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

Should you visit Leipzig or Novalja?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Leipzig or Novalja, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a dynamic, cultural, and historic city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Novalja

Novalja is a wild, energetic, and backpacker-filled town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife and beaches.

Leipzig and Novalja: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 shopping
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Leipzig or Novalja?

Both Novalja and Leipzig have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Leipzig is very popular for its museums, food, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Novalja attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and impressive beauty. Novalja is more touristy than Leipzig and is popular for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd. Leipzig is famous for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.

How is Leipzig different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Leipzig
Novalja

Leipzig is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Leipzig offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

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 Leipzig or Novalja? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Leipzig
Novalja

Leipzig is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

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 Leipzig or Novalja Better for Nightlife?

Leipzig
Novalja

Novalja is terrific for nightlife. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Leipzig. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Leipzig or Novalja Better for Resorts?

Leipzig
Novalja

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

Novalja has a few resort options worth checking out. 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.

Leipzig is not a resort destination.


Is Leipzig or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Leipzig
Novalja

Novalja is great for its beaches. However, Leipzig is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Novalja. 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.

Leipzig is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Leipzig or Novalja?

Leipzig
Novalja

Leipzig is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its shopping areas.

Leipzig is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

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 Leipzig or Novalja Better for Families?

Leipzig
Novalja

Leipzig is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Leipzig. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

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 Leipzig or Novalja Better for Couples?

Leipzig
Novalja

Leipzig and Novalja are both nice to visit as a couple.

Leipzig is a nice destination for couples. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

Novalja makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Leipzig or Novalja Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Leipzig
Novalja

Novalja is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Novalja. 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.

Leipzig is a good city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

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

Leipzig
Novalja

Leipzig is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Leipzig has some very good public transit options. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

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 Leipzig or Novalja a more walkable city?

Leipzig
Novalja

Leipzig and Novalja are nice when it comes to walkability.

Leipzig is somewhat walkable. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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 Leipzig Worth Visiting? and Is Novalja Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Novalja or Leipzig?

How long in Leipzig or Novalja?

It's fun to spend time in either Leipzig or Novalja. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Novalja due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Leipzig, and 2-4 days is enough time in Novalja.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Novalja than Leipzig 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 Leipzig or Novalja? Ideal Length of Stay
    Leipzig 1-3 
    Novalja 2-4

One day in Leipzig or Novalja?

In Leipzig, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Novalja, you'll find nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Leipzig or Novalja?

In Leipzig, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Leipzig has to offer.

In Novalja, you'll find nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Novalja has to offer.


Five days in Leipzig or Novalja?

Leipzig is a great place to explore. 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.

Novalja 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.

A week in Leipzig or Novalja?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Leipzig. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Leipzig. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Novalja. Many people enjoy the nightlife when visiting Novalja. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Germany, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Novalja or Leipzig?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Leipzig is €166, 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 Leipzig and Novalja in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Leipzig 91
    Novalja 31
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Leipzig 182
    Novalja 62
Compare Hotels in Leipzig and Novalja

Looking for a hotel in Leipzig 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 Leipzig


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: Leipzig Hotel Prices and Novalja Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Leipzig 27
    Novalja 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Leipzig

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

  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Novalja

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Novalja:

  • Zrce, Private Transfer to/from Zadar Airport: $170
  • Private Transfer from Crikvenica to Rijeka Airport (RJK): $74

Is it cheaper to fly into Leipzig or Novalja?

Prices for flights to both Novalja and Leipzig 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
    Leipzig 53
    Novalja 20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Leipzig

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

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Leipzig 36
    Novalja 6.07

Tours and Activities in Leipzig

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

  • Secrets of Old The Lost Treasure Adventure: $4.27
  • Leipzig's Communist Past: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of the City's Communist Past: $6.99
  • Historic Center Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.45
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Smartphone Scavenger Hunt Sighteeing Tour: $12
  • Old Town Guided Tour: $13
  • Guided Crime-Themed Walking Tour: $13
  • 1.5-Hour Historical Walking Tour in German: $14
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour - Explore Your Way: $14
  • 1.5-Hour Tour with Night Watchman Bremme: $15

Tours and Activities in Novalja

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

  • From Metajna/Pag Bay Guided Sea Kayaking Tour: $49
  • From Kolan Bike Tour: $47
  • From Svetojanj Bike Tour: $47
  • Kayak and Via Ferrata Adventure: $71
  • Bungee Tower Ticket with Zrce Beach Panoramic Views: $32
  • Glowing Standup Paddleboard Guided Night Tour: $58
  • Pag Island Light-Up Kayak Night Tour: $62
  • Standup Paddleboard Guided Tour: $47
  • Zrce Beach Bungee Jumping Experience: $74
  • Zrce Booze Cruise - Novalja Boat Party: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Leipzig 26
    Novalja 7.27


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


Which is Bigger, Leipzig or Novalja?

Leipzig has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of Novalja. When comparing the sizes of Leipzig 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.