A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Finale Ligure vs. Novalja for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Finale Ligure or Novalja?

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

Should I visit Finale Ligure or Novalja? 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.

Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is a beautiful, scenic, and historic area. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Novalja

Novalja is a wild, energetic, and backpacker-filled town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife and beaches.

Finale Ligure and Novalja: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Finale Ligure or Novalja?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Finale Ligure. Although Finale Ligure and Novalja are popular destinations, Finale Ligure has more sights and attractions for tourists. Finale Ligure is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, hiking, and shopping, while Novalja attracts visitors for its nightlife. Novalja is more touristy than Finale Ligure and is known for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd. Finale Ligure is famous for its sandy beaches and great food. It is also well known for the sandy beaches.

How is Finale Ligure different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Finale Ligure or Novalja?

Finale Ligure
Novalja

Finale Ligure is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Finale Ligure offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The natural beauty is the main attraction to this part of Liguria, but there are also medieval towns such as Finalborgo and historic places such as Castel Gavone.

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 Finale Ligure or Novalja? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Finale Ligure
Novalja

Finale Ligure is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Finale Ligure. Seafood, local flavors, and even a couple of Michelin starred restaurants make this area a foodie's paradise. The dishes are rich in flavors and fine dining is common throughout the area.

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 Finale Ligure or Novalja Better for Nightlife?

Finale Ligure
Novalja

Novalja is terrific for nightlife. However, Finale Ligure is a area with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Novalja is a must-see party destination. 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.

Finale Ligure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. This beautiful coastline is filled with fine dining restaurants and some nice wine and cocktail bars. It's not known for its party scene, but there are some nice places to spend the evening.

Is Finale Ligure or Novalja Better for Resorts?

Finale Ligure
Novalja

Finale Ligure is a popular place for its resorts. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

With a selection of resorts, Finale Ligure makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find a mix of smaller local hotels, many with pools, along the coastline. There are also a number of apartments to choose from.

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.


Is Finale Ligure or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Finale Ligure
Novalja

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Finale Ligure and Novalja are high quality choices.

Finale Ligure is considered a top beach destination. This stretch of coastline has the longest sandy beaches in Liguria. You'll also find dramatic cliffs and beautiful views.

Novalja is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Is Finale Ligure or Novalja Better for Hiking?

Finale Ligure
Novalja

Finale Ligure is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Novalja is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Finale Ligure. There are many walking and trekking trails along the coast and through the hills. You'll pass medieval towns and beautiful viewpoints that let you experience the Ligurian coastline in all of its beauty.

Novalja is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Finale Ligure or Novalja?

Finale Ligure
Novalja

Finale Ligure is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Finale Ligure offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find clothing boutiques, food specialty stores, and places to pick up anything that you may have forgotten.

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.


Is Finale Ligure or Novalja Better for Families?

Finale Ligure
Novalja

Finale Ligure is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Finale Ligure is a very kid-friendly area. This section of the Italian Riviera has the longest sandy beach in Liguria. There are also places where kids can swim and just relax from sightseeing and travel.

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 Finale Ligure or Novalja Better for Couples?

Finale Ligure
Novalja

Finale Ligure is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Finale Ligure frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its sandy beaches and seaside cliffs, this area makes a great romantic getaway. Italian food on the Italian Riviera - what could be more romantic.

Novalja is a good area for couples to visit. 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 Finale Ligure or Novalja Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Finale Ligure
Novalja

Novalja is terrific for backpackers. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Novalja is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Finale Ligure is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While there aren't a lot of hostels, there are a few reasonably priced guesthouses to choose from.


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

Finale Ligure
Novalja

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Finale Ligure and Novalja.

You'll find some public transit in Finale Ligure, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are both trains and buses through the area.

While Novalja offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses around the island or you can rent a personal vehicle like a motorbike or scooter.

Is Finale Ligure or Novalja a more walkable city?

Finale Ligure
Novalja

Finale Ligure and Novalja both are nice when exploring on foot.

Finale Ligure is somewhat walkable. There are many walking routes throughout this stretch of coastline.

Novalja is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Finale Ligure Worth Visiting? and Is Novalja Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Novalja or Finale Ligure?

How long in Finale Ligure or Novalja?

It's fun to spend time in either Finale Ligure or Novalja. In our opinion, Finale Ligure has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Finale Ligure than Novalja. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Novalja than Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure or Novalja? Ideal Length of Stay
    Finale Ligure 2-4 
    Novalja 2-4

One day in Finale Ligure or Novalja?

In Finale Ligure, you'll find museums and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This area offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the backpacker-filled destination of Novalja. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Finale Ligure or Novalja?

In Finale Ligure, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Finale Ligure has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Novalja. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Finale Ligure or Novalja?

Finale Ligure is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the backpacker-filled destination of Novalja. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Finale Ligure or Novalja?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Finale Ligure. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Finale Ligure. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find nightlife around the beautiful town of Novalja. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Novalja or Finale Ligure?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Finale Ligure is €143, 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 Finale Ligure and Novalja in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Finale Ligure 74
    Novalja 31
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Finale Ligure 148
    Novalja 62
Compare Hotels in Finale Ligure and Novalja

Looking for a hotel in Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure


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: Finale Ligure Hotel Prices and Novalja Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Finale Ligure 56
    Novalja 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Novalja

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Novalja:

  • Private Transfer from Crikvenica to Rijeka Airport (RJK): $74
  • Zrce, Private Transfer to/from Zadar Airport: $169

Is it cheaper to fly into Finale Ligure or Novalja?

Prices for flights to both Novalja and Finale Ligure 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
    Finale Ligure 34
    Novalja 20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Finale Ligure 28
    Novalja 6.07

Tours and Activities in Novalja

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

  • Bungee Tower Ticket with Zrce Beach Panoramic Views: $32
  • From Svetojanj Bike Tour: $47
  • Standup Paddleboard Guided Tour: $47
  • From Kolan Bike Tour: $47
  • From Metajna/Pag Bay Guided Sea Kayaking Tour: $49
  • Zrce Booze Cruise - Novalja Boat Party: $52
  • Glowing Standup Paddleboard Guided Night Tour: $58
  • Pag Island Light-Up Kayak Night Tour: $62
  • Kayak and Via Ferrata Adventure: $70
  • Zrce Beach Bungee Jumping Experience: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Finale Ligure 6.99
    Novalja 7.27


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Finale Ligure and Novalja, we can see that Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure Expensive? and Is Novalja Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Finale Ligure or Novalja?

Finale Ligure has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Novalja. When comparing the sizes of Finale Ligure 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.