A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pompeii vs. Dubrovnik for Attractions, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Pompeii or Dubrovnik?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Pompeii and Dubrovnik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a one-of-a-kind, ancient, and famous archeological site. It's also popular because of the museums.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a famous, cultural, and coastal coastal town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Pompeii and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pompeii or Dubrovnik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Pompeii and Dubrovnik are popular destinations, Dubrovnik has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubrovnik is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Pompeii attracts visitors for its museums. Pompeii is famous for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Dubrovnik is famous 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. It is also well known for The Old Town Walls.

How is Pompeii different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pompeii is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Pompeii has many famous sights for visitors. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

Many visitors head to Dubrovnik specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Pompeii or Dubrovnik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dubrovnik is renowned for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Dubrovnik has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Pompeii or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Dubrovnik is very good for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Pompeii or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubrovnik is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Pompeii is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Dubrovnik. 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.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.

Is Pompeii or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to 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.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pompeii or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Dubrovnik is very good for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Dubrovnik to enjoy the beach. 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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Pompeii or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Dubrovnik is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is Pompeii or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dubrovnik. 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.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pompeii or Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik is very good for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

Dubrovnik has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Pompeii or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Pompeii or Dubrovnik.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pompeii. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Dubrovnik is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Pompeii or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Dubrovnik is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Dubrovnik 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Pompeii or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Pompeii or Dubrovnik Better for Students?

Pompeii is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Pompeii. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Pompeii and Dubrovnik.

Pompeii has some public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

You'll find some public transit in Dubrovnik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Pompeii or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Pompeii and Dubrovnik are world-class when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Pompeii. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

Getting around Dubrovnik on foot is easy. 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 Pompeii Worth Visiting? and Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Pompeii?

How long in Pompeii or Dubrovnik?

In either Pompeii or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Pompeii because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Pompeii, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

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

You'll find museums around the archeological site of Pompeii. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pompeii has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dubrovnik, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This coastal town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Pompeii or Dubrovnik?

You'll find museums around the one-of-a-kind destination of Pompeii. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this archeological site has to offer. This archeological site offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Dubrovnik, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubrovnik has to offer.

Five days in Pompeii or Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the ancient archeological site of Pompeii. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Dubrovnik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dubrovnik has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Pompeii or Dubrovnik?

Pompeii is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubrovnik. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Dubrovnik. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Italy, The Best Walking 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 Pompeii and Dubrovnik, we can see that Pompeii 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 Pompeii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pompeii 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 Pompeii Expensive? and Is Dubrovnik Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Pompeii 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 Pompeii or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Pompeii and Dubrovnik. Most visitors come to Pompeii for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Pompeii is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the summer. The daily temperature in Pompeii averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In July, Pompeii usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dubrovnik. Pompeii gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pompeii or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Pompeii as well as Dubrovnik. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

In the autumn, Pompeii is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pompeii in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Pompeii usually gets less rain in October than Dubrovnik. Pompeii gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pompeii or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

Both Dubrovnik and Pompeii are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums are the main draw to Pompeii this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Pompeii is generally cooler than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Pompeii average around 8°C (47°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. It's quite rainy in Pompeii. In January, Pompeii usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Pompeii gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pompeii or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

Both Dubrovnik and Pompeii during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pompeii usually gets less rain in April than Dubrovnik. Pompeii gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Pompeii