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

Should you visit Dubai or Florence?

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 Florence 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. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Florence

Florence is a iconic, alluring, and historical city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubai than Florence, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Dubai is more popular for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Florence is known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Florence is more touristy than Dubai and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Dubai is popular for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Dubai or Florence Better for Skiing?

Dubai is adequate for skiing. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a skiing destination.

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

Florence is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Florence has many famous sights for visitors. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dubai can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

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

Florence is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Florence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Dubai makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Dubai or Florence Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Dubai is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Dubai or Florence Better for Music?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Florence is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Dubai. The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Florence is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Florence Better for Resorts?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Florence is not a resort destination.

Dubai offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Florence is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Florence Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Dubai has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Florence Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

Dubai has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Dubai does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Florence is revered around the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Florence?

Dubai is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Dubai draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Dubai or Florence Better for Families?

Dubai is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Dubai or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Florence has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Dubai is a nice destination for couples. From the spectacular views to the high end resorts, couples can enjoy a romantic retreat to the city.

Is Dubai or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Florence, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence Better for Students?

For students, both Dubai and Florence are terrific places to visit.

Students come from all over the world to visit Dubai. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

Florence is a great destination for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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

Dubai and Florence both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Dubai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Dubai or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Florence is a very easy city to get around on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Florence?

Both Dubai and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Dubai has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Dubai than Florence. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

One day in Dubai or Florence?

Dubai is a big city with plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Florence, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this artistic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Dubai or Florence?

Dubai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Florence?

Dubai is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dubai, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Florence is a fun place to experience. In Florence, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Dubai or Florence?

Dubai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubai has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

In Florence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this alluring destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dubai and Florence, we can see that Dubai is more expensive. And not only is Florence much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dubai is in Middle East and Florence 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 Florence would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Florence 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 Florence.

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Florence?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Florence. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Florence, 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 Florence?

Florence 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 Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences.

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally a little warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Florence. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Dubai is June to August.

Should I visit Dubai or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Dubai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Dubai is much warmer than Florence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Florence. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Florence in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Florence. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Dubai is much warmer than Florence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Florence averages at about 7°C (45°F).

In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Florence. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter. Also, January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Florence in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Florence. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty.

In April, Dubai is generally much warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Florence. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Florence and Dubai