A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dubai vs. Bucharest for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Dubai or Bucharest?

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 Dubai and Bucharest can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dubai

Dubai is a glamorous, opulent, and modern city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a charming, historical, and less touristy city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Bucharest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Bucharest?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Dubai than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Dubai, Dubai has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubai is more popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bucharest is known for its historical sights. Dubai is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa. Bucharest is popular for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Bucharest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Bucharest Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a city with a few options for winter skiing. However, Bucharest is not a skiing destination.

Dubai is a fun local destination for snow skiers. Despite being a desert city, Dubai became famous for its massive indoor ski complex that covers 22,500 square meters. It is located in the Mall of the Emirates.

Bucharest is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dubai or Bucharest?

Dubai is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Dubai. The city's most famous landmark is the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world. Head to the observation deck for stunning views.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

Is the Food Better in Dubai or Bucharest? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dubai is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Dubai. The national dish in the area is khuzi, or ghuzi, which is a meal of roasted lamb or mutton, prepared with rice vegetables and nuts.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Dubai or Bucharest Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Dubai is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Dubai or Bucharest Better for Music?

Dubai is renowned for its live music scene. However, Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Dubai The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Bucharest Better for Resorts?

Dubai is renowned for its resorts. However, Bucharest is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Dubai for its luxury resorts. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Bucharest is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Bucharest Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bucharest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Dubai. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Bucharest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Bucharest Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a good destination for the beache. However, Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Dubai offers a nice beach destination. There are a number of both private and public beaches in the city. They are almost all man-made, so they are large, flat, and have soft sand. It's also generally safe to swim at most beaches.

Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Bucharest Better for its Old Town?

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

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Bucharest?

Dubai is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Dubai make it a world-class shopping destination. With its many malls, souks, and shopping areas, this is the place to go for luxury shopping. Popular items to purchase include gold and diamond jewelry, shawls, and Persian rugs.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Dubai or Bucharest Better for Families?

Dubai is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Dubai is a very kid-friendly city. This city has family-friendly resorts, skyscrapers with spectacular views, and amusement parks that are fun for the whole family. There are also plenty of fountains that the kids can splash around in.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Dubai or Bucharest Better for Couples?

Dubai is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Dubai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From the spectacular views to the high end resorts, couples can enjoy a romantic retreat to the city.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Dubai or Bucharest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Bucharest is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Dubai is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It is known to be an expensive and not so backpacker friendly city, but there are some hostels around that you can stay at.

Is Dubai or Bucharest Better for Students?

Dubai is renowned for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Dubai is a very popular place to visit for students. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

Is Dubai or Bucharest Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bucharest is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Bucharest offers a very effecient public transportation network. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Dubai has a few public transit options. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro.

Is Dubai or Bucharest a more walkable city?

Bucharest is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

Dubai is generally not very walkable. It is one of the less pedestrian-friendly cities around the world. There is lots of road work, even in the more walkable areas, so getting around on foot can be challenging.

For even more information, also check out Is Dubai Worth Visiting? and Is Bucharest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bucharest or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Bucharest?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dubai and Bucharest. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than in Bucharest. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bucharest.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dubai than Bucharest 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 Dubai.

One day in Dubai or Bucharest?

People visit Dubai because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

In Bucharest, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this undiscovered destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Dubai or Bucharest?

People visit Dubai because there is so much to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dubai or Bucharest?

People visit Dubai 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. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Bucharest is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bucharest. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dubai or Bucharest?

Dubai is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dubai, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Bucharest. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Dubai, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Arab Emirates, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dubai and Bucharest, we can see that Dubai is more expensive. And not only is Bucharest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dubai is in Middle East and Bucharest is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Bucharest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bucharest 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 Dubai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dubai than you might in Bucharest.

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Bucharest?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 65% larger than the population of Dubai. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Bucharest, 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 Dubai or Bucharest?

Bucharest has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Dubai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Bucharest in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Bucharest. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Bucharest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally much warmer than Bucharest. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Bucharest fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in July than Bucharest. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bucharest receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Bucharest in the Autumn?

Both Bucharest and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Dubai is much warmer than Bucharest in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Bucharest fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In October, Dubai usually receives less rain than Bucharest. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bucharest receives 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dubai or Bucharest in the Winter?

Both Bucharest and Dubai during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bucharest this time of year.

It's quite cold in Bucharest in the winter. In the winter, Dubai is much warmer than Bucharest. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Bucharest averages at about -1°C (29°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in January than Bucharest. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bucharest receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year. January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Bucharest in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Bucharest. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bucharest for the activities around the city.

In April, Dubai is generally much warmer than Bucharest. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Bucharest fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In April, Dubai usually receives less rain than Bucharest. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bucharest receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Bucharest and Dubai