A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kitzbuhel vs. Novalja for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Kitzbuhel or Novalja?

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

Should I visit Kitzbuhel 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.

Kitzbuhel

Kitzbuhel is a world-class, breathtaking, and outdoorsy ski resort. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping.

Novalja

Novalja is a energetic, backpacker-filled, and wild town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife and beaches.

Kitzbuhel and Novalja: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kitzbuhel or Novalja?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kitzbuhel than Novalja, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kitzbuhel is better known for its skiing, museums, food, historical sights, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Novalja is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Kitzbuhel is well known for its world renowned skiing, scenic natural beauty, and summer hiking opportunities. Also, Kitzbuhel is famous for The Kitzbüheler Horn. Novalja is well known for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd.

How is Kitzbuhel different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kitzbuhel or Novalja Better for Skiing?

Kitzbuhel is very popular for winter skiing. However, Novalja is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Kitzbuhel should be on your list. There are four ski resorts near the village and 145 miles of slopes. Hahnenkamm Streif racecourse is world famous, but there are also 57 lifts that offer access to skiing for everyone from beginners to professionals. This is a world class ski area that is considered to be one of the best in the world. It attracts international skiers who come for the well maintained slopes and world class skiing.

Novalja is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kitzbuhel or Novalja?

Kitzbuhel is a ski resort with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Kitzbuhel offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors come for the skiing and outdoor adventures, not the museums and historical sights. But you can visit the St. Andreas Parish Church, Museum Kitzbühel, or the Liebfrauenkirche while you're in town.

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 Kitzbuhel or Novalja? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kitzbuhel 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 Kitzbuhel. There's a diverse food scene with everything from rustic inns to award-winning fine dining experiences. You'll find both local dishes and international flavors around town as well.

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 Kitzbuhel or Novalja Better for Nightlife?

Novalja is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Novalja is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Kitzbuhel has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene offers everything from wine bars to high end cocktail bars or local pubs with beer on tap. There are also dance clubs and other party areas where visitors dance until the early morning hours.

Is Kitzbuhel or Novalja Better for Resorts?

Novalja is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Kitzbuhel is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Novalja offers a few options. 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.

Kitzbuhel is not a resort destination.

Is Kitzbuhel or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Novalja is great for the beache. However, Kitzbuhel is not a beach destination.

Novalja is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Kitzbuhel is not a beach destination.

Is Kitzbuhel or Novalja Better for its Old Town?

Kitzbuhel is a great destination for its old town. However, Novalja does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Kitzbuhel. The town center is compact and charming with restaurants, churches, and shopping. It's the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Novalja does not have a historic old town.

Is Kitzbuhel or Novalja Better for Hiking?

Kitzbuhel is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Novalja is not a hiking destination.

People visit Kitzbuhel specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. During the summer months the area is filled with miles of stunning hikes. There's the famous Kitzbüheler Horn, as well as more relaxing mountain strolls. You'll enjoy breathtaking views and serene mountain pastures.

Novalja is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kitzbuhel or Novalja?

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

Kitzbuhel offers some nice shopping areas. The village offers a mix of international and local brands. There's everything from fashion and jewelry to sporting goods and local foods.

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 Kitzbuhel or Novalja Better for Families?

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

Kitzbuhel is a very kid-friendly ski resort. This is a family-friendly ski area that has child care available in several places as well as kids slopes and other family friendly things to do. During the summer months there's hiking, biking, and other outdoor adventure activities.

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 Kitzbuhel or Novalja Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Kitzbuhel frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy skiing, winter sports, and other outdoor adventures will truly appreciate a visit. It makes for an adrenaline filled holiday that is both romantic and fun.

Novalja is a good ski resort 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 Kitzbuhel or Novalja Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Novalja is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kitzbuhel is not as popular, but is still a nice ski resort for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Novalja is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Kitzbuhel is a very popular ski resort for backpackers and budget travelers. There are several hostels near town that cater to the budget crowd. There's also a large number of skiing and sport enthusiasts so its not hard to meet other likeminded travelers.

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

Kitzbuhel and Novalja both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Kitzbuhel offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses that connect the town to other nearby villages. During the winter months are are ski buses that take skiers to the ski areas.

Novalja has a few public transit options. There are local buses around the island or you can rent a personal vehicle like a motorbike or scooter.

Is Kitzbuhel or Novalja a more walkable city?

Kitzbuhel is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Kitzbuhel is a very walkable ski resort. The town is small and compact enough to explore on foot.

Novalja is a somewhat walkable ski resort. 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 Kitzbuhel Worth Visiting? and Is Novalja Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Novalja or Kitzbuhel?

How long in Kitzbuhel or Novalja?

It's fun to spend time in either Kitzbuhel or Novalja. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kitzbuhel due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Kitzbuhel, and 2-4 days is enough time in Novalja.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kitzbuhel than Novalja 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 Kitzbuhel.

One day in Kitzbuhel or Novalja?

Kitzbuhel is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This ski resort offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find nightlife around the town of Novalja. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Kitzbuhel or Novalja?

Kitzbuhel might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find nightlife around the wild destination of Novalja. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Five days in Kitzbuhel or Novalja?

Kitzbuhel is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kitzbuhel has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the backpacker-filled town of Novalja. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kitzbuhel or Novalja?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kitzbuhel. Kitzbuhel is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Novalja is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Kitzbuhel or Novalja?

Kitzbuhel has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Novalja. When comparing the sizes of Kitzbuhel 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.