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

Should you visit Rouen or Dubrovnik?

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

Should I visit Rouen or Dubrovnik? 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.

Rouen

Rouen is a charming, compact, and impressive city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a charming, famous, and cultural coastal town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Rouen and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rouen or Dubrovnik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Rouen and Dubrovnik are both popular with visitors, Dubrovnik has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Rouen and is popular 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 home to The Old Town Walls. Rouen is popular for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture.

How is Rouen different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dubrovnik is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Dubrovnik offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

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

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Dubrovnik is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Rouen has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

Is Rouen or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are good in both Rouen and Dubrovnik.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

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.

Is Rouen or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubrovnik is notable for its resorts. However, Rouen is not a resort destination.

Dubrovnik is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Rouen is not a resort destination.

Is Rouen or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is a moderate coastal town for its diving and snorkeling. However, Rouen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option 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.

Rouen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rouen or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Dubrovnik is a popular place for the beache. However, Rouen is not a beach destination.

Dubrovnik is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Rouen is not a beach destination.

Is Rouen or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Dubrovnik is revered around 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.

Rouen has an old town worth visiting. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

Is Rouen or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Rouen is not a hiking destination.

Dubrovnik is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Rouen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rouen or Dubrovnik?

Both Rouen and Dubrovnik are good shopping destinations.

Rouen offers some nice shopping areas. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

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.

Is Rouen or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Dubrovnik is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Dubrovnik is a very kid-friendly coastal town. 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.

Rouen is a family-friendly city. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.

Is Rouen or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Dubrovnik makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Rouen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

Is Rouen or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

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

Rouen is a great city 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.

The public transit in Rouen can get you to most places easily. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to town.

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

Is Rouen or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Rouen is a very walkable destination. There are many parts of town that can easily be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Rouen?

How long in Rouen or Dubrovnik?

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

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Rouen. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rouen 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 coastal 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 Rouen or Dubrovnik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Rouen. 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 Rouen or Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the impressive city of Rouen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Rouen or Dubrovnik?

Rouen 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Rouen and Dubrovnik, we can see that Rouen is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Rouen or Dubrovnik?

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

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 Rouen or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Rouen as well as Dubrovnik. The summer months attract visitors to Rouen because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

In the summer, Rouen is cooler than Dubrovnik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Rouen in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Rouen usually gets more rain in July than Dubrovnik. Rouen gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rouen or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

Both Dubrovnik and Rouen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Rouen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Rouen is generally much colder than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Rouen average around 12°C (53°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In October, Rouen usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Rouen gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rouen or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

Both Dubrovnik and Rouen during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Rouen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Rouen. Rouen is much colder than Dubrovnik in the winter. The daily temperature in Rouen averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Rouen usually gets less rain in January than Dubrovnik. Rouen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rouen or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Rouen and Dubrovnik. Many visitors come to Rouen in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Rouen is much colder than Dubrovnik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Rouen in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 14°C (57°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Rouen usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Rouen gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Rouen