A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dubrovnik vs. Cancun for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Dubrovnik or Cancun?

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

Should I visit Dubrovnik or Cancun? 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.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a famous, cultural, and coastal coastal town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Cancun

Cancun is a party-hard, tropical, and active city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Dubrovnik and Cancun: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubrovnik or Cancun?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Dubrovnik and Cancun are both popular with visitors, Dubrovnik has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dubrovnik is more popular for its food, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cancun is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Dubrovnik 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. It is also home to The Old Town Walls. Cancun is popular for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins.

How is Dubrovnik different from Cancun?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Cancun and Dubrovnik.

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.

Many visitors head to Cancun specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum.

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

Dubrovnik is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Dubrovnik has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cancun area. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

Is Dubrovnik or Cancun Better for Nightlife?

Cancun is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for nightlife.

Cancun is a world class party destination. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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 Dubrovnik or Cancun Better for Resorts?

Cancun is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Cancun is a great choice. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Dubrovnik. 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.

Is Dubrovnik or Cancun Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is a must-visit destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Dubrovnik is not known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Cancun a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

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.

Is Dubrovnik or Cancun Better for Beaches?

Cancun is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cancun. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

Many people head to Dubrovnik to enjoy the beach. 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.

Is Dubrovnik or Cancun Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is renowned for its old town. However, Cancun does not have a historic 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.

Cancun does not have a historic old town.

Is Dubrovnik or Cancun Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dubrovnik. 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.

Cancun has hiking trails worth exploring. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubrovnik or Cancun?

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

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.

Cancun is a great destination for shopping. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

Is Dubrovnik or Cancun Better for Families?

Cancun is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Cancun is a very family-friendly destination. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

Dubrovnik is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Dubrovnik or Cancun Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Dubrovnik and Cancun make for a world-class place to visit.

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.

For those traveling as a couple, Cancun has plenty to offer. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon destination.

Is Dubrovnik or Cancun Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Dubrovnik is extremely popular 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.

Cancun is a very popular coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

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

Dubrovnik and Cancun both offer good public transit to get you around.

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.

Cancun has a few public transit options. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

Is Dubrovnik or Cancun a more walkable city?

Dubrovnik is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Cancun is a very walkable destination. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Cancun or Dubrovnik?

How long in Dubrovnik or Cancun?

Both Dubrovnik and Cancun have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cancun than in Dubrovnik. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Dubrovnik, and 4-7 days is enough time in Cancun.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Cancun 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 Dubrovnik or Cancun?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Dubrovnik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Cancun. 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.

A weekend in Dubrovnik or Cancun?

Dubrovnik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the tropical destination of Cancun. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Five days in Dubrovnik or Cancun?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubrovnik. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the active city of Cancun. 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.

A week in Dubrovnik or Cancun?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Dubrovnik. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Cancun 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 Cancun, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dubrovnik and Cancun, we can see that Cancun is more expensive. And not only is Dubrovnik much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dubrovnik is in Europe and Cancun is in North America, 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 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 Cancun would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cancun 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 Dubrovnik Expensive? and Is Cancun Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dubrovnik or Cancun?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Dubrovnik and Cancun, 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.