A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Florence vs. Split for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Florence or Split?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Florence 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.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. Florence is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Florence 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.

Florence and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Florence or Split?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Split than Florence. While Florence is larger than Split, Split has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Split is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Florence is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Florence is well known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. 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 Florence different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Florence 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 Florence are world-renowned. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Florence or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Florence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean and cabbage soup. You'll also find all of your favorite Italian staples and many great family-owned trattorie.

Dining out in Split is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Is Florence or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Split is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Florence or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a resort destination.

Is Florence or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a great city for its diving and snorkeling. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Florence or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a great city for the beach. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Florence or Split Better for its Old Town?

Florence is terrific for its old town. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Florence has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Split offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Florence or Split?

If you're looking to go shopping, Florence and Split both offer plenty of great spots.

Florence is well-known for its shopping. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Split. 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.

Is Florence or Split More Beautiful?

Florence is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Split is not a destination known for its beauty.

Florence is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city's beautiful architecture and impressive gardens make it among the most beautiful cities in the world.

Split is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Florence or Split Better for Families?

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

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Florence or Split Better for Couples?

Florence and Split are both world-class to visit as a couple.

Florence has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Split is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Is Florence or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Florence and Split are world-class places to visit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Split is a very popular city to visit 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.

Is Florence or Split Better for Students?

Florence is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Florence is a very popular place to visit for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Split is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

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

Florence and Split both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Florence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has a comprehensive bus system.

Split has a few public transit options. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Is Florence or Split a more walkable city?

Florence is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Florence. Most people explore the city on foot and the striking beauty and and pedestrian-friendly areas make it a great place to wander. During peak seasons, the streets can get crowded.

Split is a very walkable destination. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Florence?

How long in Florence or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Florence or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Florence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Florence, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

Families should spend more time in Split than Florence. 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.

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

One day in Florence or Split?

In Florence, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The city of Split offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Florence or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Split is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Split, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Florence or Split?

Florence is a fun place to experience. In Florence, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Split is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Florence or Split?

In Florence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this artistic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Split is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Florence or Split?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence or Split in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Florence and Split. Many travelers come to Florence 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.

Florence is around the same temperature as Split in the summer. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 25°C (77°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 Florence, it's very sunny this time of the year. Florence usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Florence gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Florence usually receives more rain than Split. Florence gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Florence or Split in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Florence is cooler than Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Florence in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. In the autumn, Florence often gets less sunshine than Split. Florence gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets more rain in October than Split. Florence gets 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Florence are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Florence 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, Florence is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Florence average around 7°C (45°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Florence usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Florence gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Florence usually receives less rain than Split. Florence gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Florence or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Florence during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Split this time of year.

Florence is around the same temperature as Split in the spring. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Florence often gets less sunshine than Split. Florence gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets more rain in April than Split. Florence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Florence