A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sestri Levante vs. Dubrovnik for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Resorts

Should you visit Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a scenic, local, and quaint seaside town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food and beaches.

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.

Sestri Levante and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Sestri Levante and Dubrovnik are popular destinations, Dubrovnik has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubrovnik is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Sestri Levante attracts visitors for its small town charm. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Sestri Levante 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. It is also well known for The Old Town Walls. Sestri Levante is famous for its two bays and coastal setting.

How is Sestri Levante different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik?

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is great for its historical sights. However, Sestri Levante does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Sestri Levante does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Dubrovnik have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sestri Levante makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many restaurants along the central road in the old town, Via XXV Aprile. Seafood is popular, as are many other Italian favorites. If you're visiting during the summer months then it's best to make reservations as wait times can be long.

Is Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a coastal town with good options for its evening party scene. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Dubrovnik has a few options to choose from. 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.

People don't go to Sestri Levante for the nightlife. There are a few places to grab a drink, but if you're looking for nightlife, you'll really need to head out of town.

Is Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its resorts.

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.

Sestri Levante has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a number of hotels in the old town or by the beach. You'll also find a decent selection of vacation rentals. During peak season you'll want to make your reservations early.


Is Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Both Sestri Levante and Dubrovnik are considered to be nice beach destinations.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Sestri Levante. Home to two beaches, this makes a nice holiday spot if you're hoping to relax by the water. The beaches can get crowded with Italians during the summer months, but it still offers a charming seaside spot. Many people head to the beach by the the Bay of Silence in part because it's free. Make sure you arrive early. By the Bay of Fairytales you can rent chairs and umbrellas and enjoy a little more space.

Dubrovnik offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Is Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante does not have a historic old town.


Is Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is great for hiking. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik?

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a coastal town with good options for its shopping areas. However, Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town 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.

Sestri Levante is a family-friendly place to visit. This is a great spot for families that want a relaxing holiday with a small town vibe. The picturesque setting is said to have inspired fairytales, and today kids will enjoy playing on the playgrounds or exploring at the adventure park. There are also hikes, activities, and restaurants that are great for kids and adults alike.


Is Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is renowned for couples. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town 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.

Sestri Levante is a nice destination for couples. This scenic setting offers a relaxing holiday for couples who want to enjoy quiet time together. There are plenty of outdoor activities and a cultural town with a lot of beauty to explore. It's one of the lesser known destinations in the area, so you will have a peaceful small town vibe that's great for a romantic getaway.

Is Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination 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.

Sestri Levante is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some dorm rooms in town, but most backpackers head to one of the more well known destinations in the area. The atmosphere and history makes for a unique experience for those who do make the trip.

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

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Sestri Levante and Dubrovnik both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Sestri Levante offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town can be explored on foot and there are buses and trains that can be used for day trips.

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


Is Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Sestri Levante
Dubrovnik

Sestri Levante and Dubrovnik are terrific when it comes to walkability.

Sestri Levante is a very easy seaside town to get around on foot. There are pedestrian promenades and charming streets through town that are best explored on foot.

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 Sestri Levante Worth Visiting? and Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Sestri Levante?

How long in Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik?

In either Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Sestri Levante because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Sestri Levante, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

Families should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante 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.


  • How many days in Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sestri Levante 1-3 
    Dubrovnik 1-5

One day in Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik?

Even though Sestri Levante is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sestri Levante has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Dubrovnik, you'll find museums and nightlife. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik?

Sestri Levante is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this seaside town has to offer. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Dubrovnik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik?

Sestri Levante is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubrovnik. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik?

Sestri Levante 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint coastal town of Dubrovnik. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, The Best Historical Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Dubrovnik or Sestri Levante?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Sestri Levante is €143, while the average daily cost in Dubrovnik is €98. 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 Sestri Levante and Dubrovnik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sestri Levante 75
    Dubrovnik 50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sestri Levante 150
    Dubrovnik 100
Compare Hotels in Sestri Levante and Dubrovnik

Looking for a hotel in Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik? 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 Sestri Levante


Hotels in Dubrovnik


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: Sestri Levante Hotel Prices and Dubrovnik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sestri Levante 56
    Dubrovnik 12

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Dubrovnik

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Dubrovnik:


  • Bus Around Town
    1.44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dubrovnik

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

  • Private Transfer from Dubrovnik to Split up to 8 people: $630
  • From Split or Trogir: Private Transfer to Dubrovnik City: $597
  • Private Transfer from Dubrovnik to Sarajevo: $567
  • Private Transfer from Dubrovnik to Podgorica: $551
  • Private Transfer to Split with Oyster Tasting: $543
  • Private transfer from Split to Dubrovnik - door to door: $543
  • From Private transfer to Split with stop in Ston: $528
  • Dubrovnik to Split 1-Way Private Transfer: $458
  • Private Transfer from Dubrovnik to Mostar: $458
  • Private Transfer from Dubrovnik to Budva: $397
  • Private Transfer to Dubrovnik from Split with stop options: $380
  • One Way Private Transfer from Dubrovnik to Split: $378

Is it cheaper to fly into Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik?

Prices for flights to both Dubrovnik and Sestri Levante 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
    Sestri Levante 34
    Dubrovnik 33

Typical Food Prices in Dubrovnik

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


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2)
    29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dubrovnik

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

  • Sunset Dinner Cruise around the Old Town: $81
  • Food Tour: Taste Dubrovnik: $98
  • Secrets of traditional Dalmatian cuisine with a cooking class: $129
  • Old Town Food Tour: $146
  • Dubrovnik Old Town Food Tour: Small-Group Experience: $149
  • Cooking Classes Traditional Meals of Konavle region: $180
  • 3 Hour Sites and Bites Food Tour in Dubrovnik: $194
  • Traditional Dalmatian Cooking Class from Dubrovnik: $201
  • Traditional Cooking Class in Dubrovnik Countryside: $204
  • Pelješac Full-Day Wine and Food Tour from Dubrovnik: $212
  • Private Dinner with Wine and Homemade Tapas: $217
  • Dubrovnik Food Tour with Friendly Local Guide: $229

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sestri Levante 25
    Dubrovnik 19

Tours and Activities in Sestri Levante

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

  • Punta Manara Hiking Tour: $510

Typical Entertainment Prices in Dubrovnik

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


  • Boat to Lokrum Island (for 2)
    13
  • Dubrovnik City Wall Tour (for 2)
    53
  • Dubrovnik Cable Car (for 2)
    45

Tours and Activities in Dubrovnik

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

  • MONTENEGRO TOUR from Dubrovnik: $105
  • Magical Sunset Tour by CRUISER TAXI DUBROVNIK: $50
  • Montenegro Bay Cruise with Lunch on the Boat from Koločep: $112
  • 'Game of Thrones' Walking Tour in Dubrovnik: $58
  • 1 Hour Sightseeing Tour in Dubrovnik : $106
  • 1.5-Hour Walking Tour of Dubrovnik's Old Town: $21
  • 2 Hours Private Dubrovnik City Walls Walking Tour : $152
  • 2-Hour Dubrovnik Fun and Exciting Jet Ski Safari Adventure Tour: $138
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour in Mlini: $22
  • 3-Hour Dubrovnik Countryside ATV/Quad Safari Adventure Tour: $109
  • 3-Hour Private Fort Lovrijenac and City Walls Tour with a Local Guide: $44
  • 4 Hours Caves, Snorkeling and Swimming Tour in Dubrovnik: $86

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sestri Levante 7.86
    Dubrovnik 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Dubrovnik

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dubrovnik:

  • Columbo Pub Crawl Dubrovnik: $55
  • Day Tour of Korcula Island from Dubrovnik with Wine Tasting: $71
  • Day trip to Korčula and Pelješac with Wine Tasting: $76
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting with Snacks and Ston Place Visit: $76
  • Ston and Korcula Island Day Trip from Dubrovnik with Wine Tasting: $76
  • Interactive Wine Tour: $81
  • Luxury Sunset Tour with Wine Tasting: $83
  • Korcula & Peljesac Wine Tasting Group Tour from Dubrovnik: $85
  • Full Day Korcula and Peljesac Wine Tasting Tour in Dubrovnik: $86
  • Day trip to Korčula and Pelješac with Wine Tasting from Koločep: $87
  • 2-Hour Kayaking at Sunset with Wine Tasting and Appetizers: $94
  • Dubrovnik Kayak Tour + Gourmet Snack + Wine Tasting (Small-Group): $97


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


Which is Bigger, Sestri Levante or Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik has a larger population, and is about 49% larger than the population of Sestri Levante. When comparing the sizes of Sestri Levante 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.