A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisbon vs. Rijeka for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Lisbon or Rijeka?

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

Should I visit Lisbon or Rijeka? 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a coastal, accessible, and diverse town. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lisbon and Rijeka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Rijeka?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon than Rijeka. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Lisbon is more touristy than Rijeka and is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also well known for Castelo de São Jorge. Rijeka is famous for being a transportation hub in Croatia with a ferry and cruise ship port.

How is Lisbon different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lisbon or Rijeka?

Lisbon is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lisbon on the map. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

Rijeka is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Historical sights around town include Trsat Castle, the Petar Druzic Stairway, and Our Lady of Trsat. There are also museums such as PEEK&POKE Computer Museum and the Governor's Palace and Maritime and Historical Museum.

Is the Food Better in Lisbon or Rijeka? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Lisbon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Rijeka. It's known for its Mediterranean cuisine which includes more than seafood. There are local vegetable specialties in the area as well including asparagus and white truffles. Codfish stew and cuttlefish risotto are also popular.

Is Lisbon or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

Lisbon is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Lisbon is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Rijeka has a large number of nightlife venues. The city center has plenty of bars and clubs. Restaurants also stay open late and are popular places to hang out for locals and tourists alike.

Is Lisbon or Rijeka Better for Music?

Lisbon is renowned for its music scene. However, Rijeka is not a live music destination.

In Lisbon you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Rijeka is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Lisbon is very good for the beach. However, Rijeka is not a good town for its beaches.

Many people head to Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Rijeka is a good spot to see the beach. There are pebbly and gravelly beaches in the area, with the best beaches to the west of the city. You'll need to take a public bus to reach most of them.

Is Lisbon or Rijeka Better for its Old Town?

Lisbon is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Lisbon is one of the most recognized in the world. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Rijeka?

Lisbon is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Lisbon is a world class destination for shoppers. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Rijeka. There are many shopping centers, retail stores, and souvenir shops around town.

Is Lisbon or Rijeka Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Rijeka.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

Rijeka is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of outdoor activities for kids like nature parks and nearby beaches. There's also a puppet theater as well as the Astronomical Center of Rijeka.

Is Lisbon or Rijeka Better for Couples?

Lisbon is a well-known place for couples. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Lisbon is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Rijeka is a nice destination for couples. It's a gateway to the Croatian islands. Many couples enjoy walking down the waterfront promenade or dining at a nice local restaurant. There are also beaches, parks, and historical sights to explore.

Is Lisbon or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon is renowned for backpackers. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisbon is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

It's common for backpackers to visit Rijeka. There's no shortage of affordable hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Lisbon or Rijeka Better for Students?

Lisbon is a well-known place for students. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Lisbon is very popular with students. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Plenty of students visit Rijeka. It's a laid back seaside city that makes a nice semester abroad destination. As a gateway to the Croatian islands, it also offers transportation connections to other points of interest.

Is Lisbon or Rijeka Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lisbon is renowned for its public transit. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Lisbon has a great public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

Rijeka has some public transit options. KD Autrolej buses provide transit throughout the city.

Is Lisbon or Rijeka a more walkable city?

Lisbon is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Lisbon on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

Rijeka is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Rijeka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Rijeka?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lisbon or Rijeka to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lisbon than Rijeka because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Rijeka.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Rijeka 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Rijeka?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Rijeka. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Lisbon or Rijeka?

Lisbon is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Rijeka is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Rijeka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisbon. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rijeka. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Rijeka?

Lisbon is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal destination of Rijeka. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best Adventure Tours to Croatia, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisbon and Rijeka, we can see that Lisbon is more expensive. And not only is Rijeka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rijeka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rijeka 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 Lisbon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisbon than you might in Rijeka.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Rijeka?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Rijeka. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon and Rijeka, 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 Lisbon or Rijeka?

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 Lisbon or Rijeka in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Rijeka. The beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Rijeka for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Rijeka in the summer. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Rijeka fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rijeka. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the summer, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 288 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Rijeka. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Rijeka in the Autumn?

Both Rijeka and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rijeka in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Lisbon is a little warmer than Rijeka. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lisbon in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Rijeka averages at about 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Rijeka during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Rijeka in the Winter?

Both Rijeka and Lisbon during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rijeka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Lisbon is generally much warmer than Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 12°C (53°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 96 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Rijeka. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Rijeka in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Rijeka. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Rijeka because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Lisbon is a little warmer than Rijeka in the spring. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Rijeka fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Rijeka during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Lisbon