A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Heidelberg vs. Dubrovnik for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Heidelberg or Dubrovnik?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Heidelberg and Dubrovnik. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a historic, quaint, and energetic town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a historic, charming, and famous coastal town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Heidelberg and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Dubrovnik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Heidelberg and Dubrovnik are popular destinations, Dubrovnik has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubrovnik is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and quaint atmosphere, while Heidelberg attracts visitors for its nightlife. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Heidelberg and is known 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 well known for The Old Town Walls. Heidelberg is famous for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town.

How is Heidelberg different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dubrovnik is a great coastal town for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Dubrovnik. 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Dubrovnik, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Heidelberg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

Is Heidelberg or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Heidelberg is a great town for its evening party scene. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for nightlife.

The nightlife in Heidelberg has something for everybody. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

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 Heidelberg or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubrovnik is a great coastal town for its luxury resorts. However, Heidelberg is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Dubrovnik to choose from. 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.

Heidelberg is not a resort destination.

Is Heidelberg or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Heidelberg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling 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.

Heidelberg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heidelberg or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Dubrovnik is a good destination for the beach. However, Heidelberg is not a beach destination.

Dubrovnik offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Heidelberg is not a beach destination.

Is Heidelberg or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the amazing old town areas in both Heidelberg and Dubrovnik.

Heidelberg offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Dubrovnik has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Is Heidelberg or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is a great coastal town for hiking. However, Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Dubrovnik for the hiking trails. 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.

Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heidelberg or Dubrovnik?

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

Heidelberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Dubrovnik is a great destination for shopping. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Heidelberg or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Dubrovnik is a great coastal town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dubrovnik. 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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Heidelberg or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for couples. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Dubrovnik is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Heidelberg is a very popular place to visit for couples. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

Is Heidelberg or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Dubrovnik, as it is a very popular coastal town for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Is Heidelberg or Dubrovnik Better for Students?

Heidelberg is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Heidelberg. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

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

Heidelberg is a great town for times when you don't have a car. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its public transit.

The public transit in Heidelberg can get you to most places easily. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

Dubrovnik has a few public transit options. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Heidelberg or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Heidelberg is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Dubrovnik?

In either Heidelberg or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Heidelberg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Heidelberg, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

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

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

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

You'll find food and shopping around the quaint town of Heidelberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Heidelberg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and nightlife around the charming coastal town of Dubrovnik, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dubrovnik, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Dubrovnik?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Heidelberg. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Dubrovnik, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town.

Five days in Heidelberg or Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic town of Heidelberg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Dubrovnik, a popular coastal town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this coastal town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or Dubrovnik?

Heidelberg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Dubrovnik is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Dubrovnik?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg and Dubrovnik, 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 Heidelberg or Dubrovnik?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

Both Dubrovnik and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Heidelberg is cooler than Dubrovnik in the summer. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In July, Heidelberg usually receives more rain than Dubrovnik. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

Both Dubrovnik and Heidelberg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Heidelberg for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Heidelberg is cooler than Dubrovnik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Heidelberg in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Heidelberg usually gets less rain in October than Dubrovnik. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Dubrovnik. Many visitors come to Heidelberg in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Heidelberg can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Heidelberg is generally much colder than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 3°C (37°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Dubrovnik. Most visitors come to Heidelberg for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Heidelberg is cooler than Dubrovnik in the spring. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Heidelberg usually gets less rain in April than Dubrovnik. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Heidelberg