A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Dubrovnik for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Phuket or Dubrovnik?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Dubrovnik, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Phuket

Phuket is a energetic, party-hard, and stunning resort island. Phuket offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Phuket travel costs.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a cultural, coastal, and historic 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.

Phuket and Dubrovnik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Dubrovnik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dubrovnik. Although Phuket 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, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Phuket is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Phuket is popular for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Dubrovnik 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.

How is Phuket different from Dubrovnik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dubrovnik is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Dubrovnik can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Dubrovnik is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Phuket has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Is Phuket or Dubrovnik Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for nightlife.

Phuket is a world class party destination. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Dubrovnik. 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 Phuket or Dubrovnik Better for Resorts?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Phuket is a great choice. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

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.

Is Phuket or Dubrovnik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is a great resort island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Dubrovnik is not known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Phuket. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

Snorkeling is an option 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.

Is Phuket or Dubrovnik Better for Beaches?

Phuket is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Dubrovnik is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Phuket. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

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 Phuket or Dubrovnik Better for its Old Town?

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for its old town. However, Phuket does not have a historic old town.

Dubrovnik offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Phuket does not have a historic old town.

Is Phuket or Dubrovnik Better for Hiking?

Dubrovnik is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Phuket 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.

Phuket is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Dubrovnik?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Dubrovnik and Phuket.

Phuket offers some nice shopping areas. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

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 Phuket or Dubrovnik More Beautiful?

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Phuket 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.

Phuket offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It is a mix of beautiful beaches and tourist crowds. The island is very developed with a combination of 5 star hotels, souvenir shops, and tour companies. Because of the many excursions leaving from the island, many visitors find it a makes a good base for exploring the area.

Is Phuket or Dubrovnik Better for Families?

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

Dubrovnik is a very kid-friendly coastal town. 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.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

Is Phuket or Dubrovnik Better for Couples?

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Phuket is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.

Is Phuket or Dubrovnik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for backpackers. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Dubrovnik. 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.

Phuket is a good resort island to visit for backpackers. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. While it gets its share of backpackers, many visitors complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

Is Phuket 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 Phuket and Dubrovnik.

You'll find some public transit in Phuket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

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 Phuket or Dubrovnik a more walkable city?

Dubrovnik is an amazing coastal town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Phuket 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.

Phuket is a somewhat walkable resort island. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Dubrovnik or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Dubrovnik?

In either Phuket or Dubrovnik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Phuket than Dubrovnik because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, and 1-5 days is enough time in Dubrovnik.

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

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort island of Phuket. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Phuket or Dubrovnik?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the energetic destination of Phuket. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This resort island 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 Phuket or Dubrovnik?

You'll find nightlife and food around the party-hard resort island of Phuket. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort island 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 Phuket or Dubrovnik?

Phuket is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Phuket, 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Phuket 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 Phuket is in Asia 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 Phuket Expensive? and Is Dubrovnik Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Dubrovnik?

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

Dubrovnik has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Phuket experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Phuket or Dubrovnik in the Summer?

Both Dubrovnik and Phuket during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Phuket because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Dubrovnik for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Phuket is around the same temperature as Dubrovnik. Typically, the summer temperatures in Phuket in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Phuket. Phuket usually gets more rain in July than Dubrovnik. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Phuket or Dubrovnik in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Dubrovnik. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Dubrovnik because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Phuket is generally much warmer than Dubrovnik. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 27°C (81°F), and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Phuket usually receives more rain than Dubrovnik. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to March in Phuket is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Phuket.

Should I visit Phuket or Dubrovnik in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Dubrovnik. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dubrovnik this time of year.

Phuket is much warmer than Dubrovnik in the winter. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Dubrovnik fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. Phuket usually gets less rain in January than Dubrovnik. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Phuket is the dry season.

Should I visit Phuket or Dubrovnik in the Spring?

Both Dubrovnik and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Dubrovnik for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Phuket is much warmer than Dubrovnik. Typically, the spring temperatures in Phuket in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Dubrovnik averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In April, Phuket usually receives more rain than Dubrovnik. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Dubrovnik receives 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Phuket is June to October.

Typical Weather for Dubrovnik and Phuket