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

Should you visit Paris or Novalja?

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

Should I visit Paris 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.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, 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.

Paris and Novalja: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Eiffel Tower
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Paris or Novalja?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris. Although Paris and Novalja are popular destinations, Paris has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paris is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Novalja attracts visitors for its resorts and beaches. Paris is more touristy than Novalja and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Novalja is famous for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd.

The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paris
Novalja

Paris is very popular for its museums and landmarks. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Paris are among the most recognizable in the world. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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 Paris or Novalja Better for Theater?

Paris
Novalja

Paris is very popular for its theatre productions. However, Novalja is not a theatre destination.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Novalja is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Paris or Novalja? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paris
Novalja

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

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris or Novalja Better for Nightlife?

Paris
Novalja

The vibe at night is first-rate in both Paris and Novalja.

Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

Novalja is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.


Is Paris or Novalja Better for Music?

Paris
Novalja

Paris is very popular for its live music scene. However, Novalja is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Paris Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Novalja is not a live music destination.

Is Paris or Novalja Better for Resorts?

Paris
Novalja

Novalja is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a resort destination.

Is Paris or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Paris
Novalja

Novalja is great for its beaches. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Novalja?

Paris
Novalja

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

The abundance of shops in Paris make it a world-class shopping destination. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris or Novalja Better for Christmas?

Paris
Novalja

Paris is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Novalja does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a world class destination for shoppers. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Novalja does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or Novalja Better for Families?

Paris
Novalja

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paris is a very family-friendly destination. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris or Novalja Better for Couples?

Paris
Novalja

Paris is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Paris makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Novalja is a good city 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 Paris or Novalja Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris
Novalja

For backpackers, both Paris and Novalja are first-rate places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Is Paris or Novalja Better for Students?

Paris
Novalja

Paris is very popular for students. However, Novalja is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Novalja is not popular with students.


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

Paris
Novalja

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

Paris has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris or Novalja a more walkable city?

Paris
Novalja

Paris 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.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

Novalja is a somewhat walkable city. 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 Paris Worth Visiting? and Is Novalja Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Novalja or Paris?

How long in Paris or Novalja?

It's fun to spend time in either Paris or Novalja. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Paris due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Paris, and 2-4 days is enough time in Novalja.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris 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 Paris.


  • How many days in Paris or Novalja? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paris 3-7 
    Novalja 2-4

One day in Paris or Novalja?

Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Novalja, many people enjoy the nightlife that this wild destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Paris or Novalja?

Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Novalja. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Paris or Novalja?

Paris is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paris has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Novalja is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Novalja. Lots of people come for the nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paris or Novalja?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. Because Paris is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

You'll find nightlife around the energetic destination of Novalja. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Novalja or Paris?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Paris is €232, 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 Paris and Novalja in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paris 151
    Novalja 31
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paris 302
    Novalja 62
Compare Hotels in Paris and Novalja

Looking for a hotel in Paris 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 Paris


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: Paris Hotel Prices and Novalja Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paris 21
    Novalja 12
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:


  • Metro
    6.40
  • Train from Airport
    9.00
  • Metro tickets
    6.80
  • Train
    20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paris

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

  • Bus Transfer : Paris to the Palace of Versailles Round-Trip : $44
  • Disneyland Private Transfer - Luxury Minivan Service: $185
  • Private Roundtrip Airport Transfer for 1 to 3 Persons in Paris: $196
  • Private transfer from Beauvais airport to Paris or back: $268
  • Airport Transfer Service Shuttle Disneyland Paris Taxi: $120
  • Airport Transfer: Paris Airport CDG to Paris City by Business Car: $101
  • Airport Transfer: Paris Airport CDG to Paris City by Luxury EQS: $142
  • Airport Transfer: Paris City to Paris Airport CDG by Luxury EQS: $143
  • Airport transfer from Paris to Disneyland Paris/Parc Asterix (8pax): $185
  • Arrival Private Transfer Paris Airport CDG to Paris by Sedan : $87
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Airport Charles de Gaulle OR Orly TO La Defense: $23
  • Arrival Transfer CDG or ORY Airport to Disneyland París by Van: $126

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 Paris or Novalja?

Prices for flights to both Novalja and Paris 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
    Paris 41
    Novalja 20
Typical Food Prices in Paris

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


  • Ice Cream
    8.00
  • Breakfast
    7.00
  • Breakfast for 2
    30
  • Dinner on River Cruise
    86
  • Dinner
    57
  • Cheese
    13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paris

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

  • 1h30 Cooking Activity in English: $22
  • Hard Rock Cafe Paris with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner : $33
  • Paris Capitaine Fracasse 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $44
  • No Diet Club - A selection of the best pizzas in Paris !: $45
  • Authentic Indian Dinner in Paris : $49
  • Paris : Seine River Bistronomic Dinner Cruise: $52
  • Seine River Panoramic Views Dinner Cruise: $56
  • Paris en Scene 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $58
  • No Diet Club - Paris : Night food tour - Montmartre: $67
  • 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise with Bistro Dinner: $68
  • Paris : No Diet Club Food Tour - Best Spots in Le Marais: $68
  • Dinner with Customized Wine Selection: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paris 77
    Novalja 6.07
Typical Entertainment Prices in Paris

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


  • Louvre Entry for Two
    18
  • Admission to Pantheon
    5.00
  • Catacombs (2)
    23

Tours and Activities in Paris

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

  • Free Walking Tour of Montmartre: $2.14
  • Montmartre Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt Tour: $3.21
  • Montmartre Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $3.26
  • Self Guided Tours in Paris with 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.26
  • Marais Walk Self Guided Audio Tour: $4.35
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $5.35
  • Père-Lachaise Cemetery audio guide tour: $5.35
  • Private Self-guided Audio Tour of the Eiffel Tower: $5.45
  • Self-Guided Tour - Père Lachaise Cemetery Audioguide, Paris: $5.45
  • Self Guided Latin Quarter Audio Tour in Paris: $5.45
  • Private Self Guided Walking Tour in Montmartre Paris: $5.46
  • Kid-Friendly Marais: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.49

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
    Paris 24
    Novalja 7.27
Typical Alcohol Prices in Paris

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:


  • Wine
    14

Sample the Local Flavors in Paris

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:

  • Daily Paris Pub Crawl : Meet, Drink & Party: $11
  • Original Paris Pub Crawl : $16
  • Daily Paris Pub Crawl : Meet, Drink & Party: $20
  • Latin Quarter Guided Pub Crawl to Bars and Clubs: $22
  • Paris Bar Crawl: $24
  • Paris Latin Quarter Pub Crawl Bars and Clubs: $24
  • Paris Pub Crawl: $25
  • Audio guided tour and wine tasting at Caves du Louvre: $32
  • Paris Craft gin distillery guided Tour & Tasting in English: $32
  • Paris Gin Craft Distillery Tour and Tasting: $33
  • Wine Museum Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $39
  • Vineyard tour and wine tasting in Davron: $43


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


Which is Bigger, Paris or Novalja?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 1020 times larger than the population of Novalja. When comparing the sizes of Paris 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.