalja is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Delphi is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Novalja as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Most of the accommodation is in the form of apartments or hostels. There are also some hotels on the island, but because the number is limited they can be quite expensive.

Delphi is not a resort destination.


Is Delphi or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Delphi
Novalja

Novalja is great for the beach. However, Delphi is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Novalja. You'll find a mix of beaches near town including hidden gems that feel remote and undiscovered as well as wild party beaches like the famed Zrce Beach. Many beaches are pebbly or have coarse sand with turquoise blue waters.

Delphi is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Delphi or Novalja?

Delphi
Novalja

Novalja is mediocre for its shopping areas. However, Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Novalja can be found for those interested. This isn't the place to go shopping for clothing or local items. You will find some beach and souvenir shops around town though.

Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Delphi or Novalja Better for Families?

Delphi
Novalja

Delphi is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Delphi. The archeological ruins are world class, and kids who enjoy mythology and history will love this place. It's the perfect place for kids to let their imagination run wild.

For families, Novalja is not always the best place to visit. While there are family-friendly places to visit like some beaches and waterparks, at its heart this is a party destination that is known for its wild parties and crazy crowds.


Is Delphi or Novalja Better for Couples?

Delphi
Novalja

Delphi and Novalja are both good to visit as a couple.

Delphi is a good archeological site for couples to visit. It's an iconic destination that is a great addition to any couple's itinerary to Greece.

Novalja is a nice destination for couples. Stunning beaches, blue waters, and surreal landscapes make this a one-of-a-kind place to visit. But romance isn't on most people's minds, as this is first and foremost a party destination.

Is Delphi or Novalja Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Delphi
Novalja

Novalja is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Novalja, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. Famous for its wild parties that attract backpackers and young travelers, this island destination has become a hotspot for backpackers and party-goers. There are hostels around town that offer a cheap place to crash.

Delphi is a good archeological site to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two in the area, and the prices are reasonable for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Delphi or Novalja Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Delphi
Novalja

Delphi and Novalja both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Delphi offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel to Delphi from Greece.

Novalja has a few public transit options. There are local buses around the island or you can rent a personal vehicle like a motorbike or scooter.


Is Delphi or Novalja a more walkable city?

Delphi
Novalja

Delphi is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Delphi is a very walkable archeological site. Both the museum are archeological site are within walking distance of the town. The town is also small enough to explore on foot.

Novalja is a somewhat walkable archeological site. In town, you can reach most places on foot, but if you want to explore further you'll need to find another way to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Delphi Worth Visiting? and Is Novalja Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Novalja or Delphi?

How long in Delphi or Novalja?

It's fun to spend time in either Delphi or Novalja. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Novalja due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Delphi, and 2-4 days is enough time in Novalja.

Families should spend more time in Delphi than Novalja. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Delphi, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Novalja than Delphi. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Novalja that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Novalja than Delphi 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 Novalja.


  • How many days in Delphi or Novalja? Ideal Length of Stay
    Delphi 1-2 
    Novalja 2-4

One day in Delphi or Novalja?

In Delphi, you'll find food and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This archeological site offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Novalja. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Delphi or Novalja?

In Delphi, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Delphi has to offer.

Novalja is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Delphi or Novalja?

Delphi 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Novalja. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

A week in Delphi or Novalja?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Delphi. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Delphi. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the backpacker-filled destination of Novalja. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Novalja or Delphi?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Delphi is €102, while the average daily cost in Novalja is €58. 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 Delphi and Novalja in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Delphi 59
    Novalja 31
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Delphi 118
    Novalja 62
Compare Hotels in Delphi and Novalja

Looking for a hotel in Delphi or Novalja? 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 Delphi


Hotels in Novalja


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: Novalja Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Delphi 8.57
    Novalja 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Novalja

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Novalja:

  • Zrce, Private Transfer to/from Zadar Airport: $170
  • Private Transfer from Crikvenica to Rijeka Airport (RJK): $74

Is it cheaper to fly into Delphi or Novalja?

Prices for flights to both Novalja and Delphi 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
    Delphi 36
    Novalja 20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Delphi 11
    Novalja 6.07

Tours and Activities in Delphi

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

  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in Earth's Navel: $4.60
  • Audiovisual self-guided tour with 3D models: $7.48
  • Delphi Audiovisual Self-guided Tour with 3D Representations: $7.63
  • Delphi Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Tour: $13
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Guide: $16
  • Self-Guided Virtual Tour Experience from your Home: $17
  • Self-guided Virtual Tour of The Google of the Ancient world: $17
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Refundable Ticket with Audio: $19
  • Audio Guided tour of the sites in French or English: $19
  • Ticket & Audio Tour for Delphi's Oracle. Listen to Ancient Echoes: $24
  • Athens: Mythology of Delphi and Museum Guided Day Tour: $26

Tours and Activities in Novalja

Here are a few actual costs in Novalja for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • From Metajna/Pag Bay Guided Sea Kayaking Tour: $49
  • From Kolan Bike Tour: $47
  • From Svetojanj Bike Tour: $47
  • Kayak and Via Ferrata Adventure: $71
  • Bungee Tower Ticket with Zrce Beach Panoramic Views: $32
  • Glowing Standup Paddleboard Guided Night Tour: $58
  • Pag Island Light-Up Kayak Night Tour: $62
  • Standup Paddleboard Guided Tour: $47
  • Zrce Beach Bungee Jumping Experience: $74
  • Zrce Booze Cruise - Novalja Boat Party: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Delphi 13
    Novalja 7.27


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Delphi and Novalja, we can see that Delphi is more expensive. And not only is Novalja much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Novalja would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Novalja 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 Delphi would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Delphi than you might in Novalja.

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


Which is Bigger, Delphi or Novalja?

Delphi has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Novalja. When comparing the sizes of Delphi and Novalja, 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.