A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Dusseldorf for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Saaremaa or Dusseldorf?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Dusseldorf, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a relaxed, traditional, and quiet island. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and beaches.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf is a vibrant, historic, and fun-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saaremaa and Dusseldorf: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Dusseldorf?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Dusseldorf than Saaremaa, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Dusseldorf is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Saaremaa is more popular for its beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Dusseldorf is more touristy than Saaremaa and is popular for its music and art scene, as well as being the fashion capital of Germany. Also, Dusseldorf is famous for Altstadt (the Old Town). Saaremaa is well known for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Dusseldorf?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saaremaa or Dusseldorf?

Dusseldorf is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dusseldorf. There are museums, palaces, and many cultural sights. Make sure you check out Schloss Benrath, the Rheinturm, the North Rhine-Westphalia Art Collection, and Museum Kunstpalast.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saaremaa or Dusseldorf? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saaremaa and Dusseldorf can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Saaremaa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Dusseldorf makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a mix of regional specialties and international restaurant options. Traditional dishes include Rheinischer Sauerbraten (Rhine style marinated roast), Haxe (shin), Flönz (blood sausage), and Ähzezupp (pea soup).

Is Saaremaa or Dusseldorf Better for Nightlife?

Dusseldorf is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Dusseldorf has a few options to choose from. You'll find the highest concentration of bars and pubs in the old town area. Try to find a brewerie where you can try Dusseldorf's famous altbier.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Dusseldorf Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa is a good destination for its beaches. However, Dusseldorf is not a beach destination.

Saaremaa offers a nice beach destination. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Dusseldorf is not a beach destination.

Is Saaremaa or Dusseldorf Better for its Old Town?

Dusseldorf is great for its historic old town charm. However, Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Dusseldorf to see the historical old town. The old town is popular for its bars and pubs, which serve up the local altbier. The atmosphere is charming and there are restaurants that spill out onto the streets.

Saaremaa does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Dusseldorf?

Dusseldorf is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Dusseldorf has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to the popular shopping street of Königsallee. You'll find luxury brands and boutique shops. The city also has department stores and large shopping malls.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Dusseldorf Better for Families?

Dusseldorf is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dusseldorf. It has many great playgrounds and parks where kids can run around. Animal lovers will appreciate Aquazoo Löbbecke Museum and Grafenberger Wald which has about 100 animals. If the weather's nice you can head to Unterbacher See, which is a lakefront beach. Other kid-friendly activities in town include the Neanderthal Museum and Museum Kunstpalast.

Saaremaa is a family-friendly place to visit. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

Is Saaremaa or Dusseldorf Better for Couples?

Saaremaa and Dusseldorf are both great to visit as a couple.

Saaremaa is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

Dusseldorf is a very popular place to visit for couples. There is live theater, spa hotels, historic palaces, and many parks and gardens where couples can enjoy their time together. Popular activities for couples in town include visiting Rheinturm, taking a Rhine River cruise, and exploring Schloss Dyck.

Is Saaremaa or Dusseldorf Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Saaremaa and Dusseldorf are notable places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Saaremaa. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

Dusseldorf is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels and activities around town. There are also affordable restaurants and a nice nightlife scene.

Is Saaremaa or Dusseldorf Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Dusseldorf is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Dusseldorf is top-notch. All of the public transportation in town is operated by Rheinbahn. There's a city railway, (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses. Dusseldorf is also easily connected to the many other nearby towns and cities including Cologne.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Dusseldorf a more walkable city?

Dusseldorf is great for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

Dusseldorf is a very walkable destination. It's easy to explore most of the city on foot.

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Saaremaa Worth Visiting? and Is Dusseldorf Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dusseldorf or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Dusseldorf?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saaremaa and Dusseldorf. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saaremaa than in Dusseldorf. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 2-3 days is enough time in Dusseldorf.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dusseldorf than Saaremaa 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 Dusseldorf.

One day in Saaremaa or Dusseldorf?

Saaremaa might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Dusseldorf offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Dusseldorf?

Even though Saaremaa is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Dusseldorf is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Dusseldorf, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Dusseldorf?

Saaremaa, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Dusseldorf is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Saaremaa or Dusseldorf?

Saaremaa is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Dusseldorf is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Dusseldorf?

Dusseldorf has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa and Dusseldorf, 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 Saaremaa or Dusseldorf?

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 Saaremaa or Dusseldorf in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Dusseldorf. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Dusseldorf in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Saaremaa is cooler than Dusseldorf. Typically, the summer temperatures in Saaremaa in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saaremaa this time of the year. In the summer, Saaremaa often gets more sunshine than Dusseldorf. Saaremaa gets 302 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 195 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in July than Dusseldorf. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Dusseldorf in the Autumn?

Both Dusseldorf and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Dusseldorf for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Saaremaa is generally cooler than Dusseldorf. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 8°C (47°F), and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Saaremaa usually receives less sunshine than Dusseldorf during autumn. Saaremaa gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 112 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saaremaa usually receives more rain than Dusseldorf. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Dusseldorf in the Winter?

Both Dusseldorf and Saaremaa during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Dusseldorf because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Dusseldorf can be very cold. Saaremaa can be very cold during winter. Saaremaa is much colder than Dusseldorf in the winter. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Dusseldorf fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Dusseldorf. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dusseldorf receives 45 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in January than Dusseldorf. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Dusseldorf in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Dusseldorf. The spring months attract visitors to Saaremaa because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Dusseldorf this time of year.

The weather in Saaremaa can be very cold. In the spring, Saaremaa is much colder than Dusseldorf. Typically, the spring temperatures in Saaremaa in April average around 4°C (38°F), and Dusseldorf averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Saaremaa usually receives more sunshine than Dusseldorf during spring. Saaremaa gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Dusseldorf receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Dusseldorf. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Dusseldorf receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dusseldorf and Saaremaa