A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amalfi vs. Split for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Amalfi or Split?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Amalfi and Split can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Amalfi

Amalfi is a dramatic, charming, and picturesque town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Split

Split is a historic, active, and touristy city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amalfi and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amalfi or Split?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Amalfi than Split, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Amalfi is better known for its food, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Split is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities. Amalfi is well known for its dramatic views, charming character, and excellent limoncello. Also, Amalfi is famous for the dramatic coastline. Split is well known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades.

How is Amalfi different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Split. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Amalfi. The town is an attraction in and off itself. It's filled with charm and character and visitors spend much of their time simply walking around and soaking up the atmosphere.

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

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

Eat your way through Amalfi, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The town's access to the beautiful sea means that many dishes use a variety of seafood. Eggplant is also a common ingredient and you'll find everything from pastas to elegant desserts around town.

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 Amalfi or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Split has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Many people head to Amalfi for the nightlife scene. There's a good number of bars and clubs in town that often have live music or DJs. Alternatively, there are also clubs that dot the entire coastline.

Is Amalfi or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is well known for its resorts. However, Amalfi is not a resort destination.

In Split, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Amalfi is not a resort destination.

Is Amalfi or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is well known for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Split is an extremely popular place to visit for 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.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Amalfi. You'll find snorkeling trips that take you along the coastline and stop at several places so you can take a peak at the underwater world.

Is Amalfi or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is well known for the beache. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

The beaches at Split attract visitors from all over. 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.

Amalfi offers a nice beach destination. The beaches tend to be pebbly and rocky. During the summer months they can get very crowded, but taking a swim is a great way to escape the heat for a bit.

Is Amalfi or Split Better for its Old Town?

Amalfi is an excellent place to visit for its old town. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Amalfi. The town is charming and filled with great shops and restaurants. It's the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast.

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 Amalfi or Split Better for Hiking?

Amalfi is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Split is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Amalfi. The coastline is filled with great trails that offer stunning views. Hiking is a top way to see the natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast and catch a glimpse at some of the best beaches.

Split is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Amalfi or Split?

Split is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amalfi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Split is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Amalfi has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find many great shops that sell everything from clothing to fine wine, local foods, or limoncello.

Is Amalfi or Split Better for Families?

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

Split is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Amalfi offers lots of family activities. The town is positioned in the middle of the Amalfi Coast, making it a great base for exploring the area. It's also one of the larger towns so you'll find more energy and things to do with kids, including the Museum of Paper.

Is Amalfi or Split Better for Couples?

Both Amalfi and Split are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Amalfi is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The Amalfi Coast is a world class honeymoon destination and couples will enjoy staying in the lively town of Amalfi. It's a quaint and beautiful town in the middle of everything, so you'll have access to all that the area has to offer.

Split is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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 Amalfi or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. However, Amalfi is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Amalfi is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The area has a couple of hostels around, but in general this is a difficult place to visit as a backpacker. There are SITA buses that offer transportation, and because the town is in the middle of the coastline, it offers decent access to everything.

Is Amalfi or Split Better for Students?

Split is well known for students. However, Amalfi is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Split. 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.

Amalfi is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Amalfi and Split.

You'll find some public transit in Amalfi, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The SITA buses offer transit between many of the towns along the Amalfi Coast.

While Split offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Is Amalfi or Split a more walkable city?

Amalfi 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 Amalfi. It's a compact and charming town that is a bit flatter than some nearby villages so it's easy to explore on foot.

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 Amalfi Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Amalfi?

How long in Amalfi or Split?

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

Families should spend more time in Split than Amalfi. 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 Amalfi. 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 Amalfi 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 Amalfi or Split?

In Amalfi, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this dramatic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This town 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Split. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Amalfi or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amalfi. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, 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 Amalfi or Split?

Amalfi is a fun place to experience. In Amalfi, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Split. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

A week in Amalfi or Split?

In Amalfi, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this charming 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. Lots of people come for the food. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active destination of Split. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 2-Week Tours from Rome, The Best Family-Friendly 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 Amalfi and Split, we can see that Amalfi 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 Amalfi would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amalfi 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 Amalfi Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Amalfi or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Amalfi. When comparing the sizes of Amalfi 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 Amalfi or Split?

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 Amalfi or Split in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Amalfi as well as Split. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Amalfi this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Amalfi is cooler than Split in the summer. The daily temperature in Amalfi averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Amalfi this time of the year. In the summer, Amalfi often gets less sunshine than Split. Amalfi gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Amalfi usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Split. Amalfi gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amalfi or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Amalfi are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Amalfi for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Split in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Amalfi is around the same temperature as Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Amalfi in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. Amalfi usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during autumn. Amalfi gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Amalfi. In October, Amalfi usually receives more rain than Split. Amalfi gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Amalfi or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Amalfi during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Amalfi in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Amalfi is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Amalfi average around 8°C (47°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Amalfi often gets less sunshine than Split. Amalfi gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Amalfi. Amalfi usually gets more rain in January than Split. Amalfi gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amalfi or Split in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Amalfi and Split. Most visitors come to Amalfi for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Amalfi is cooler than Split in the spring. The daily temperature in Amalfi averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. Amalfi usually receives less sunshine than Split during spring. Amalfi gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Amalfi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Split. Amalfi gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Amalfi