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

Should you visit Milan or Dubrovnik?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Milan and Dubrovnik can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Milan

Milan is a chic, cultural, and trendy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a coastal, historic, and charming 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.

Milan and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Milan or Dubrovnik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Milan. Although Milan and Dubrovnik are popular destinations, Milan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Milan is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Dubrovnik attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Milan 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. Milan is famous for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also well known for Piazza del Duomo.

How is Milan different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Dubrovnik and Milan.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

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.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Milan and Dubrovnik can be difficult as they are each terrific in their own way.

Many restaurants in Milan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

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.

Is Milan or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Milan is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for nightlife.

Milan is a world class party destination. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

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 Milan or Dubrovnik Better for Music?

Milan is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Dubrovnik is not a live music destination.

Milan has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Dubrovnik is not a live music destination.

Is Milan or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubrovnik is great for its luxury resorts. However, Milan is not a resort destination.

In Dubrovnik, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Milan is not a resort destination.

Is Milan or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Milan or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Dubrovnik is a coastal town with good options for the beach. However, Milan is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Dubrovnik. 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.

Milan is not a beach destination.

Is Milan or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Both Milan and Dubrovnik have terrific historic old towns worth visiting.

Milan offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

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 Milan or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is great for hiking. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Milan or Dubrovnik?

Milan is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for shopping.

Many people travel to Milan specifically to go shopping. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

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 Milan or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Dubrovnik is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Milan or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

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

Dubrovnik is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Is Milan or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Milan or Dubrovnik Better for Students?

Milan is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Milan. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

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

Milan is a must-visit destination 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.

Milan has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

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

Is Milan or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Milan and Dubrovnik are terrific when it comes to walkability.

Milan is a very easy city to get around on foot. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Milan?

How long in Milan or Dubrovnik?

In either Milan or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Dubrovnik has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Dubrovnik than Milan. However, 1-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Milan. 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 Milan. 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 Milan 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 Milan or Dubrovnik?

People visit Milan because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Milan has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Milan or Dubrovnik?

People visit Milan because there is so much to do. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubrovnik. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Milan or Dubrovnik?

People visit Milan because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Dubrovnik is a fun place to experience. In Dubrovnik, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this quaint destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Milan or Dubrovnik?

Milan 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Dubrovnik. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, 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 Milan and Dubrovnik, we can see that Milan 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 Milan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Milan 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 Milan Expensive? and Is Dubrovnik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Milan or Dubrovnik?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Milan 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 Milan 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 Milan or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

Both Dubrovnik and Milan are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Milan for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Milan is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the summer. The daily temperature in Milan averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In July, Milan usually receives more rain than Dubrovnik. Milan gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Milan or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

Both Dubrovnik and Milan during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Milan in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Milan is cooler than Dubrovnik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Milan in October average around 15°C (58°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Milan. Milan usually gets less rain in October than Dubrovnik. Milan gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milan or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Milan and Dubrovnik. Most visitors come to Milan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Milan can be very cold during winter. In January, Milan is generally much colder than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Milan average around 5°C (41°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Milan usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Milan gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Milan or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Milan as well as Dubrovnik. The spring months attract visitors to Milan because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

Milan is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the spring. The daily temperature in Milan averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Milan usually gets less rain in April than Dubrovnik. Milan gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Milan