A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ventimiglia vs. Rijeka for Food, Families, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Ventimiglia or Rijeka?

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

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Rijeka? 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.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a authentic, elegant, and scenic seaside town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include shopping, food, and beaches.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a accessible, diverse, and slow-paced town. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ventimiglia and Rijeka: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Ventimiglia or Rijeka?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rijeka. Although Ventimiglia and Rijeka are popular destinations, Rijeka has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rijeka is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Ventimiglia attracts visitors for its food, beaches, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Rijeka is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is known for being a transportation hub in Croatia with a ferry and cruise ship port. It is also well known for Trsat Castle. Ventimiglia is famous for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Ventimiglia different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ventimiglia or Rijeka?

Ventimiglia
Rijeka

Rijeka is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia 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 Rijeka. Historical sights around town include Trsat Castle, the Petar Druzic Stairway, and Our Lady of Trsat. There are also museums such as PEEK&POKE Computer Museum and the Governor's Palace and Maritime and Historical Museum.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Ventimiglia or Rijeka? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ventimiglia
Rijeka

Ventimiglia is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Ventimiglia is an experience not to be missed. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Rijeka. It's known for its Mediterranean cuisine which includes more than seafood. There are local vegetable specialties in the area as well including asparagus and white truffles. Codfish stew and cuttlefish risotto are also popular.

Is Ventimiglia or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

Ventimiglia
Rijeka

Rijeka is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Rijeka know how to have a good time. The city center has plenty of bars and clubs. Restaurants also stay open late and are popular places to hang out for locals and tourists alike.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Ventimiglia or Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Ventimiglia
Rijeka

Ventimiglia is very good for the beach. However, Rijeka is not a good town for its beaches.

Many people head to Ventimiglia to enjoy the beach. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Rijeka is a good spot to see the beach. There are pebbly and gravelly beaches in the area, with the best beaches to the west of the city. You'll need to take a public bus to reach most of them.


Is Ventimiglia or Rijeka Better for its Old Town?

Ventimiglia
Rijeka

Ventimiglia is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ventimiglia or Rijeka?

Ventimiglia
Rijeka

Ventimiglia is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Rijeka. There are many shopping centers, retail stores, and souvenir shops around town.

Is Ventimiglia or Rijeka Better for Families?

Ventimiglia
Rijeka

Rijeka is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Rijeka is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of outdoor activities for kids like nature parks and nearby beaches. There's also a puppet theater as well as the Astronomical Center of Rijeka.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.


Is Ventimiglia or Rijeka Better for Couples?

Ventimiglia
Rijeka

Ventimiglia is a well-known place for couples. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Ventimiglia is a very popular place to visit for couples. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Rijeka is a nice destination for couples. It's a gateway to the Croatian islands. Many couples enjoy walking down the waterfront promenade or dining at a nice local restaurant. There are also beaches, parks, and historical sights to explore.

Is Ventimiglia or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ventimiglia
Rijeka

Rijeka is a popular place for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Rijeka. There's no shortage of affordable hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Rijeka Better for Students?

Ventimiglia
Rijeka

Rijeka is a popular place for students. However, Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Rijeka is popular with students. It's a laid back seaside city that makes a nice semester abroad destination. As a gateway to the Croatian islands, it also offers transportation connections to other points of interest.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.


Is Ventimiglia or Rijeka Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ventimiglia
Rijeka

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ventimiglia and Rijeka.

You'll find some public transit in Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

While Rijeka offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. KD Autrolej buses provide transit throughout the city.

Is Ventimiglia or Rijeka a more walkable city?

Ventimiglia
Rijeka

Ventimiglia is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable destination. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

Rijeka is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Ventimiglia Worth Visiting? and Is Rijeka Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Ventimiglia?

How long in Ventimiglia or Rijeka?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ventimiglia or Rijeka to fill your time. In our opinion, Ventimiglia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ventimiglia than Rijeka. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rijeka than Ventimiglia 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 Rijeka.


  • How many days in Ventimiglia or Rijeka? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ventimiglia 1-2 
    Rijeka 1-2

One day in Ventimiglia or Rijeka?

Ventimiglia might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the slow-paced town of Rijeka. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Ventimiglia or Rijeka?

Ventimiglia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the coastal destination of Rijeka. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Ventimiglia or Rijeka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ventimiglia. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The accessible town of Rijeka offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ventimiglia or Rijeka?

Ventimiglia is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rijeka. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Adventure Tours to Croatia, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Rijeka or Ventimiglia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ventimiglia is €121, while the average daily cost in Rijeka is €95. 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 Ventimiglia and Rijeka in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ventimiglia 51
    Rijeka 50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ventimiglia 102
    Rijeka 100
Compare Hotels in Ventimiglia and Rijeka

Looking for a hotel in Ventimiglia or Rijeka? 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 Ventimiglia


Hotels in Rijeka


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: Ventimiglia Hotel Prices and Rijeka Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ventimiglia 49
    Rijeka 16

Is it cheaper to fly into Ventimiglia or Rijeka?

Prices for flights to both Rijeka and Ventimiglia 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
    Ventimiglia 38
    Rijeka 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ventimiglia.

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $95
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ventimiglia 27
    Rijeka 8.89

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

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

  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Tours and Activities in Rijeka

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Rijeka are as follows:

  • Drava Sup Exploring Adventure: $44
  • History of Military Forts Guided Tour: $64
  • Tour the underground with no experience required: $64
  • From Golden Island of Krk Tour: $93
  • Pula, Rovinj, and Panoramic Istrian Coast Tour: $121
  • Istria Highlights Tour from Rijeka or Pula: $122
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $127
  • Private Walking Cultural Tour of Rijeka: $235
  • Ucka Mountain: Guided Hiking Tour: $449
  • Private Sunset Boat Tour: $631

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ventimiglia 7.19
    Rijeka 16


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

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


Which is Bigger, Ventimiglia or Rijeka?

Rijeka has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Ventimiglia and Rijeka, 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 Ventimiglia or Rijeka?

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 Ventimiglia or Rijeka in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ventimiglia and Rijeka. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rijeka for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Rijeka in the summer. The daily temperature in Ventimiglia averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Rijeka fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rijeka this time of the year. In Ventimiglia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Rijeka during summer. Ventimiglia gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ventimiglia usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Ventimiglia gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ventimiglia 23°C (73°F) 
    Rijeka 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Rijeka in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ventimiglia as well as Rijeka. Many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rijeka in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Rijeka. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ventimiglia in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Rijeka averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Ventimiglia often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Ventimiglia gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 167 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Ventimiglia usually gets more rain in October than Rijeka. Ventimiglia gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F) 
    Rijeka 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Rijeka in the Winter?

Both Rijeka and Ventimiglia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rijeka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Ventimiglia is generally much warmer than Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 9°C (48°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Ventimiglia usually receives more sunshine than Rijeka during winter. Ventimiglia gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ventimiglia usually receives more rain than Rijeka. Ventimiglia gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F) 
    Rijeka 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Rijeka in the Spring?

Both Rijeka and Ventimiglia during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Rijeka because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Rijeka in the spring. The daily temperature in Ventimiglia averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Rijeka fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Ventimiglia often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Ventimiglia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 177 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia usually gets less rain in April than Rijeka. Ventimiglia gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F) 
    Rijeka 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia Rijeka
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 24°C (75°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 24°C (74°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 10°C (51°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (44°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)