A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Imperia vs. Dubrovnik for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Imperia or Dubrovnik?

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

Should I visit Imperia or Dubrovnik? 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.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a charming, famous, and cultural coastal town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Imperia and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Imperia or Dubrovnik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Imperia and Dubrovnik are popular destinations, Dubrovnik has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Imperia and 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 well known for The Old Town Walls. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Imperia different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Dubrovnik is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Imperia or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Evening events are nice in both Imperia and Dubrovnik.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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 Imperia or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is notable for its resorts. However, Imperia is not a resort destination.

Dubrovnik is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Imperia is not a resort destination.


Is Imperia or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a moderate coastal town for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Imperia or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a popular place for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

Dubrovnik is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Imperia or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Dubrovnik can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is Imperia or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Imperia is not a hiking destination.

Dubrovnik is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Imperia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Imperia or Dubrovnik?

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Both Imperia and Dubrovnik are nice shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Imperia to go shopping. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dubrovnik. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Imperia or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Dubrovnik is known to be 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.

Imperia is a family-friendly town. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.


Is Imperia or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Imperia or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dubrovnik is a very popular coastal town to visit 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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

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

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Both Imperia and Dubrovnik offer nice public transit options.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

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


Is Imperia or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Imperia
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Imperia?

How long in Imperia or Dubrovnik?

In either Imperia or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Imperia because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Imperia, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

Families should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Imperia. 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 Imperia. 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 Imperia 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.


  • How many days in Imperia or Dubrovnik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Imperia 1-2 
    Dubrovnik 1-5

One day in Imperia or Dubrovnik?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Imperia. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Imperia has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dubrovnik, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This coastal town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Imperia or Dubrovnik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Imperia. 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.

In Dubrovnik, 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubrovnik has to offer.


Five days in Imperia or Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the undiscovered town of Imperia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Dubrovnik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubrovnik has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Imperia or Dubrovnik?

Imperia is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubrovnik. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dubrovnik. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Dubrovnik or Imperia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Imperia is €108, while the average daily cost in Dubrovnik is €97. 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 Imperia and Dubrovnik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Imperia 51
    Dubrovnik 50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Imperia 102
    Dubrovnik 100
Compare Hotels in Imperia and Dubrovnik

Looking for a hotel in Imperia or Dubrovnik? 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 Imperia


Hotels in Dubrovnik


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: Imperia Hotel Prices and Dubrovnik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Imperia 36
    Dubrovnik 12

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Dubrovnik

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Dubrovnik:


  • Bus Around Town
    1.42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dubrovnik

Also for Dubrovnik, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shared Airport Transfer to/from City Center: $16
  • Porter Service, Baggage Transfer, Baggage pick up & delivery.: $16
  • Night Transfer from Dubrovnik Old Port to New Port by Karaka Boat: $22
  • Private transfer from Dubrovnik airport to Dubrovnik city: $22
  • Bus transfer between Dubrovnik and Herceg Novi: $22
  • Private transfer from Dubrovnik to Dubrovnik airport: $24
  • Return transfer to Dubrovnik airport: $24
  • Dubrovnik Luxury Airport Transfers: $26
  • Airport Private Transfer Dubrovnik: $27
  • From Dubrovnik Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Dubrovnik: $28
  • Private Transfer from Dubrovnik hotels to Dubrovnik Cruise Port: $28
  • Private Transfer from Dubrovnik Port to Dubrovnik Airport (DBV): $28

Is it cheaper to fly into Imperia or Dubrovnik?

Prices for flights to both Dubrovnik and Imperia 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
    Imperia 35
    Dubrovnik 33

Typical Food Prices in Dubrovnik

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Dubrovnik:


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2)
    29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dubrovnik

For Dubrovnik, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Sunset Dinner Cruise around the Old Town: $80
  • Gastro Cruise | Dinner and Boat ride around Dubrovnik Old Town: $82
  • Old Town Food Tour: $143
  • Dubrovnik Old Town Food Tour: Small-Group Experience: $147
  • Konavle Wine& History&food Tour: $165
  • Cooking Classes Traditional Meals of Konavle region: $178
  • 3 Hour Sites and Bites Food Tour in Dubrovnik: $192
  • Traditional Dalmatian Cooking Class from Dubrovnik: $197
  • Traditional Cooking Class in Dubrovnik Countryside: $201
  • Pelješac Full-Day Wine and Food Tour from Dubrovnik: $208
  • Private Dinner with Wine and Homemade Tapas: $213
  • From Majkovi Village and Ston Private Food Tour: $474

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Imperia 13
    Dubrovnik 19

Tours and Activities in Imperia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Imperia are as follows:

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $426

Typical Entertainment Prices in Dubrovnik

For Dubrovnik, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Boat to Lokrum Island (for 2)
    13
  • Dubrovnik City Wall Tour (for 2)
    53
  • Dubrovnik Cable Car (for 2)
    45

Tours and Activities in Dubrovnik

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Dubrovnik.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Selfguided tour of the old town of Dubrovnik: $5.33
  • Self-guided tour of the old town of Dubrovnik: $5.44
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.38
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.39
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.39
  • Medieval Adventure City Game: $6.92
  • Historic Center Self-Guided Audio Tour (ENG): $7.70
  • Old Town Highlights Tour with Audio Guide: $8.52
  • Dubrovnik's Old Town: An Audio Tour of the Walled City: $8.99
  • Love Stories Museum Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket: $9.59
  • Red History Museum Regular Ticket: $9.59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Imperia 7.50
    Dubrovnik 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Dubrovnik

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dubrovnik:

  • Brewery Tour with Food included: $60
  • From Korcula Island Tour with Wine Tasting: $66
  • Ston and Korcula Island Day Trip from Dubrovnik with Wine Tasting: $75
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting with Snacks and Ston Place Visit: $75
  • Interactive Wine Tour: $80
  • Day trip to Korčula and Pelješac with Wine Tasting: $84
  • Konavle Valley Wine Tour from Dubrovnik with Train Ride and Wine Tasting: $84
  • 2 Hours Wine Tasting in Dubrovnik Old Town : $89
  • Interactive Wine Tour in Dubrovnik: $89
  • Day trip to Korčula and Pelješac with Wine Tasting from Koločep: $93
  • Dubrovnik Kayak Tour + Gourmet Snack + Wine Tasting (Small-Group): $97
  • Half-Day Tour from Dubrovnik to Konavle with Wine Tasting: $98


When comparing the travel costs between Imperia and Dubrovnik, we can see that Imperia is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Imperia or Dubrovnik?

Imperia has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Imperia 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 Imperia or Dubrovnik?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Imperia or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Imperia as well as Dubrovnik. The summer months attract visitors to Imperia because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

Imperia is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the summer. The daily temperature in Imperia averages around 25°C (76°F) in July, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Imperia usually gets less rain in July than Dubrovnik. Imperia gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Imperia 25°C (76°F) 
    Dubrovnik 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

Both Dubrovnik and Imperia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Imperia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Imperia is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Imperia in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In October, Imperia usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Imperia gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Imperia 19°C (66°F) 
    Dubrovnik 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

Both Dubrovnik and Imperia during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Imperia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Imperia is generally a little warmer than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 11°C (51°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Imperia usually gets less rain in January than Dubrovnik. Imperia gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Imperia 11°C (51°F) 
    Dubrovnik 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Imperia and Dubrovnik. Many visitors come to Imperia in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Imperia is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the spring. The daily temperature in Imperia averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Imperia usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Imperia gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Imperia 15°C (58°F) 
    Dubrovnik 14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Imperia

Imperia Dubrovnik
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 25°C (77°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 162 mm (6.4 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 198 mm (7.8 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 178 mm (7 in)