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

Should you visit Venice 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 Venice and Dubrovnik can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice

Venice is a romantic, cultural, and magical city. 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, food, and shopping.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a famous, cultural, and coastal 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.

Venice and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Venice or Dubrovnik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Venice. Although Venice and Dubrovnik are popular destinations, Venice has more sights and attractions for tourists. Venice is very popular for its museums and shopping, while Dubrovnik attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Venice is famous for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also well known for St. Mark's Basilica. 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.

How is Venice different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Venice 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, Venice has many famous sights for visitors. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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 Venice or Dubrovnik? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Venice or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Dubrovnik is very good for its evening party scene. However, Venice 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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Venice or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubrovnik is great for its luxury resorts. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a resort destination.

Is Venice or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is adequate for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Venice or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Dubrovnik is very good for the beach. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Venice or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Venice and Dubrovnik are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

The historic old town of Venice is revered around the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

With a famous historical old-town, Dubrovnik offers plenty to see. 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.

Is Venice or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is great for hiking. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Venice or Dubrovnik?

Venice is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for shopping.

Many people travel to Venice specifically to go shopping. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

Dubrovnik is a great destination for shopping. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Venice or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Venice. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Venice or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Both Venice and Dubrovnik are world-class destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Venice has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

Dubrovnik has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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 Venice or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

Is Venice or Dubrovnik Better for Students?

Venice is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Venice. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

Dubrovnik is not popular with students.

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

Venice is a must-visit destination 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.

Venice has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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

Is Venice or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

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

Venice is a very easy city to get around on foot. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting? and Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Venice?

How long in Venice or Dubrovnik?

In either Venice or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Venice than Dubrovnik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Venice, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint city of Venice. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Dubrovnik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Venice or Dubrovnik?

You'll find museums and food around the magical destination of Venice. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Dubrovnik is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Venice or Dubrovnik?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic city of Venice. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dubrovnik. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Venice or Dubrovnik?

Venice is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Venice, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the coastal destination of Dubrovnik. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine 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 Venice and Dubrovnik, we can see that Venice 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 Venice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Venice 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 Venice Expensive? and Is Dubrovnik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Venice or Dubrovnik?

Venice has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Venice 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 Venice 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 Venice or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

Both Dubrovnik and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Venice 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.

Venice is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik in the summer. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In July, Venice usually receives more rain than Dubrovnik. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Venice or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

Both Dubrovnik and Venice during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Venice because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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, Venice is cooler than Dubrovnik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Venice in October average around 14°C (57°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Dubrovnik gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Venice usually gets less rain in October than Dubrovnik. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and Dubrovnik. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Venice this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Venice in the winter. In January, Venice is generally much colder than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 3°C (37°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Venice usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Venice or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Venice as well as Dubrovnik. Many travelers come to Venice for the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Venice usually gets less rain in April than Dubrovnik. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Venice