A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Taupo vs. Dubrovnik for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Taupo or Dubrovnik?

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

Should I visit Taupo 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.

Taupo

Taupo is a otherworldly, striking, and stunning town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Taupo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping. See Taupo travel costs.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a charming, famous, and cultural coastal town. The famous beauty of Dubrovnik is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Dubrovnik travel costs.

Taupo and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less charming
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Taupo or Dubrovnik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Taupo and Dubrovnik are both popular with visitors, Dubrovnik has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dubrovnik is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Taupo is known for its skiing and small town charm. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Taupo 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. Taupo is popular for its thermal hot springs, dramatic landscapes, and world class hikes.

How is Taupo different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Taupo or Dubrovnik Better for Skiing?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

Taupo is a must-visit destination for skiing. However, Dubrovnik is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Taupo should be on your list. Nearby Mount Ruapehu offers access to the longest running ski season in both Australia and New Zealand. From June until October you can enjoy the largest commercial ski areas around. There are options for everyone from young beginners to experts. The two main ski resorts in the area are Whakapapa Ski Area and Tūroa Ski Area.

Dubrovnik is not a skiing destination.


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

Taupo
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Taupo is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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 to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Taupo. Stunning natural beauty and adventure-filled activities are what Taupo is all about, but you won't find much in the form of museums.

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

Taupo
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Taupo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is filled with local restaurants that make use of local ingredients such as fresh caught trout, local produce, and wild game. The town also has many farmers markets and a strong cafe culture.

Is Taupo or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

It's hard to distinguish whether Taupo or Dubrovnik has a better nightlife scene.

Taupo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a small resort town that is active during the day and night. There are low key activities in the evening like soaking in the thermal hot pools or grabbing a drink at a bar.

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.


Is Taupo or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a great destination for its resorts. However, Taupo 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.

Taupo is not a resort destination.

Is Taupo or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a coastal town with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Taupo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Dubrovnik has a few snorkeling spots. 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.

Taupo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Taupo or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a popular place for the beach. However, Taupo 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.

Taupo is not a beach destination.


Is Taupo or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Taupo does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Dubrovnik can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Taupo does not have a historic old town.

Is Taupo or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

If you're looking to go hiking, Taupo and Dubrovnik both have high quality trails.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Taupo. The area is filled with beautiful hikes that take you through the natural beauty. During the fall season you can enjoy the fall foliage and during the summer months the wildlife and waterfront setting is at a peak.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Taupo or Dubrovnik?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

Shopping is a popular activity in both Dubrovnik and Taupo.

Taupo offers some nice shopping areas. The lakefront town has a nice, pedestrian-friendly stretch with boutique shops, fashion outlets, and souvenir 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 Taupo or Dubrovnik More Beautiful?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Dubrovnik is one of the main draws. This historic city has a famous walled old town. It sits beautifully along the coast and offers stunning views of the area.

Taupo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Set against the lake, there is stunning natural beauty in the area and many breathtaking views.

Is Taupo or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

Taupo is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Taupo is a very family-friendly destination. Set on the edge of Lake Taupo, there are many family-friendly activities in the area like swimming, boating, and hiking. There are also thermal hot springs and in the winter months skiing. Families who enjoy outdoor adventures will find no shortage of options year round.

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 Taupo or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

With fun activities for couples, both Taupo and Dubrovnik make for a first-rate place to visit.

Taupo makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Honeymooners and couples who enjoy romantic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this area. You can soak in thermal hot springs and picnic next to beautiful waterfalls. There are also breathtaking hikes and great water activities.

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.


Is Taupo or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

Taupo and Dubrovnik are first-rate places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Taupo. There's plenty of backpacker and hostel accommodation in the area. There are also free outdoor activities and adrenaline-filled adventures that backpackers will enjoy.

A large number of backpackers visit Dubrovnik, as it is a very popular 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.

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

Taupo
Dubrovnik

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Taupo and Dubrovnik.

You'll find some public transit in Taupo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local bus service, the Taupo Connector, that travels around the town center. If you want to get outside of town, you'll need to have a car.

While Dubrovnik offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are 12 bus lines that connect all parts of the city with the city center.

Is Taupo or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Taupo
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Taupo is a somewhat walkable town. The town is fairly compact, but if you want to efficiently get around and experience everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.


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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Taupo?

How long in Taupo or Dubrovnik?

In either Taupo or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubrovnik than Taupo because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Taupo, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

Families should spend more time in Dubrovnik than Taupo. 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 Taupo. 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 Taupo 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 Taupo or Dubrovnik? Ideal Length of Stay
    Taupo 2-3 
    Dubrovnik 1-5

One day in Taupo or Dubrovnik?

You'll find food and shopping around the town of Taupo. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. 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 Taupo or Dubrovnik?

You'll find shopping and skiing around the otherworldly destination of Taupo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town 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 Taupo or Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the stunning town of Taupo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the skiing. 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 Taupo or Dubrovnik?

Taupo is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 famous 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 G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Dubrovnik or Taupo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Taupo is $128, while the average daily cost in Dubrovnik is $142. 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 Taupo and Dubrovnik in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Taupo $62
    Dubrovnik $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Taupo $124
    Dubrovnik $118
Compare Hotels in Taupo and Dubrovnik

Looking for a hotel in Taupo 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 Taupo


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: Taupo Hotel Prices and Dubrovnik Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Taupo $25
    Dubrovnik $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taupo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Taupo:

  • Tongariro Crossing : 2 Day PRIVATE TRANSFER Leaving AUCKLAND: $1,101

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Dubrovnik

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


  • Bus Around Town
    $1.67

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dubrovnik

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

  • Private Transfer: Dubrovnik City to Dubrovnik Airport: $52
  • Airport Private Transfer Dubrovnik: $69
  • Airport Transfer Dubrovnik Town to Herceg Novi / Portonovi: $275
  • Airport Transfer Dubrovnik to Herceg Novi / Portonovi: $286
  • Airport Transfer: Dubrovnik Airport DBV to Dubrovnik by MB Van: $62
  • Airport Transfer: Dubrovnik to Dubrovnik Airport DBV by MB Van: $66
  • Arrival Private Transfer Dubrovnik Airport DBV to Dubrovnik City by Business Car: $45
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Dubrovnik Airport DBV to Dubrovnik City by Minivan: $65
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport DBV to Dubrovnik by Luxury Van: $59
  • Budva to Dubrovnik one way transfer: $222
  • Bus transfer between Dubrovnik and Herceg Novi: $34
  • Departure Private Transfer from Dubrovnik City to Dubrovnik Airport by Minivan: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Taupo or Dubrovnik?

Prices for flights to both Dubrovnik and Taupo 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
    Taupo $41
    Dubrovnik $67

Typical Food Prices in Dubrovnik

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


  • Seafood Dinner (for 2)
    $34

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: $82
  • Gastro Cruise | Dinner and Boat ride around Dubrovnik Old Town: $93
  • Dinner in the Sky Dubrovnik - Dine 50m above ground: $101
  • Dinner in the Sky Dubrovnik: $114
  • Secret Food Tours in Dubrovnik: $118
  • Secrets of traditional Dalmatian cuisine with a cooking class: $140
  • Croatian Traditional Cuisine: Peka Cooking Lesson: $143
  • Old Town Food Tour: $157
  • Dubrovnik Old Town Food Tour: Small-Group Experience: $168
  • Eat Like A Local On A Food Tour: $180
  • Authentic Garden to Table Cooking Class in Dubrovnik Countryside : $208
  • Konavle Wine& History&food Tour: $226

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Taupo $34
    Dubrovnik $22
Typical Entertainment Prices in Taupo

Here are a few typical costs in Taupo for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Bungy Jumping
    $151
  • Jet Boating
    $56

Tours and Activities in Taupo

Here are a few actual costs in Taupo for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Chasing Waterfalls The Adventurer from Kinloch Marina: $161
  • Daily Scenic Maori Rock Carving Cruise Taupo: $35
  • Escape Room Experience Taupo - The Candy Cottage: $22
  • Escape Room Experience Taupo - The Cursed Cabin: $22
  • Escape Room Experience Taupo - The Hunting Lodge: $22
  • Escape Room Experience Taupo - The Marvelous Circus: $22
  • Great Lake Trail Lake Taupo 2-Day Mountain Biking Tour: $95
  • Lake 1.5-Hour Maori Rock Carvings 5:00 PM Cruise: $34
  • Lake Maori Rock Carvings 10.30 AM 1.5-Hour Cruise: $34
  • Lake Maori Rock Carvings 8.30 AM 1.5-Hour Cruise: $34
  • Lake Taupō Māori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise aboard Ernest Kemp: $30
  • Maori Rock Carvings - Taupo Sailing Adventures - Kindred Spirit: $35

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)
    $16
  • Dubrovnik City Wall Tour (for 2)
    $62
  • Dubrovnik Cable Car (for 2)
    $53

Tours and Activities in Dubrovnik

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

  • Selfguide® Secrets Tour Dubrovnik with Game of Thrones Spots: $3.57
  • Self Guided Private Tour of Dubrovnik's Best Kept Secrets: $3.58
  • Time Traveler’s Trail: Self-Guided Puzzle Adventure in Dubrovnik: $5.99
  • Dubrovnik Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $6.67
  • Dubrovnik Old Town Walking Tour with Audioguide: $8.34
  • Old Town Highlights Tour with Audio Guide: $9.36
  • Love Stories Museum Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket: $11
  • Red History Museum Regular Ticket: $11
  • Skip the Line: Love Stories Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Museum of Selfies & Illusions Dubrovnik Ticket: $11
  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Dubrovnik's Old Town: $12
  • Discover Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Taupo $13
    Dubrovnik $16
Typical Alcohol Prices in Taupo

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Taupo from other travelers:


  • Wine
    $5.03

Sample the Local Flavors in Dubrovnik

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

  • Dubrovnik Sunset Tour with Wine Tasting : $42
  • Panoramic Dubrovnik Tour Golden Hour Sunset and Wine Tasting: $46
  • Sunset and Wine / Dubrovnik Sunset Tour and Premium Wine Tasting : $54
  • Brewery Tour with Food included: $66
  • Columbo Pub Crawl Dubrovnik: $70
  • Columbo Pub Crawl Dubrovnik: $72
  • Sunset Wine Tasting At Panorama Point: $74
  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Xperience: $80
  • Ston and Korcula Island Day Trip from Dubrovnik with Wine Tasting: $83
  • Day Tour of Korcula Island from Dubrovnik with Wine Tasting: $83
  • Luxury Sunset Tour with Wine Tasting: $84
  • Wine Tour - Get to know local grapes: $84


When comparing the travel costs between Taupo and Dubrovnik, we can see that Dubrovnik 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. Even though Taupo is in Pacific and Dubrovnik is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Taupo or Dubrovnik?

Dubrovnik has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Taupo. When comparing the sizes of Taupo 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.