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

Should you visit Calais or Dubrovnik?

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

Should I visit Calais 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.

Calais

Calais is a coastal, authentic, and undiscovered city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Calais travel costs.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a charming, famous, and cultural coastal town. The famous beauty of Dubrovnik is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Dubrovnik travel costs.

Calais and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Calais or Dubrovnik?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Calais and Dubrovnik are popular destinations, Dubrovnik has more sights and attractions for tourists. Dubrovnik is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Calais attracts visitors for its big city activities. Dubrovnik is more touristy than Calais 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 well known for The Old Town Walls. Calais is famous for being a gateway for travelers to France.

How is Calais different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dubrovnik is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Calais is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Calais is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's a port city with a few good museums and landmarks to see. Check out the Town Hall, Burghers of Calais, La Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode, and Musée de la Guerre de Calais, as well as the Calais Lighthouse.

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

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Calais 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Calais. The region is known for its mackerel, andouillette sausage, and endive and ham gratin. If you're passing through, this is also a good place to stock up on wine and cheese.

Is Calais or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Calais and Dubrovnik.

Calais has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find bars and pubs around town as well as a few clubs. Places range from trendy and high end to local dive bars.

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 Calais or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Dubrovnik is well known for its resorts. However, Calais 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.

Calais is not a resort destination.

Is Calais or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubrovnik is a coastal town with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Calais 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.

Calais is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Calais or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Calais and Dubrovnik are nice choices.

Calais is a good option for a beach vacation. There are some sandy beaches near town that have nice stretches of sand and plenty of sand dunes. Many locals enjoy sunbathing at the beaches.

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.

Is Calais or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Calais 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.

Calais does not have a historic old town.

Is Calais or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Calais is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dubrovnik. 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.

Calais is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Calais or Dubrovnik?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Dubrovnik and Calais.

Many visitors go to Calais to go shopping. Many visitors stock up on wine and cheese when they're passing through. It's common to head straight to Auchan or Carrefour to stock up on some items.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dubrovnik. The old town offers some nice boutique shops where you can buy designer clothes, jewelry, or trinkets.

Is Calais or Dubrovnik More Beautiful?

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Calais is not a destination known for its 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.

Calais is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Calais or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

Dubrovnik is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Calais is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Dubrovnik is known to be 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.

Calais offers lots of family activities. There's the Nausicaa Aquarium, the Museum of the Atlantic Wall, and the Second World War Museum. There are also beaches and parks to explore as well as some nice playgrounds.

Is Calais or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Calais is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Dubrovnik makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Calais is a nice destination for couples. Couples can picnic with wine and cheese or eat their way through the town's great restaurants. There are also some nice beaches where people enjoy sunbathing or relaxing.

Is Calais or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for backpackers. However, Calais is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dubrovnik is a very popular coastal town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Calais is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This part of France is often overlooked by tourists so you won't find many backpackers or hostels in the area. It does offer a glimpse into an authentic side of France.

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Calais, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has 13 bus lines that run through town and into the surrounding areas. If you're arriving by ferry from the UK, there are shuttle buses that connect the ferry terminal to the train station.

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 Calais or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

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

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.

Calais is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Calais?

How long in Calais or Dubrovnik?

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

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Calais. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Calais has to offer. 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 Calais or Dubrovnik?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Calais. 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 Calais or Dubrovnik?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the undiscovered city of Calais. 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. 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 Calais or Dubrovnik?

Calais 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 famous 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 Budget Tours to France, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, 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 Calais and Dubrovnik, we can see that Calais 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 Calais would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Calais 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 Calais Expensive? and Is Dubrovnik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Calais or Dubrovnik?

Calais has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Dubrovnik. When comparing the sizes of Calais 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 Calais or Dubrovnik?

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 Calais or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

Both Dubrovnik and Calais during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Calais because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

Calais is cooler than Dubrovnik in the summer. The daily temperature in Calais averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Calais usually gets more rain in July than Dubrovnik. Calais gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Calais or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Calais and Dubrovnik. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Calais this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Calais is cooler than Dubrovnik. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Calais in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Calais usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Calais gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Calais or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Calais as well as Dubrovnik. Many travelers come to Calais for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Dubrovnik in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Calais. In January, Calais is generally much colder than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Calais average around 4°C (40°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Calais usually gets less rain in January than Dubrovnik. Calais gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Calais or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

Both Dubrovnik and Calais are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Calais in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Calais is much colder than Dubrovnik in the spring. The daily temperature in Calais averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. In April, Calais usually receives less rain than Dubrovnik. Calais gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Calais