A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ephesus vs. Split for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Ephesus or Split?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Ephesus or Split, 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.

Ephesus

Ephesus is a world-renowned, fascinating, and ancient archeological site. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food. See Ephesus travel costs.

Split

Split is a budget-friendly, historic, and active city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Split travel costs.

Ephesus and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ephesus or Split?

You'll generally find more things to do in Split than Ephesus. Split is bigger than Ephesus, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Split is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Ephesus is more popular for its museums and attractions. Ephesus is well known for its well-preserved ruins and vast size Split is well known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace.

How is Ephesus different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ephesus or Split?

Ephesus is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Ephesus are world-renowned. Of course, the iconic site is the ruins of Ephesus. There are also several fascinating museums in the area that offer deeper insights into the region's rich history and culture. The Ephesus Archaeological Museum in Selçuk is popular. It has an impressive collection of artifacts excavated from the ancient city, including statues, pottery, and inscriptions. Just outside the museum, the Temple of Artemis section displays remnants of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Selçuk Museum of Ephesus is another excellent spot to explore, with exhibits that highlight both the daily life of ancient Ephesians and their religious practices. A short drive from Ephesus is the House of the Virgin Mary museum, a revered site believed to be the final home of Mary, mother of Jesus, with a chapel and peaceful surroundings. Lastly, the İsa Bey Mosque and Museum in Selçuk adds to the area's historical depth, offering a glimpse into the Seljuk architecture and Islamic heritage of the region.

Split offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Ephesus or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Split is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Split has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ephesus area. Most of the food options are found in the nearby town of Selçuk. Popular dishes include kebabs, mezes, and pide (Turkish flatbread pizza). Many restaurants are casual and cater specifically to the tourist crowds.

Is Ephesus or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Ephesus is not known for its evening party scene.

Split is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

Most people don't head to Ephesus specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The there are a couple of bars and restaurants with live music in the town of Selçuk, but generally the nightlife is very low key.

Is Ephesus or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Ephesus is not a resort destination.

Split is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

Ephesus is not a resort destination.

Is Ephesus or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a great city for its diving and snorkeling. However, Ephesus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Split to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

Ephesus is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ephesus or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a great city for the beach. However, Ephesus is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Split. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

Ephesus is not a beach destination.

Is Ephesus or Split Better for its Old Town?

Split is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, Ephesus does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Split. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Ephesus does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ephesus or Split?

Split is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its shopping areas.

Split is well-known for its shopping. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

Many visitors go to Ephesus to go shopping. Selçuk has a variety of local shops and markets. Traditional handicrafts such as carpet and kilim weaving, ceramics, and leather goods are popular souvenirs. The Selçuk Market is held on Saturdays and offers fresh produce, spices, and other local products.

Is Ephesus or Split Better for Families?

Split is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Split is very family-friendly. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Ephesus is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who are into history or archeology will enjoy a visit to the famed ruins of Ephesus. There's also the Ephesus Archaeological Museum where everyone can learn about ancient Greek and Roman cultures in an interactive setting. The nearby House of the Virgin Mary offers a peaceful stop where kids can learn about its historical and religious significance in a tranquil environment. For an active experience, families can enjoy a short hike to Pamucak Beach, where children can swim, build sandcastles, and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.

Is Ephesus or Split Better for Couples?

Split is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for couples.

Split has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

Ephesus is a good archeological site for couples to visit. Many couples stop off at these ruins as part of a bigger tour of Turkey. The ruins are well preserved and impressive, but can get crowded if you visit during the peak times.

Is Ephesus or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Split is extremely popular for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

Ephesus is a good archeological site to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers stay in the nearby town of Selçuk, which has several hostels. This is also where you'll find a number of restaurants and shopping opportunities.

Is Ephesus or Split Better for Students?

Split is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Ephesus is not popular with students.

Split is a great city to visit as a student. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

Ephesus is not popular with students.

Is Ephesus or Split Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ephesus is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Ephesus can get you to some places easily. The town of Selçuk is well-connected by dolmuşes (shared minivans) that run frequently and offer affordable rides to nearby destinations, including Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Pamucak Beach area.

You'll find some public transit in Split, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Is Ephesus or Split a more walkable city?

Split is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Ephesus is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its ease of walking around.

Split is a very walkable city. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

Ephesus is a somewhat walkable archeological site. The ruins are spread out over a large area, but most of the key sites, like the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater, are within walking distance of each other. From Selçuk, it's about a half hour walk to the entrance of the Ephesus ruins, but most visitors prefer to take a short taxi or dolmuş ride to the site. Within Selçuk, many of the sites can be reached on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Ephesus Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Ephesus?

How long in Ephesus or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Ephesus or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Split due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Ephesus, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Split than Ephesus 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 Split.

One day in Ephesus or Split?

In Ephesus, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this ancient destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This archeological site offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Split, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Ephesus or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ephesus. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

In Split, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Split has to offer.

Five days in Ephesus or Split?

Ephesus is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Ephesus. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Split is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Ephesus or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the world-renowned destination of Ephesus. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Split. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Split. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Turkey, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Turkey, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Ephesus and Split, we can see that Split 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Ephesus or Split?

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

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 Ephesus or Split in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ephesus and Split. Many travelers come to Ephesus for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Split in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Ephesus is around the same temperature as Split in the summer. The daily temperature in Ephesus averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In Ephesus, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ephesus usually receives more sunshine than Split during summer. Ephesus gets 378 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ephesus usually receives less rain than Split. Ephesus gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ephesus or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ephesus as well as Split. Many visitors come to Ephesus in the autumn for the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Ephesus is around the same temperature as Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ephesus in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ephesus this time of the year. In the autumn, Ephesus often gets more sunshine than Split. Ephesus gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Ephesus usually gets less rain in October than Split. Ephesus gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ephesus or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Ephesus are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Ephesus for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Split because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Ephesus is generally a little warmer than Split. Daily temperatures in Ephesus average around 10°C (50°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Ephesus usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during winter. Ephesus gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Ephesus. In January, Ephesus usually receives more rain than Split. Ephesus gets 149 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ephesus or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Ephesus during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Split this time of year.

Ephesus is around the same temperature as Split in the spring. The daily temperature in Ephesus averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Ephesus. In the spring, Ephesus often gets more sunshine than Split. Ephesus gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Ephesus usually gets less rain in April than Split. Ephesus gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Ephesus